Hinduism is both a way of life and a highly organized social and religious system, but in the modern world its essentials, perhaps more than those of any other major religion, are undergoing a process of redefinition.

Professor Zaehner's book traces these concepts through the four-thousand year development of Hinduism, and explains the enduring foundations from which it continues to flourish and grow.

This book's great merit is that it conveys the essence of concepts such as moksha, karma and sanatana dharma to the newcomer without over-simplification. It remains a penetrating interpretation of the multiple facets of Hinduism from ancient times to the present day.