The Hindu View Of Life  (English, Paperback, Radhakrishnan S.)

Hindu View Of Life is a comprehensive look into the depths of Hinduism. It examines the origin, belief systems, rituals, and many other aspects of this religion. Presented in the form of four lectures, this book is very informative and engaging.

Summary Of The Book

Hindu View Of Life, originally published in 1926, introduces readers to the ways of Hindu life, rituals, beliefs, and customs.

India is a very diverse country filled with a wide range of religions. Hinduism may seem one of the most confusing because of the thousands of gods and goddesses that are worshipped in their various forms. It also has myths and superstitions attached to it. The author takes readers into the depth of Hinduism, and showcases the unifying beliefs that exist amongst all ordinary men and women.

Hindu View Of Life is divided into four lessons. The first is titled Religious Expressions: Its Nature And Content. It says that the word Hindu came into existence as the founders lived on the banks of River Indus, and invaders from other countries started calling them Hindus. The author also says that Hindus should not confine themselves into building temples and performing rites. Instead, all of Hinduism should strive to reach higher spiritual plane. Lecture two is Conflict Of Religions: The Hindu Attitude, and it says that Hinduism is a religion that has accepted all kinds of gods. It doesn’t believe in converting individuals, and lays emphasis on the fact that conduct is more important that belief. The next two lectures are Hindu Dharma I and II. 

Hindu View Of Life uncovers the complexities of this religion. It shows that there is so much more to Hinduism that what is expressed by Indians on a daily basis. Infact, Radhakrishnan says that Hindu families irrespective of their differences in rituals, customs, and rites, are all guided by certain common beliefs. This book is very informative, and takes readers into the deepest aspects of one of the oldest religions of the world.

About S. Radhakrishnan

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on the 5th of September, 1888.

Some books written by Radhakrishnan are Indian Philosophy, An Idealist View of Life, Eastern Religions And Western Thought, The Dhammapada, and Recovery Of Faith. 

The author is a recipient of India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna. He was also awarded British Knighthood and the Order of Merit. However, after India’s Independence from the British, he stopped using the title “Sir”.

He was an Indian philosopher, statesman, and teacher. His birthday is celebrated as Teacher’s Day in India. He graduated from Madras Christian College with a master’s degree in Philosophy. After India’s Independence, the author represented the nation at UNESCO from 1946 to 1952. He then became India’s first Vice-President, and later became the President of India. Radhakrishnan passed away in 1975.