Phallic Miscellanies Facts and Phases of Ancient and Modern Sex Worship, as Illustrated Chiefly in the Religions of India   By: Hargrave Jennings

In "Phallic Miscellanies: Facts and Phases of Ancient and Modern Sex Worship, as Illustrated Chiefly in the Religions of India" by Hargrave Jennings, the author delves into a controversial and intriguing topic, shedding light on the ancient and modern practices of sex worship, primarily focusing on its prevalence in Indian religions.

Jennings tackles this subject matter with an informative and academic approach, offering extensive research and analysis. He begins by exploring the historical roots of sex worship, tracing its origins back to ancient civilizations, and convincingly argues for its presence in various religious practices. Drawing from a wide range of sources, including ancient texts, folklore, and artistic representations, the author provides a comprehensive examination of this often-taboo subject.

One of the book's notable strengths is Jennings' ability to present complex ideas in a digestible manner. Despite the controversial nature of the topic, he maintains an objective tone throughout, treating the subject matter with respect and scholarly integrity. This allows readers to engage with the book without feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable, as they are presented with a thorough analysis backed by credible sources.

Furthermore, the author's deep understanding of Indian religions shines through his exploration of sex worship. Jennings expertly navigates the intricate intricacies and symbolism associated with these practices, delving into the significance of various deities, rituals, and symbols. This rich contextualization enhances the reader's understanding of the subject matter, unraveling the complexities often associated with Indian religious practices.

However, it is important to note that some readers may find the content of this book challenging or even offensive due to its explicit nature. While Jennings handles the subject matter responsibly, there are instances where he goes into explicit detail discussing sexual rituals and practices. Potential readers should be aware of this aspect before delving into the book, as it may not be suitable for everyone.

In conclusion, "Phallic Miscellanies: Facts and Phases of Ancient and Modern Sex Worship, as Illustrated Chiefly in the Religions of India" by Hargrave Jennings is a thought-provoking and meticulously researched exploration of a widely overlooked aspect of religious studies. Although it addresses a contentious topic, the book succeeds in presenting an objective analysis, providing readers with a deeper understanding of ancient and modern sex worship in India.

First Page:

All that it is necessary to say by way of preface to this book is, that, having in various former volumes, entitled severally Phallism, Nature Worship, Phallic Objects, &c., entered at some length into a consideration of the peculiarities indicated by these denominations, we now propose laying before our readers an additional mass of important matter which illustrates and throws further light upon the subject. This has been sought out with great labour and research amongst the most trustworthy sources of information, and will form a valuable appendix to the several volumes in question... Continue reading book >>