Library Journal; US librarians’ foremost resource; New York, October 1, 1993, Carolyn Craft, Farmville, Virginia§
This almost encyclopedic sourcebook presents Hinduism, particularly Saivite Hinduism, from the point of view of contemporary Hindus. It uses the traditional four-line presentation, followed by a 21-line commentary, to explain 155 points of history, doctrine, ritual and practice. These explanations are supplemented by verses of scripture, extensive illustrations, a Hindu timeline, a children’s primer, and charts. This work is accessible to non-Hindus. Highly recommended.§
K.L. Seshagiri Rao, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus at the University of Virginia, Editor of the quarterly journal World Faiths Encounter, Chief Editor of the forthcoming Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Columbia, South Carolina§
Dancing with Siva elucidates with exceptional ability the self-understanding of Hindus about their complex tradition, in contemporary context. It sets the record straight in the form of questions and answers. It enables students and teachers to correct misconceptions and misinterpretations to which the Hindu tradition has been subjected by unsympathetic critics. The dynamic, experiential, constructive and open approach of Hindus to spiritual, moral and domestic life is highlighted. The author has captured the essential spirit of the tradition as a continuous celebration of God’s revelations of eternal truth and love. This book is not only an important source of insightful information on the different dimensions of Saivism to the Hindus around the globe, but is also a useful guide for spiritual transformation of their lives. The beautiful illustrations, copious lexicon and an exhaustive index make the book specially attractive and useful. It deserves enthusiastic welcome and wide attention.§
Sri Sri Swami Satchidananda, Founder and Spiritual Head of Satchidananda Ashram and its Light of Truth Universal Shrine (LOTUS), renowned yoga master and visionary, Yogaville, Virginia§
Dancing with Siva is a must in every Hindu’s library. Whoever wants to know Hinduism and its applicability to modern life should read this encyclopedia of Hindu wisdom. §
Karan Singh, Ph.D. Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), former Indian Ambassador to the US, Chancellor of the Banaras Hindu University and son of Kashmir’s last Maharaja, New Delhi, India§
A monumental work! This is indeed a remarkable book.§
Dr. P. Jayaraman, Executive Director, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan; New York§
Dancing with Siva provides a comprehensive knowledge of different schools of Indian philosophy, with an authentic approach to the original Saivite scriptures written in Tamil and Sanskrit. It provides a glossary of terms with their authoritative sources and connotations. I strongly recommend this book, brought out with meticulous care and authored by an erudite scholar of the subject after great sadhana. §
Dr. K. Venkatasubramanian, former Vice-Chancellor of Pondicherry’s Central University; Madras, India§
Your innovative new presentation of ancient knowledge simply fascinates me, and I am sure it will charm every reader. India needs the reassurance you have given. We will “integrate bhakti with jnana, Siddhanta with Vedanta, Agamas with Vedas and Hindu Dharma with everyday life.” A reading of this outstanding publication gives us a new matchless “soul force” to live a life of beauty and peace amidst the modern horrors surrounding us.§
Professor Subhash Kak, Ph.D. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Louisiana State University; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA§
Dancing with Siva is a magnificent book! It is beautifully produced and has profuse illustrations. It presents the endless variety of the ancient Hindu tradition in an easy question-and-answer format. There are precepts for the individual, the family and the community. The book communicates the central vision of Hinduism, that God is to be found in oneself and in all the creation around. There is even a delightful section for children. Altogether, the book is a superb achievement. It should be invaluable not only to Hindus but also to others who seek self-knowledge. §
Pundit Ramesh Tiwari, President General, Edinburgh Dharmic Sabha; Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago§
A new spiritual dawn awakens within me after reading the passages in this book. I am now reading the messages in a weekly radio program titled Siva Shakti, directed to the 300,000 Hindu population in Trinidad and Tobago. §
Pundit K.N. Navaratnam, M.A.F.A., F.A.A., Jaffna Tamil elder, Jyotisha Marthand and National Astrologer of Australia, Sivathondan Center, Hallam, Australia§
Dancing with Siva has stunned me with its golden words of wisdom and lucid expression of the most ancient Hindu religion, which can now be understood from the beginning to the end even by laymen. It leads the reader to the Holy Feet of the ever-dancing Nataraja, the Supreme God of the universe.§
Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda Spiritual Head of the Society “Yoga in Daily Life,” Vienna, Australia§
