The problems inherent in cross-cultural interpretations manifest when you seek to explore the Hindu goddess Kali. In Encountering Kali, McDermott and Kripal attempt to interpret Kali in her recent Western settings as well as her indigenous South Asia. They utilize temple architecture and scriptural history, psychoanalytic and feminist criticism, as well as autobiographical reflection combined with recent internet sources in their exploration.

“Encountering Kali” is composed of essays grouped by geographical location. It is the authors’ belief that wherever Kali is worshipped and studied, interpretations of her are as revolutionary and radical as her physical forms. They begin with Kali’s historical home, the subcontinent of India, and look first at Kinsley’s overview of Kali then continue on to contemporary field work. Here they find evidence associating Kali with Tantra, blood and power, and sexuality. In Part II of Encountering Kali, they turn to the West and they look at how the democratization of information media has impacted the depiction of Kali. They find many Kalis and many ways to conceive of her presence in spiritual life. As you read this study you will find, as did the authors, a common thread running throughout all the discussions. It is an adventure well worth the effort. –

• Paperback, 321 pages.
• Published by University of California Press, 2003.
• Blood-thirsty warrior or all loving, compassionate Mother, Tantric sexual partner or a deity of ritual possession, which is the true face of Mother Kali? Kripal and McDermott provide an innovative exploration of this remarkable divinity.
• “Encountering Kali” includes 15 illustrations as well as a helpful appendix with a list of documentary film and video resources for teaching about Kali and the fierce goddesses.