World Religions: A Guide to the Essentials

An outstanding introduction to religions of the worldThis masterful survey of world religions presents a clear and concise portrait of the history, beliefs, and practices of Eastern and Western religions. The third edition has been revised throughout, with updated material on the history and contemporary configurations of each tradition and new sections addressing gender, sexuality, and the environment.This new edition of World Religions provides an accessible, engaging, and thought-provoking exploration of the role of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Chinese religions, and Japanese religions in human life and society as understood, lived, and experienced by insiders of these traditions. It invites students to think about their own values, beliefs, and practices and about those of people who authentically hold ones that are different from theirs as they prepare to find their way through the world. A masterpiece, indeed --Sushil Mittal, James Madison UniversityRobinson and Rodrigues provide a rich, nuanced introduction to world religions. This textbook includes lively and lucid text that is written in a straightforward and thought-provoking style. The text is accompanied by illuminating images and sidebars that help students work their way through difficult subject matter. This textbook is certain to be a class favorite.--Caleb Simmons, The University of ArizonaThis third edition of World Religions once again delivers its concise-yet-comprehensive introduction to religious traditions. Each religion is presented through the categories of history, belief, and practice. These categories are sufficiently broad that each religion's unique features emerge to engage the reader. On the whole, the book offers a model for highly disciplined but still accessible academic writing. Students and instructors will appreciate the many supports: maps and timelines, graphic and photographic images, and lists of suggested readings. Text boxes and mini-glossaries appropriate for each chapter give convenient overviews of key texts, historical figures, symbols, concepts, and practices. An outstanding introduction to religions of the world and to the academic study of them --Patricia Dold, Memorial University of NewfoundlandPraise for Previous EditionsHighly recommended for first-year college courses on world religions.--Michael DeRoche, Memorial University of NewfoundlandOne of the best introductory surveys of religions. Its concise and well-structured exposition minimizes technical jargon and sticks to interesting essential details.--Michael Stoeber, Regis College, University of TorontoAn invaluable introductory textbook for beginners on the subject.--John Cheong, MissiologyThe approach of the book is admirable. Each religion (or group of religious traditions) is presented individually and absent any judgment regarding its validity. This allows for the religions to be understood on their own terms.--Joseph Matos, Review of Biblical Literature.…