Hindu Mysticism

by Surendranath Dasgupta

This book is a systematic introduction to Hindu mysticism as it evolved in India through the ages. Mysticism is not an intellectual theory, It is fundamentally an active, formative, creative, elevating and ennobling principle of life. According to the author, mysticism means a spiritual grasp of the aims and problems of life in a much more real and ultimate manner than is possible to mere reason. This small book gives a brief general outline of some of the most important types of mysticism, indicating their mutual relations, sometimes genetically and and sometimes logically. After describing the sacrificial type of mysticism, it discusses the four chief types of mysticism - the Upanishadic, the Yogic, the Buddhistic and the Bhakti. Their striking characteristics have been briefly touched upon and materials have largely been drawn directly from the original sources.

Genres: Philosophy, Hinduism, Gnosticism

168 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1927

Reviews

[Michael Nguyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read by an amazing scholar of Hinduism. He explores various mystical practices of Hinduism without getting into the nitty gritty, for Surendranath Dasgupta in this book, he describes things in broad strokes, but with just enough specification for the reader to differentiate. From Advaita Vedanta, to Yoga, to Upanishads, to Northern Bhakti, and South Indian Bhakti, Ramanuja, Alwars, Chaitanya, Tulsidas. He has it all, conveniently described for a first time reader. Obviously I'm familiar with all of these having read and studied much of it beforehand, but this was still very great to read. Its a great refresher for those already aware of Hindu Mysticism across the various schools of thought that exist in India, and also it is great for those who are learning for the first time.

[Geet · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the books I’m currently reading and it’s one of though it deals with mysticism and it’s types it’s proving to be a self help book to me making me understand life.
It’s more like for lost people who want to learn about the higher power/God. This book shower light on various schools of thoughts that exist in India.
I can’t review this book because I am not as great to review the work of a gyaani like SN Dasgupta ji. It deserves more star that five just for the sake of it 5/5
I would like people to read it but I also know it’s not a cup of tea for 95 percent of the readers. If you’re interested in Hindu philosophy, Vedas, Upanishads you can try reading it.

[Ax · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how well each part is put together, the author tries to remain unbiased and not shove his opinion (which seems such a breath of fresh air!). The author does a fabulous job of summarizing the scriptures and verses as reference to the context without over burdening the reader or drifting from the true intention of the topic. It is a great book for someone ready to deepdive into Hinduism without getting overwhelmed by all the complexities that's out there.