Hinduism is the world's oldest religion. With over 765 million followers worldwide and 1.1 million found across the United States, Hinduism is also the world's third-largest religion, behind only Christianity and Islam in popularity. It is a unique religion in that it has no specific founder and no unified theological system. Hinduism is also one of the most tolerant and fascinating religions, with a fundamental belief in karma, reincarnation, absolute non-violence, vegetarianism, and multiple manifestations of God. The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Hinduism, Second Edition provides updated and expanded information on the long and interesting history of how the religion developed from its very fragmented origins, the basic Hindu beliefs, and the multiple Hindu deities, as well as the sociological aspects of the religion including ethics, sacraments, dietary habits, and the caste system. Information on the Hindu paths to enlightenment (including karma yoga, bhakti yoga, jnana yoga, tantra and laya yoga) is also included. This edition provides:- Updated information on the state of Hinduism today- A greater focus on the specifics of the Hindu Tantra- Expanded information on the Hindu Reformation- Additional information on what 'idol worship' really is in the Hindu tradition Expert author Linda Johnsen leaves readers with improved understanding on where Hinduism stands today on the world stage, in relation to Islam, and in relation to its own complex, extraordinary history.. Linda Johnsen is author of Daughters of the Goddess: The Women Saints of India (winner of the 1995 Midwest Book Association award for 'Best New Age Book of the Year'), The Living Goddess: Reclaiming the Tradition of the Mother of the Universe (a book about the Hindu Goddess tradition, assigned reading in several college courses), and Meditation is Boring? Putting Life in Your Spiritual Practice.  She has published over 150 articles on topics related to Hindu spirituality in magazines directed toward a general Western audience, such as Yoga Journal and Yoga International, as well as in periodicals targeted at an Indian readership like Hinduism Today and India Currents. She has lectured throughout the United States on Hindu spirituality, and has been featured in numerous radio programs and on cable television. She holds a Master's degree in Eastern Studies. Her most recent research tour of India focused on the Maha Kumbha Mela, a Hindu festival in Allahabad, U.P., attended by 80 million pilgrims.