New Books in Religion
Richard H. Davis, "Religions of Early India: A Cultural History" (Princeton UP, 2024)
Jan 9, 2025
Richard H. Davis, a research professor of religion at Bard College, shares insights from his latest work, which spans two millennia of India's diverse religious activities. He discusses the intricate relationships among early Indian religions and their profound interactions, emphasizing oral traditions over texts. Davis also explores the significance of the Chola Dynasty, highlighting temple culture and vernacular bhakti. His findings reveal a fascinating tapestry of beliefs and practices that continue to shape India's cultural landscape.
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Quick takeaways
- Davis highlights the interconnectedness of various religious traditions in early India, emphasizing their shared historical contexts and interactions.
- The book serves as a pedagogical resource, blending academic insights and popular understanding to enrich the study of Indian religious cultures.
Deep dives
The Genesis of a Cultural History
The book, 'Religions of Early India: A Cultural History,' emerged from Dr. Richard Davis's 35 years of undergraduate teaching, combined with his inspiration from A.L. Basham's influential work, 'Wonder That Was India.' Davis sought to create a comprehensive text that would serve as a pedagogical tool for students, bridging academic study and popular understanding of Indian religions. His aim was to develop a modern work that not only updates but also replaces Basham's text, integrating both religious and cultural histories. Through this dual approach, Davis provides a nuanced understanding of how religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, interconnect and evolve over time.
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