Hinduism Books
Liverpool University Press Bhagavad Gita: A Text and Commentary for Students
Book SynopsisJeaneane Fowler provides a text and detailed commentary on this important Hindu scripture, which is a dialogue between Arjuna the man and Krishna the God. Major Hindu concepts are examined in depth, and the background to the Gita is presented in a comprehensive introduction. Yoga is the key feature of the Gita but it has its own interpretation of what that yoga should be: thus, yoga features not only in each of the pathways of knowledge, desireless action and devotion, but in the way in which the divine is understood. The chapters of the Bhagavad Gita therefore describe Arjunas despondency followed by The Yoga of Sankhya, Action, Knowledge, Renunciation, Meditation, Knowledge and Realization, the Imperishable Brahman, Royal Knowledge and Royal Mystery, Manifestation, the Vision of the Universal Form, Devotion, the Differentiation of the Kshetra and Kshetrajna, the Differentiation of the Three Gunas, the Supreme Purusha, the Differentiation of the Divine and the Demonic, the Differentiation of the Threefold Shraddha and, finally, The Yoga of Liberation and Renunciation. The book also contains detailed notes to the Gita chapters, a Further Reading section, a combined Glossary and Index of Sanskrit Terms, and an Index of English words. The cover of the book is replete with symbolism. Krishna is always represented as blue in colour, hence the colour of the hands in the cover design. The chariot of Krishna and Arjuna is to be seen in the motif at the base, while the triple motif symbolizes the triple paths of the Gita action without desire for results, knowledge and devotion. There are also three strands that make up all phenomena light and radiance, energy, and inertia, as well as three aspects of the divine in the Gita the totally transcendent Absolute, the manifest deity that is also the essence of all things, and the personal God to whom devotion can be given. The main image of Krishna is superimposed on the roots of the ashvattha tree that features in chapter 15: its branches reach down into the earth and its roots ascend upwards and it represents phenomenal existence.Table of ContentsIntroduction; Arjuna's Despondency; The Yoga of Sankhya; The Yoga of Action; The Yoga of Knowledge; The Yoga of Renunciation; The Yoga of Meditation; The Yoga of Knowledge & Realization; The Yoga of the Imperishable Brahman; The Yoga of Royal Knowledge & Royal Mystery; The Yoga of Manifestation; The Yoga of the Vision of the Universal Form; The Yoga of Devotion; The Yoga of the Differentiation of the Kshetra & the Kshetrajna; The Yoga of the Differentiation of the Three Gunas; The Yoga of the Supreme Purusha; The Yoga of the Differentiation of the Divine & the Demonic; The Yoga of the Differentiation of the Threefold Shraddha; The Yoga of Liberation & Renunciation; Epilogue; Notes; Further Reading; Glossary & Index of Sanskrit Terms; Index of English Words.
£20.05
Liverpool University Press Hinduism Beliefs and Practices: Volume I -- Major
Book SynopsisOriginally published in 1997 -- "A wonderful balance of detail and clarity with excellent introductory essays on the Indus Valley civilization, the Vedic Period, the Upanishads, and devotional Hinduism," Religious Studies Review; Choice Outstanding Academic Book selling over 10,000 copies, and now revised and expanded to two volumes (Volume II: Religious History and Philosophy). Herewith an outstanding introduction to Hinduism and the many expressions of the religion in India. The evolution and nature of the major Hindu deities occupies substantial sections of the book as well as social structures such as class and caste that inform not only ritualistic practices and approaches to divinity but also societal norms. Thus, the historical roots of present-day beliefs and practices and the religious contexts in which they are based are examined. Current issues such as the struggle for greater independence for women in all aspects of social and economic living are raised. The book also incorporates the ways in which Hinduism is expressed in the colourful festivals and the sacred pilgrimages throughout India. No prior knowledge of Hinduism is required. Contents include: Fundamental Beliefs; Scriptures; Class and Caste; The Four Stages of Life; Gods and Goddesses (Siva); Gods and Goddesses (Sakti); Gods and Goddesses (Visnu, Krisna and Radha); Ritual in the Home and Community (Worship); Ritual in the Home and Community (Life-cycle Rites); Women in the Home and Community; Sacred Times and Places: Festivals and Pilgrimage.
£24.95
Christian Focus Publications Ltd Chequebook of the Bank of Faith – Burgundy
Book SynopsisA short reading for every day. Spurgeon wrote this selection of readings to encourage believers to enter into the full provision that their relationship to Jesus entitled them to realise, on a daily basis. He explains we have to present the promises of Scripture to God in prayer and faith, anticipating that he will honour what he has said. Beautiful volume in burgundy.
