The Perennial Dictionary of World Religions

I have bought, tested, and used many "religion" dictionaries. They are essential to any study of religions or theology. Among the "general" or "world religions" surveys, Perennial Dictionary of World Religions is simply the best single work. If you want just one for the general religious studies reference spot, BAM!

I agree 100% with the first reviewer. This is an excellent reference book. The more I use it, the more I am impressed. The only drawback is the amount of time that can be lost, because one entry sparks curiosity about others!

This is quite a concise compendium of information on all the world's better known religions (Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, etc.) as well as some lesser known ones to the general reader (such as Baha'i, Jainism, Sikhism and Zoroastrianism).The book cover practically all major themes, figures, concepts, scriptures, movements, important festivals, rituals, ... you name it. Readers who seek a deeper, more extensive explanation can consult books on a specific topic, but this is definitely an excellent starting point and a good reference book.The entries start at ABBASIDs (a Muslim dynasty) and end with ZWINGLI (the Protestant reformer). A sampling of the entries in between includes such broad a subject as "CONVERSION" and "MILLENARIANISM" to more definitive entries such as the Christian CONSUBSTANTIATION and Muslim QISAS.This is definitely a must-have for truth seekers, curious readers... or just about anyone to whom the faith of others and oneself raises some questions.