This book, in a short space, covers an extensive ground of Hindu teachings. It provides a panoramic view of a Hindu approaches to religion, philosophy, science, politics, mythology, art, the role of women, and the past andthe future of humanity.—Dr. David Frawley Redundancy of the idea of religion seems to be growing inan age in which any mystery can be demystified by science. It also seems as if patronising religion is outdated in today’s so-called progressive world. However, adaptability and progressiveness have been the basic requisites of Hindu philosophy. Hence it requires its followers to evolve with change. Through this book, the authors have tried to endorse the role of Hinduism in the formation and development of human society. They have looked back at the conception, evolution and sustenance of Indian society through the lens of Hinduism, and have tried to explain this process through short Hindu mythological tales. We believe decoding folklore is also a source of understanding the history of any given period. Different tales spanning different ages and times bring forth a completely different picture of the mores and morality of our society, which still abide with the constant basic principles of Hinduism. This signifies the adaptability of this great religion with changing times.The reader will discover that, eventually, the core values of Hinduism remain the same and support its relevance today and will continue to do so for eternity. The universe is made up of stories, not of atoms.—Muriel Rukeyser, Writer and Poetess

There is no devotion to God without devotion to the motherland. We are in debt to our mothers for bringing us into this world by carrying nine months in her womb and nurture us. Similarly, motherland provides us everything we need. Patriotism promotes unity and harmony. This book, A Tribute to the Motherland, is a small token of my appreciation to her. It sheds a light on the culture and values of ancient India, which has gradually declined due to materialistic overindulgence which currently is dominating the Indian society. There is also so much intentional distortion, construed, twisted misrepresentation and misinformation about Indian history flooded into the Western school textbooks and the news media. A single thought from one person's mind can change the world for good and with that thought in mind, an attempt was made to bring awareness to the world about the true nature of Hinduism which is Sanatana Dharma, an eternal way of virtuous life. The motherland is glorified with 108 names as mantras (Ashtottaram), and these mantras can be used during Independence Day and Republic Day, at schools, and government offices where corruption is rampant.

A new look at an ancient religion. The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Hinduism, Second Edition, contains updated and expanded information on how the religion developed from its very fragmented origins, the basic Hindu beliefs, and the multiple Hindu deities, as well as the sociological aspects of the religion including ethics, sacraments, dietary habits, the caste system, and much more. • Hinduism is the third-largest religion in the world, with over 765 million followers worldwide • Updated information on the state of Hinduism today • An exploration of the Hindu paths to enlightenment including karma yoga, bhakti yoga, jnana yoga, tantra and laya yoga • Expanded information on the Hindu Reformation

ÿThe roots of Hinduism reach deep into pre-historic hoary past. It has evolved over these millennia, and still this process continues. Dynamism, tolerance, cattholicity, assimilation, inclusiveness, optimism and unity in diversity have always been its hallmarks. Its multiplicity is more apparent than real. In the ultimate analysis, Hinduism proves to be a great synthesis of many diverse and even conflicting and contradictory trends and elemaits. Thus, its multiplicity and ambivalence are not only incompatible with the concept of essential unity of life and its creator, but also mark its strength. The Vedas and Vedanta form the earliest source of our knowledge of Hinduism. The Vedanta literature reflects mainly the early ritual-side of the Hindu way of living. So do the Puranas, as they throw significant light on the various mundane aspects of later Hinduism. The two Epics and the Gita also delineate the basis tenets of Hinduism, and underline the desirability of dharma and righteous living leading to ultimate triumph of the forces of good over evil.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1877.

Through pointed studies of important aspects and topics of dharma in Dharmaśāstra, this comprehensive collection shows that the history of Hinduism cannot be written without the history of Hindu law. Part One provides a concise overview of the literary genres in which Dharmasastra was written with attention to chronology and historical developments. This study divides the tradition into its two major historical periods--the origins and formation of the classical texts and the later genres of commentary and digest--in order to provide a thorough, but manageable overview of the textual bases of the tradition. Part Two presents descriptive and historical studies of all the major substantive topics of Dharmasastra. Each chapter offers readers with salest knowledge of the debates, transformations, and fluctcating importance of each topic. Indirectly, readers will also gain insight into the ethos or worldview of religious law in Hinduism, enabling them to get a feel for how dharma authors thought and why. Part Three contains brief studies of the impact and reception of Dharmasastra in other South Asian cultural and textual traditions. Finally, Part Four draws inspiration from "critical terms" in contemporary legal and religious studies to analyze Dharmasastra texts. Contributors offer interpretive views of Dharmasastra that start from hermeneutic and social concerns today.

Hinduism, the world's oldest living religion, embodies a wide spectrum of philosophies, beliefs, and customs. It has prompted thinkers from an array of cultures and ages-from Apollonius Tyaneus, a first century Greek thinker, to Voltaire, Mark Twain, and Albert Einstein-to extol its influence.Now, Dr. Hiro G. Badlani brings you Hinduism: Path of the Ancient Wisdom, an easy-to-understand guidebook that delves into Hinduism's spiritual and historical perspectives. For more than ten years, Dr. Badlani has passionately channeled his resources and inner reflections into learning about this ancient religion. His meticulous research, combined with guidance from spiritual masters, sages, and swamis has brought forth in this volume.This mini-encyclopedia covers all aspects of Hinduism in a series of small chapters. Spiritual teachings form the book's core, for without the spiritual teachings, what function can any religion play? Still, however, information is presented in a non-dogmatic manner, stressing the basic unity and homogeneity of all religions.With its powerful narrative and roots in spiritual storytelling, this book is perfect for anyone who desires authentic information on Hinduism. Engaging with this book will not only educate you, but imbue you with personal peace and happiness, becoming an experience both elegant and empowering.