South Asian Religions: Tradition and Today

Description

The religious landscape of South Asia is complex and fascinating. While existing literature tends to focus on the majority religions of Hinduism and Buddhism, much less attention is given to Jainism, Sikhism, Islam or Christianity. While not nelecting the majority traditions, this valuable resource also explores the important role which the minority traditions play in the religious life of the subcontinent, covering popular as well as elite expressions of religious faith. By examining the realities of religious life, and the ways in which the traditions are practised on the ground, this book provides an illuminating introduction to religion in South Asia. Cover South Asian Religions Title Page Copyright Page Table of Contents List of illustrations List of contributors Introduction In a shared world: Selva J. Raj and the study of religion 1 Tribal religions in India: Practicing tradition today 2 Hinduism: Practicing tradition today 3 Jain traditions: Practicing tradition today 4 Buddhism in South Asia: Practicing tradition today 5 South Asian Judaisms: Practicing tradition today 6 South Asian Christianity: Practicing tradition today 7 Islam in South Asia: Practicing tradition today 8 Sikhism: Practicing tradition today Index