A Dictionary of Asian Mythology

Meet the supreme Gautama Buddha, the elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesa, and Chang O—the Lunar Toad who is Chinese goddess of the Moon. Journey to the sacred Cambodian ruins of Angkor and golden Mount Meru, home of the Hindu gods. Discover myths like the Stone and the Banana of Indonesian origin and the Indian Churning of the Ocean of Milk, and explore archetypal themes such as the hero quest, sacrifice, and descent to the underworld. Myth expert David Leeming plumbs the exotic depths of Eastern spirituality to present a vivid portrait of the many mythologies of the Asian continent. In handy A to Z format, here are the stories of the revered deities, sacred places, key events and epics, and recurring themes and traditions that make up the rich and varied fabric of Asian mythology. Entries address the key mythologies of the regions we now call India, China, Tibet, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and Japan. Throughout, an extensive network of cross-references highlights the diversity, interrelatedness, and complex beauty of Asia—allowing readers to pursue a particular trail of inquiry or read straight through the compelling entries. Broad overviews of specific cultures and their mythic traditions round out the coverage.

Meet the elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesa, and Chang O, the Lunar Toad who is Chinese goddess of the Moon. In handy A-to-Z format, here are the stories of the revered deities, sacred places, key events and epics, and recurring themes and traditions that make up the rich and varied fabric of Asian mythology. Entries address the key mythologies of India, China, Tibet, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and Japan.

Library Journal

Designed for nonspecialists and students, this concise dictionary references the mythologies of India, China, Tibet, Central and Southeast Asia, and Japan. The authoritative text is clearly written, thorough in coverage, and stylistically distinguished. Based on extensive research, the brief entries embrace the major characters, revered deities, sacred places, key events, enduring themes, folklore, and traditions prevalent in the rich and varied fabric of Asian mythology and religion. Readers will find both quasi-familiar terms (Vedic, Hara Krishna, mantra, yoga) and more obscure citations (Ganesa, Chang O, Lunar Toad, Kamsa); broad overviews of specific cultures and their mythic foundations are also included. An extensive network of cross references highlights the diversity, interrelatedness, and complex beauty of Eastern spirituality. A recognized authority, University of Connecticut professor Leeming has written several books on world myth (e.g., A Dictionary of Creation Myths). This significant lexicon is a vital and relevant reference for all collections. Richard K. Burns, MSLS, Hatboro, PA Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

David Leeming was formerly Professor of English and Comparative Literature at the University of Connecticut. He is the author of many books, including The World of Myth, Mythology: The Voyage of the Hero, and Dictionary of Creation Myths, all published by OUP.