Yagna is the ancient ritual connecting human beings with the divine essence. It is not merely a sacrifice, but a combination of esoteric elements to propitiate the cosmic energies. This work provides a survey of the subject.

This is a book about alchemy, Vedic alchemy. It is an investigation of physical matter, but not an ordinary investigation. With the help of the Vedic scriptures and classical alchemical texts, this book explains how physical matter was created, how it evolved from small atoms, and how it coalesced into the physical objects we see every day. After creating physical matter, the Vedic alchemist takes the reader down a path of personal liberation through the transmutation of base metals to the Philosopher Stone, always with an eye to the Vedas.

Understanding Hinduism today requires an understanding of how it is practised in the contemporary world. Stephen Jacob's new introduction tackles these central issues, beginning with case studies of the grassroots practice of Hinduism in India and in diaspora communities. He covers issues of singular importance in the modern study of Hinduism, including the importance and role of mass media to this essentially orally transmitted religion. Other major areas covered include the concept of Hindu dharma, particularly in relation to caste, gender and Hindu nationalism, key and often controversial concepts in Hinduism.

This collection of essays, with special reference to Asia, analyzes religion through lived experience and reveals how religious phenomena are inextricably linked to globalizing processes.

This part of The Secret History of the Vedas book series offers a fresh and original perspective on Astrology. The Vedic Astrologer is not concerned with fortune telling or prognostications. The Vedic Astrologer focuses on its spiritual aspects of the Stars according to the Vedas, the holy books of India. The Vedic Astrologer presents Astrology as a vehicle of spiritual development and personal liberation.

Published twice yearly, the Asia Journal of Global Studies (AJGS) is the official journal of the Asia Association for Global Studies (AAGS). The journal features research articles on Asia and other world regions from an Asian perspective. Multidisciplinary in scope, AJGS accepts contributions from authors with backgrounds in the humanities and social sciences. The journal encourages historians, political scientists, sociologists, anthropologists, linguists, philosophers and others to submit their work for consideration. It particularly welcomes research that dissolves academic boundaries, looks beyond traditional notions of the nation state, and aims for a holistic view of the past, present and future.

Loki Laufeyjarson is the famous trickster of Norse Mythology, who brings its pages to life with conflict, humor, and excitement. Far from being just a villain or a prankster, Loki is a god who brings necessary change into the world, transcends boundaries, and shines light on hidden truth. In this book, you will be introduced to Loki and the many masks he wears: whether he appears as the bringer of enlightenment, the traveling companion of the gods, or the ender of worlds. This is also an accessible guide to building a devotional practice with the trickster, where you will learn new ways to honor this often misunderstood deity. Open the door to Loki's mysteries, and prepare to laugh, be challenged, and potentially change your life. 'Pagan Portals - Loki is a bold and necessary look at the Trickster God of the Norse. The author deftly weaves together academic material and personal experience to give the reader a guide not only to better understand this often maligned deity but also to connect directly to him. An unflinching appraisal that offers a great deal of insight into Loki.' Morgan Daimler author of Pagan Portals - Odin and Pagan Portals - Thor.