£12.59
Equinox Publishing Ltd Saivism in the Diaspora: Contemporary Forms of
Book SynopsisThe book will explore contemporary manifestations of the worship of Siva that have transmigrated to the West. It explores Hindu vernacular traditions or 'village Hinduism' especially in the context of the Hindu diaspora, where the general assumption is that such forms of Hinduism cannot survive as they lack the infrastructure and the rural environment. Based on extensive fieldwork in Britain and India, the author shows that significant developments are taking place where Hindu communities have achieved sufficient concentration for various movements to appear that reproduce 'folk traditions' connected to a particular locale in the subcontinent. These movements often display a focus on the pragmatic or apotropaic motivation for worship of deities associated with healing. The focus is on the Baba Balaknath communities originating in the Punjab and Himachal Pradesh; the worship of Murugan amongst Tamil populations and the Community of the Many Names of God in Wales which originated in the worship of Subramaniyam in Shri Lanka. The book will not only throw some clarity on changing beliefs and practices in the Hindu diaspora, particularly the role of the apotropaic or pragmatic dimension, it will also help to understand important theoretical concepts such as Sanskritisation and the relationship between the 'Little Tradition' and the 'Great Tradition' or All-India and local traditions.Table of ContentsPreface Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 iiva and his family Chapter 3 The worship of Murugan in South India and Sri Lanka Chapter 4 The worship of Baba Balaknath in the Punjab Chapter 5 Migration patterns and relocation of religious traditions Chapter 6 The worship of Baba Balaknath in Britain Chapter 7 Punjabi Pilgrimages: Shahtalai Chapter 8 Punjabi Pilgrimages: The Tirtha Yatra Chapter 9 Murugan worship in Britain Chapter 10 The role of ritual in the diaspora Tamil iaivite Temple Chapter 11 Murugan worship in Britain: Skanda Vale Chapter 12 Vernacular and scriptural: Sanskrization revisited.
£67.50
New Dawn Press Sterling Book of Ma Sarada: The Miracle of Love
Book SynopsisHere are some glimpses of the unique life of Sri Sarada Devi, the divine consort of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, combining both her human and divine roles. The life of Sri Sarada Devi, known to devotees also as the Holy Mother of Sri Sri Ma, had been a mixture of the mundane and the profoundly spiritual. She effortlessly moved from the grossly external to the supremely internal levels of existence all through her life. She faced tremendous hardships with a serenity that is almost impossible to encounter elsewhere. Each incident of her life serves as a core for contemplating on the highest truths embedded in our ancient scriptures and paradoxically in our own ordinary lives. The volume brings out all these facets of her experience from a special perspective.
£6.19
New Dawn Press Sterling Book of Bhagavad Gita
Book SynopsisThe Bhagavad Gita is a book of light, love and life: Jnana, Bhakti and Karma. Karma is work and work is life. The Bhagavad Gita teaches us how to be, how to think and how to act. In this book, the author has presented the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita in an easily understandable form for the average reader who does not have the time or the facility to read the bigger volume written on this great epic poem.
£6.19
Collective Ink Book of One, The
Book SynopsisA comprehensive, yet entertaining introduction to Advaita, the non-dual philosophy which provides a completely reasonable explanation for who we are and the nature of the universe. There are many self-help approaches promising enlightenment and happiness but most are illogical and lack any proven capability. Advaita has a guru-disciple tradition stretching back for several thousand years and can guarantee the sincere seeker a progressive path to self-realization. A 21st Century treatment of this ancient eastern philosophy, this book addresses all of the issues that are covered by both traditional teachers from the lineage of Shankara and by modern satsang teaching and Direct Path methods stemming from Ramana Maharshi and Krishna Menon. The topics are explained in an accessible and readable manner, using amusing quotations and stories along with an abundance of metaphors from a wide variety of sources.Trade ReviewThis book will greatly contribute to a deeper understanding of this important movement [Advaita], sweeping the West, and which eventually leads to Self Realisation. (Alan Jacobs, Chairman , Ramana Maharshi Foundation UK) There are many places to find advaita teachings - in ancient texts, modern books, in satsang, and on the Internet. Dennis Waite has found them all. He writes as a friendly tour guide, presenting the teachings with simplicity, humor and deep understanding. (Dr. Gregory Goode, PhD (Philosophy), Philosphical Counselor, New York)
£13.29
Icon Books Introducing Hinduism: A Graphic Guide
Book SynopsisWhy do Hindus revere the cow?Must Hindus be vegetarian? Hinduism is the world's oldest religion, yet the word 'Hindu' was never used before the 18th century by Hindus to describe themselves. it is defined as polytheistic, but Gandhi declared that a Hindu needn't believe in any god. it is a religion as much of myth as of history - it has no founder, no single authoritative book, even few central doctrines.Introducing Hinduism offers a guide to the key philosophical, literary, mythological and cultural traditions of the extraordinarily diverse faith. It untangles the complexities of Hinduism's gods and goddesses, its caste system and its views on sex, everyday life and asceticism. Vinay Lal and Borin Van Loon's hugely enjoyable tour through Hinduism also explores its links with and differences from Buddhism, Jainism and other religions, the resurgence of Hindu extremism, the phenomenon of Bollywood and the overseas Hindu diaspora.
