Download or read book Alternative Krishnas written by Guy L. Beck and published by State University of New York Press. This book was released on 2012-02-01 with total page 227 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Krishna—widely venerated and adored in the Hindu tradition—is a deity of many aspects. An ancient manifestation of the Supreme God Vishnu, or the Godhead itself, Krishna is the bringer of Yoga philosophy and the creator of the universe, the destroyer of evil tyrants, and the hero of the epic Mahabharata. He is also described in classical Sanskrit texts as having human characteristics and enjoying very human pursuits: Krishna is the butter thief, cowherd, philanderer, and flute player. Yet even these playful depictions are based upon descriptions found in the Sanskrit canon, and mostly reflect familiar, classical Pan-Indian images. In this book, contributors examine the alternative, or unconventional, Krishnas, offering examples from more localized Krishna traditions found in different regions among various ethnic groups, vernacular language traditions, and remote branches of Indian religions. These wide-ranging, alternative visions of Krishna include the Tantric Krishna of Bengal, Krishna in urban women's rituals, Krishna as monogamous husband and younger brother in Braj, Krishna in Jainism, Krishna in Marathi tradition, Krishna in South India, and the Krishna of nineteenth-century reformed Hinduism.
Download or read book Hindu Goddesses written by David Kinsley and published by Motilal Banarsidass Publ.. This book was released on 1998 with total page 296 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Hindu Goddesses is a valuable sourcebook and reference work for students and scholars of Hindu goddesses and of Hinduism in general. Each goddess is dealt with as an independent deity with a coherent mythology, theology and, in some cases, cult of her own. Within the complex, diverse, and rich goddess traditions of Hinduism, one can find suggestions of nearly every important theme in the Hindu religion. In many ways, this book is as much a study of the Hindu tradition itself as it is a study of one aspect of that tradition. No other living religious tradition has displayed such an ancient, continuous, and diverse history of goddess worship.
Download or read book Radhayan written by Harsha V. Dahejia and published by DK Printworld (P) Ltd. This book was released on 2019-03-23 with total page 100 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: About the Book Of all the mythic characters in the Hindu pantheon none is more enigmatic and evocative than Radha. Appearing for the first time in Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda, where she is the ultimate beloved, she traverses political dynasties, royal ateliers and social barriers to emerge as a consort of Krishna. Brought alive by poets, developing a colourful presence in the hands of painters, dancing through prosceniums and acquiring a lyrical life through songs, both classical and popular, Radha is present in homes and havelis, celebrated by the the samajika and the rasika, has a presence in temples and roadside shrines as a symbol of pure and eternal love. And yet there are so many questions about her life; poets differ in their portrayals of her, historians argue, dancers claim her through their interpretations and for the common person she is now a shringara rasa nayika and now a goddess. But Radha stands steadfastly alone refusing to be bound down by poets or potters, dancers or singers. Harsha V. Dehejia weaves an enchanting story of Radha with a multicoloured thread, where myth blends into history and fiction challenges reality and Radha emerges in all her poetic glory in this spellbinding story. Vijay Sharma and his team of artists bring Radha colourfully alive with miniature paintings, for it is there rather than sculpture that Radha resides. She is essentially kavyamaya, her origins are in the minds of poets, it is there that she grows, dallies and evolves. And while her voice is heard in songs and her footsteps resonate with dancers, it is in miniature paintings, through line and colour, that Radha comes alive as a multidimensional, many-nuanced paragon of love. This is Radhayan. About the Author Harsha V. Dehejia has a double doctorate, one in medicine and other in ancient Indian culture, both from Mumbai University. He is also a member of the Royal College of Physicians of London, Glasgow and Canada all by examination. He is a practising Physician and Professor of Indian Studies at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. His main interest is in Indian aesthetics.
Download or read book Hindu Gods and Goddesses written by Sunita Pant Bansal and published by Smriti Books. This book was released on 2005 with total page 96 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book makes available basic information about the Hindu pantheon of gods in a simple and attractive manner. Information about the origin of each deity, its various forms, relationships with other deities, and the important shrines, is given in a condensed manner.
Download or read book The Goddess Guide written by Priestess Brandi Auset and published by Llewellyn Worldwide. This book was released on 2009 with total page 168 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Introducing the most complete cross-reference ever for the universal worship of the Divine Feminine. The Goddess Guide is indispensable for anyone who's ever wondered which Goddess to invoke for a particular ritual, blessing, prayer, or meditation. Easy to use and comprehensive, this essential book provides instant, at-a-glance info on more than 400 goddesses from diverse cultures, belief systems, and traditions around the world. All goddesses are clearly organized according to: Names Attributes Colors The Four Elements The Sabbats Geographical Regions Feminine Aspects (Maiden, Mother, and Crone) Whether you are a beginner or a long-standing practitioner who seeks a deeper connection with Goddess energy in your life, this guide to the Divine Feminine deserves a special place on your bookshelf.
