Book Reviews

Abstract

This review considers two recent publications that engage with the sacred world of Hindu devotional and scriptural traditions. David L. Haberman's assessment of Vraja: Land of Devotion highlights the evocative power of its 177 black-and-white photographs and accompanying essays, celebrating the book's ability to convey the spiritual essence of Vraja while noting a preference for its characteristic vibrancy. The essays explore Vraja's devotional identity, historical significance, and present-day environmental challenges. In contrast, André Couture’s review of McComas Taylor’s The Viṣṇu Purāṇa: Ancient Annals of the God With Lotus Eyes focuses on the translation’s accessibility and fidelity. While acknowledging its readability and scholarly grounding, Couture critiques specific lexical choices that may obscure theological nuances. Together, the reviews explore the intersection of devotion, representation, and scholarly rigor in contemporary portrayals of Hindu sacred traditions.