Customer Reviews

Meeting God: Elements of Hindu Devotion

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
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Tons of books have been written that explain and glorify the wisdom and philosophy of Hinduism. Many non-Hindus have been more than happy to embrace some or all of these concepts, one of the most ubiquitous being the concept of "karma". But even they can feel awed, confused, surprised or a combination of these emotions when they first encounter the seemingly anachronistic practices of Hinduism- like worshipping the stones or trees.

This is one of the few books that explain well to the western audience the whats and whys of the oldest religion in the world. It focuses on the approach of common Hindu folks to their religion and how it enhances their day-to-day life. Author starts with some basic concepts and then goes on to draw pen-pictures of daily lives of devout Hindus that, at least in the religious sense, defy modernization in contemporary India. The text aided by vivid pictures fires the imagination and magically transports the reader to India. The deep passion of the author is clearly reflected in the knowledgeable text. Hinduism is a very flexible religion, which is primarily the reason it has survived thousands of years. It is perfectly acceptable to practice faith in ways different from those of ancestors, provided certain basic tenets are kept in mind. The approach to religion may vary by region, by economic status, or caste but the important thing to note that diversity is acceptable.

Author has presented the approach to Hinduism in rural India or that practiced by lower income strata of the society, which comprises of a significant number of Indian Hindus. This approach is different from that practiced by urban Hindus or those in middle or upper income class. This book is highly recommended to all who have interest in religion, those who have an unquenchable thirst for anything Indian and even practicing Hindus.

Stephen Huyler's book is a very personal and informative look at the daily lives of many different Hindus. Various aspects of daily rituals are pictured and described. Numerous holy places are visited and captured on film and in spirit by Mr. Huyler. A great many elements of Hinduism are discussed, holy days, sacred sites, shrines, as well as numerous Gods and Goddesses. The photography is simply magnificent and the text informative. Anyone who is interested in Hinduism, India, and wants to make the sacred part of their lives, must have this book. As the author suggests, this book should enrich and inspire our own daily rituals and prayers. It has made all the difference in my life.

Initially I purchased this book for the multitude of color photographs contained within it. Once I began leafing through its pages, I realized it was written in such elegant simplicity that I was drawn in immediately.

Each chapter covers a different aspect of Hindu worship in India: worship in the home, with one's community, at a temple, etc. The book does not so much explain Hinduism as it does the way Hindus approach their faith.

I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in Indian culture or Hinduism. It's a fascinating read.

Its books like this which are truly inspirational. Open it up and you will open up to India and the complex spiritual diversity of Hinduism. The process of 'meeting God' pervades all of life here. Everyone has their own unique and individual 'puja' for 'dharsa' This is a look at a whole culture, and not just a religion. The images are spectacular. These ancient rites flourish in the face of any modernization. Probably the best introduction to Hinduism out there.

This book is brilliant and moving beyond words. Mr. Huyler is one of the few Western scholars to have faithfully, respectfully, objectively captured the essence of Hinduism - no mean feat - and made it accessible to a non-Indian audience. Every time I look at the beautiful photographs in this book I want to cry. The stories about the extraordinary faith of ordinary Hindus from all backgrounds are colourful, moving and the photos are stunning. A book that truly does justice to Hinduism and to Mother India.

This is not the book for a reader who is looking for an understanding of the soaring intellectual complexity and nuance of Vedic philosophy.

This is not the book for a reader who is looking for a critique of Hindu fundamentalism, the social problems arising from the caste system.

But for the reader who is attracted to the beauty of a simple faith that permeates everyday life, Meeting God is the most beautifully written, moving book imaginable.

Huyler is a social anthropologist who is interested in the small artifacts of Indian life--clay pots, butter lamps, house idols. It is this interest in the small, the homely, the daily ritual, that informs this beautiful account of daily devotion in the lives of over a billion people on the Indian subcontinent.

Stephen Huyler's photography is exquisite, his descriptions moving and true, and his love for the culture he describes, obvious.

Stephen Huyler filled his book with beautiful pictures, revealing stories and genuine insight into the daily life and worship of Hinduism. Many presentations of Hinduism focus too much on the esoteric elements or the philosophical schools. Huyler's presentation focuses on the common, real-life of Hindu worship, the heart and soul of the religion. He also touches on the other points without obscurity or distortion. This book is appealing and easy to understand. If you want to learn about Hinduism from books, you must read this one.

The words and images in this book took me to India, where I experienced sacred rituals and daily Hindu life of the people on the pages. I recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about India or Hinduism! Awesome~!

This is a vivid introduction to Hindu religion, ritual, and devotional practice. It is alive with colorful pictures of Hindus in ceremonial acts, and describes various deities, rites, and rituals of the Hindu faith. For anyone at the beginner's level it should help make the Hindu faith more accessible and intelligible. I recommend it for those interested in overcoming some of the common mental blocks that Westerners often have regarding Eastern religion. This is a short work rich in pictures, and basic, practical information on Hindu deities and practices. Accessibly written and beautifully photographed, it should be illuminating to the mind and the eye.

"Meeting God" is a jewel of a book. Huyler's photographs are as lovely as his prose. I have studied Hinduism for many years, and I savored every page of this book. Highly recommended for anyone interested in a deeper understanding of Hinduism and India.