Indien. Götter und Kosmos. Karma und Erleuchtung. Meditation und Yoga.

by Richard Waterstone

The spiritual heritage of India has become an essential part of Western thinking. Here, two of the world's greatest religions were born, as well as the techniques of release and ecstasy that bequeathed yoga, Tantra and the legendary powers of the yogis to future centuries.

This book describes the main themes in the Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and other spiritual traditions of India, and explores their points of contact with Western preoccupations — above all the quest for an understanding of the human predicament.

That the Indian legacy has become such a potent influence in the West is due largely to the new ambassadors of Indian spirituality — the religious leaders and gurus who have brought its message westward. The book gives due emphasis to their teachings, summarizing the main points of their beliefs.

A documentary reference section at the back of the book includes a guide to meditation techniques, a gazetteer of sacred pilgrimages, and a full glossary of specialist terms, with profiles of gods and goddesses.

Richard Waterstone was born in Calcutta and spent several years in India before completing his MA in Anthropology at Edinburgh University based on field work with a rainforest tribe in Kerala, South India. He studied Sanskrit at Edinburgh, under Paul Dundas, who has served as General Consultant for this book. Richard Waterstone has presented a documentary for BBC television on the effects of deforestation in Thailand, and in 1993 was nominated for the Amnesty International Journalism Award.

Genres: India, Nonfiction, Travel, Religion, Spirituality

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Alex Kartelias · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book I've read on Hinduism. While giving some mention to buddhism and Jainism, this book gives a general history of India while emphasizing key ideas that are universal to the different traditions. The pictures give a great sense of how rich the religion is and how open it is to embracing different beliefs. What most struck me was the description of the dancing shiva and how it relates to Einstein's theory of relativity- defintetly mind bending. Other than the illuminating similarities that were connected to western religion/philosophy, reading about mantras, mandalas and different yoga practices were really awe-inspiring. I will defintely read this book over and over again to remind myself of both the beauty that lies within the small and the unity that exists behind the illusion of duality.

[Gareth Hughes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is beautiful. When it was a course book for Indian religion at Cardiff Univeristy, I thought it didn't look academic enough, but don't be deceived. The writing is thoroughly informed and informative, covering the basics of Indian religion. However, what sets this book apart are the sumptious photographs on every page. It's like a coffetable book, wrapped round encyclopaedia entries and squished down to decent size.

[Shanmugam Ramasamy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A decent book to get a glimpse of the different traditions in India. However in now way is this book supposed to cover any of the topics in detail.

[Cherie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good colorful look at India and her many layers, specifically focusing on the spirituality and religions of India (esp Hinduism). LOVED THIS. Bought it.

[Spencer Rich · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read most of it. Pretty good information. Skimmed most of the latter half.

[William Prystauk · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful and comprehensive overview of the grand nation, including its history and religions. Though illustrated with a great look, the book is too small in size. A larger print would have allowed for better views of photos and prints. Furthermore, at times the font size is too small. Though the information is clearly packed in, and therefore, overwhelming at times, this is a great introduction to the largest democracy on Earth. Enjoy.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book provided for me important insights into the wealth and diversity of spiritual beliefs, rituals, arts and architecture. I will be mindful of significant gods and goddesses and sacred rituals as I travel in India. The writing style is a bit heavily academic, but the photographs are well-chosen and help develop a profile of an amazing culture.

[Shriya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful pictures and very simple, great basic book.

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've never been to India so naturally I think this is an interesting book. I dont have the working knowledge to dispute anything in this book so it gets a good rating!