South Asia is home to many of the world's most vibrant religious faiths. It is also one of the most dynamic
and historically rich regions on earth, where changing political and social structures have caused religions to
interact and hybridise in unique ways. This textbook introduces the contemporary religions of South Asia, from
the indigenous religions such as the Hindu, Jain, Buddhist and Sikh traditions, to incoming influences such as
Christianity, Judaism and Islam. In ten chapters, it surveys the nine leading belief systems of South Asia and
explains their history, practices, values and worldviews. A final chapter helps students relate what they have
learnt to religious theory, paving the way for future study.
Entirely written by leading experts, Religions of South Asia combines solid scholarship with clear and lively writing
to provide students with an accessible and comprehensive introduction. All chapters are specially designed to aid
cross-religious comparison, following a standard format covering set topics and issues; the book reveals to students
the core principles of each faith, compares it to neighbouring traditions, and its particular place in South Asian
history and society. It is a perfect resource for all students of South Asia's diverse and fascinating faiths.
Table of Contents
Notes on Transliteration
Introduction, by Sushil Mittal and Gene Thursby
Part 1: What India Has Given to the World
1. Hindu Dharma, by John Grimes, Sushil Mittal, and Gene Thursby
2. Jaina Dharma, by Jayandra Soni
3. Bauddha Dhamma, by Tessa Bartholomeusz
4. Sikh Dharam, by Paushara Singh
Part 2: What India Has Received from the World
5. Indian Zoroastrian Traditions, by T. M. Luhrmann
6. Indian Judaic Traditions, by Shalva Weil
7. Indian Christian Traditions, by M. Thomas Thangaraj
8. Indian Muslim Traditions, by Peter Gottschalk
9. Indian Bahai Traditions, by William Garlington
Part 3: Study of Religion(s) in India
10. Beyond the Introduction: Issues in Interpretation and Reinterpretation, by Carl Olson