£8.54
Oneworld Publications Hinduism: A Short History
Book SynopsisThe history of the Hindu tradition is captured by Kalus K. Klostermaier in this new survey of a rich and ancient religion. This study moves swiftly but thoroughly through the ages, from early emergence of the Vedic tradition to the developments in contemporary Hinduism. Factual information is balanced with discussion of such problematic areas as the true origins of Hinduism and the controversy of the Aryan invasion. Other features include: full coverage of all the major branches within the religion, and their origins; the role of philosophical reflection in the development of Hinduism; the future of Hinduism; a quick-reference chronology, bibliography and extensive glossary. This guide to the development of a major religion should be of interest to those interested in the subject, from gradates to the curious general reader, and can be used as a companion volume to "Hinduism - a short introduction".Trade Review'Solid, comprehensive scholarship... I enjoyed reading it.' - Harold Coward, University of VictoriaTable of ContentsIntroduction - what is Hinduism? the meaning of "history", a history of Hinduism? problems in constructing a historic schema of Hinduism, attempting a periodisation of Indian history, basic Hindu source literature; a short history of two cities - a microcosm of Hinduism - Mathura, Varanasi; the beginnings of Hinduism 0 a controversy - the Aryan invasion theory, debunking the Aryan invasion theory, new chronologies, old versus new, or scientists versus philologists? the Rgveda - a code? India, the cradle of civilisation? a crown witness for the new chronology? a short history of Vedic religion - the Rgveda and its interpreters, the Vedic Indra religion, Purva Mimamsa - orthodox Vedic exegesis, the continuity of Vedic religion; a short history of Vaisnavism -the development of Visnu mythology, the development of Vaisnava philosophy, Vaisnava worship and devotion, Vaisnavism today; a short history of Saivism - the development of Siva mythology, Siva schools of thought, Siva images and worship, contemporary developments in Saivism; a short history of Saktism - the development of Devi mythology, Devi worship and iconography, Sakta philosophy, Saktism today; Smartas - traditional Hindu universalists; a short history of Hindu philosophy - Nyaya-Vaisesika, Samkhya-Yoga, Purva and Uttara Mimamsa, Hindu philosophy today; a short history of modern Hinduism - beginnings of modernity in India, Hindu reactions to Christian missions, Hinduism after independence, Hindu teachers going west, Hinduism present and future.
£14.99
Oneworld Publications Hinduism: A Beginner's Guide
Book SynopsisExplaining the origins, beliefs, scriptures and philosophies of this ancient religion, Klaus K. Klostermaier succeeds in capturing the rich diversity of rituals and gods that comprise Hinduism, while keeping the tone both engaging and informative. Covering contemporary issues such as the relationship between Hinduism and modern Western ideas, and imminent challenges the religion faces, this sweeping exploration of a fascinating and long-lasting belief system is essential reading for students, followers, and interested readers alike.Trade Review"It is immensely readable, works well as an introduction, but will also challenge and intrigue the academic and devotee alike." * World Faiths Encounter *
£9.49
Mandrake of Oxford Tantra Sadhana: A Practical Introduction to Kaula
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£11.69
Temple of the Divine Mother, Inc. Shree Maa: The Guru and the Goddess
£14.95
Temple of the Divine Mother, Inc. Rudrastadhyayi
£14.95
Temple of the Divine Mother, Inc. Gayatri Sahasranam
£14.95
Amber-Allen Publishing,U.S. Power, Freedom, and Grace: Living from the Source
Book Synopsis“This book captures the essence of all of my talks over the last 20 years. It is the distillation of almost everything I have taught up to now.” — Deepak ChopraDeepak Chopra considers the mystery of our existence and its significance in our eternal quest for happiness. Who am I? Where did I come from? Where do I go when I die? Chopra draws upon the ancient philosophy of Vedanta and the findings of modern science to help us understand and experience our true nature, which is a field of pure consciousness.When we understand our true nature, we begin to live from the source of true happiness, which is not mere happiness for this or that reason, but true inner joy. When we know who we are, we allow the universe to flow through us with effortless ease, and our lives are infused with power, freedom, and grace.
