Swami Bhaskarananda has written a compact, yet amazingly comprehensive treatment of the essentials of the Hindu view of life, emphasizing the very things one wishes most to know about when first approaching this complicated and many-sided subject. While there is no lack of books on Hinduism, many are ill-suited to beginners because they do not adequately explain basic concepts. Swamiji’s style is remarkable for its directness and lucidity, fresh and devoid of clichés to an extent that is truly rare nowadays.
Walter H. Maurer, Ph. D.
Professor of Sanskrit, University of Hawai‘i, at Manoa

The Essentials of Hinduism must form a part of the basic library of any student of comparative religions.
David C. Manning
Teacher of Comparative Religions

The Essentials of Hinduism addresses nearly every question that naturally arises in the mind of a Western reader studying Hinduism. I think that this book is perfect for North Americans who are interested in a solid introduction to Hinduism.
Allen R. Freedman, Ph. D.
Associate Professor of Mathematics, Simon Fraser University, Canada

The first book on Hinduism that comprehensively addresses all of its important aspects and in a lucid way – a must for one interested in Hinduism or Indian culture.
Dr. Amar N. Neogi, Ph. D.
Research Manager, Weyerhaeuser Company

While I have taught an introductory Asian Religions course for some twenty years, I have never been able to find such a helpful work. I shall recommend it enthusiastically for use by our college students.
Rev. James R. Roberts
Catholic Priest and Professor, Religious Studies, Vancouver

Hinduism is one of humanity‘s most ancient religions and, over time, it has evolved in an incredibly rich but complex form. Its metaphysics and philosophies are especially difficult for people coming from the so-called western religious traditions to grasp. Fortunately for us, Swami Bhaskarananda has come to our aid. His book elucidates Hinduism’s essentials in a clearly written manner, with a text that is laced with wonderfully expressive analogies and delightful stories.
Rabbi Anson Laytner
Past President, Interfaith Council of Washington State
Author of Arguing with God: A Jewish Tradition