My sincere congratulations to the reprint and new edition of Dancing with Siva that proves the vivid interest in spiritual literature in our time. Especially I am very happy about this success, because this book is a real jewel among the vast literature about Hindu religion. It represents knowledge, wisdom and tolerance, which are imperatives to save humanity at the present time. Hindu civilization is the most ancient and rich in culture, traditions, philosophy and concepts. It has endeavored to secure the well-being of humanity and universal brotherhood. The Sanatana Dharma expounds universal welfare, development of divine virtues and attainment of spiritual success. It deals with the life of all humans and creatures of this world and also of the other worlds. Dancing with Siva offers not only a deep insight into the noble values of Vedic religion and culture in a most profound and inspiring way; the second part of the book, named Truth is One, Paths are Many, gives clear evidence that the entire humankind is relying on the same fundaments. May there be many divine books like Dancing with Siva! Thank you in the name of all Siva bhaktas and other devotees for undertaking the immense effort and research work to publish a book of such high rank.§
Liladhar J. Bharadia, noted journalist; Nairobi, Kenya§
To me, Dancing with Siva is a complete course on Hinduism. It is the most useful book I’ve seen for students’ education. In Kenya, Hindu education is taught in primary and secondary schools by the Ministry of Education. This book should be presented to government bodies in various countries for teaching Hindu religion. §
Gloria J. Bethke; Camarillo, California§
I cannot tell you how many years I have waited for such a book as Dancing with Siva. How many years have I sent for this book and that, struggling to learn about this (to me) the best of all spiritual paths! And while I shouldn’t be materialistic, I can’t help mentioning that I had spent well over $1,000.00 and still I hadn’t the answers I have found in Dancing with Siva.§
Tiru A. Kandiah, Ph.D, Jaffna Tamil elder, author of more than 30 books in English and Tamil, Former Head of the Department of Tamil, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, Former Professor at the University of London, now living in Sydney, Australia§
Dancing with Siva, Hinduism’s Contemporary Catechism is a truly miraculous realization of a vast and profound overview of Hindu religious life. It is the true reflection of the religious life of Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, a world-renowned Hindu saint who practiced this elegant and intellectual Hindu philosophy. The exceptional contribution “Truth Is One, Paths Are Many” is the most outstanding piece of the religious aspect. In his words, “There is need for no-nonsense reviews of religions, and this may hopefully begin to meet that need.” Here the world’s major spiritual paths are brought out in a nutshell in simple, elegant and inspiring language. The author has brought out the true aspects of world major religions. Each spiritual path and its essence is brought out briefly under the subheadings Synopsis, Goals, Path of Attainment, and Beliefs. The twelve beliefs of the Saivite Creed, with beautiful illustrations, and the Six Schools of Saivism are other essences of Hinduism portrayed in a simple, understandable way, highlighting the elegant Saivite Hinduism for everyone to understand. The Six Schools of Saivism are explained in simple language to bring out the fact that “In the search for peace, enlightenment and liberation, no path is more tolerant, more mystical, more widespread or more ancient than Saivite Hinduism.” ¶Dancing with Siva is an extraordinary religious masterpiece which guides human beings toward a sacred and spiritual life and inspires everyone to explore ways toward a genuine spiritual transfiguration through consistent effort to inspire, enrich and uplift those around them. It is a must in every home and library in a multicultural country like Australia, where more than a hundred nationalities live, more than a hundred languages are spoken and many of the major spiritual paths are in existence. §
Thiru Satkunendran Jaffna Tamil elder, Assistant Secretary of the Sivathondan Nilayam, Toronto, Ontario, Canada§
Gurudeva’s “triple gems,” Dancing, Living and Merging with Siva, are a Godsend to us Hindus, and we are most grateful to his holiness for showing us the direct path, the San Marga. To read, understand, follow and attain moksha, liberation, one should read these triple gems. To be literally there and feel moksha, one should pilgrimage to Gurudeva’s Iraivan temple in Hawaii. To be in moksha itself, well, Gurudeva is there working for all of us now! In this work of art Gurudeva questions, “When God is everywhere, how can there be a place for evil?” And he answers by saying that anava, karma and maya, the play toys, are the source, as we play with anava in the playground of maya, fall and are bruised by karma, then run to God for solace and release into spiritual maturity. With scriptures in each chapter, meaningful pictures and easy-to-understand explanations (being short and sweet), the book is invigorating to read. Just one sloka and bhashya every morning, for the busy person, creates a good start for a pleasant day. ¶Gurudeva’s advice for a happy marriage, reconciling problems—which are currently afflicting the Jaffna Tamil diaspora—if followed faithfully, will result in a well-knit, prosperous family, whether it be Europe or North America. Questions arising in today’s youngster’s minds, viz.: “Why do archanas (pujas)? Why temple worship? What are the duties of priests? What are mantras?” and many other questions, which the average adult of today finds either difficult to answer or has no clue, are beautifully explained by Gurudeva, who always believed that the children have to be brought up well, according to the Hindu way, to be useful citizens of tomorrow. ¶Gurudeva says, “Truth is one, paths are many” and delves into the goals of Sikhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Shintoism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islam. Are there any other religions or gurus that we can find today who will bother to discuss, in detail, another religion, leave alone so many as discussed by Gurudeva, including atheistic philosophies? It is my humble opinion that this gem, in beautiful color, should be read and treasured in every home. Thank you, Gurudeva, for being with us in this materialistic world for over seven decades, and presently guiding us in the spiritual world!§
Sivanesan Sinniah School Community Advisor with Toronto School Board, President of the Association of Sri Lankan Graduates of Canada, founder member and past president of Sivathondan Center of Toronto§
I am really blessed and fortunate in being asked to review this unparallaled work of Satguru Sri Sivaya Subramuniyaswami. I had the rare chance of living close to Gurudeva’s Guru, Sri Yogaswami, at Columbuthurai, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. I have a feeling that I am blessed by both of them. Dancing with Siva is a masterpiece which every Hindu must read and possess. The way the book has been published shows the amount of planning and careful calculations that have gone into its production. Each Upanishad sloka has been presented well in a single page, in the form of a question and answer so that everyone can understand it easily. Gurudeva in the introduction has given useful tips on studying the book and teaching it. There is also a wealth of information on Vedas, Agamas and Hindu traditions. This is a book worth reading daily to get deeper insight into the Hindu philosophy. The captivating traditional paintings of Rajam of Tamil Nadu add additional glory to this book. Even though Gurudeva is not living amongst us now, I am sure he will be remembered always through the books he wrote over the last half a century. Hindus all over the world must be grateful to him for all his invaluable services to them and to their religion. I am reminded of Father Beski, alias Veerama Munivar, who translated the gem of Hindu scriptures, the Thiruvacakam, into English. Gurudeva could be called the Veerama Munivar of Hawaii. We also must appreciate the sadhus at Kauai who are tirelessly working to carry on the noble tasks started by Gurudeva. §
Swami Shuddhananda Brahmachari Founder of the Lokenath Divine Life Mission, India, and Lokenath Divine Life Fellowship, USA§
Dancing with Siva is indeed a gift to the world. Hinduism, with its vast expansion and unfathomable depth, has often been misinterpreted by authors of different sects. This has created more confusion and conflicts, particularly in the minds of the younger generations and Westerners. This book, with its beautiful pictures, is a resource book par excellence. Satguru Sivaya Subrumuniyaswami, through this sacred book, has answered the most common questions that come up in the minds of those who want to know about this most ancient religion in the world. It is precise, yet full of depth and easily understandable for a lay person. I am sure this encyclopedia of Hindu philosophy will find its place in every Hindu family and inspire humanity toward inner illumination and harmonious life on Earth. §
Tiru Al Rammohan, President, International Tamil Foundation, publisher of the ethical epic Tirukural; Woodridge, Illinois, USA§
Dancing with Siva is an illustrated sourcebook beyond compare for its quality in both content and presentation. The author, through his extraordinary insight and intuitive experience and realization has ably presented the wide spectrum of the Hindu principles and practices by taming the two rivers of Siddhanta and Vedanta in a contextual reference of world’s major religious faiths. As the author lovingly puts it, this book is a view of Hinduism from the inside, as any practicing Hindu would longingly wish his beliefs honored and explained to others. The presentation, format and content successfully crystallize the divine knowledge of the Hindus—knowing about you and God, knowing how to live a spiritual life—emphasizing the importance of intuition over the intellect, experience over dogma and personal realization as infinitely more precious than merely listing a series of unyielding beliefs and explicit rules stressing outer expression and mechanical application of faith. ¶This book is significant, timely and remarkable for its success in documenting in one volume the Hindu’s contemporary catechism, a task to this day considered by many an unthinkable and even perilous and impertinent pursuit. This book is useful because for the first time it brings forth the elegant and sophisticated Hindu philosophy and practices in an easily understandable way for the children and spiritual truth seekers without masking the eternal truth in mere mythology. It is useful because the substance, format, illustrations and elegance invite the reader to test the teachings, know thyself, inquire and be free. Extensive use of Tamil sacred scriptures in addition to the Sanskrit scriptures make this noble effort even more pregnant with meaning, adding depth and perspective hitherto unavailable to the beginner. I strongly recommend that everyone place this book on their living-room coffee table for constant access and visibility and be benefitted from it. §
