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Researching Hinduism
Dictionaries

ganesha_dancingUNC-Chapel Hill's libraries own a number of dictionaries that focus on Hinduism. Try one of the dictionaries listed below, or search for more in the UNC-Chapel Hill Libraries Catalog

Dallapiccola, Anna L. Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend. London: Thames & Hudson, 2002.
This erudite dictionary gives thorough definitions to Hindu terms, such as "Ganesha," "trimurti," and "om." Excellent black and white photographs and illustrations appear throughout the text.
Davis Library Reference BL1105 .D35 2002

Iyengar, T.R.R. Dictionary of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. New Delhi: D.K. Printworld, 2003.
The definitions here are in-depth and authentic. Elaborate stories of the gods are included. Note that the authors assume some prior knowledge on the part of the reader.
Davis Library Reference BL1216 .I95 2003

Stutley, Margaret and James. A Dictionary of Hinduism: Its Mythology, Folklore and Development 1500 B.C.-A.D. 1500. London: Routledge & Kegan, 1977.
This dictionary provides thorough coverage of Hindu terminology, such as "Yaksa(s)," "Kali," and "Ganga." Many more obscure terms are included.
Davis Library Reference, Davis Library BL1105 .S78

Sullivan, Bruce M. The A to Z of Hinduism. Lanham, Md.: Scarecrow Press, 2001.
This dictionary is more accessible than Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend; it assumes less prior knowledge. Basic definitions are given for "Cow, Sacred," "Bhakti," "Guru," "Krishna," and "Gopi".
Davis Library Reference BL1105 .S847 2001

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