On the banks of the Gaṅgā
Book Description
In the sacred waters of the Ganga River lies one of humanity's most profound spiritual contradictions. Kelly D. Alley takes readers on a compelling journey to understand how a waterway revered as divine by millions of Hindus simultaneously suffers from severe pollution and environmental degradation.
This thoughtful exploration delves into the complex intersection where ancient religious traditions meet modern environmental realities. Through careful examination of cultural beliefs, scientific perspectives, and institutional responses, Alley reveals the intricate layers of meaning that surround this sacred river. Her innovative analytical approach separates the historical threads from contemporary debates about purity and contamination, offering readers a nuanced understanding of how spiritual and material worlds collide.
The central question that drives this investigation speaks to universal themes of human nature and spiritual practice. How do communities reconcile their deepest reverence for the sacred with actions that seem to contradict those very beliefs? This paradox extends beyond the banks of one river, touching on fundamental questions about how we honor what we hold most dear.
For readers interested in the relationship between spirituality and environmental consciousness, this work offers valuable insights into how religious meaning and ecological reality intersect in complex ways. Alley's research illuminates the cultural forces that shape our relationship with the natural world, providing a deeper understanding of how sacred traditions navigate modern challenges.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~8 hours)
🕉️ Tradition: Yoga & Hinduism
📄 Length: 296 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Religious life and customs
- ✓ Reconnect with nature spiritually
- ✓ Explore Environmental conditions
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Nature, effect of human beings on
- ✓ Understand Hindu philosophy and traditions
- ✓ Explore Sewage
- ✓ Explore Water, pollution