Download or read book The Divine Consort written by John Stratton Hawley and published by . This book was released on 1984 with total page 444 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Papers presented at a conference held June 1978 at Harvard University, sponsored by the Center for the Study of World Religions.
Download or read book r Ujjvala n lama i written by Rūpagosvāmī and published by . This book was released on 2006 with total page 262 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Treatise on Sanskrit poetics and Vaishnava poetry.
Download or read book Hindu Gods in West Africa written by Albert Wuaku and published by BRILL. This book was released on 2013-07-11 with total page 346 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In Hindu Gods in West Africa, Wuaku offers an account of the histories, beliefs and practices of the Hindu Monastery of Africa and the Radha Govinda Temple, two Hindu Temples in Ghana. Using historical material and data from his field work in southern Ghana, Wuaku shows how these two Hindu Temples build their traditions on popular Ghanaian religious notions about the powerful magicality of India's Hindu gods. He explores how Ghanaian soldiers who served in the colonial armies in India, Sri Lanka, and Burma during World War II, Bollywood films, and local magicians, have contributed to the production and the spreading of these cultural ideas. He argues that while Ghanaian worshippers appropriated and deployed the alien Hindu religious world through their own cultural ideas, as they engage Hindu beliefs and rituals in negotiating challenges their own worldviews would change considerably.
Download or read book The Goddess as Role Model written by Heidi R.M. Pauwels and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 2008-10-09 with total page 577 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book seeks to understand the major mythological role models that mark the moral landscape navigated by young Hindu women. Traditionally, the goddess Sita, faithful consort of the god Rama, is regarded as the most important positive role model for women. The case of Radha, who is mostly portrayed as a clandestine lover of the god Krishna, seems to challenge some of the norms the example of Sita has set. That these role models are just as relevant today as they have been in the past is witnessed by the popularity of the televised versions of their stories, and the many allusions to them in popular culture.Taking the case of Sita as main point of reference, but comparing throughout with Radha, Pauwels studies the messages sent to Hindu women at different points in time. She compares how these role models are portrayed in the most authoritative versions of the story. She traces the ancient, Sanskrit sources, the medieval vernacular retellings of the stories and the contemporary TV versions as well.This comparative analysis identifies some surprising conclusions about the messages sent to Indian women today, which belie the expectations one might have of the portrayals in the latest, more liberal versions. The newer messages turn out to be more conservative in many subtle ways. Significantly, it does not remain limited to the religious domain. By analyzing several popular recent and classical hit movies that use Sita and Radha tropes, Pauwels shows how these moral messages spill into the domain of popular culture for commercial consumption.
Download or read book Vishnu written by Joan Cummins and published by . This book was released on 2011 with total page 296 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Vishnu -- Hinduism's most important and powerful deity -- is the great Preserver, vanquishing those who seek to destroy the balance of the universe. For his followers he is also the Creator and the Destroyer, the cause of all existence. His many traits are embodied in his impressive physical form, the weapons he carries, the goddesses who are his consorts, and the eagle Garuda, on whom he flies down from heaven. In Hindu legend, Vishnu descends to earth in many manifestations, known as avatars, to fight powerful demons and to save his devotees. The avatars range in form from Varaha the boar to Parashurama the Brahmin warrior, and in character from Narasimha the ferocious half-man half-lion, to Krishna the charismatic prince-cowherd. The legends of Vishnu have inspired some of the greatest art, literature, and ritual traditions in India. This catalogue examines the many faces of Vishnu and the ways that the god has been represented, from antiquity to the present. Essays by noted historians of South Asian art delve deeply into the regional and sectarian traditions of Vishnu worship in India. Illustrations and discussions of almost 200 works of art, in a wide range of media and borrowed from collections around the world, reveal the rich diversity of India's art and religious culture.
Download or read book Guests at God s Wedding written by Tracy Pintchman and published by SUNY Press. This book was released on 2005-08-25 with total page 262 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A fascinating look at women’s rituals honoring the god Krishna.
Download or read book Gods Goddesses and Saints written by Barbara Carroll and published by Outskirts Press. This book was released on 2015-12-15 with total page 552 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Chanting exists in many religious and spiritual traditions. The practice of chant focuses the mind and body with simple physics of sound, while the choice of chant can reflect a specific need, or honor a tradition. Gods, Goddesses, and Saints is a user-friendly, in-depth guide to a solitary practice of chant and meditation, providing chants from many faiths, from pagan deities to saints from many religions. Beautifully organized in many different ways, this book encourages you to explore the resonance of important figures and their associations and meanings across many traditions. You will also find blank forms to help you create your own chants and meditations. Gods, Goddesses, and Saints provides a fresh view of spiritual practice and new ideas for the future of faith.
