Sacred Scriptures of the World Religions An Introduction [Hardcover]

As we increasingly move toward a global worldview, it is important that we understand the traditions of other members of the global community. Sacred Scriptures of the World Religions examines religions across the world, offering an insight into each tradition's views of the world, through their scriptural texts and spiritual practices. By taking this perspective, the author has produced an indispensable introductory textbook which provides students with an overview of the meaning and guidance that people find in their religion through these sacred wisdoms.

Each chapter provides introductory explanations of key issues to provide undergraduate religion students with a unique sense of each faith, followed by illustrative scriptural passages. Sacred Scriptures of the World Religions is essential reading for those studying religion, honouring both the richness and universality of religious truths contained in the world's great scriptures.

Introduction1 Primal WisdomThe Earliest HumansPrimal ReligionsAfrican Tribal ReligionsAustralian Aboriginal ReligionPolynesian Oral TraditionsNative American ReligionsSummaryTransitions2 Hindu WisdomEarly Religions in IndiaThe Vedic PeriodThe UpanishadsThe Bhagavad GitaSummaryTransitions3 Buddhist WisdomReligion of CompassionThe Life of Siddhartha GautamaBranches of BuddhismBuddhist ScripturesThe Buddha's TeachingsTheravada (Hinayana) BuddhismMahayana Buddhism Tibetan Buddhism Zen Buddhism Pure Land Buddhism Nichiren BuddhismThe DhammapadaSummaryTransitions4 Jain and Sikh WisdomTwo Religions Arising in IndiaJainism Mahavira's Life Jain Scriptures The Digambara Order (Sky-Clad) The Shretambara Order Worldview The Soul Ahimsa (Non-violence) LiberationSikhism Life of Guru Nanak The Teachings of Guru Nanak Karma and Rebirth Sikh Discipline The Ten Gurus Sikh Scripture Sikh WorshipSummaryTransitions5 Chinese Wisdom (Taoism and Confucianism)Religion in Early ChinaYinlCo