£11.69
Amber-Allen Publishing,U.S. Poder, Libertad, y Gracia
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£12.99
Mandala Publishing Group Sri Bhakti Raksaka Madhuri: A Glimpse into the
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£9.89
Mandala Publishing Group In Search Ultimate Goal of Life: Sri Ramananda
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£10.44
Mandala Publishing Group The Golden Gift of the Golden Lord: Prema Dhama
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£9.45
Clarion Call Publishing Aesthetic Vedanta: The Sacred Path of Passionate
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£11.99
Mandala Publishing Group Gods and Goddesses Card Deck
Book SynopsisMandala Publishing presents an exotic collection of Gods and Goddesses artwork in this fabulous new card deck. Each card highlights a particular deity of the Hindu pantheon and provides corresponding mantras, meditations, prayers and blessings. These cards reveal a 'who's who' in the spiritual world and identify which roles particular gods and goddesses play in the universe. For greater intelligence, petition Saraswati. For the removal of obstacles, invoke the presence of Ganesh by chanting his mantra. These delicately detailed cards make attractive home centerpieces and great gifts for both young and adult. Pronunciation guide included.
£13.91
Mandala Publishing Group Darshan: Sweet Sounds of Surrender
Book SynopsisInspired by the ancient culture of India, singer Kim Waters and instrumentalist Hans Christian rediscover sacred Sanskrit chants and Bengali devotional songs in their debut as Rasa. Combining traditional and modern elements, their music reflects an unearthly beauty and invokes a mood of transcendent joy. Words, photos, and sound all combine in this unique photographic and musical essay of devotional songs and philosophy. Enlightening essays elucidate the transcendental conception of a world where sound and form are one and the same. Each song is accompanied by an English translation, and includes a short biographical sketch of the saint who originated the work.
£15.29
Mandala Publishing Group Sharanam: A Garland of Kirtan
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£15.89
Mandala Publishing Group KIRTAN INCLUDING CD
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£15.89
Mandala Publishing Group Bhajan - Mantras of Mercy
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£15.89
Mandala Publishing Group Hanuman: The Heroic Monkey God
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£7.99
Mandala Publishing Group Shiva: Lord of the Dance
Book SynopsisShiva: Lord of the Dance recalls captivating ancient tales of kingly sacrifices, sinister plots, ghastly armies, spontaneous incinerations and plummeting rivers that threaten the planet. These are stories of otherworldly passions and celestial dancing, worthy of retelling again and again. Coupled with over 30 full-color illustrations, this attractive mini book eclipses traditional symbolism, exploring the very nature of this complex god and how he relates to us. For many of us, the mention of Shiva''s name conjures up images of an ash-smeared ascetic meditating high in the Himalayas, a protector of Parvati and Ganesh, or a dancing, destructive god. In traditional art, he is seen sitting on a tiger skin rug, his long matted hair tied in a topknot, adorned by the crescent moon. But who is this mysterious figure, and what does he have to teach us?
£7.59
Sunstar Publishing,U.S. Siva Puja and Advanced Yajna
£17.58
Sri Publications Twelve Essential Upanishads Volume II
£15.19
Hohm Press,U.S. Yoga Mortality: Ancient Teachings at a Time of
Book SynopsisThis book explores what integral morality and maturity means in traditional yogic terms and in the context of contemporary culture. Feuerstein shows how the ancient teachings of Yoga are singularly relevant in our time of global crisis. At the same time, he offers a trenchant critique of the contemporary Yoga movement. This work, which is full of surprising insights, is required reading for anyone aspiring to understand or practice authentic Yoga.
