The Symbolism of Hindu Gods and Rituals


Book Description

A practical text explaining the allegorical significance of gods and goddesses; rituals and festivals; invocations and prayers. It educates a spiritual aspirant with the philosophical aspect of religious practices.







Symbolism in Hinduism


Book Description

In the Indian ethos, we encounter symbolism everywhere – in our shastras, in our celebrations and festivals, in the way we live. Symbolism has a language of its own. It is not necessarily meant to be cryptic or secretive, but it is meant to make on think, to ask questions. Why do we celebrate our festivals the way we do? Why are Hindu gods multi-armed, each one specific and distinct from the other? What is the significance of their individual vehicles and the weapons they carry? Pujya Gurudev, Swami Chinmayananda, sometimes spoke about symbolism and sometimes wrote about it. His style was unique and always to the point. The articles in this book have been compiled by Swami Nityananda (formerly R.S. Nathan), who was driven by a desire to share Gurudev’s wisdom with all. There are articles by others too, and they have been included because each one of them touches on one or the other aspect of symbolism. And if anybody is buzzing with questions, pick up this book and read on.




The Book of Hindu Imagery


Book Description

Hinduism is more than a religion; it is a way of life. Its rich and multicoloured history has made the structure of its mythical and philosophical principles into a highly differentiated maze, of which total knowledge is a practical impossibility. This volume cannot offer a complete survey of the meaning of Hinduism. It is an extensive compilation of important deities and their divine manifestations, so that modern students can understand the significance of the Hindu pantheon.




Hindu Gods and Goddesses


Book Description




Hindu Rites and Rituals


Book Description

Why is the tulsi considered sacred? What is the significance of namaste? Why do Hindus light a lamp before performing a ritual? Why is it forbidden to sleep facing the south? Why do Hindus chant 'shanti' three times after performing a rite? Millions of Hindus the world over grow up observing rites, rituals and religious practices that lie at the heart of Hinduism, but which they don't know the significance of. Often the age-old customs, whose relevance is lost to modern times, are dismissed as meaningless superstitions. The truth, however, is that these practices reveal the philosophical and scientific approach to life that has characterized Hindu thought since ancient times; it is important to revive their original meanings today. This handy book tells the fascinating stories and explains the science behind the Hindu rites and rituals that we sometimes follow blindly. It is essential reading for anyone interested in India's cultural tradition.




Sacred Hindu Symbols


Book Description

Hinduism Is Not Merely A Religion But A Way Of Life. Hinduism, In Its Traverse Of Four Thousand Years, Has Accumulated Many A Belief And Practice, Which Encompass The Whole Socio-Religio-Cultural Life Of A Devout. Since The Mythological Past, Hinduism Is Studded With Varied Signs And Symptoms, Which Are Mystic In Character And Symbolic In Nature, And Are Also Sacred Symbols Of Spiritualism As Well. These Symbols Are The Sacred Rivers; Mystic Mantras Like Om And Gayatri; The Auspicious Symbol Of Swastika; The Shivalinga, Salagram Shila Or Sacred Stone Objects; Tripundra Tilaks Or Urdhapundra Tilaks- The Process Of Besmearing The Body With Different Marks Of Sandal Pastes; The Sacred Conch Or Sankha And Venerated Trees Which Have Medicinal Value And Spiritual Ethos Like Tulsi, Vata, Rudraksha, Etc. All These Are Part Of Modern Hinduism But To Many Devouts And Observers These Symbols Stand Enigmatic! Thus This Book Attempts To Explore And Unearth The Hidden Philosophy Of These Signs And Gauge The Socio-Scientific Base And Tries To Find Out The Real Meaning Of Ritualistic Methodologies Of These Symbols, Which Are The Great Objects Of Veneration Of The Hindus Down The Ages.




Sacred Swastika


Book Description

"Sacred Swastika: Exploring the Symbolism in Hinduism" is a comprehensive exploration of one of the oldest and most revered symbols in Hindu culture. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, this book delves into the multifaceted meanings and significance of the swastika within the context of Hinduism. From its ancient origins to its contemporary interpretations, the book navigates the rich tapestry of beliefs and practices associated with this sacred emblem.




Shrouded in symbols


Book Description

Have you ever thought why we offer a specific kind of flower to specific Hindu gods? Has your curious mind ever tried to interpret the posture of the Hindu Gods, the significance of their Vahanas or the importance of the weapons in their hands? Hinduism is brimming with symbolism. Most of these symbols are representative of the philosophies, teachings and even the gods and goddesses themselves of the Hindus. Deities and rituals are a huge part of Hinduism and they have great religious significance. Religious practices, puja, offerings, Gods and Goddesses all are a part of life. This book is an exploration to unearth a wonderful world of Hindu symbolism and iconography which spans from vahanas, mudras of Hindu Gods, postures, body language of idols, universal symbols and symbols of offerings




Symbols and Substance


Book Description

Although I wrote this book as if it is for my grandchildren, this is meant for all grandchildren and interested young adults. This book is primarily for children of Asian-Indian origin, who live outside India. The book starts with an explanation of why Hindus worship so many "gods" although the Vedas say that there is only ONE source called Brahman. I explain the meaning behind each of the forms ("gods") of the formless Primordial Source, in a simple language. This is followed by a section on the meaning behind Hindu puja and rituals. I have included an essay on meditation with a summary of ideas from the east, the west, ancient literature and modern neuro-sciences. In the final section, the reader will find a summary of important concepts from Upanishads and a few of Vedic, Hindu concepts such as Dharma, Karma, Brahman and Atman. I have added a list of meanings of Sanskrit words and a guide to Sanskrit - English transliteration to help the young readers. References are given to the sources throughout the text and a reading list is included at the end of the book. I hope that young readers who read this book will go to the original sources.