Hinduism: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

by KimKnott (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  1998

  $5.44

  Hinduism is practised by about 80 per cent of India's population, and by about 30,000,000 people outside India. But how is Hinduism defined, and what basis does the religion have? In this Very Short Introduction , Kim Knott provides concise insights into the central preoccupations of Hinduism. These include the role of contemporary gurus and teachers in the quest for spiritual fulfilment and the function of regular performances of the Mahabharata and Ramayana scriptures. These present the divine in personal form (avatara) and provide models of behaviour for everyone, from kings and warriors to servants and children, and which focus on the dharma, the appropriate duties and moral responsibilites of the different varna or classes. The text also considers the challenges posed to Hinduism at the end of the 20th century as it spreads far beyond India, and as concerns are raised about issues such as dowry death and caste prejudice, and the place of women in Hindu society. Combining a succinct and authoritative overview of a major religion with analysis and observation, this Very Short Introduction should make interesting reading for Hindus and non-Hindus alike.

• Used

  Paperback
  2000

  $3.98

  Hinduism is practised by eighty per cent of India's population, and by thirty million people outside India. In this Very Short Introduction, Kim Knott combines a succinct and authoritative overview of a major religion with an analysis of the challenges facing it in the twentieth century. She discusses key preoccupations of Hinduism such as the centrality of the Veda as religious texts, the role of brahmins, gurus, and storytellers in the transmission of divine truths, and the importance of epics such as the Ramayana. Issues such as the place of women and dalits (untouchables) in contemporary society are also addressed, making this book stimulating reading for Hindus and non-Hindus alike. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.