An Introduction to Hinduism
Published on 13. July 1996
Book
Paperback/Softback
367 pages
978-0-521-43878-0 (ISBN)
Description
This book provides a much-needed thematic and historical introduction to Hinduism, the religion of the majority of people in India. Dr Flood traces the development of Hindu traditions from their ancient origins, through the major deities of Visnu, Siva and the Goddess, to the modern world. Hinduism is discussed as both a global religion and a form of nationalism. Emphasis is given to the tantric traditions, which have been so influential; to Hindu ritual, which is more fundamental to the life of the religion than are specific beliefs or doctrines; and to Dravidian influences from south India. An Introduction to Hinduism examines the ideas of dharma, particularly in relation to the ideology of kingship, caste and world renunciation. Dr Flood also introduces some debates within contemporary scholarship about the nature of Hinduism. It is suitable both for the student and for the general reader.
Reviews / Votes
"This new introduction to Hinduism is distinguished by exceptionally useful chapter divisions, good detail combined with ease of reading, and a particular focus on the integrated quality of the evolution of Hindu thought....The book's balance between scholarly detail and clear, readable elucidation of issues is commendable....In all, this is a valuable contribution to the undergraduate classroom. Libraries whose Hinduism holdings include other good introductions should, nonetheless, acquire this one." Choice "Flood's book is a very welcome newcomer, comprehensive, detailed and judicious." Francis X. Clooney, S.J., Theological Studies "...is one of the best and most informative intiations into Hinduism to date." Journal of Indo-European Studies "An Introduction to Hinduism is a highly readable and authoritative conspectus on this great religion....An Introduction to Hinduism will surely find a much wider audience, for scholars of comparative religion, Indologists, and non-specialists in their distinctive ways will certainly find this handsome book well worth reading." David Hicks, Asian Thought and SocietyMore details
Series
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United Kingdom
Target group
College/higher education
Product notice
Paperback (trade)
Illustrations
2 Maps; 25 Halftones, unspecified
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 21 mm
Weight
547 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-521-43878-0 (9780521438780)
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Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
Gavin D. Flood
An Introduction to Hinduism
Book
07/1996
Cambridge University Press
€43.33
Article exhausted; check for reprint
Previous edition
Gavin D. Flood
An Introduction to Hinduism
Book
07/1996
Cambridge University Press
€43.33
Article exhausted; check for reprint
Person
Content
1. Points of departure; 2. Ancient origins; 3. Dharma; 4. Yoga and renunciation; 5. Narrative traditions and early Vaisnavism; 6. The love of Visnu; 7. Saiva and tantric religion; 8. The Goddess and Sakta traditions; 9. Hindu ritual; 10. Hindu theology and philosophy; 11. Hinduism and the modern world.