Publisher’s Weekly, America’s most prestigious book trade journal; New York, September 13, 1993§
This is a remarkable book, a welcome statement of the Hindu Saivist worldview that owes much to the Indian diaspora, among whom are many young Indians presently at a loss for tools to explain their beliefs to their non-Indian compatriots.§
V.P. Dhananjayan and wife Shanta, world famous exponents and teachers of bharata natyam dancing; founders of the Fine Arts Society, Yogaville, Virginia, USA, and Madras, India§
While at this beautiful place of Yogaville I happened to read through your wonderful book, Dancing with Siva. The essence of Sanatana Dharma has been very aptly interpreted in simple words. Your book is certainly a handbook for Hinduism and I will recommend everyone to read it.§
The Book Reader, leading independent review journal; California, Spring, 1993§
Dancing with Siva explores life’s ultimate goals and how to achieve them. It is a sourcebook, timeline and lexicon which examines how Hindus view family, sex, sin, worship, death and nonviolence, by the author of nearly 20 books and monograms, a traditional satguru, who writes: “For the Hindu, intuition is more important than intellect, experience supercedes dogma, and personal realization is more precious than outer expressions or affiliations of faith.” ¶This contemporary catechism combines Vedanta and Siddhanta, two schools that have nurtured Hinduism. The information and guidance is massive, covering what most Hindus believe, Hinduism’s place in world thought, the nature of the soul, ways to liberation and wisdom, sin and suffering, and views of monastic life and reality. For those who study and those who teach, it is a major textbook, but full of awareness, knowledge, love and blessings—a masterful guide to enlightenment, liberation and Self Realization through a religion that embraces nearly one billion persons.§
Bo Lazoff, Human Kindness Foundation, Sponsoring the Prison-Ashram Project, Durham, North Carolina§
I find Dancing with Siva an extremely helpful reference guide to the essence of Hinduism. Its simple, straightforward explanations of the terminology and historical basis of Hinduism’s major schools and practices is a real treat to finally have in one book! The exhaustive glossary is like an encyclopedia in itself, instructing as well as defining. And, of course, I was delightfully surprised to find the passing of my own guru, Neem Karoli Baba, included in Swamiji’s timeline of world history. The timeline was a great idea. I find Dancing with Siva a perfect book for oral family readings, as each chapter is a good length for one day’s reading.§
Georg Feuerstein, Ph.D., author of Encyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga and Wholeness and Transcendence; Lower Lake, California §
Dancing with Siva is a truly remarkable accomplishment. It is the most comprehensive and sensitive introduction to the living spiritual tradition of Hinduism, a superb distillate of the essence of this vastly complex religious culture. This work by a well-respected Hindu teacher distills the quintessence of the many aspects of Hinduism into a single, large volume. Written in simple, inspiring language and edited with exemplary and loving care, this work is a feast for the heart and the mind. The author’s purpose is to both inform and inspire. The book includes many quotes from India’s sacred scriptures, diagrams, as well as an extensive chronology and glossary. The text is arranged into twelve Upanishads with an auto-commentary by the author ¶As the subtitle of this volume indicates, it is an outline of the fundamental ideas and practices of Hinduism for deep and regular study. The beautiful and lavish design underscores the intrinsic merit of this work, which was obviously compiled and produced with great love and care. Anyone who wants to find out about the living heart of Hinduism should read this book.§
Derwin Lackey, Human Service Alliance, President George Bush’s 532nd Point of Light, Winston-Salem, North Carolina§
To take on the dharma of making the world’s oldest religion so understandable is in itself a vastly courageous task. To have so beautifully succeeded makes the seemingly impossible a three-dimensional reality. Dancing with Siva is a treasure of Soul Work.§
Dr. David Frawley, O.M.D., Vedacharya; author: The Astrology of the Seers; The Yoga of Herbs; Gods, Sages and Kings; Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA§
Hinduism, the Sanatana Dharma, or eternal tradition of the human race, is undergoing a great revival today, not only in India but in the Western world where many people are adopting aspects of Hinduism like yoga, meditation, vegetarianism, the practice of nonviolence, and belief in karma and reincarnation. However, there are very few books available that clearly explain this great tradition. Dancing with Siva is the most significant attempt to do this. The book deals with all facets of human life, individual and collective, mundane and spiritual, in a careful, sensitive and thorough manner that provokes deeper thought and self-examination. Dancing with Siva has been produced with great love. The art work is extraordinary and there are many quotes from Hindu scriptures. Probably no other person born in the Western world has received more honor and recognition as a teacher of Hinduism than the book’s author, Sivaya Subramuniyaswami. Dancing with Siva reveals the extent of his vision which projects the universal spirit of Hinduism into the dawning global age to help regenerate the planet. §
