Introduction 1
1. The vedic Indra Religion
2. Vaisnavism 23
3. Saivism 58
4. Saktism 83
5. The Smartas 104
6. Hindu Philosophies 106
7. Modern Hinduism 120
8. Hindu Nationalism Hindu Jagaran 131
9. Opposition to Hindu nationalism 147
10. The New Universal Hindu Gurus 150

In this unique introduction to the literature of the Hindu tradition, Klaus K. Klostermaier presents the rich diversity of writings with a chrateristic blend of authority and clarity.
From the ancient Vedas, through the sweeping epic that is the 'Mahabharata, to the words of Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and contemporary teachers like Sathya, Sai baba, the author treads a steady path through the complexity and volume of Hindu literature. Featuriing an introduction and commentary for each extract, this text covers all the key areas of the Hindu writings, including:

* Indra, Siva and Visnu: the major Gods, their role in the scriptures, and their associated sects.
* Hinduism and femininity in the scriptures: the goddesses of the Devi religion
* classical Hindu philosophy and theology
* nationalism and secularity: modn political writings
* the continuing controversy of caste

A coherent and informative guide that demonstrates both the development of the treadition and the profound wisdom at its core, this book will be appreciated by readers of all levels and backgrounds.