Hinduism and Its Sources

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This is a text of great historical significance, in that it not only describes the essential elements that are constitutive of Hinduism, but also points out the underlying spirit of unity which, in the midst of diversity of races, languages and social usages, has enabled Hindus to survive all the external invasions and historical upheavals. It is this spirit of unity that has enabled Hinduism to be inclusive, tolerant and comprehensive. Starting from the Veda, Hinduism has ended embraces something from all religions, thereby enabling its followers to follow the path of salvation that suits them the best. As a consequence of this comprehensiveness, Hinduism contains all those essential material and spiritual, esoteric and exoteric, subjective and objective aspects that make religion meaningful and authentic. Thus Hinduism lays equal emphasis on the spiritual paths of action, knowledge and devotion. It is this comprehensiveness of Hinduism that marks this book.

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In 1860, Monier Monier-Williams was elected the Boden Professor of Sanskrit of Sanskrit at Oxford, a post which he held to his death in 1899. During his tenure, he was able to set up the Indian Institute at Oxford in 1896 and also undertook three journeys to India in 1875, 1876 and 1883.