Download or read book Ancient Hindu Gods written by Samuel Shepherd and published by Samuel Shepherd. This book was released on 101-01-01 with total page 189 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: ## 📚 Ancient Hindu Gods: A Journey into Divine Wisdom, Power, and Devotion 🌟 **Discover the profound and timeless stories of Hinduism's most revered deities in this captivating four-book series!** ### 📘 Book 1: The Creator's Wisdom: Exploring Brahma And The Origins Of The Universe Embark on an enlightening journey with Brahma, the god of creation. Delve into the rich narratives and symbolic meanings behind the universe's origins. Learn about Brahma’s role in the Trimurti, his four heads representing the Vedas, and his profound wisdom that continues to inspire seekers of knowledge and spiritual truth. ### 📗 Book 2: The Preserver's Journey: Tales And Teachings Of Vishnu And His Avatars Travel through time with Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. Explore the fascinating stories of his ten avatars, including the beloved Rama and Krishna. Uncover the moral and spiritual lessons embedded in their adventures and understand how Vishnu maintains cosmic order and protects dharma (righteousness). ### 📙 Book 3: The Destroyer's Dance: Unveiling Shiva's Mystical Power And Transformation Witness the mystical and transformative power of Shiva, the god of destruction and rebirth. From his serene meditations on Mount Kailash to his fierce tandava dance, Shiva’s tales are filled with deep symbolism and mystical teachings. Understand Shiva’s vital role in the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction, and his profound influence on personal and cosmic transformation. ### 📕 Book 4: The Divine Feminine: The Many Faces Of Devi, From Parvati To Kali Celebrate the dynamic and nurturing energy of Devi, the divine feminine. Meet the gentle Parvati, the fierce Kali, the wise Saraswati, and the prosperous Lakshmi. Discover how these goddesses embody various aspects of the universe, from creation and destruction to wisdom and abundance, highlighting the essential balance and harmony they bring to the cosmos. ### 🌸 Why You’ll Love This Series: - **Rich Storytelling**: Each book is filled with captivating myths and legends that bring the deities to life. - **Profound Insights**: Gain a deeper understanding of Hindu philosophy and spiritual principles through the stories of Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi. - **Cultural Appreciation**: Whether you are new to Hinduism or looking to deepen your existing knowledge, this series offers valuable insights into one of the world’s oldest and most profound spiritual traditions. ### Perfect For: - **Spiritual Seekers**: Explore the deeper meanings and spiritual teachings of Hindu mythology. - **Students and Scholars**: Gain comprehensive knowledge about the central deities of Hinduism and their significance. - **Art and Culture Enthusiasts**: Appreciate the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions inspired by these deities. ### 📢 Order Now and Embark on a Spiritual Journey! Don’t miss the opportunity to delve into the divine wisdom and timeless stories of Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi. This four-book series is a treasure trove of spiritual insights and cultural richness that will inspire and enlighten readers of all ages. **🛒 Click here to order your copy today and begin your journey into the heart of ancient Hindu gods!**
Download or read book Library of Congress Subject Headings written by Library of Congress and published by . This book was released on 2004 with total page 1378 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:
Download or read book The Goddess as Role Model written by Heidi R.M. Pauwels and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 2008-10-09 with total page 576 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book seeks to understand the major mythological role models that mark the moral landscape navigated by young Hindu women. Traditionally, the goddess Sita, faithful consort of the god Rama, is regarded as the most important positive role model for women. The case of Radha, who is mostly portrayed as a clandestine lover of the god Krishna, seems to challenge some of the norms the example of Sita has set. That these role models are just as relevant today as they have been in the past is witnessed by the popularity of the televised versions of their stories, and the many allusions to them in popular culture. Taking the case of Sita as main point of reference, but comparing throughout with Radha, Pauwels studies the messages sent to Hindu women at different points in time. She compares how these role models are portrayed in the most authoritative versions of the story. She traces the ancient, Sanskrit sources, the medieval vernacular retellings of the stories and the contemporary TV versions as well. This comparative analysis identifies some surprising conclusions about the messages sent to Indian women today, which belie the expectations one might have of the portrayals in the latest, more liberal versions. The newer messages turn out to be more conservative in many subtle ways. Significantly, it does not remain limited to the religious domain. By analyzing several popular recent and classical hit movies that use Sita and Radha tropes, Pauwels shows how these moral messages spill into the domain of popular culture for commercial consumption.
