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Best Books on Hinduism

Explore the spiritual depth of Hindu tradition with these top-rated books on Hinduism, each highly regarded and repeatedly recommended by scholars and spiritual leaders featured in prominent publications.

Recommendations from 9 articles, Virat Kohli, Paulo Coelho, Steve Jobs and 19 others.
16 books on the list
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Autobiography of a Yogi book cover
Autobiography of a Yogi
Paramhansa Yogananda - 2000-01-01 (first published in 1946)
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Explore the fascinating life of a spiritual master in this beloved autobiography. Discover the inspiring journey of a yogi who touched millions of lives with his teachings and practices. Join millions of readers worldwide who have found wisdom and inspiration in this timeless classic.
Meeting God book cover
Meeting God
Elements of Hindu Devotion
Stephen Huyler - 2002-03-01 (first published in 1999)
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Experience the spirituality of common men and women in India through stunning photographs and captivating stories in this unique book. Witness the devotional practices of the Hindu people and gain insight into their beliefs and practices.
A Survey of Hinduism book cover
A Survey of Hinduism
Klaus K. Klostermaier - 1994-09-08
Goodreads Rating
Explore the complexities of Hinduism with this comprehensive survey, which includes chapters on the history of the religion, sacred texts, worldview, and major branches. The updated edition also covers recent developments in India, such as the position of women in Hinduism and the meeting of East and West in India, which includes a chapter on Mahatma Gandhi. With new illustrations and maps, this book offers a topical approach, making the intricacies of Hindu life and thought accessible to all readers.
An Introduction to Hinduism book cover
An Introduction to Hinduism
Gavin D. Flood - 1996-07-13
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Discover the origins and major deities of Hinduism with this fascinating introduction to the religion of the majority of people in India. Gain insight on how Hinduism has evolved throughout history, including its modern global and nationalist forms. Explore the influential tantric traditions and fundamental rituals, and learn about the influence of Dravidian culture. This book also introduces debates within contemporary scholarship.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali book cover
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
Sri Swami Satchidananda - 1990-10-15 (first published in 400)
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Unlock the secrets of Raja Yoga with this essential manual from Sri Swami Satchidananda. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is a timeless guide covering yogic teachings on ethics, meditation, and physical postures. With the original Sanskrit text and a commentary from one of the most respected Yoga masters, this book provides practical advice for mastering the mind and achieving inner harmony. A must-read for seekers on the spiritual path.
Recommended by
Jack Dorsey
The Mahabharata book cover
The Mahabharata
Anonymous - 1951-01-01
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Explore the epic tale of heroic men and women, divine beings, and the trials and tragedy of life in this timeless piece of literature. Originally published in 1951, this book has been reprinted several times due to its immense popularity. The Mahabharata not only tells a captivating story but also contains a code of life, social and ethical philosophy, and thought-provoking insights on human problems that are unparalleled. Discover the heights and depths of the soul and the grandeur of life through this literary masterpiece.
Think on These Things book cover
Think on These Things
Jiddu Krishnamurti - 1989-10-11 (first published in 1964)
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This book consists of talks given to students, teachers, and parents in India, but its insights are relevant to anyone, anywhere. Jiddu Krishnamurti examines various aspects of our culture, education, religion, politics, and tradition, and sheds light on emotions such as ambition, greed, envy, the desire for security, and the lust for power - all of which deteriorate human society. With profound observations and directness, this book offers an astonishingly fresh perspective on oneself and the world.
Recommended by
Naval RavikantEric Siu
How to Know God book cover
How to Know God
The Yoga Aphorisms of Patanjali
Swami Prabhavananda - 1953-08-30 (first published in 400)
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Discover the ancient practice of yoga and meditation through The Yoga Aphorisms of Patanjali. This major work teaches you how to control your mind and achieve inner peace and freedom. Despite being over 2,000 years old, the teachings are just as relevant and effective today. The 2008 edition features an extensive index for easy reference.
Dancing with Siva book cover
Dancing with Siva
Hinduism's Contemporary Catechism
Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami - 2003-06-01 (first published in 1991)
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Discover the best English overview of Hinduism available today in this remarkable reference work. Written by a deeply immersed Hindu, it offers a complete course on the religion and is even used as a supplementary text book in college courses on Hinduism. Through a systematic presentation of Hinduism, learn the central questions of the spiritual quest and gain a deep understanding of this ancient religion. With a timeline of India's history, lexicon of terms, classical Rajput paintings, and original illustrations, this comprehensive view of India's diverse vision of the Divine is meditative, devotional, philosophical, scriptural, and yogic.
The Hindu Mind by Bansi Pandit
Hinduism by Jeananne Fowler
American Veda by Philip Goldberg
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Hinduism by Linda Johnsen
The Hindu Tradition by Ainslie T. Embree
The Hindu Religious Tradition by Thomas J. Hopkins
The Bhagavad Gita by Eknath Easwaran