This book provides a much-needed thematic and historical introduction to Hinduism, the religion of the majority of people in India. Dr Flood traces the development of Hindu traditions from their ancient origins, through the major deities of Visnu, Siva and the Goddess, to the modern world. Hinduism is discussed as both a global religion and a form of nationalism. Emphasis is given to the tantric traditions, which have been so influential; to Hindu ritual, which is more fundamental to the life of the religion than are specific beliefs or doctrines; and to Dravidian influences from south India. An Introduction to Hinduism examines the ideas of dharma, particularly in relation to the ideology of kingship, caste and world renunciation. Dr Flood also introduces some debates within contemporary scholarship about the nature of Hinduism. It is suitable both for the student and for the general reader.
目次
List of illustrations x Acknowledgements xii A note on language and transliteration xiii Abbreviations and texts xv Introduction 1 1. Points of departure 5 2. Ancient origins 23 3. Dharma 51 4. Yoga and renunciation 75 5. Narrative traditions and early Vaiṣṇavism 103 6. The love of Viṣṇu 128 7. Śaiva and tantric religion 148 8. The Goddess and Śākta traditions 174 9. Hindu ritual 198 10. Hindu theology and philosophy 224 11. Hinduism and the modern world 250 Notes 274 Bibliography 305 Index 329
