Nancy Wilson Ross

Nancy Wilson Ross has studied eastern religious thought and religious art extensively. In addition to publishing numerous books on these subjects, she has also written several novels. In this selection, Ross gives a general explanation of why Hinduism is able to tolerate, even embrace, so many different forms of worship. Yet, behind the diversity of religious forms and social classes, Ross finds unity.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Nancy Wilson Ross, how is Hinduism complex and how is it simple?
2. What is the Brahman?
3. According to this selection, what factors divide humanity and what factors unify humanity?

Although large gatherings of devout Hindus watch priestly performances in Hindu temples, they do not constitute a congregation in the Western sense of the term; they might more accurately be called...