Introduces the characteristics that religions have in common and presents the history, beliefs, and practices of the major world faiths and of the peoples of earlier civilizations.

A balanced exploration of the beliefs, history, and customs of all the major world religions, as well as many less well-known faiths, past and present, utilizes inspiring photographs and engaging illustrations, as well as informative maps and a time chart, to help promote a better understanding of what people of different faiths believe, where and how people worship, the impact of religion on society, and rites of passage.

Now available in paperback for the first time, this is an essential reference tool for anyone wanting to learn about this most important subject. A balanced exploration of the beliefs, history and customs of all the major world religions, as well as many lesser-known faiths.

Introduces the characteristics that religions have in common, presents the history, beliefs, and practices of the major world faiths and of the peoples of earlier civilizations, and suggests related Web sites. (view table of contents)