Mr. Bharat Gheewala, Independent Publishers, London§
This book is not only remarkable but simply a gift to humanity! It is a most beautiful event in the history of mankind!§
A. Balaretnam, Singapore§
I think that this is the first time somebody has attempted such an exhaustive and intensive book on various aspects of Hinduism. Nobody could have undertaken and completed such a task without God’s grace. His Holiness Sivaya Subramuniyaswami should be congratulated for producing such a publication. To me, who was educated throughout my school in a Christian missionary school (I am a Hindu by birth), the book will certainly enlighten me on the oldest religion of the world.§
Light of Consciousness journal, Spring/Summer 1998, Desert Ashram, Tucson, Arizona§
It wasn’t very long ago that information about Indian spirituality was difficult to find and more difficult to read. Times have changed. This encyclopedic sourcebook, beautifully illustrated on almost every page, is definitely reader friendly. Invaluable for every Hindu and anyone interested in Eastern philosophy, culture and religion (from the Saivite perspective, yet broad in scope), it also provides an excellent resource for anyone seeking guidance and inspiration in a changing world. The contents are vast. Dancing with Siva is a rare and welcome overview of Sanatana Dharma, Eternal Religion, enshrined within the living laboratory of spirituality known as Hinduism.§
Doris Carmen Cordova, CEO, The Excellerated Learning Institute§
A brilliant piece of work in bringing Hinduism and sophisticated religious teachings into everyday English. I was amazed that what I had perceived as “New Age” actually has been taught in Hinduism for thousands of years. I recommend this work to students of life, God and religions.§
Stan Kelly-Bootle, UNIX Review columnist and author; Mill Valley, California§
Hinduism, with almost a billion followers, is the world’s oldest, least dogmatic, least understood and, one is tempted to say, least organized religion. Or perhaps not a “religion” at all: there is no “founder” to debunk or deify, no precise pool of “gods” to enumerate, no “I am” dictators and no baffling monotheistic Trinities. Evolutionary, intra-communal syncretisms, carried by gentle satgurus, emerge over the centuries, naturally and without bloody strife. Being convinced that knowledge and understanding provide the only hope for ecumenical salvation, I strongly recommend Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami’s Dancing with Siva. This author of twenty books and monograms is uniquely qualified and supremely gentle in presenting the complex, complete, timeless, simple, incomplete, contemporary system of Hindu symbols and beliefs. A sweet wind blowing good for Western religiosity: the Truth is One; the Paths are Many.§
Dr. V. Kandavanam, Patron: Ontario Hindu Religious Society, Canada President: Canada Tamil Writers’ Association Editor: Athmajothy§
Dancing with Siva sails like a magnificent treasure ship through the Hindu Ocean. It endeavors to pick up the struggling mundane soul and convert it to a spiritual one for its own good and for the good of the world. It is a holy service that only our revered Jagadacharya could do. As a Saiva Hindu, I am proud to possess this remarkable book and I am certain that other Hindus will feel the same, because it speaks not only of Siva but also of all aspects of Hinduism. Being an enlightened soul, Gurudeva teaches us of other world religions, too, emphasizing that truth is one, but paths are many. By doing so he shows the world that Hindus are very liberal and tolerant. The question-and-answer technique employed by Gurudeva is typical to the guru-sishya parampara school where in the guru foresees sishyas’ questions and possible doubts and clears them all in his teachings. The arguments are logical and so convincing that even atheists (if they are fortunate enough to read this bible) will be vanquished. Many are of the opinion that Hinduism is a complex religion and that its philosophy is very difficult to comprehend. To them I recommend strongly this masterpiece. §
Swami Arunasalam Sellathurai, Resident Monk and President, Siva Thondan Nilayam, Jaffna, Sri Lanka§
