Reflections of Amma: Devotees in a Global Embrace
Book Description
In an age where spiritual boundaries blur and ancient wisdom meets modern seekers, one remarkable figure has captured hearts across continents through the simple yet profound act of embrace. Mata Amritanandamayi, known worldwide as Amma or the "hugging saint," transforms lives through her extraordinary darshan ceremonies, where thousands gather to receive her personal blessing through physical embrace.
Born into a humble fishing family in southern India, Amma has built a global spiritual movement that challenges conventional understanding of religious practice and divine connection. Her marathon embracing sessions, lasting up to twenty hours without rest, draw as many as fifty thousand people seeking comfort, healing, and spiritual awakening.
This penetrating ethnographic study takes readers inside American communities of Amma devotees, revealing how followers from diverse backgrounds attempt to embody their teacher's compassionate example in their daily lives. Author Amanda Lucia uncovers the fascinating dynamics between those who inherit Hindu traditions and those who adopt them, showing how cultural backgrounds shape interpretations of divine feminine energy and spiritual empowerment.
Through careful observation and analysis, the book explores how Amma's message of universal love intersects with American multiculturalism, creating unique spiritual communities that both unite and divide along cultural lines. For anyone interested in contemporary spirituality, cross-cultural religious exchange, or the evolving face of devotional practice in our interconnected world, this work offers valuable insights into how ancient wisdom adapts to modern spiritual hunger.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~9 hours)
📄 Length: 320 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Understand Hindu philosophy and traditions
- ✓ Explore Rel032000 rel072000
- ✓ Explore United states, religion
- ✓ Explore General
- ✓ Explore Religion--antiquities & archaeology
- ✓ Explore Disciples
- ✓ Explore Hinduism
- ✓ Explore Amritanandamayi, 1953-
