Title
Encountering the Goddess: a Translation of the Devimahatmya and a Study of Its Interpretation,Used
Sold by Ergodebooks, an authorized reseller.
Returns accepted within 30 days | support@ergodebooks.com
Shipping Information
- Free Standard Shipping — United States only
- Processing Time: 1–3 business days
- Estimated Delivery: 3–5 business days after dispatch
- Double-boxed, fully insured & discreetly packaged
- Tracking number sent via email once dispatched
- Orders over $250 require signature upon delivery. Taxes calculated at checkout.
Returns & Refund
Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery.
Damaged or Defective Item
Free return shipping + replacement or full refund
Wrong Item Received
Free return shipping + replacement or full refund
Change of Mind
Return shipping at customer's expense · 25% restocking fee applies
Payment Option
Coburn provides a fresh and careful translation from the Sanskrit of this fifteenhundredyearold text. Drawing on field work and literary evidence, he illuminates the process by which the DeviMahatmya has attracted a vast number of commentaries and has become the best known Goddesstext in modern India, deeply embedded in the ritual of Goddess worship (especially in Tantra). Coburn answers the following questions among others: Is this document 'scripture?' How is it that this text mediates the presence of the Goddess? What can we make of contemporary emphasis on oral recitation of the text rather than study of its written form?One comes away from Coburn's work with a sense of the historical integrity or wholeness of an extremely important religious development centered on a 'text.' The interaction between the text and later philosophical and religious developments such as those found in Advaita Vedanta and Tantra is quite illuminating.Relevant here are the issues of the writtenness and orality/aurality of 'scripture, ' and the various ways by which a deposit of holy words such as the DeviMahatmya becomes effective, powerful, and inspirational in the lives of those who hold it sacred.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the main focus of 'Encountering the Goddess'? A: 'Encountering the Goddess' focuses on a fresh translation of the Devi-mahatmya, exploring its historical significance and interpretations in Hinduism, especially regarding Goddess worship.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'Encountering the Goddess' is Thomas B. Coburn, who provides insights based on his fieldwork and literary analysis.
- Q: What type of book is this? A: 'Encountering the Goddess' is a paperback book categorized under Hinduism, offering both a translation of an ancient text and a scholarly study.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book contains a total of 272 pages.
- Q: Is 'Encountering the Goddess' suitable for beginners in Hindu studies? A: Yes, the book is suitable for both beginners and those familiar with Hindu studies, as it offers a clear translation and insightful commentary.
- Q: What are some key themes discussed in the book? A: Key themes include the text's role as scripture, the importance of oral recitation, and the relationship between the Devi-mahatmya and contemporary practices in Tantra.
- Q: When was 'Encountering the Goddess' published? A: 'Encountering the Goddess' was published on May 2, 1991.
- Q: What condition is the book in? A: 'Encountering the Goddess' is listed as a used book in good condition.
- Q: Does the book include any illustrations or images? A: The product details do not specify whether the book includes illustrations or images.
- Q: Can this book be used for academic purposes? A: Yes, 'Encountering the Goddess' can be utilized for academic purposes due to its scholarly approach to a significant religious text.