Download or read book Beyond the Temples Unraveling the Mysteries of Hindu Gods written by Manjunath.R and published by Manjunath.R. This book was released on 2023-11-24 with total page 700 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "Beyond the Temples: Unraveling the Mysteries of Hindu Gods" beckons readers on a profound exploration of Hinduism, transcending the conventional narratives and inviting them into the heart of this ancient, diverse, and deeply spiritual tradition. With meticulous research and an engaging narrative, the book unravels the intricate tapestry of Hindu thought, navigating through the pantheon of deities to uncover the profound meanings behind rituals, symbols, and myths. Delving into the essence of karma, dharma, and moksha, it unveils the interconnectedness of divinity and humanity. More than a mere survey of gods and goddesses, this book illuminates the philosophical underpinnings, offering a scholarly yet accessible journey into the timeless wisdom that extends "beyond the temples." Whether you are a scholar, a spiritual seeker, or someone curious about the profound intricacies of Hinduism, this book promises to be a captivating guide through the rich tapestry of this ancient tradition.
Download or read book Universalist Radha Krishnaism written by Steve Bohlert and published by . This book was released on 2011-08-01 with total page 202 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Universalist Radha-Krishnaism: The Way of Natural Devotion; A Practitioner's Handbook clearly and concisely reveals the esoteric meditative process of participating in Radha-Krishna's transcendental play. It includes historical and theological grounding along with instructions for the devotional yoga practice of creating an eternal, individual identity. Fully rewritten since the first edition, this edition offers seventy pages of new material that provides initiation and resources for the practice of amorous natural devotion. These teachings are addressed to western readers who need no prior knowledge of the subject to begin the path to full God-dess realization while increasing their enjoyment in this life and the next. REVIEW OF THE NEW EDITION "Steve Bohlert has dared to break the shackles of fundamentalism to deliver a much-needed re-visioning of an ancient religion of India, giving it new lifefor those of us in a multicultural 21st Century world. He has extracted the essence of Bengali Vaishnavism, and while staying true to its person-ality, has planted the seed back into the human body, so we may again receive the Original Blessing. I do not hesitate to call Steve Bohlert a prophet, not only as one gifted with spiritual insight, but also as one who foretells the future - of a path that must be something like he sees it or not be at all. That is, without such a re-birthing of Vaishnavism, its soul will never plant roots in the world at large. The orthodox will of course decry it and condemn him. 'The dogs may bark, but the caravan will pass.'" -- Daniel Cooper Clark, longtime Radha-Krishna devotee FROM FIRST EDITION REVIEWS "Many Westerners are attracted to diverse aspects of Hinduism and, in particular, devotion to Radha-Krishna, but soon find themselves alienated by two factors: an inescapable emphasis on 'Indian-ness' and the uncompromising literalism of the movement as it has come to the West. Steve Bohlert's approach to spirituality merges Western and Eastern thought by de-emphasizing cultural trappings and literalism, while maintaining a passionate emotional bond with the Supreme Being in this especially effective form of the Divine Couple, Radha-Krishna." -- Michael Valle, philosophy of religion teacher "Hundreds of years ago, Radha-Krishna, the archetypal goddess and god of love, were little-known outside of India, and worshiped only within the Hindu faith. Eighteenth and nineteenth century archaeologists and scholars made us aware of Hindu gods, but prior to the twentieth century, nobody in the West had any actual experience of Radha and Krishna. Even today, god and goddess remain concealed behind a brick wall of fundamentalism, which most of us from a Judeo-Christian background are powerless to navigate. On one hand, we may sense truth there, but until Bohlert's interpretation, there was no way to pierce the fundamentalist views and practices that keep these deities off limits." -- Nori Muster, author This book is sufficiently important that its wide dissemination amongst devotees is a desideratum. . . . old beliefs are given apparently radical new interpretations that widen their scope and potential for meaning. . . . Subal Steve Bohlert] has done a great service by introducing or naming the Vaishnava concept of deity as panentheism. . . . I favor r g nug natural devotion], as it seems does Subal, precisely because it . . . is about reforming the id-controlled ego into a love-permeated ego. . . . There is no doubt that Subal's is an important brick in the wall of religious discourse . . . His great contribution . . . is that he has gone out on a limb and attempted to make a coherent and systematic presentation of Radha-Krishna according to his vision. This means of course that he has set himself up for criticism, but that kind of courage is what is needed to push the discourse further. -- Jagadananda Das/Jan Brzezinski, Gaudiya Vaishnav scholar.
