Why are there so many religions in the world? How do they differ? What do they have in common? This easy-to-understand, comprehensive guide examines the belief systems of the world's major faiths, with illustrated sections that provide a visual guide to the rituals and practices of the various denominations throughout history and today. A fold-out chart provides a comparison of world religions at a glance and a comprehensive time-line chronicles the history of religion to the present day. A "Geography of Belief" maps out religious origins and histories, and major religious figures throughout the centuries are introduced.

The Evolution of Major Faiths World Religions looks at the beliefs and practices of many different religions, from the ancient Egyptians to Zoroastrianism -- the oldest "living" religion -- and the great faiths practiced today. Each of the major faiths -- Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Islam -- is examined in detail through its sacred texts, epic imagery, key beliefs, and religious artifacts. The distinctive identities of different faiths are explored in World Religions by studying the main principles and thinking of each religion. The book's superb reproduction allows the symbolism and meaning in religious imagery and iconography to be revealed in great detail. Accessible and far-reaching, World Religions will engage the whole family as much as the serious student. Book jacket.

An easy-to-use and comprehensive guide that explores the intriguing dogma and rituals, cultural convictions, and often-checkered backgrounds and histories of the world's religions.

An introduction to the worlds major faiths.

Christians find themselves in an increasingly diverse world. The new place of worship in our neighborhood might just as likely be a Hindu temple or a Muslim mosque as a church or a synagogue. How should we view other world religions, and more important, how should we engage our religiously oriented neighbors in conversation? Do all religions teach the same thing? Or are there significant differences? Do we try to minimize differences and just get along? Or do we hold out the Christian faith as the one true hope for all the world? Drawing on his wide experience and knowledge of other religions and how they are actually lived, Winfried Corduan helps us sort through the complex tapestry of faiths around the globe. He contends that there are common threads of understanding that can serve to link us in meaningful discussion. From these common threads we can go on to explore genuine differences. Through the course of the book, Corduan leads readers to explore the important issues of revelation and truth, morality and guilt, grace and redemption, eschatology and hope. Ultimately, Jesus Christ, he argues, stands unique among religious figures and Christianity unique among the world's religions. This is a book that strengthens Christians in their convictions while encouraging them to engage their neighbors with humility, loved, and discernment.

This illustrated basic introduction to the faiths which have shaped our world--Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Taoism, and many more--gives a clear and accurate overview of each religion, along with helpful photos that relate their emotional impact and appeal. Color photos; diagrams.

Summary: Comprised of 58 articles written especially for this volume, it provides an account of the history, theological basis and practice, and the state of the study of religion and religions. A comprehensive introduction to the many and varied religions practiced in the world today.