£22.12
Sarada Ramakrishna Vivekananda Association of Oregon Twenty Four Aspects of Mother Kali
£15.50
Sarada Ramakrishna Vivekananda Association of Oregon Reclaiming Kundalini Yoga
£9.50
SRV Associations Manasana - The Superlative Art of Mental Posture
£9.50
Jewish Lights Publishing Bhagavad Gita: Annotated & Explained
Book SynopsisThis simple beautiful translation by Shri Purohit Swami and the wonderful annotations by Kendra Crossen Burroughs make this the very best Gita for first-time readers as well as any who want to absorb its extraordinary message: taste the divine waters herein and you might never thirst again. In the BHAGAVAD GITA those who long to know how to fight wisely for the future will find a handbook of spiritual warrior-hood and divine realisation that will constantly inspire and ennoble them.. The message of the Gita is one of perfect spiritual balance. Now you can read the Gita with no previous knowledge of Hinduism required. Insightful yet unobtrusive commentary introduces readers to the characters; explains all the references and philosophical terms; shares the interpretations of famous spiritual leaders and scholars and provides inspiration. Part of the Skylight Illuminations seriesTable of ContentsForeword by Andrew Harvey ix About the Bhagavad Gita xv About the Translation and Annotation xxi 1. The Despondency of Arjuna 2 2. The Philosophy of Discrimination: Samkhya Yoga 10 3. The Path of Action: Karma Yoga 24 4. The Path of Wisdom: Jnana Yoga 32 5. The Renunciation of Action 42 6. Meditation and Self-Control: Dhyana Yoga 48 7. Knowledge and Experience 58 8. The Supreme Spirit 64 9. The Sovereign Secret 70 10. The Divine Manifestations 78 11. The Cosmic Vision 86 12. The Path of Love: Bhakti Yoga 98 13. Matter and Spirit 104 14. The Three Qualities 112 15. The Lord God 118 16. The Divine and Demoniac Civilizations 124 17. The Threefold Faith 130 18. The Spirit of Renunciation 136 Notes 152 Suggested Readings and Resources 159 List of Special Terms 163 Credits 165
£16.19
Jewish Lights Publishing Selections from the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna:
Book SynopsisRamakrishna experienced the truth of all religions inspiring seekers of every creed. Now his 'gospel' is made accessible to all readers. Ramakrishna is India's greatest example of God-consciousness and mystical ecstasy in recent history. He became known to the world not merely as a saint but as a divine incarnation and a 'supremely realised self'. His message has inspired millions of devotees for more than a century - and now his teachings are made accessible to many more. Introduces the fascinating world of the Indian Mystic and the universal appeal of his message. Now readers can explore this classic text without any prior knowledge of Hinduism. Selections of his teachings include · How to see God and live in the world · Religious harmony · The dynamics of spiritual awakening · The spiritual power of the Feminine · Prayer and meditation Selections from the original text and insightful yet unobtrusive facing page commentary highlight the most important and inspiration teachings.
£12.34
Jewish Lights Publishing Lighting the Lamp of Wisdom: A Week Inside an
Book SynopsisThe insiders guide to Hindu spiritual life.Ashram is the general term for a study center, retreat house, or monastic community in Hinduism, the millennia-old religious tradition of India. Ashrams of various kinds are now found throughout North America, and are popular venues for spiritual retreats, workshops, and classes.Lighting the Lamp of Wisdom takes you into a typical week of retreat inside an ashram to demystify the ashram experience and show you what to expect from your own visit. You will experience all the elements of a typical day and week, including: The colorful puja, or worship services Meditation practices and yoga classes Classes on Hindu scriptures Chanting and music Satsang: an informal talk with the ashrams guru Work practice and much more. You'll also meet some of the people who visit ashrams to hear their reasons for going there, as well as the spiritual benefits they derive from the experience. Also included are a helpful glossary, a list of books for further reading, and a directory to ashrams in North America that will enable you to locate one near you and set up your own visit.
