Must Read Books
Sanatana Dharma: Understanding the Knowledge and Ethics of Hinduism
by Rupa Publications
The religion of Sanatana Dharma is the most ancient, continuously practiced spiritual tradition on earth. Culturally relevant and imperative in the contemporary era, this work has been preserved and reproduced as the fundamental knowledge base of a civilization. This selected guide is an attempt to keep the ethos of Hinduism alive and relevant.
The term ‘Sanatana Dharma’ is translated from the Sanskrit language to English as the ‘Eternal Natural Way;’ thereby making Hinduism a way of living within nature, alongside nature and through nature. This comprehensive work touches upon all the aspects of this Sanatana philosophy for spiritual enlightenment.
The Religion of the Rigveda
by Thomas Oberlies
This comprehensive new presentation of the religion of the Rigveda is the result of a thorough-going endeavour to extrapolate historical circumstances from that literary text and present them chiefly from the perspective of the adherents to this religion. For them society, social life, and religion were inextricably bound. This helps to explain the meanings of rights and rituals. Which rituals are to be performed at what times is influenced by the way of life of these Vedic tribes which alternates between peaceful settling and predatory raids.
The ‘priests’ who carry out the rituals embody the gods of the Rigvedic pantheon. In telling the story of these rituals, Thomas Oberlies highlights particular connections — such as the association of the war god Indra with the priest who recites the hymns which invite the gods — that help us solve many of the riddles which the text of the Rigveda still poses to this day. The Religion of the Rigveda includes a wealth of quotations from primary sources which form the basis of this approach to a religion that would later become Hinduism. A comprehensive index of subjects makes the book eminently accessible for use in further studies.
Exploring Sanatan Dharma: Unveiling the Eternal Path
by Vikash Dabriwal
“Exploring Sanatan Dharma: Unveiling the Eternal Path” is a comprehensive and illuminating exploration of the ancient and intricate spiritual tradition of Sanatan Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism. This book delves into the profound philosophical and spiritual underpinnings of Hinduism while providing a contemporary perspective on its relevance in the modern world.
The book begins with an introduction to the concept and significance of Sanatan Dharma, highlighting its timeless nature and universal appeal. It then takes the reader on a historical journey, tracing the roots of the tradition from pre-Vedic times through the Vedic period and into the emergence of Sanatan Dharma. It explores the significant influence of other religious and philosophical schools on Hinduism, emphasizing its adaptability and inclusivity.
Central philosophical concepts like dharma (duty), karma (action and consequence), samsara (cycle of birth and rebirth), and moksha (liberation) are explained in depth. The book elucidates the role of major deities such as Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi, along with the significance of avatars (incarnations).
It also sheds light on the intricate rituals, practices, and worship associated with Hinduism, including the importance of the Vedas and Upanishads. The epic stories of the Ramayana and Mahabharata are presented, as well as the spiritual guidance found in the Bhagavad Gita.
The reader gains insight into daily, seasonal, and life-cycle rituals, the significance of puja (worship), and the role of temples and pilgrimage sites. The practice of yoga and the different paths to spiritual realization, such as Karma, Bhakti, Jnana, and Hatha Yoga, are explained.
The book doesn’t shy away from addressing societal issues, including the caste system and concepts of dharma in society. It emphasizes ethical principles like ahimsa (non-violence) and explores the impact of colonialism and globalization on Sanatan Dharma.
In the modern context, the book highlights the relevance of Sanatan Dharma, its interactions with other belief systems, the diversity of sects within Hinduism, and key reform movements. It concludes by underlining the enduring principles of Sanatan Dharma that offer spiritual guidance, unity, and a sense of purpose in the 21st century.
“Exploring Sanatan Dharma: Unveiling the Eternal Path” serves as a comprehensive guide for both those new to Hinduism and those seeking a deeper understanding of its profound teachings. It celebrates the tradition’s enduring wisdom while demonstrating its adaptability and universal appeal in today’s ever-changing world.
Eternal Universal Truth of the Soul: Sanatan Dharm As It Is
by Rahul Gupta
Eternal Universal Truth of the Soul: Sanatan Dharm As It Is shares the beliefs and teachings of Hinduism (also known as Sanatan Dharm) to enlighten all of humanity in both the present and future times toward the path to liberation (moksha).
Readers will gain further insights about God (Bhagwan), Dharm, the soul (atma), the material world and the spiritual world as well as the creation of the universe, multiverse, love, faith, devotion, compassion, forgiveness, patience, positive attitude, charity, yoga, chakra, Kundalini Shakti, Samadhi, aura, the third eye, meditation, vegetarianism, karma, destiny, death, reincarnation, and moksha.
Most importantly, the readers will gain the knowledge and strength they need to never give up, always smile, and find the right solutions for overcoming any difficulties they may encounter in their journeys through life. Through this knowledge, they will find good health, stay blissful, and find peace and contentment in their own lives while being well guided on how to be a winner.
This book has been divided into three chapters:
Chapter 1: Teachings of Sanatan Dharm (Hinduism)
Chapter 2: We Have Seen Bhagwan Krishna
Chapter 3: Teachings of Brahmrishi Guruvanand (aka Siddh Guru)
