These tiny treasures of metaphysical and mythological knowledge serve as enlightening rubrics for understanding Indian tradition and theology. Exquisitely illustrated, this series serves as a contemporary matrix for illuminating our human experience and offers insightful access into Eastern spirituality.
The timeless story of Hanuman, the monkeygod, is that of a valiant superhero best known for battling the demon Ravana in the classic tale Ramayana. But there is much more to know about Hinduism’s bravest, most endearing figure. As a youth, Hanuman’s pranks often led him into trouble with the village elders. Eventually they cast a spell, causing him to forget his immense powers. In a cursed state of ignorance, young Hanuman believed himself to be just an ordinary monkey. He realized his potential as a warrior only later, while rescuing Sita, the kidnapped wife of Rama, from the clutches of Ravana.
Although Hanuman developed mesmerizing mystic abilities as he matured, it is his sensitivity and devotion to King Rama that make him such a memorable character.
Joshua M. Greene earned his M.A. at Hofstra University, where he taught Hinduism and Holocaust history until his retirement in 2013. His books on war crimes trials and survivor testimony have been published in six languages. He has spoken at the Pentagon, the Judge Advocates College, the New York Public Library Distinguished Author series, and lectures frequently before state bar associations. In 1969, he was initiated as Yogesvara Das by HDG A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and spent 13 years in Krishna temples, serving as director of ISKCON’s European publishing office. His books on spirituality include Here Comes the Sun: The Spiritual and Musical Journey of George Harrison and Gita Wisdom: An Introduction to India’s Essential Yoga Text. His most recent book is a biography of Srila Prabhupada, titled Swami in a Strange Land: How Krishna Came to the West. Greene is also a filmmaker whose Holocaust documentaries have aired on PBS, The Disney Channel, and Discovery.