The Great Religions of India

The book is arranged into six lectures. “Introductory” defines the scope of the lectures, explains the missionary purpose of the series, and offers a geographic and demographic sketch of India’s religious communities, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, Muhammadanism, Sikhism, reform movements, and tribal religions. “Hinduism” examines the largest Indian religious system, especially caste, polytheism, pantheism, ritual practice, and reformist responses. “Zoroastrianism” studies the Parsis, their migration from Persia, reverence for fire as a symbol of divine purity, and their role as a small but influential community in western India. “Buddhism” presents Buddhism as a major Indian-origin religion that spread across Asia and later declined in India proper. “Muhammadanism” treats Islam in India as a powerful missionary and political tradition with wide social influence. “The Religion of the Wilder Races” describes the religious beliefs of hill and forest communities, especially animism, spirit propitiation, and local cults. The volume concludes with an index, supporting navigation across the religious, historical, and missionary themes discussed.