The Encyclopedia of Hinduism contains over 900 entries reflecting recent advances in scholarship which have raised new theoretical and methodological issues as well as identifying new areas of study which have not been addressed previously. The debate over the term 'Hinduism' in the light of post-Orientalist critiques is just one example of how once standard academic frameworks have been called into question. Entries range from 150-word definitions of terms and concepts to 5,000-word in-depth investigations of major topics.

The Encyclopedia covers all aspects of Hinduism but departs from other works in including more ethnographic and contemporary material in contrast to an exclusively textual and historical approach. It includes a broad range of subject matter such as: historical developments (among them nineteenth and twentieth century reform and revival); geographical distribution (especially the diaspora); major and minor movements; philosophies and theologies; scriptures; deities; temples and sacred sites; pilgrimages; festivals; rites of passage; worship; religious arts (sculpture, architecture, music, dance, etc.); religious sciences (e.g. astrology); biographies of leading figures; local and regional traditions; caste and untouchability; feminism and women's religion; nationalism and the Hindu radical right; and new religious movements. The history of study and the role of important scholars past and present are also discussed.

Accessibility to all levels of reader has been a priority and no previous knowledge is assumed. However, the in-depth larger entries and the design of the work in line with the latest scholarly advances means that the volume will be of considerable interest to specialists.

The whole is cross-referenced and bibliographies attach to the larger entries. There is a full index.

About the Author
Denise Cush is Head of Department in the Study of Religions at Bath Spa University and on the editorial board of the British Journal of Religious Education. Dr Catherine Robinson is a Senior Lecturer in the Study of Religions at Bath Spa University. Michael York co-directs the London-based Academy for Cultural and Educational Studies.

Reviews

'Highly Recommended'-Booklist

'Public reference libraries might well find it worth considering this book for acquisition, as should academic libraries concerned with cultural studies, comparative religionor,ofcourse, any form of oriental studies.'-- Martin Guha, Reference Reviews

'Exceptionally good mini-bibliographies at the end of each entry cite the most important scholarship in the field.' --G. J. Reece, American University

'Notably, this work provides significant information about the elite textual traditions of Hinduism, and covers Hindu traditions "on the ground" in terms of how they are actually lived.' --G. J. Reece, American University, Choice

'I recommend Encyclopedia of Hinduism for purchase for undergraduates in religious studies programs as well as graduate students in seminaries or schools of theology. This encyclopedia has achieved a fair balance between the traditions and history of Hinduism as well as current-day issues and movements within the religion.' - Christine Pesch, Theological Librarianship

'Public reference libraries might well find it worth considering this book for acquisition, as should academic libraries concerned with cultural studies, comparative religionor,ofcourse, any form of oriental studies.'-- Martin Guha, Reference Reviews

Exceptionally good mini-bibliographies at the end of each entry cite the most important scholarship in the field. --G. J. Reece, American University

Notably, this work provides significant information about the elite textual traditions of Hinduism, and covers Hindu traditions "on the ground" in terms of how they are actually lived. --G. J. Reece, American University, Choice

Book Information
ISBN 9780415556231
Author Denise Cush
Format Paperback
Page Count 1128
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 1451g