Essential Hinduism [Hardcover]

Steven Rosen (Author), Graham M. Schweig (Foreword)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 30, 2006

As a world religion, Hinduism remains one of the most elusive for many. Its teachings, beliefs, practices, and history are reviewed here by an expert hoping to introduce readers to the world of Hinduism. While there are many forms of Hinduism, and offshoots as well, the complex nature of this faith makes it elusive to many. This straightforward overview, focusing 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 is able to bring the faith alive for readers unacquainted with its varieties and its tenets. Moving on to chapters about practices, including festivals, teachings, chanting, eating habits and more, Rosen brings Hinduism to life in vivid detail.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Rosen provides a clear, concise introduction to Vaishnavism, the forms of Hinduism adhered to by the approximately two-thirds of "Hindus" who acknowledge Vishnu as the supreme deity. This tome discusses the Vaishnava holy texts, including the Vedas; the Puranas; and both sacred epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, with special emphasis on the Bhagavad-Gita. This work is not exclusively about the textual, philosophical, and theological aspects of Vaishnavism, but also introduces the way in which adherents worship and live. It discusses temples, forms of worship, dietary practices, festivals, and Varnashrama dharma (the social order, or caste system)....Highly recommended. Lower-/upper-level undergraduates, general readers."-Choice

Book Description

Provides an overview of Hinduism for beginners — covering the history, beliefs, practices, and lifestyles of this rich tradition.

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 296 pages
• Publisher: Praeger (October 30, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0275990060
• ISBN-13: 978-0275990060
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.4 x 1.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,415,550 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

13 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars True presentation, February 5, 2007

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Curious (San Diego, CA) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Essential Hinduism (Hardcover)

I was born in the faith and I am glad Mr. Rosen did not try to oversimplify 'Hinduism' (the author righly explains that there is no such word as Hindu found in the 'hindu' religious texts) in his presentation, as a lot of other authors do.
Even though the author is a practitioner of Vaishnavism, which is probably the most dominant and strict strand among Indian religious practises, he does present other aspects as well.
In conclusion, this is a complete and faithful introduction to the sanatan dharmic traditions and is much more than the money's worth.