This introduction to the history, philosophy, beliefs, mythology and practice of Hinduism unravels the complexities of this world religion. The book looks at the branches of Hinduism as well as its relevance for the modern Western world. The vedic background; the sacrifice and the upanishads; Hindu gods, the trimurti; the Hindu world view, Sankhya and yoga; vedanta; the path of knowledge; the nature of man, rebirth and karma; the bhakti movement; the tantric movement; the role of the guru.