Indian Myth and Legend

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This volume explores the myths and legends of India, preserved in the vast Sanskrit literature, and examines the development of Brahmanism, Buddhism, Jainism, and more. Readers are introduced to sacred Hindu texts, including the invocatory hymns of the four Vedas, the speculative "Forest Books," and the monumental epics, the Rámáyana and the Máhábharata, which are significantly longer than the Iliad. Indian national poets have expressed the beliefs, ideals, and traditions of their culture with remarkable depth, achieving lasting fame. Today, over two hundred million Hindus are familiar with the legendary themes and traditional beliefs imbued with rich symbolism by ancient sages and poets, serving as vehicles for profound spiritual teachings. The sacred texts hold a significance for Hindus akin to that of the Bible for Christians, with the belief that reading or hearing them ensures prosperity and salvation. For historians, ethnologists, and comparative religion scholars, these texts offer insights into the ancient Aryo-Indians' sociology, political structures, legal codes, ethical standards, and their views on God, the soul, and the universe. Understanding these works is essential for those wishing to empathetically engage with the religious beliefs of Hindu communities and their perspectives on life.