Religion is as old as humanity itself, and religious belief is a uniquely potent force that has molded nations, driven empires, and advanced civilizations. Many religions are an inextricable thread in the fabric of their believers' cultural identities. Some have endured for centuries, standing the test of time, war, and social strife to determine the course of history and directly influence the way people live, love, fight, and govern. Now more than ever, as our world gets smaller and smaller, it is important to understand the diverse beliefs and traditions that make up the worlds great tapestry of faiths. No one knows exactly how many religions exist today, but it is in the thousands, and that number is always changing, as new religions continually evolve from old. World Rrligions is the perfect introduction to the world's major (and many of the minor) faiths. Using clear. accessible language, author Robert Pollock outlines the histories, forms of worship, holy writting, and belief systems of each religion. Readers also learn how the religions are practiced today, from significant festivals, rituals, and customs, to the roles important religious leaders and sacred places play, to the impact and influence each faith has had on socirty as a whole. Whether you're interested in researching your own religion or you want to learn more about how other people worship, World Religious is a fascinating introduction to the beliefs that have shaped and continue to shape our world.