This is a book dealing with a universal religion and its omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscent God, Lord Siva. This is perhaps one of the greatest books of this century, by an inspired savant, a distinguished disciple of our own paramaguru, His Holiness Yogaswamigal of Sivathondan fame, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. As the author verily describes, it is an ageless link of hallowed Kailasa origin. This work is the magnus opus of our venerable sage, book one of a trilogy, a veritable compendium touching on all the tenets, essentials, of the glories of Hinduism and Saiva Siddhanta, its perennial philosophy. It is spiritually inspiring, culturally and aesthetically ennobling and psychologically quite refreshing, with the seasoned and reasoned exposition of His Holiness in chaste English, the global tongue, accessible to all races and religions, whole and wholesome, of the Divinity of Lord Siva! In short, the book is the spontaneous outpouring of an enlighted jnana guru, a stupendous task that is bound to take the reader on a voyage of discovery. ¶In the world of today, broken up into narrow halls, where reasoning is made muddy and clouded by schism of all hues, this book is most welcome to heal, purity and uplift man and bind him by a single spiritual cord made up of the holy trinity of love, truth and beauty. In this respect, it is an enduring classic that is timeless! A Marvel! This is a book for all adherents of Lord Siva and for all in quest of a distilled knowledge of the Hindu lore—dharma and spirituality that is universally acknowledged! To Hindus, this is a book of enduring interest, a powerpack of the spiritual current for daily practice to illuminate their faith in Lord Siva, our one and only universal God. It will be richly rewarding to read, chew, swallow, digest and meditate on the divine path beautifully chalked out in this volume. This book of many intrinsic values should find a prominent place on the bookshelf of everyone who prides to be a Hindu by precept and practice.§
Dr. S.M. Ponniah, Professor, INTI College; Member of the National Commission on Moral Education; Advisor to the Malaysian Hindu Sangam; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia§
This, indeed, is a book we have been waiting for all these years. Only after religiously reading the book, from cover to cover, page to page, did I realize the uniqueness of the book. It was not only its contents, but also its structure and the concise manner in which the subject matter of Hinduism is presented to the lay reader, supported by quotations from the Vedas, Upanishads, Agamas, Tirukural and Tirumurais; illustrated by timecharts, clarified by a lexicon defining all the Sankrit and Tamil terms used in the book. In addition, there are pictures and reference lists as well as an index. This compendious work of 1,000 pages is indeed a handbook on Hinduism in English for every Hindu in the English-speaking world who has lost touch with Sankrit, as well as his or her mother tongue. ¶It becomes obvious that the loving Lord Siva Himself, perceiving our desperate need and the problem faced by Hindus overseas, had prevailed upon Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami of the Nandinatha Sampradaya to embark upon this all-comprehensive publication to give a helping hand to helpless Hindus floundering in the sea of their own ignorance, blown and buffeted by alien winds, to return to a safe anchorage. Dancing with Siva is indeed a God-sent gift, an answer to all our prayers. Those of us in Malaysia who have for the last fifty years been involved in teaching Hinduism had to hunt for information before we could speak about the different aspects of our religion. We had been at a loss as to what the right approach to teaching Hinduism should be. Above all, we did not have all the answers; nor did we have the authority. ¶Our great Hindu seers and sages, who had trodden the narrow, single footpath left behind by those had who walked before them had prescribed for every aspiring Hindu a plan consisting of three systematic steps or stages to sustain Hindu Dharma throughout the ages, without any outside compulsion. It was a plan to inspire a self-motivated effort on the part of every individual to remain a true practitioner of the Dharma. The three-point plan was: vichara, enquire; achara, practice; prachara, preach. Each individual aspirant was urged: first, find out what Hinduism is; second, follow its teachings in your life; third, then teach others by your example and effort. This was indeed a Master Plan. Except for the ancient gurukulas and later religious orders who set up ashrams, there was no organized teaching of Hindu Dharma. The traditional guru-shishya system maintained or sustained the study of the Vedas and Agamas. Hinduism is as vast as the ocean, pervaded by the spirit of tolerance and marked by an absence of exclusiveness—a spirit reflected in a song of the Alvars: “Each and every man, in his own manner, by his own understanding, shall the Lord worship. His rewards shall be no less; As all paths lead unto him.” However, the vast majority of the people forgot about the first and third stages—vichara and prachara; they merely followed the practice of their parents and elders in what they did in their daily lives. ¶Hitherto there has been no single book in English which encompasses all the three stages of the “Master Plan,” vichara, achara and prachara! By the infinite grace of the Divine Dancer who dances not only “with us” but also “within each and every one of us,” we now have before us a clearly and methodically presented text, in one volume of questions and answers (prasnottaram)—Hinduism’s Contemporary Catechism—all the information that an average Hindu needs to know in order to fulfill the three steps or stages—vichara, achara and prachara, prescribed for every Hindu individual. ¶Dancing with Siva is a timely publication that should find a place in every Hindu home and every temple and institution associated with the Hindu religion. It attempts to equip every Hindu to become a better Hindu. It therefore need to be in the hands of every student and teacher of Hinduism.§
