Essential Hinduism

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Bloomsbury Publishing, Oct 30, 2006 - Religion - 296 pages
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.

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About the author (2006)

Steven J. Rosen is the author of fifteen books on East-Indian philosophy and spirituality. For the last eight years he has been the editor of The Journal of Vaishnavi Studies (an interdisciplinary quarterly). He is currently part of an editorial team working to complete The Encyclopedia of Hinduism, an eighteen volume compendium of Indian thought (forthcoming, 2003, University of South Carolina Press). He lives in Nyack, NY. Steven J. Rosen is Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Vaishnava Studies and Associate Editor of Back to Godhead, the magazine of the Hare Krishna movement. His recent books include Holy Cow: The Hare Krishna Contribution to Vegetarianism and Animal Rights, Essential Hinduism (Greenwood, 2006), and Krishna's Song: A New look at the Bhagavad Gita (Praeger, 2007).

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