In Praise Of The Goddess: The Devimahatmya And Its Meaning [Paperback]

This spiritual classic, written about 16 centuries ago by author or authors unknown, weaves into a verbal tapestry the central text for worshippers of the Hindu Devi, the Divine Mother. The Devimahatmya addresses the perennial questions of the nature of the universe, humankind, and divinity. Written in the form of a narrative of a dispossessed king, a merchant betrayed by the family he loves, and a seer, this classic presents a trilogy of myths concerning the all-powerful Divine Mother, Durga-, and the fierce battles she wages against the throngs of demonic foes. These allegories represent our all-too-human impulses toward power, possessions, and pleasure. This easy-to-read translation of the Devimahatmya combines sound scholarship with an insiders perspective based on 35 years of spiritual practice within the Hindu religion. Includes Sanskrit text with transliteration. For scholars, devotees, and readers looking for a thorough introduction to Hinduism as well as insight into goddess worship.