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Hinduism

Written by Roshen Dalal

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About this book

An invaluable encyclopedia of Hinduism Hinduism is one of the world’s oldest religions; an amalgam of diverse beliefs and schools, it originates in the Vedas and is rooted in Indian culture. Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide illuminates complex philosophical concepts through lucid definitions, a historical perspective and incisive analyses. It examines various aspects of Hinduism, covering festivals and rituals, gods and goddesses, philosophers, memorials, aesthetics, and sacred plants and animals. The author also explores pivotal ideas, including moksha, karma, dharma and samsara, and details the diverse commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita and other important texts. Citing extensively from the regional languages, the book describes Hinduism’s innumerable myths and legends, and looks at the many versions of texts including the Ramayana and Mahabharata, placing each entry in its historical context and tracing its evolution to the present. • Outlines all eighteen major Puranas, the 108 Upanishads, and a selection of Vaishnava, Sahiva and Tantric texts • Provides quotations from rare original texts • A product of years of research, with a wide range of entries

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Hinduism, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • intermediate
  • informative
  • enlightening
  • scholarly

Roshen Dalal's 'Hinduism' is a comprehensive and accessible introduction to one of the world's oldest and most diverse religions. The book systematically explores Hinduism's historical evolution, core philosophical concepts, major deities, sacred texts, rituals, and practices. It effectively distills complex spiritual and cultural traditions into a clear, engaging narrative, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and those seeking a deeper understanding. Dalal emphasizes the religion's inherent plurality and continuous adaptation over millennia, presenting a holistic view without oversimplification.

“Hinduism is not a single religion but a family of traditions, philosophies, and practices that have evolved over millennia.”

Key themes

The Plurality and Evolution of Hinduism
The book meticulously emphasizes that Hinduism is not a monolithic religion but a vast collection of diverse traditions, philosophies, and practices that have continuously evolved over millennia. Dalal highlights the absence of a single founder or creed, showcasing its adaptability, syncretic nature, and the coexistence of multiple paths to spiritual truth.
Karma, Samsara, and Moksha (The Cycle of Rebirth and Liberation)
Central to Hindu thought, this theme explores the interconnected concepts of action and consequence (Karma), the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (Samsara), and the ultimate goal of liberation from this cycle (Moksha). Dalal explains how these concepts form the bedrock of the Hindu worldview and ethical framework, influencing an individual's spiritual journey.
The Nature of the Divine and Devotion (Bhakti)
This theme delves into the Hindu understanding of the divine, ranging from the abstract, impersonal concept of Brahman (the ultimate reality) to the personalized forms of numerous gods and goddesses. Dalal illuminates the significance of devotion (Bhakti) as a major path to spiritual realization, exploring the rich mythology, iconography, and diverse worship practices associated with the major deities and their incarnations.

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