Introduction to Hindu Dharma

by Michael Oren Fitzgerald

His Holiness the 68th Jagadguru of Kanchi died in 1994 at the age of 100. He was one of the most beloved and honored spiritual figures of the twentieth century. This book has the distinction of introducing him and his spiritual legacy in the form of an irreplaceable introduction to Hinduism in today's world.

The discourses in this book cover all three categories of teaching: prayer and virtue; an explanation of Hindu metaphysical Truth; and an explanation of the conflict between traditional Hindu dharma and modernity. Selected text from a large number of his discourses have been recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. In many instances the Jagadguru's own Tamil definition for Sanskrit terms have been translated into English. While these definitions have been retained, additional definitions have been incorporated into the text to facilitate comprehension without constant recourse to glossary.

Table of Contents:

• Editor’s Preface
• Foreword
• Introduction by Arvind Sharma
• Religion in General
• The Vedic Religion: Introductory
• The Vedic Religion and Varna (caste) Dharma
• The Úâstras (scriptures) and Modern Life
• The Vedas
• Nyâya (the science of reasoning)
• Purânas (traditional stories)
• Dharmaúâstra (scripture on code of conduct)
• The Forty Samskâras (actions that purify)
• Brahmâcaryâúrama (student-bachelorhood)
• Marriage
• Grhasth-âúrama (householder stage of life)
• Varna (caste) Dharma for Universal Well-Being
• From Work to Worklessness
• Dharmas Common to All
• The State and Religion
• Selected Wisdom
• Notes
• Biographical Notes
• Glossary and Index.

About the Author:

Michael Oren Fitzgerald is an author, editor, and publisher of books on world religions, sacred art, tradition, culture, and philosophy. He has written and edited many publications on American Indian spirituality, including Yellowtail: Crow Medicine Man and Sun Dance Chief, and was adopted into Yellowtail's tribe and family. Fitzgerald has also taught university classes on religious traditions of North American Indians and lectured widely.