£11.39
Jewish Lights Publishing Bede Griffiths: An Introduction to His
Book SynopsisBede Griffiths - English Benedictine monk and lifelong friend of C. S. Lewis who was his tutor at Oxford - wrote in 1955 to a friend: 'I'm going out to India to seek the other half of my soul'. There he explored the intersection of Hinduism and Christianity and was a driving force behind the growth of inter-spiritual awareness so common today yet almost unheard of half a century ago. Wayne Teasdale a long-time personal friend and student of Griffiths provides readers with an intriguing view into the thoughts beliefs and life of this champion of inter-religious acceptance and harmony. This volume is the first in-depth study of Bede Griffiths' contemplative experience and thought. Fully exploring the antecedents and development of Griffiths' theory that the Christian mystery can be expressed through the worldview of Hinduism, BEDE GRIFFITHS is a vital starting point for any spiritual seeker who wants to understand the shared territories of these two great faiths.Trade ReviewOriginally Teasdale's 1985 doctoral dissertation published two years later in India, this introduction to the work and thought of Fr. Bede Griffiths has been reissued in the United States with minimal editing but with an epilogue, newly detailed notes and an expanded bibliography. A student and personal friend of Bede, Teasdale includes in these additions insight from taped conversations and lectures as well as other sources dating from 1985 to Bede's death in 1993. The author offers the current publication as his contribution toward a greater understanding of the English Benedictine and the growing movement of interspirituality, "the activity and process of exploring other traditions in more than an academic sense." As a slightly revised dissertation, this volume does not offer casual reading. But it does present a rewarding introduction to, and perhaps summary of, Bede Griffiths' quest to discover intersections of Hindu and Christian theology and spirituality so as to create an authentic Indian Christianity. After Bede's 1986 foreword and his own preface, Teasdale divides the book into two major parts: historical context, including Bede's "method" of mystical or contemplative theology, and theological scheme, focusing on the central issue of parallels between Saccidananda and Trinity. This second section also includes Bede's interspiritual insights on Christology, "monkhood" in both religious traditions, and the future of the Church, as well as the author's original conclusions and several implications of Bede's interspirituality. Teasdale concludes the book with an epilogue, a brief glossary of Hindu terms and a seventeen-page bibliography of works by and about Bede Griffiths, who was also known as Dayananda, "Bliss or Joy of Compassion." Readers unfamiliar with Hinduism will find themselves consulting the glossary often, and serious students of Hindu/Christian interspirituality will delight in searching the rich collection of articles, books and theses. Teasdale places the English monk in a movement begun in the seventeenth century, with particular attention to the work of two of his more immediate predecessors, Jules Monchanin and Henri le Saux (Abhishiktananda). These men were, in turn, taking up a task articulated by theologian Henri de Lubac: "rethinking everything" in light of theology and rethinking theology in light of mysticism. Bede made this work his lifelong effort, seeking a new synthesis of Eastern and Western mysticism and Christian faith. The author emphasizes that Bede's way of knowing included comparative study and reflection but functioned most fundamentally in symbolic and intuitive modes, grounded in contemplative experience. According to Teasdale, Bede's interspirituality cannot be dismissed as mere syncretism. What the monk envisioned as a convergence of Hindu and Christian doctrine and practice presupposes a unity behind religious and cultural experience, that unity being Ultimate Reality. Hindu and Christian alike experience and therefore understand the Divine as at once transcendent and immanent, known both in the cosmos and in the "cave of the heart." What is experienced in contemplation is One Truth, but this experience finds expression in various symbolic modes in different religions. In Bede's interspiritual thought, both Christian monasticism and its Hindu counterpart (sannyasa) seek, through ascetical and contemplative life, the experience of non-duality (advaita), unity of the self with Ultimate Reality. Differing symbols for this single Reality are Saccidananda and Trinity, and it is here that Bede identifies the central point of convergence and possibility of a true meeting between Hindu and Christian. The author judges Bede more cautious and prudent than his predecessor Abhishiktananda, who saw an identity of Saccidananda and Trinity. Bede, on the other hand, advocated "theological adaptation and appropriation of Hindu terms" in order to create a truly Indian Christianity. He did not simply interchange Hindu and Christian terms, but in a process similar to early Christian use of logos to interpret the Christ, recast Hindu words and symbols in Christian theological usage, incorporating certain connotations and refinements. Bede's approach, as well as his theological precision, is evident in his decription of the most accurate way to express advaita, nonduality or unity in distinction, in Christian terms. According to Teasdale, Bede rooted his view of a Christian