What is Religion (An Old and Rare Book)

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Even after a few years of retirement from service I had no idea whatsoever about religion. My acquaintance with my God and religion was next to nil. This I am constrained to find to be almost universally the case.

I read a few books but without any fundamental knowledge of religion, I must admit I could not understand them. I could not find a book which would explain religion in simple language. They seemed to presuppose a considerable basic knowledge of religion on the part of the beginner.

Philosophers write books and deliver lectures, from their higher plinth, which can be understood only by people of equal calibre. Mere man simply cannot fathom them, bereft as he is of basic religious knowledge.

My grateful thanks are due to Swami Chinmayananda for initiating me into the study of religion through his lectures and books on Geeta, Upanishads and others, and creating in me the enthusiasm for the study of religion.

It is not my intention to teach like a teacher or pose as a preacher. I only wish to lay before the lay mind the essentials of religion.

This book gives in concise form and in simple English, a comprehensive idea about religion in general with particular reference to Hinduism. Many others, young and old, who may find themselves in the same boat with me, may find this treatise useful in providing an introduction to the study of religion. This third edition has been revised, enlarged and made more com-prehensive. Some of the views expressed in this book may not meet with general approval, but they are worth considering.

Various controversial points have been discussed in all their aspects for the sadhaka (learner) to choose the best that appeals to him.

For the path of Bhakti, which yields easy results and is the method of choice in the present-day world, a little Spiritual knowledge is essential without which worship becomes blind and mere superstition. It is hoped this book will provide that know-ledge and will also help to remove many misconceptions in the field of religion. Religious books make heavy reading. Read them with attention, study and contemplate; then alone you can enjoy the beauty and bliss contained in them.

Besides, with the present-day discord and disruptive tenden-cies all over India, indeed the whole world, the need for religion is all the greater.

There may be found some repetitions in this book. If it helps to drive home the precepts of religion, it will have served a very useful purpose.

I have no desire to make money. My only wish is that the book be read by as many people as possible. I have there fore waived all royalties to keep the price low.