Vaisnavism: Contemporary Scholars Discuss the Gaudiya Tradition focuses on ancient religious heritage in the light of modern scholarship. Through a series of lively conversations, Steven J.Rosen and twenty-five distinguished academics explore the many sides of Gaudiya Vaisnavism--its literature, historical development, theology and practice. Thoughtful and indeed illuminating perspectives emerge as the scholars reveal insights gained from years of research. In discussing subjects such as the nature of the Absolute, devotional poetry, sacred space, mystical states and sonic theology, the abundant beauty and profundity of this venerable East Indian tradition are brought to light.

- from the Foreword by Edward C. Dimock, Jr.,
University of Chicago

Preface - i

Foreword / Edward C. Dimock, Jr.

Introduction

Gaudiya Vaisnavism / A.N. Chatterjee

The Vedic Literature / Michael Witzel

The Ramayana / H. Daniel Smith

Mahabharata / Alf Hiltebeitel

Bhagavata-Purana / Clifford Hospital

Krsna in the Performing Arts / John Stratton Hawley

Bhakti Poetry / Richard Davis

Biographies of Sri Caitanya / Tony Stewart

Sampradaya of Sri Caitanya / William Deadwyler

Sahajiya Tradition / Robert Sailley

Gaudiya Vaisnavism in the Modern World / Charles Brooks

The Bengal of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu / Richard Eaton

Sri Caitanya's Pilgrimage to the South / David Kinsley

Sri Caitanya's Tour of Vraja / Alan Entwistle

The Glories of Radha-kunda / Mohan Gautam

Jagannatha Puri / Frederique Marglin

Vaisnavism and Christianity / Klaus Klostermainer

Sadhana Bhakti / Joseph O'Connell

Personalism vs. Impersonalism / O.B.L. Kapoor

Acintya Bhedabheda / Shrivatsa Goswami

Sonic Theology / Guy Beck

Mysticism, Madness and Ecstasy / June McDaniel

Rasa Theology / Gerald Carney

Krsna-Lila / David Haberman

Radha: Beloved of Vraja / Eric. Huberman

Index

Sample Pages