Classical Hindu Thought (An Introduction)

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About the Book:

Most of the key concepts of Hinduism either originated, or were fully articulated, during the classical period from the fourth century BC to the tenth century. Classical Hindu Thought introduces contemporary readers to the texts and ideas that crystallized during this period and sets out to explain their contemporary relevance.

The book is divided into sections dealing with key concepts such as karma, dharma, maya, moksa, and varna; the main gods and goddesses of the Hindu patheon, Devi, Siva, Brahma, Vishnu; and texts such as the Purusasukta and the Vedas. It also discusses the notion of salvation through knowledge, devotion, and action - Jnana-yoga, Bhakti-yoga, and Karma-yoga, and accords special and detailed consideration to one of the most misunderstood aspects of Hinduism - the concept of varna or the caste-system.

Written effortlessly, this book offers an excellent grounding in the rich and diverse traditions of Hindu thought. It is a useful resource for both the general reader and the specialist.

About the Author:

Arvind Sharma is Bricks Professor of Comparative Religion at McGill University, Montreal, Canada.

Praise for Arvind Sharma:

'[His] narrative never gets stuck in the intricacy of words or the complexity of thought…'

-The Telegraph

'The present work…is of general interest and promise not only on account of its theme and approach but also because of the exceptional competence of its author.'

-Seminar

'…Dr. Sharma has done an admirable job in unraveling the mystery and complexity of the various strands of thought from these numerous texts that span such a dynamic part of India's history.'

-Biblio

Glossary of Sanskrit Words
Introduction

1. A Conceptual Introduction
2. A Historical Survey
3. Brahman: Nirguna and Saguna
4. Isvara
5. Devi
6. The Hindu Trinity (Trimurti)
7. Brahma
8. Visnu
9. Siva
10. Jiva
11. Samsara
12. Karma
13. Dharma
14. Maya
15. Moksa
16. Jnana-yoga
17. Bhakti-yoga
18. Karma-yoiga
19. Varna
20. Asrama
21. Purusarthas
22. Vedas
    Bibliography
    Index