Hinduism - An Introduction: Teach Yourself

Summary:
Hinduism, with its rich variety of religious traditions, can often be hard to define. This book is an informative guide to those traditions, and their underlying unity. Covering all important aspects of Hinduism, from deities and temples to mythology and philosophy, and exploring what it means to lead a Hindu life, this book will let you discover this fascinating religion and understand its relevance today.

NOT GOT MUCH TIME?
One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.

AUTHOR INSIGHTS
Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the authors' many years of experience.

TEST YOURSELF
Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.

EXTEND YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Extra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of psychology.

FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBER
Quick refreshers to help you remember the key facts.

TRY THIS
Innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.

• Ideal for those with no prior knowledge of the faith.
• Explains and defines all specialist terms.
• Suitable for students looking for an essential guide or just those who want to learn more about this major world faith.

Table of Contents:
authors' introduction
diversity and unity
the temple
murtis and mythology
gods and priests
the family
religion in the home
family rituals and ceremonies
scriptures
pilgrimage
liberation;enlightenment; the place of the guru
hindu philosophy
the path of the loving devotion
the beginnings of hinduism
ethics
hinduism since 1757
mohandas karamchand gandhi
some aspects of hinduism today
further reading
glossary
index

About the Author(s):
V. P. Hemant Kanitkar was born and schooled in India and came to Britain in 1948. He obtained degrees, both in Sanskrit and History at London University. He taught in various secondary schools in the London area for 26 years. After retiring in 1984, he has written eleven books on Hinduism and India for British schools. The author also officiates as a priest for major Hindu rites of passage. Owen Cole has taught at every stage of education from junior schools to university. He is a vice president of the World Congress of Faiths, a member of the Other Faiths Commission of the Churches together in Britain and Ireland and a founder member of the Shap Working Party on World Religions in Education. He is visiting research fellow at University College, Chichester. He has written or contributed to some thirty five books. His principal interest is religious education in school, a recent contribution has been RE in the Primary Curriculum, Religious and Moral Education Press.

Readership:
It is suitable for A-level students, as background reading for undergraduate students in Religious Studies, and for the general reader. It is also suitable for those who want to feel confident in deal