advaita in the Gospel of John, which he understood to express "the truth of a modified Advaitic experience in Christ's consciousness. . . ." Teasdale quotes Bede: . . . this man (Jesus) knows Himself in . . . unity with the Father. He can say, "I and the Father are one." And that is the mystery of unity-in- distinction. This is the point that is generally missed. . . . Jesus does not say, "I am the Father." That would be pure advaita, pure identity, but [he] says rather, "I and the Father are one," which is unity-in-distinction. . . . And He also says, "I am in the Father, and the Father is in me." That is the proper way of expressing advaita in Christian terms. (p. 116) In Teasdale's assessment, Bede's mystical theology seems to begin and end with a need to open ourselves to revelation of one divine unity-in-distinction, which took place in many times and places. Christian at his core, Bede named this Divine Reality love. How completely this single Reality enlivened and guided Bede and his interspirituality becomes poignantly evident in Teasdale's epilogue. The author describes how, even after two strokes had severely debilitated him, the monk continued to speak constantly of love. Teasdale quotes one of Bede's many friends: "It is the one, all encompassing category of his experience." Teasdale has performed a valuable service for the continuing movement of interspirituality, a work in progress which the author believes is still in infancy. The author's own considerable experience and knowledge of interspirituality in general and Bede Griffiths' work in particular is evident in this work. Those unfamiliar with one or both will find that Teasdale requires close, careful reading and reflection. However, both novice and experienced students of interspirituality will be rewarded by his clear, comprehensive synthesis of Bede's work and thought. Familiar with rational theology and well practiced in Bede's own method of contemplative theology, the author proves adept at analyzing and critiquing Bede's life work and thought. Teasdale does not succumb to unthinking adulation of his friend and mentor, but points out both Bede's accomplishments and unclear or unfinished elements of his work. In fact, there are places in the book where a reader might wish for further detail and development of Bede's insight. But this could simply prove that the author accomplished one of his major goals: to call attention to, and arouse interest in, the life and thought of Bede Griffiths, a " Western prophet shining in the East." -- Marielle Frigge, OSB * The American Benedictine Review *Table of ContentsForeword by Bede Griffiths vii Preface xiii Part One: Background to a Christian Vedanta 1. Bede's Quest for the Absolute 3 2. The Historical Context as Sannyasic Monasticism 17 3. Epistemology, Metaphysics, and Contemplative Theology 43 Part Two: The Possibility of a Christian Vedanta 4. Bede's Theological Scheme, Myth, and the Cosmic Revelation 73 5. Christian Vedanta: Advaita, Saccidananda, and the Trinity 93 6. Christology, Tantrism, Sannyasa, and the Future of the Church 136 7. Conclusion and Implications 177 Epilogue 195 Notes 205 Glossary 230 Select Bibliography 234 Index 252
£12.59
Liverpool University Press Hindu Goddesses: Beliefs & Practices
Book SynopsisThis book explores the diversity of Hindu goddesses and the variety of ways in which they are worshiped. Although they undoubtedly have ancient origins, Hindu goddesses and their worship is still very much a part of the fabric of religious engagement in India today. The book offers an introduction to a complex and often baffling field of study. Part I, "Beliefs" provides a series of encounters with a range of Hindu goddesses starting with the idea of 'Goddess' as a philosophical concept. Topics include textual evidence for belief structures, goddess mythology, and the importance of 'the Goddess' in Tantrism. Part II, "Practices" leads the reader through the tangled web of goddess worship, pausing along the way to examine the contrast between temple and local worship, the splendour of festivals and the importance of pilgrimage to those places in India where goddesses are considered to reside. A Conclusion provides details of contemporary developments in goddess worship, such as the appearance of new deities who supply the needs of worshipers in the twenty-first century. No prior knowledge is necessary as the book is aimed at undergraduate students and anyone interested in the religions and philosophy of India.
£30.00
Collective Ink Principal Upanishads
Book SynopsisThe "Upanishads" are the sacred writings of Hinduism. They are perhaps the greatest of all the books in the history of world religions. Their origins predate recorded history, being revealed to the Rishis of the Vedic civilization some 5000 to 10,000 years ago. Many see them as the kernel of the mystical, philosophical truths that are the basis of the Higher World religion of Hinduism, their cradle, of which Buddhism is a successor and Judaism is an offshoot. With Islam and Christianity being offshoots of Judaism, this makes them the foundational documents for understanding and practising religion today. Much of the original text of the "Upanishads" is archaic and occasionally corrupted, but it does convey a moral and ethical thrust that is abundantly clear. Alan Jacobs uses modern free verse to convey the essential meaning and part of the original text. He omits Sanskrit words as far as possible and the commentary provided is contemporary rather than ancient.
