Hinduism: A Very Short Introduction

Hinduism: A Very Short Introduction cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Technical
  • ID: 1981
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780198745549
  • Publisher: Oxford University Press
  • Published: 2016-01-01
  • Formats: 8
  • Reviews: 3

Hinduism is a vibrant and diverse religion practiced by approximately 80% of India's population and over 30 million people outside India. This book delves into the central preoccupations and foundational principles of Hinduism, offering concise insights into its rich traditions and beliefs. It provides a comprehensive overview of the religion's history, practices, and philosophical underpinnings, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand this ancient faith. The work also examines the global influence of Hinduism and its relevance in contemporary society.

Reviews
The Storygraph · schnoebs13 · 2025-10-11
informative 4.00

The author's acknowledgment of bias and explanation of certain historical aspects of Hinduism are particularly appreciated. The book is seen as informative and insightful.

The reviewer at The Storygraph appreciates the author's transparency in acknowledging her bias and her clear explanation of certain historical aspects of Hinduism. This honesty adds credibility to the book and makes it more informative. The reviewer finds the book insightful and valuable for understanding the complexities of Hinduism. The acknowledgment of bias is seen as a strength, as it allows readers to approach the material with a critical yet open mind.


Quick quotes

    What I appreciate the most of the book is the author acknowledging her bias but also explaining certain parts of the history of Hinduism which might not have been clear otherwise.

    The book is seen as informative and insightful.

    The acknowledgment of bias is seen as a strength, as it allows readers to approach the material with a critical yet open mind.

Laura Gonzalez Blog · 2025-10-11
insightful 4.50

The book is faithful, interesting, and wide-ranging. It introduces readers to areas of thought and writers they may not have known before.

This reviewer found the book to be a faithful and interesting exploration of Hinduism. They appreciated its wide-ranging coverage and how it introduced them to new areas of thought and writers they were previously unaware of. The book is seen as a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand Hinduism more deeply, offering a comprehensive overview that is both accessible and informative.


Quick quotes

    Still, it is faithful, interesting, wide-ranging and has made me discovered areas for thought and writers I did not know before.

    Just on this, I was able to learn more about Hinduism and its various aspects.

    The book is a great starting point for anyone interested in Hinduism.

Reading Religion · 2018-09-22
authoritative 4.50

The book offers a succinct and authoritative overview of Hinduism and its key beliefs. It is praised for its clarity and depth.

This review highlights the book's ability to provide a succinct yet thorough overview of Hinduism. The reviewer appreciates the clarity and depth with which the author presents the key beliefs and practices of Hinduism. It is seen as an authoritative source that effectively communicates complex ideas in an accessible manner. The book is recommended for those seeking a reliable introduction to the subject.


Quick quotes

    In this Very Short Introduction, Kim Knott offers a succinct and authoritative overview of Hinduism and its key beliefs.

    The book is praised for its clarity and depth.

    It is seen as an authoritative source that effectively communicates complex ideas in an accessible manner.