This book aims to deal with various tenets of Sanatana Dharma in a simple and concise manner. The author clearly makes very critical points that impresses the mind of the reader. While establishing the paths taken by various strata of the society to attain the ultimate goal, the author has concisely described each of these paths for the readers to comprehend. The core framework of Sanatana Dharma which becomes the reference to many other paths (religions on their accord) is clearly highlighted in no uncertain terms.
The concept of vedas is introduced in a very high level manner, with no reference to the “apourusheya” aspect of the same. In the list of famous upanishads, I am surprised that Brhad Aranyaka Upanishad’s miss is quite surprising. The book gives a 300,000 feet overview of Sanatana Dharma or Hinduism. The book aims to introduce as many concepts as possible without necessarily elaborating on the same beyond a point. Some of the sections could easily serve as quick reference guides to those starting to adopt these practices in their daily routine. The section on the Hindu way is quite well written with good details to provoke interest in the minds of the readers. The author’s explanation of the 10 samskara during the life cycle of an atman is quite well written, concise and effective. The last few chapters on Being noble, Being religious, Being spiritual are quite concise, but highly effective. These contain practical suggestions that one can adopt in life. As the author notes, not everything may be feasible, but to make an attempt and amend as suitable itself is the objective of the book.
While the book is a good introductory text, it has its share of shortcomings. The usage of the word “Gospel” liberally is quite surprising considering the concept of the book to be rooted in the Hindu way. While generalisations are good, too much generalisation would lose the audience midway, specially those seeking to derive some inspiration from the book. The section on Yugas is quite elementary with too much generalisation and adhering to a specific school of thought i.e. one which feels that the current time is junction of Kali Yuga and Satya yuga. This is quite contrary to the Puranic concepts, something I feel the author has overlooked. The language at places is quite strong, labelling those who don’t follow a certain guideline and err as cheats and hypocrites. I found this to be a bit judgemental coming from a monk.
However, the highlight of the book is the mantras i.e. final chapter, some of which are quite common in daily practices. The aforementioned minor glitches aside, the book is quite well composed and ends very well and gives the reader a good food for thought.
Recommended read, specially for young minds or those who wish to get a very quick overview of Hinduism / Sanatana Dharma.
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