Religion in India: Past and Present
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The religious map of India is notoriously complex; not only are there indigenous traditions in great variety, but imported faiths such as Islam and Christianity have been added to…
Book Summary
A concise, accessible introduction to India's religious history from the Indus Valley to modern times. Babb covers Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, and Christianity, explaining origins, teachings, and contemporary relevance. Designed for university courses and general readers, it assumes no prior knowledge and provides a big-picture overview of India's complex religious landscape.
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About Religion in India: Past and Present
Lawrence A. Babb's 'Religion in India: Past and Present' offers a comprehensive yet approachable survey of the subcontinent's religious traditions. Starting with the Indus Valley civilization (c. 2600–1900 BCE), Babb traces the evolution of Vedic religion, the rise of Buddhism and Jainism, the development of Hinduism, and the arrival of Islam and Christianity. The book examines how these traditions have shaped and been shaped by Indian society, politics, and culture. Later chapters address colonialism's impact, religion's role in the independence movement, and the ongoing debate over religion's place in modern India's national identity. Written for non-specialists, this textbook balances historical narrative with thematic analysis, making it ideal for classroom use and for travellers or general readers seeking a solid foundation in South Asian religious studies.
Who should read Religion in India: Past and Present?
This book is ideal for university students in South Asian studies, religious studies, or history courses, as well as general readers and travellers interested in understanding India's religious diversity. It assumes no prior knowledge, making it accessible to beginners, while its historical scope and thematic depth also benefit those seeking a structured overview. Instructors will find it a useful core text for introductory courses on India.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Accessible and jargon-free writing suitable for non-specialists
- ✓ Comprehensive historical coverage from the Indus Valley to modern India
- ✓ Balanced treatment of multiple religious traditions
- ✓ Designed as a textbook with clear structure for course use
- ✓ Includes discussion of contemporary issues like nationalism and secularism
Cons
- ✗ May oversimplify complex topics for advanced scholars
- ✗ Limited depth on regional or folk traditions
- ✗ Focuses primarily on major religions, with less on smaller communities
- ✗ Some readers may desire more primary sources or case studies
- ✗ The historical approach may feel dense for casual readers
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Frequently asked questions
Does this book assume prior knowledge of Indian history?
No, the author explicitly states that no previous knowledge of Indian institutions or history is required. It is designed for beginners.
Is this book suitable for self-study?
Yes, the clear writing and big-picture approach make it accessible for general readers and travellers, though it was primarily designed for university courses.
What religions are covered?
The book covers the major religions of India: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, and Christianity, along with the ancient Indus Valley religion and Vedic traditions.
Does it discuss modern India?
Yes, concluding chapters address colonialism's impact, religion in the independence struggle, and contemporary debates about religion and national identity in the Republic of India.
Is this a textbook or a general interest book?
It is designed as a textbook for university-level courses, but its accessible style also appeals to general readers interested in South Asia.
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