Author: J P Losty
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Year: 2000
Language: English
Pages: 166
ISBN/UPC (if available): 0195648528
Description
A sophisticated presentation, this sociological study of Sikhism is both illuminating and thought-provoking.
Uberoi first explains the underlying structure of medievalism in both Hindu and Muslim cultures, and then undertakes an examination of the period of collaboration between Sikhism and Gandhism, viewed after the Islamic revolution in Iran.
The figure of the martyr is seen to be an integral part of Sikhism, Gandhism and Shia Islam. The book argues that it is the figure of the martyr - whose victory is over the self - rather than that that of the hero - whose victory is over the other or the figure of the victim, that should be recognized as the universal foundation of civil society.
Well received in its hardback edition, this book is of great relevance for sociologists, anthropologists, and religion and semiology specialists.
MEDIA COMMENT:
Reading this book has been a rewarding experience. The book should evoke interest in a much wider readership than the one defined by professional sociology or the still narrower one by semiology. - Sociological Bulletin
Contents
CHAPTER I
THE FIVE SYMBOLS OF SIKHISM
The Semiological Method of Study
Symbols, Sects and Initiations
The Sikh Initiation and its Five Symbols
Sikhism and Hinduism
CHAPTER II
THE ELEMENTARY STRUCTURE OF MEDIEVALISM
The Hindu Culture of Medieval India
The Muslim Culture of Medieval India
CHAPTER III
SIKHISM AND ISLAM : PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION
The Problem of Sikhism and Islam
Theology of the First Guru
The Life of the First Guru, 1469-1539
The Tenth Guru
An Indian Muslim View Today
CHAPTER IV
SIKHISM AND ISLAM : HISTORY AND SOCIETY
The Relational Oppositions
Martyrdom versus Kingdom : the Fifth Guru
After Anandpur, AD 1699
An Historian's View, c. 1500-1947
Pluralism and Civil Society
CHAPTER V
MARTYRDOM, NON-VIOLENCE AND REVOLUTION
Non-Violence and Gandhism
Martyrdom and Revolution
CHAPTER VI
TEXTS AND RITES OF THE DAILY DIVINE SERVICE
Guru-Granth
Guru-Khalsa
The Catechism of Bhai Nand Lal
Resurrection of the Congregation : Ardas
References Cited
Index