Lord who is half woman, The

Book Description

In Hindu tradition, the divine manifests in countless forms, yet few are as intriguing as Ardhanarisvara, the deity who embodies both masculine and feminine principles within a single sacred image. Ellen Goldberg's scholarly exploration delves into this profound spiritual concept, examining how the "Lord Who Is Half Woman" represents far more than artistic symbolism.

This comprehensive study traces the influence of Ardhanarisvara across four essential dimensions of Indian spiritual culture. Goldberg investigates the rich iconographic traditions that have shaped visual representations of this dual-gendered deity, while exploring how hatha yoga practices have incorporated these teachings about divine balance. The author also examines devotional poetry and mythological narratives that celebrate this unique expression of the sacred.

Beyond traditional religious scholarship, Goldberg brings a contemporary feminist perspective to her analysis, questioning how concepts of "male" and "female" have been understood and constructed within this ancient spiritual framework. Her work reveals how an androgynous deity challenges conventional gender boundaries and offers insights into the nature of divine wholeness.

For readers seeking to understand how Eastern spirituality approaches questions of identity, balance, and the integration of opposites, this book provides a thoughtful examination of one of Hinduism's most fascinating theological concepts. Goldberg's research illuminates how ancient wisdom continues to speak to modern questions about gender, spirituality, and the nature of the divine.