Rituals, Mantras, and Science
Rituals, Mantras, and Science

Author: Jayant Burde

Publisher: Motilal Banarsidass Publishe

Published: 2004

Total Pages: 292

ISBN-13: 9788120820531

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In this book the author discusses the place of science in rituals and mantras. Using structural analysis he shows that rituals in general, whether religious, political, social or otherwise have common structural patterns. These patterns are shared by poetry, music, dance and gymanastics, but not by language, Consideration of animal rituals and pathological (compulsive) rituals leads him to propose a general theory which unifies all ritual-like activities. He also introduces the concept of ritual instinct which can be make the theory simpler and more elegant. He shows how knowledge can divided into science, non science and pseudo science to understand the true status of such strange phenomena as miracles, supernatural powers, siddhis, samadhi, rebirth and ESP.

Hindu Rites and Rituals
Hindu Rites and Rituals

Author: K V Singh

Publisher: Penguin UK

Published: 2015-11-25

Total Pages: 220

ISBN-13: 9385890042

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Why is the tulsi considered sacred? What is the significance of namaste? Why do Hindus light a lamp before performing a ritual? Why is it forbidden to sleep facing the south? Why do Hindus chant 'shanti' three times after performing a rite? Millions of Hindus the world over grow up observing rites, rituals and religious practices that lie at the heart of Hinduism, but which they don't know the significance of. Often the age-old customs, whose relevance is lost to modern times, are dismissed as meaningless superstitions. The truth, however, is that these practices reveal the philosophical and scientific approach to life that has characterized Hindu thought since ancient times; it is important to revive their original meanings today. This handy book tells the fascinating stories and explains the science behind the Hindu rites and rituals that we sometimes follow blindly. It is essential reading for anyone interested in India's cultural tradition.

Consecration Rituals in South Asia
Consecration Rituals in South Asia

Author: István Keul

Publisher: BRILL

Published: 2017-02-06

Total Pages: 405

ISBN-13: 9004337180

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The essays in the volume Consecration Rituals in South Asia address the ritual procedures that accompany the installation of temple images in Shaiva, Vaishnava, Buddhist and Jain contexts, in various traditions and historical periods.