Hinduism as a Missionary Religion

The book examines whether Hinduism can be considered a missionary religion by analyzing historical evidence and religious texts. The author challenges common assumptions about Hinduism's non-missionary nature through systematic investigation. The investigation covers different periods of Hindu history, from ancient times through the medieval era and into modernity. Hindu interactions with other religions and cultures are explored through case studies and documented examples of religious exchange. Detailed attention is given to Hindu movements like the Hare Krishna movement, Ramakrishna Mission, and other organizations that spread Hindu teachings globally. The role of gurus, teachers, and spiritual leaders in transmitting Hindu concepts to new audiences receives particular focus. The work contributes to broader discussions about religious transmission, cultural exchange, and the nature of missionary activity itself. Through its examination of Hinduism, the book raises questions about how religions spread and adapt across cultural boundaries.

Readers appreciate the book's unique perspective challenging the notion that Hinduism is inherently non-missionary. Many note that Sharma provides clear historical examples of Hindu expansion and proselytization across Asia. Positive comments focus on: - Clear academic writing style - Strong historical evidence and examples - Fresh perspective on Hindu missionary activities - Thorough research and citations Main criticisms include: - Dense academic language that can be difficult for general readers - Some repetition in examples and arguments - Limited discussion of contemporary Hindu missionary movements - High price point for a relatively short book Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (12 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (6 reviews) One academic reviewer on Amazon notes: "Sharma systematically dismantles the common assumption that Hinduism lacks missionary zeal." A Goodreads reviewer criticized that "the academic tone makes it inaccessible for those seeking an introduction to Hindu missionary activities."

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🕉️ Though Hinduism is often considered a non-missionary religion, Arvind Sharma documents several historical instances of Hindu missionary activity, including the spread of Hinduism to Southeast Asia during the first millennium CE. 📚 Author Arvind Sharma is one of the world's foremost scholars of comparative religion, having taught at Harvard University and currently serving as the Birks Professor of Comparative Religion at McGill University. 🗺️ The book challenges the common Western notion that missionary activity is exclusively associated with Abrahamic religions, showing how Hindu concepts spread naturally through trade, cultural exchange, and royal patronage. ⚡ The text explores how Hindu missionary activities differ fundamentally from Western models - focusing more on attraction rather than conversion, and emphasizing personal spiritual experience over institutional membership. 🎯 Published in 2011, this was the first comprehensive academic study to specifically examine Hinduism's missionary aspects, filling a significant gap in religious scholarship.