£12.34
Collective Ink Bhagavad Gita, The
Book SynopsisThe "Bhagavad Gita" is a sacred scripture of epic dimensions and is the key sacred text of Hinduism. It means the "song of God" and is often called the "Song Celestial". Alan Jacobs uses contemporary free verse based on innovative metaphors to provide a clear meaning for today's readers. It is mandala poetry - each verse being a mandala for meditation.Trade Review"Jacobs presents his work in the form of transcreation. Transcreation invigorates the text to reinforce its poetic imagery and power. He has today's seeker in his mind when he gives an easy-to-understand poetic meaning. Contemporary free verse based on "innovative metaphors" and figures of speech and swift line breaks are used. He pours out the more advanced spiritual teaching leading to Advaita Vedanta. He cites Adi Sankara to show that the higher Para Vidya or esoteric, absolute non-dual Advaitic teaching is interwoven with the lower Apara Vidya or esoteric, relative dualistic teaching. He is emphatic that the Gita leads to Self-realisation and mentions the three stages-intellectual understanding, spiritual practice and finally, surrender. The book is a welcome addition to the Gita literature and a useful tool to those yearning to broaden their understanding of the Song Celestial as a transforming instrument." Arudra "Definitely an edition to add to your collection. The translation is poetic and is interspersed with illuminating commentaries." Scientific and Medical Network Review "Alan Jacobs has succeeded in revitalising the ancient text of the Bhagavad Gita into a form which reveals the full majesty of this magnificent Hindu scripture, as well as its practical message for today's seekers. His incisive philosophic commentary dusts off all the archaism of 1500 years and restores the text as a transforming instrument pointing the way to Self Realization." Cygnus Review "Despite the fact that there are now 279 English translations of the 'Bhagavad Gita' in existence, Alan Jacob's own recently pubished edition is one of the most beautiful. A transcreation rather than a translation, the author has endeavoured to preserve the essence of the nondualist teachings (also known as Advaita Vedanta) interwoven in Hinduism's best known spiritual text as well as introduce his own poetic touch. Literally meaning the 'Song of God', the 'Bhagavad Gita' recounts a key moment in the ancient Indian epic, the 'Mahabharata'. Set on the battlefield of Kurashetra between two rival royal households, Arjuna, leader of the Pandavas, is rendered impotent in the face of impending bloodshed. Krishna, Avatar and Arjuna's charioteer, thus takes the opportunity to deliver the Dharma or moral code. Indeed, the battle can be interpreted as an allegory of the inner warfare between dharma (harmony) and adharma (discord) within in all of us in the face of life's challenges and troubles. Together with his 'Principal Upanishads', the profundity of this particular edition of the 'Bhagavad Gita' is owing to the author's accessible and yet exquisite poetry." Paula Marvelly
£12.34
St James Publishing A Mahabharata Companion
Book SynopsisIt is attempting to explain the relationship of the individual to society and the world (the nature of the 'Self') and the workings of karma.
£8.24
£52.25
Seagull Books London Ltd Offence: The Hindu Case
Book SynopsisTo many outside India, Hinduism is envisioned as the foundation of an ideal, all-embracing society. Yet this is far from the truth. Though historically the practice of Hinduism does promote the idea of an inclusive and tolerant way of life, in the past decade Hindu extremists have captured the religion and perverted it to their own ideological ends. In "The Hindu Case", Indian journalist Salil Tripathi meticulously documents how Hindu fundamentalists have succeeded in censoring and banning many cultural works, tampered with university teaching, and prevented academics from continuing in their jobs. In addition, Tripathi shows that these extremists are in the process of rewriting the ancient Hindu scriptures. This title in the "Manifestos for the 21st Century" series, published in collaboration with "Index on Censorship", the only international magazine dedicated to promoting and protecting free expression, focuses on rights, tolerance, censorship, and dissent within India's complex society, and it is an essential read for those interested in the struggle between religious fundamentalism and free expression.
£14.25
Illuminate Publishing WJEC/Eduqas Religious Studies for A Level Year 1
Book SynopsisEndorsed by WJEC/Eduqas, the Student Book offers high quality support you can trust. / Written by an experienced teacher and author with an in-depth understanding of teaching, learning and assessment at A Level and AS. / A skills-based approach to learning, covering content of the specification with examination preparation from the start. / Developing skills feature focuses on what to do with the content and the issues that are raised with a progressive range of AO1 examples and AO2 exam-focused activities. / Questions and Answers section provides practice questions with student answers and examiner commentaries. / It provides a range of specific activities that target each of the Assessment Objectives to build skills of knowledge, understanding and evaluation. / Includes a range of features to encourage you to consolidate and reinforce your learning.Table of ContentsTheme 1 Religious figures and sacred texts, Theme 2 Religious concepts, Theme 3 Religious life, Theme 4 Religious practices that shape religious identity, Practice questions and answers.
£29.11
Monash University Publishing The Lajjagauri and Anandanayaki: A New Light on
Book Synopsis
£24.29
Shambhala Publications Inc Glimpses of Raja Yoga: An Introduction to Patanjali's Yoga Sutras
£16.19
Aurea Vidya Mandukyakarika: The Metaphysical Path of Vedanta
£14.24
Aurea Vidya Bhagavadgita: The Celestial Song
£17.99