N.K. Naidu, Then India Ikya Sangam, Nadi, Fiji§
Such a profound work of love and labor for humanity only a satguru of Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami’s intense concern and care could produce. It is only through pure love for us that such events happen. Indeed, this generation as well as many more generations to come must remain ever indebted to the great Gurudeva. §
Michael Hornum, Gaithersburg, Maryland§
I am writing to express my gratitude for Dancing with Siva. I think that the book is truly remarkable. I have never seen so many wonderful insights so clearly and simply expressed, as well as so detailed a lexicon of Hindu ideas, particularly from a Saivite perspective. Thank you so much for offering to guide others along the path by which you have reached samadhi and for fostering the growth of Hinduism among Western-educated souls.§
A. Gunanayagam, Colombo, Sri Lanka§
If I were called upon to say just one word about the book Dancing with Siva, I could say precise. If I am allowed one more word, I would add comprehensive. There is no doubt that this is a precise and comprehensive publication, so useful to the Saivite Hindu and to all others who may be interested in religion. The four-line slokas, so logically arranged, followed by the amplifying bhashya which concludes with a quote from the Vedas so aptly chosen, the scriptural quotes at the end of each mandala, the wonderful pictures that adorn every page, all these and more make the publication not so much of a book as a work of art, a masterpiece so meticulously executed. ¶The slokas set out in precise form the main concepts of Saivite Hinduism, while the bhashyas that follow amplify them suitably. For example, sloka 50 categorically sates that “the world is a glorious place, not to be feared. It is a gift from Siva Himself.” This refutes the possible belief that the world is a place of pain and sorrow. As a followup of this idea, sloka 51 explains the place of suffering as “a natural part of human life, and the impetus for much spiritual growth of the soul.” ¶The section Truth Is One, Paths Are Many sets out a very fair and unprejudiced analysis of the major religions of the world and leaves it open to any fair-minded man to judge for himself as to the most acceptable of these. The Hindu Timeline is a most useful addition to the book containing a wealth of information of not only Hindu events but all events of historical importance. The Lexicon is a massive compilation of the terms and their meaning, a valuable guide to everyone interested in religion. If anyone would find it difficult to read through the entire book, it would suffice for the moment to read the Author’s Introduction, which gives a synopsis of what Hinduism is and provides a guide for the study of the book at leisure.§
Swami Gokulananda, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission, New Delhi§
Through this book, Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, has presented Hinduism in great detail. Also, by giving a brief of all the world religions, he has rendered a unique service to the readers to make a comparative study vis-a-vis Hinduism, leading to the inevitable conclusion that Hinduism is the best of all religions. I felicitate Reverend Subramuniyaswami for his lucidity and the depth of understanding of the intricacies of the Hindu religion which he has presented through this book.§
Napra Trade Journal, ABA 1994, Antionette Botsford, Ph.D., former chairperson of the Integral Yoga Institute of Southern California§
English-speaking Hindus, yoga enthusiasts and those interested in Sanskrit literature and culture will be overjoyed by this remarkable reference work of Hindu belief and culture. A series of mandalas amplifies the central teachings for Hindu Dharma. Scriptural quotations from the ancient Veda to the more recent Tirukural demonstrate the unity and continuity of Hindu teachings. Every time I pick up this book, I discover fresh insights into life’s journey as seen through the eyes at once ancient and modern. Chapters describing the central beliefs and goals of each of the principal world religions illustrate the premise that “Truth is one, paths are many,” while celebrating the wondrous diversity underlying human perception of the sacred. A finely detailed and extensive bibliography will lead the reader to continue exploration on a quest made irresistible by the best English overview of Hinduism available today.§
Anandhi Ramachandran, Chennai, India§
Dancing with Siva is invaluable both as a feast to the eyes and the soul. It is beautiful and inspiring, like the arts. Yes! It is a work of art. How were you able to find so many paintings to illustrate different themes? They are so appropriate. I have lived all my life in Bharatavarsha but never seen these paintings. Your words of wisdom about dance strike the correct note: “Dance is movement, and the most exquisite dance is the most disciplined dance.” Such profound truths in such simple words. Truth is heavy and so is the book, both in weight and contents. §
America Online’s (AOL) Religion Section on the Internet§
