Handbook of Hindu Mythology

A guide to Hinduism through the ages, offering readers an accessible way of exploring its complex deities, mythological characters, and ideas.

Handbook of Hindu Mythology offers a number of pathways by which to approach Hinduism's ever-changing gods and goddesses (e.g., Brahmâ, Vishnu, Siva), spiritual verses (such as the vedas), secular epics (including the Râmâyana and the Mahâbhârata), myths within myths, devotional and esoteric traditions, psychic and yogic disciplines, and magical practices.

With this handbook, readers can explore the history of Hindu mythology, follow a detailed timeline of key episodes and historical events, and look up specific elements of historical or contemporary Hinduism in a beautifully illustrated dictionary section. It is the ideal introduction to the origins of Hinduism, the culture that shaped it from antiquity to the present, and the age-old stories, ideas, and traditions that speak to the human condition as eloquently today as ever.

Author: George M. Williams Jr.
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Published: 10/10/2003
Pages: 400
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.91lbs
Size: 10.44h x 7.06w x 1.10d
ISBN: 9781576071069
Audience: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
Library Journal 02/01/2004 pg. 102
Booklist 02/15/2004 pg. 1091
American Reference Bks Annual 01/01/2004 pg. 529
School Library Journal 04/01/2004 pg. 91
Choice 05/01/2004 pg. 1634
Reference and Research Bk News 02/01/2004 pg. 13

About the Author

George M. Williams, PhD, is professor emeritus of religious studies at California State University Chico, Chico, CA.