Handbook of Hindu Mythology

Unlike many other ancient mythologies, Hinduism thrives in the modernworld. One billion followers and countless others have been captivated by itssymbolic representations of love, karma, and reincarnation. Handbook of Hindu Mythology offers an informative introduction to thisdauntingly complex mythology of multifaceted deities, lengthy heroic tales, andarcane philosophies-all with a 3,000-year history of reinterpretations andadaptations. Williams offers a number of pathways by which to approachHinduism's ever-changing gods and goddesses (e.g., Brahma, Vishnu, Siva),spiritual verses (such as the vedas), secular epics (including the Ramayana andthe Mahabharata), 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 timelineof key episodes and historical events, and look up specific elements ofhistorical or contemporary Hinduism in a beautifully illustrated reference work.It is the ideal introduction to the origins of Hinduism, the culture that shapedit from antiquity to the present, and the age-old stories, ideas, and traditionsthat speak to the human condition as eloquently today as ever. Including annotated bibliographies, a glossary of cultural andmythological terms, and numerous illustrations, here is a gold mine ofinformation on Hindu mythology.Williams, George M. is the author of 'Handbook of Hindu Mythology', published 2008 under ISBN 9780195332612 and ISBN 019533261X.