Essential Hinduism

by Steven J. Rosen

In Essential Hinduism, the religion's teachings, beliefs, practices, and history are reviewed by an expert hoping to rectify that.

This straightforward overview, focussing on Vaishnavism-the most common form of Hinduism - is ideal for those who wish to learn more about this ancient tradition. Beginning with chapters about the foundations of Hinduism, Rosen clearly lays out what is otherwise a complicated history.

Providing Hindu terms alongside English translations, he illuminates the basics of the faith for readers unacquainted with its varieties and tenets. Chapters about practices, including festivals, teachings, chanting, eating habits, and more, complete the exploration, ultimately bringing Hinduism to life in vivid detail.

Contents:

• Foreword/Graham M. Schweig
• Introduction
  1. The antecedents: everything comes from something
  2. Hinduism: the one and the many
  3. Dharma and the Hindu social system
  4. What are the Vedas?
  5. Epic Hinduism
  6. The Bhagavad-Gita and the life of Lord Krishna
  7. The Puranas and the Bhagavata
  8. Vaishnavism and the practice of Hinduism
  9. Underlying metaphysics
  10. The yoga of eating
  11. Idols, deities, worship, and temples
  12. Festivals and holidays
  13. Sonic theology
• Conclusion
• Notes
• Bibliography
• Index.