An Introduction to Hinduism

Gavin D. Flood

Cambridge University Press, Jul 13, 1996 - Religion - 341 pages

This book provides a much-needed thematic and historical introduction to Hinduism, the religion of the majority of people in India. Dr. Flood traces the development of Hindu traditions from ancient origins and the major deities to the modern world. Hinduism as both a global religion and a form of nationalism are discussed. Emphasis is given to the tantric traditions, which have been so influential; to Hindu ritual, more fundamental than belief or doctrine; and to Dravidian influences. It introduces some debates within contemporary scholarship.

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Review: An Introduction to Hinduism

User Review  - Brian - Goodreads

If you are interested in the topic, this is a good, overall introduction that covers all the bases.

Review: An Introduction to Hinduism

User Review  - John - Goodreads

An outstanding overview of the complex history and identities of Hinduism. This would be very useful as a textbook for college-level courses, and will also appeal to non-specialists looking for a ...

Contents

• Points of departure: 5
• Ancient origins: 23
• Dharma: 51
• Yoga and renunciation: 75
• Narrative traditions and early Vaisnavism: 103
• The love of Visnu: 128
• Saiva and tantric religion: 148
• The Goddess and Sakta traditions: 174
• Hindu ritual: 198
• Hindu theology and philosophy: 224
• Hinduism and the modern world: 250
• Notes: 274
• Bibliography: 305
• Index: 329

About the author

Gavin Flood is a professor of Hindu studies and comparative religion at Oxford University. He lives in Oxford.

Bibliographic information

• Title: An Introduction to Hinduism; Introduction to Religion
• Author: Gavin D. Flood
• Edition: illustrated, reprint
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1996
• ISBN: 0521438780, 9780521438780
• Length: 341 pages
• Subjects: Religion / Buddhism / General; Religion / Eastern; Religion / Hinduism / General