Encyclopedia of the World's Religions

Though the meaning of religion cannot be encompassed by any single definition, the ingredients of faith, a need to belong, and a desire for transcendence are perhaps present in ever form of worship. This is a definitive guide to comparative religions, that examines the major living faiths, with a focus on the traditions, tenets, and writing central to each system of belief. Part One covers religions of prophetic revelation, with sections devoted to Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Zoroastrianism. Part Two focuses on the wisdom religions—those whose fundamental teachings do not necessarily emanate from a divine source, including Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Shinto, Taoism, and Sikhism. In a series of essays written by acknowledged experts, this valuable reference traces the development of each faith from its inception to the present day.