An understanding of the major religions can give us insight into humankind, and so this guide serves as an accessible overview of Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and shamanism. Introducing the history and precepts of these faiths and philosophies, Philip Novak also includes excerpts from the Four Gospels, the Torah, the Qur'an, the Tao Te Ching, the Upanishads, and the writings of Confucius, Mencius, St. Francis of Assisi, and Malcolm X.

"Beautifully organized…. A major contribution to both the lay and professional studies of religion."—Publishers Weekly