A Critical Introduction to the Study of Religion introduces the key concepts and theories from religious studies that are necessary for a full understanding of the complex ways in which religious and cultural institutions and traditions influence society.

This leading textbook for world religion is designed to help students in their study and research of the world's religious traditions. Known and valued for its balanced approach and its respected board of consulting editors, this text addresses ways to study religion, provides broad coverage of diverse religions, and offers an arresting layout with rich illustrations. Introductory sections on understanding religion and the religions of antiquity lay the foundation for the study of the numerou...

There is a popular practice of Anglican choral evensong in the Netherlands outside the context of the Anglican Church. Dutch choirs perform the Anglican ‘daily prayer’ liturgy: with preces and responses, psalms, canticles, hymns and an anthem, as well as lessons and spoken prayers. Choral evensong attracts many people: believers (of all denominations), ex-believers and non-believers. This paradox, the popularity of choral evensong in a so-called secularized country such as the Netherlands...

The current economic crisis due to COVID-19 forces us to consider the implementation of an alternative value-based economy. Next to academic scholars, civil society organizations and policy makers, religious leaders have been advocating a social and economic transformation. However, in designing post-corona economics, can we learn from the religious sector? The religious sector influences the economy in multiple ways, for example through direct economic action (investments, employment…), th...

Through incisive discussions of topics ranging from practice, power, and pedagogy to ritual, history, sex, and death, the authors offer new directions for the understanding of Buddhism, taking constructive and sometimes polemical positions in an effort both to demonstrate the shortcomings of assumptions about the religion and the potential.

Rather than focus solely on theological concerns, this well-rounded introduction takes an expansive view of Islamic ideology, culture, and tradition, sourcing a range of historical, sociological, and literary perspectives. Neither overly critical nor apologetic, this book reflects the rich diversity of Muslim identities across the centuries and counters the unflattering, superficial portrayals of Islam that are shaping public discourse today. Aaron W.

Hughes uniquely traces the development of...

Introducing Judaism is the ideal starting point for students beginning their studies of this fascinating religion. Eliezer Segal takes a historical approach, focusing on religious aspects of Judaism, and introducing themes as they emerge from authentic Jewish documents. Students will gain an understanding of how Judaism is lived by its adherents and the historical and geographical diversity of Jewish beliefs and practices.

The book has a clear and accessible structure. Part One presents the h...

* Gives an account of the history, the theological basis, the practice and the current state of the study of religion and religions throughout the world* Combines a clear and non-technical style of presentation with a structure and range of contributions which reflect the richness and complexity of religion itself, of the religions of the world and the study of religions* Comprehensive index, bibliographies and suggestions for further reading`Intriguing philosophical questions are raised abou...

Chisungu is widely hailed as a classic of anthropology and African and gender studies. This Routledge Classics edition includes a new foreword by Jessica Johnson and an introduction by Jean La Fontaine.

Sacred Scripture quotes Jesus Christ only once during the first thirty years of His life on earth. The twelve-year-old asks two precise and profound questions: “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business (Luke 2:49 NKJV)? Other translations say “about My Father’s house.” Neither the Greek word for “business” nor “house” is found within this pivotal verse. For centuries Biblical scholars delved deeply into this interpretive predicament. De...