The Samnyasa Upanisads: Hindu Scriptures on Asceticism and Renunciation

The Samnyasa Upanisads: Hindu Scriptures on Asceticism and Renunciation

by PatrickOlivelle (Author)

Synopsis

The first readable and accurate translation of twenty of the most authoritative Hindu documents pertaining to ascetic ideals and the ascetic way of life, this text opens to students a major source for the study of the Hindu ascetical institutions and of the historical changes they underwent during a period of a thousand years or more. Beginning with an analysis of the historical context that gave rise to Indian ascetical institutions and ideologies, Patrick Olivelle moves on to elucidate the meaning of renunciation-the central institution of holiness in most Hindu traditions-and the function and significance of the various elements that constitute the rite of renunciation. The Samnyasa Upanisads will be an unparalleled source of information and insight for students of Hinduism and Indian asceticism, mysticism, and holiness.

$69.64

Quantity

10 in stock

More Information

Format: Paperback
Pages: 336
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Published: 13 Feb 1992

ISBN 10: 0195070453
ISBN 13: 9780195070453

Media Reviews
Easy to follow and well-explained. * L. G. Tewari, Sonoma State University *
Finally! The translation we have been waiting for * a clean, modern, authentic, honorable, and readable rendering of the principal Upanisads. Olivelle's text is a great boon to students and teachers of Hinduism. *
Ever since Baptist missionary William Carey produced the first translation of Upanisads texts, and the first grammar and dictionary of Sanskrit, Christians have recognized the value of this literature in understanding the pervasice world view of the Indian sub-continent. * Robert I. Garrett, JR., Southwest Baptist Theological Seminary *
Excellent preface and background material. * Britt Towery, Baylor University *
I am delighted to have a fresh translation of the Upanisads. * Gurinder S. Mann, Columbia University *
A fine successor to Hume's translations. * John Holt, Bowdoin College *
Outstanding book on a vitally important dimension of Hinduism....Clearly translated, and the introduction is very helpful for students. * Bruce M. Sullivan, Northern Arizona University *
Much needed study of renunciation and an admirable collection to texts. Important work. * Donald P. St. John, Moravian College *
This thematic lense for introduction both to the vast Upanisadic literature and the asceitic life will be useful for introducing students to the 'Hindu' tradition. * A.H. Mathias Zahniser, Asbury Theological Seminary *
The definitive translation of texts seminal to understanding the Hindu tradition and particularly asceticism. * Douglas R. Brooks , University of Rochester *
A welcome new translation. The texts contain much interesting material on the theme of renunciation, especially as it relates to ritual practices, and Olivelle is a recognized authority in these matters. The translation is first-rate * accurate and readable throughout. There is no question about the contribution it represents in the larger context of Indology or South Asian studies. *
His analysis is stimulating as the translations are reliable. Combined, they comprise and essential textual contribution to our understanding of the meaning of religious renunciation in india. * Gail Hinich Sutherland, Louisiana State University *