Dancing with Siva, Hinduism’s Contemporary Catechism looks and reads like Fodors Travel Guide! You cannot go wrong with it. It has hundreds of pictures and includes a Hindu timeline, children’s primer, lexicon, excellent index, suggested further readings, hundreds of quotes from the Hindu scriptures. Perhaps the best and most authentic desk reference. BEST BUY.§
Bulletin of Monastic Interreligious Dialogue, May, 1994§
In this day of dialogue with other religions it is a great help to find a book which gives all the tenets of a particular religion and its various schools in a clear and concise way. This is the advantage of Dancing with Siva, something of an encyclopedia of Hindu wisdom. The author is also founder and publisher of Hinduism’s international journal HINDUISM TODAY. The book deals with all facets of human life, individual and collective, mundane and spiritual. The book is valuable for all who are involved in interreligious dialogue.§
Paanan, January, 1997, C.S. Kuppu Raj, Madras§
This luxuriously printed 1,000-page book, with plenty of illustrations, is a virtual encyclopedia on Hinduism, with special emphasis on Saivism and more so on Saiva Siddhanta, the great legacy of South Indians, especially the Tamils. What many universities working for many years could not achieve, Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami has achieved in this book.§
Lex Hixon, Ph. D., author; Riverdale, New York§
Sivaya Subramuniyaswami is a master of ishta-nishta, commitment to one’s chosen aspect of Divinity. His book Dancing with Siva is therefore a true embodiment of Lord Siva, a potent verbal icon. Gurudeva is svayambhu, a self-manifesting form of Siva, come forth spontaneously in America. He demonstrates in his very being the fundamental principle that jiva is Siva, the limited soul is really the limitless Lord.§
Dr. A. Anandanataraja Deekshidar, Sivacharya priest, Senthamizh Selvar, Arunthamizh Chemmal, Pulavar, Chidambaram, South India§
Gurudeva’s 1,000-page book, Dancing with Siva, Hinduism’s Contemporary Catechism, is a very precious and holy book, very useful for mankind. It is a priceless diamond for Hindus. There is no parallel in this world. All the Dikshitar priests here at Chidambaram saw this book and requested me to convey their appreciation and thanks to Satguru for this unparalleled work.
§
Vimala Krishnapillai, Ph.D.
Co-Trustee, Thiruvadi Trust of Sivayogaswami,
President, Sri Ramakrishna Sarada Devi Samithi,
Colombo; Lecturer: University of Colombo
§
Dancing with Siva is a lovely flower of worship dedicated by Gurudeva Sivaya Subrumuniyaswami to his Paramaguru Siva Yogaswamigal of Sri Lanka. Gurudeva, as ordained by his Paramaguru, has built a bridge of understanding between the East and the West by his publications. The voluminous, ancient, complex Vedagams, analyzed, comprehended and tested by his lifetime of experience, are presented to us in the easiest and simplest way possible in this text. Dancing with Siva satisfies the criteria laid down for spiritual texts—Veda, jukti and anubhava—Veda, the authority of the scriptures; jukti, wisdom; and anubhava, experience. The presentation in simple language, illustrated by inspiring traditional art forms, places the knowledge even within the grasp of children. As we start reading the text, we feel the gracious warmth of Gurudeva’s nearness, leading us step by step to our inner source of purity, peacefulness and perfection. In a nutshell, the message relayed to us through his divine consciousness is Anbe Sivam, Satyame Parasivam, Sarvam Sivamayam. God is Love, God is Truth, God is All-Pervasive. To us living in this Kali Yuga, when humanity itself is becoming an endangered species, Guudeva’s gift is a great boon.§
A. Balaretnam, Singapore§
I think that this is the first time somebody has attempted such an exhaustive and intensive book on various aspects of Hinduism. Nobody could have undertaken and completed such a task without God’s grace. His Holiness Sivaya Subramuniyaswami should be congratulated for producing such a publication. To me, who was educated throughout my school in a Christian missionary school (I am a Hindu by birth), the book will certainly enlighten me on the oldest religion of the world.§
Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat Spirituality and Practice§
Dancing with Siva is the best sourcebook available on the beliefs, rituals, practices, and spiritual bounties of this religious path. The author, a revered Hindu scholar and teacher, has put together an easy-to-read and enlightening encyclopedia which includes a Sanskrit lexicon, a forty-page chronology of Hindu events, a children's primer and a 60-page summary of the beliefs of the world's major religions. Given the richness and diversity of Hinduism, Subramuniyaswami has done an incredible job of organizing this material into coherent sections covering eternal truths, God and the gods, our immortal soul, the world, right living, family life, sacred culture, worship, holy men and women and sacred scriptures. The text is enriched by a series of astonishing paintings by Tiru S. Rajam which convey the experiential and exotic dimensions of sacred living as embodied by the world's 951 million Hindus. There are also short and cogent explanations of soul, karma, reincarnation, temple rites, the guru-disciple tradition, ten ethical restraints, twenty obstacles to spiritual practice and Hindu rites of passage. All of these are backed up by extensive quotations from Hindu scriptures. Dancing with Siva is an invaluable resource on Hindu sacred living.§