The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism

This lavishly illustrated book explores the rich historical and cultural development of Hinduism's diverse traditions, from its distant Indian roots to its vibrant application in the present, global context. The first section examines the origins of Hinduism, and asks the intriguing question: who founded the tradition? It explores in depth the diverse holy texts and their profound teachings about the self, the law of karma, and the perpetual cycle of birth and death. The second section focuses on spiritual practices, explaining the four main paths of action, knowledge, meditation and devotion, the colourful array of Hindu deities, and practices that celebrate sacred time and place. The final section analyses Hindu society, its culture and arts, and the ways in which various leaders and movements have sought to perpetuate its teachings, right up to the present day.