Description
Book SynopsisCombining Hinduism with Western concepts and values, a new hybrid form of religion has developed in the US over the past century. This title traces the history of various Hindu-inspired movements in America, and argues that together they constitute a discrete category of religious practice, a distinct and identifiable form of new religion.
Trade ReviewOverall, this book presents a thorough illustration of guru-following as a 'non-institutional institution' (85), and convincingly articulates the phenomenon of HIMMs [Hindu-Inspired Meditation Movements] as a valuable category within present studies of religion. Given its detailed exposition of the commonalities and differences amongst HIMMs, including the controversies surrounding each movement, this book is equally suited to scholars of religion as it is to adherents of contemporary spirituality interested in the practice of meditation. * International Journal for the Study of New Religions *
Highly recommended. * Choice *
The author explores the hybrid forms of spiritual practice that emerged in the West, especially in the United States, over the last century as a result of the encounter with Hinduism in its myriad forms. -- Frank J. Korom * Religious Studies Review *
In this highly readable study, Williamson not only places Hindu-inspired meditation movements within the larger picture of the historical context of American religion and culture, but also gives us an intimate glimpse into the motivations and experiences of long-time practitioners. Combining both insider and outsider perspectives, she provides a rich, balanced, and sympathetic account of these movements, while not shying away from the controversies they have generated. This book is a & must-read for those interested in both Indian spirituality and American pluralism. -- Kathleen M. Erndl,author of Victory to the Mother: The Hindu Goddess of Northwest India in Myth, Ritual, and Symbol
The author is to be commended for drawing serious attention to an understudied subset of Hindu-based missionary movements in the West. -- Phillip Charles Lucas * Religion *
Bringing together history and ethnographic interviews, Williamson argues that Hindu-inspired meditation movements are a distinct type of new religious movement, even if their followers and leaders may repeat the 'mantra' that they are 'spiritual but not religious.'" * Religion Watch *
Table of ContentsA Note on Transliteration Preface Part I : Background 1 What Are Hindu-Inspired Meditation Movements? 2 Laying the Foundation for American-Style Hinduism Part II : Three Hindu - Insired Meditation Movements 3 Self-Realization Fellowship 4 Transcendental Meditation 5 Siddha Yoga Part III: In Their Own Words 6 The Guru-Disciple Relationship 7 Mystical Experiences 8 Worldview Conclusion Notes Bibliography Index About the Author
