This book maintains that believers in this religion have always been metaphysicians at heart. The sacred texts of the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita contain wisdom and insights into ultimate reality. Cross discusses the paths of knowledge and devotion, the gods and goddesses, the belief in rebirth and Karma, and the view of enlightenment as the correction of error. Hinduism emphasizes toleration — especially in regard to the many spiritual paths leading to the same mountain summit. The Elements of Hinduism by Stephen Cross offers a succinct and substantive survey of this religion.