The World's Religions (Plus) Review

I initially read this book in college for an intro to world religions course. That class was one of the most interesting classes I took, partly because of the charismatic Indian man who taught it and partly because of this book. Reading this book was an eye opening experience for me. The book objectively explores the metaphysical foundations and tenets of the major religions, without delving into criticism or commentary on religion's impact on human society.
I can't recommend this book highly enough. For me, reading The World's Religions was a truly "enlightening" experience because I gained insight into the actual teachings behind many religions with which I previously had only a vague familiarity. In fact, I think that almost anyone who reads this book will come away with greater tolerance and appreciation for the various religions and cultures of our world. Even for Atheists or those who oppose religion in general, I still recommend reading this book as an insight into the various belief systems that have played such a major role in the story of humanity.
The World's Religions (Plus) Feature
- ISBN13: 9780061660184
- Condition: New
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The World's Religions (Plus) Overview
Huston Smith's masterpiece explores the essential elements and teachings of the world's predominant faiths, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and the native traditions of Australia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas.
Emphasizing the inner—rather than the institutional—dimension of these religions, Smith devotes special attention to Zen and Tibetan Buddhism, Sufism, and the teachings of Jesus. He convincingly conveys the unique appeal and gifts of each of the traditions and reveals their hold on the human heart and imagination.
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Customer Reviews
stinks in God's nostrils! - Caraculiambro - La Mancha and environs
Worst book on comparative religions I know of. It's really awful. The man seems to know Christianity and Islam very well but as for the others, it's as though he's guessing.
The chapter on Judaism, in particular, is deplorable. The guy goes on for about 40 pages on what he views as the central them of Judaism: the Hebrews' search for meaning! After reading it you still won't have any grasp of the basics of that religion. Similar irrelevant discussions cloud the chapters on Buddhism and Hinduism.
If you're coming to this book because you want a book that discusses the basic principles of each major religion, what their holidays mean, their basic theology, their basic eschatology, etc., you are doing to find yourself disappointed. This is more a series of philosophical musings on the part of the author centering around certain elements from each religion that at some time or other have struck him as noteworthy.
Book for church class - Grandad -
Very analytical and well written. I was unhappy with price as we could have gotten local at half price books for less but delivery was quick. You must be open minded to read this book as it challenges your concepts no matter your faith.
Best book on religions - Adela Srinivasan - Texas and beyond
Very objective, unbiased overview on world's major religions. Houston definitely has style and class in his writing. It was a joy reading this book.
The World's Religion - A. Donovan -
The book came as quickly as said. The pages however were more damaged than I expected. The book looked as though it was left outside in the rain.
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Aug 26, 2010 22:51:05
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