From mezuzahs to menorahs, these outstanding Jewish ceremonial and ritual objects make a beautiful new addition to the celebrated "500" series. Contemporary in style and lovingly handcrafted, they come from North America, Europe and Israel and demonstrate the diversity of Judaism. The artworks include tzedakah boxes, ketubahs, tallits, Shabbat candlesticks, havdalah sets, Kiddush cups, Torah pointers, kippahs, Seder plates and dreidels.

The Columbia History of Chinese Literature is a comprehensive yet portable guide to China's vast literary traditions. Stretching from earliest times to the present, the text features original contributions by leading specialists working in all genres and periods. Chapters cover poetry, prose, fiction, and drama, and consider such contextual subjects as popular culture, the impact of religion, the role of women, and China's relationship with non-Sinitic languages and peoples. Opening with a major section on the linguistic and intellectual foundations of Chinese literature, the anthology traces the development of forms and movements over time, along with critical trends, and pays particular attention to the premodern canon.

What are the foundational scriptures and major schools for Chinese Buddhists? What divinities do they worship? What festivals do they celebrate? These are some of the basic questions addressed in this book, the first introduction to Chinese Buddhism written expressly for students and those interested in an accessible yet authoritative overview of the subject based on current scholarship. After presenting the basic tenets of the Buddha’s teachings and the Chinese religious traditions, the book focuses on topics essential for understanding Chinese Buddhism: major scriptures, worship of buddhas and bodhisattvas, rituals and festivals, the monastic order, Buddhist schools such as Tiantai and Chan, Buddhism and gender, and current trends—notably humanistic Buddhism in Taiwan and the resurgence of Buddhism in post-Mao China. Each chapter ends with discussion questions and suggestions for further reading. A convenient glossary of common terms, titles, and names is included.

In this companion book to the PBS special Morocco: Quest for the Kasbah, renowned explorer and Adventures with Purpose host Richard Bangs explores the concept of the Kasbah—a fortress, a safe haven, and a place to exchange ideas with people from many different backgrounds. Bangs takes us on an insightful journey to beautiful Morocco, sharing his stories, adventures and reflections on why he felt "knocked over with a feeling of being a part of something remarkable and deeply human." Along the way, readers will discover what the modern Kasbah might represent for all of us in today’s fast-paced world: "a place secure in identity and thus unthreatened by those of different creed or kin." Foreword by Peter Greenberg of NBC's Today Show, and featuring an 8-page color photo insert. “A remarkable journey...there are life lessons to be learned here.” – Peter Greenberg, NBC Today Show “If ‘adventure’ isn’t Richard Bangs’ middle name, it should be.” – Rudy Maxa, Host of PBS’ Smart Travels “Richard Bangs is Indiana Jones with a conscience.” – Rich Barton, founder of Expedia.com “Richard Bangs’ quests have evolved from haunting journeys down unknown rivers to new explorations of very old wisdom that just might help all of us with the challenges we are about to encounter.” – Alex Chadwick, NPR