Essential Hinduism

By Steven J. Rosen

Book Overview

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.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0275990060
• ISBN13: 9780275990060
• Release Date: October 2006
• Publisher: Praeger
• Length: 296 Pages
• Weight: 1.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.5" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

Thoughtful. Solid research.

The cover art is gorgeous! This is an enormously involved topic. Yet the author is straight forward and direct in his writing, making it accessible to the non scholarly reader. Much appreciated!

True presentation

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.