Hinduism: A Short History

Description

The history of the Hindu tradition is captured by Kalus K. Klostermaier in this new survey of a rich and ancient religion. This study moves swiftly but thoroughly through the ages, from early emergence of the Vedic tradition to the developments in contemporary Hinduism. Factual information is balanced with discussion of such problematic areas as the true origins of Hinduism and the controversy of the Aryan invasion. Other features include: full coverage of all the major branches within the religion, and their origins; the role of philosophical reflection in the development of Hinduism; the future of Hinduism; a quick-reference chronology, bibliography and extensive glossary. This guide to the development of a major religion should be of interest to those interested in the subject, from gradates to the curious general reader, and can be used as a companion volume to "Hinduism - a short introduction".

Klaus K. Klostermaier, Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, is University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Manitoba in Canada. He lived and worked in India for over ten years, and has studied numerous sacred texts in their original languages. His many publications include the highly acclaimed A Survey of Hinduism (SUNY).

'Solid, comprehensive scholarship... I enjoyed reading it.' - Harold Coward, University of Victoria