DOC Islam; the Ancient Near East and Varieties of Godlessness: Collected Studies in Three Volumes; Volume 3 (Islamic History and Civilization) by Professor of Islamic History at the Institute for Advanced Study Patricia Crone in History

Description

In this collection of essays the author discusses the basics of Hinduism. Outlining the message of the Bhagavad-Gita and the Upanisads; he argues that Hinduism is not a cult; nor a bunch of dogmas; but a religion of the highest order that speaks of an immanent and transcendental god. It also offers a philosophy of life that cuts across ethnic and geographic barriers between men. According to him; the essentials of Hindu religio-philosophic teaching are pervaded by the ideal of universalism and love for humanity. The author drives home the relevance of Hindu universalism to an age in which nations are armed for mutual annihilation. He maintains that successful application of the religio-philosophic teachings of Hindu seers will help humankind to overcome the worst crisis facing it in this nuclear age; and will lead to restructuring the world on the all-embracing principle of freedom and equity. The text is followed by the author's lucid translation and commentary on Mundaka Upanisad.