World Religions

Each religion is presented with a consistent ordering of topics to make comparison of different faiths a straightforward process.

"Worldview" sections allow students to discern the commonalities and differences among the major religions' outlook on the world. Matthews's unique approach fulfills two main objectives: providing students with a strong sense of history and introducing them to the comprehensive worldview.

Maps throughout the text identify significant sites in various world religions.

Learning Objectives and Review Questions are found in each chapter.

Examples of scriptures and key lessons of religious teachers are included for most religions and, generally, present a complete thought or argument to help students appreciate important expressions of faith by those who practice it.

Ritual and Symbols boxes elaborate on sacred performances and objects from an insider's perspective.

A running glossary in the text's margins defines critical terms for the reader; definitions that are also compiled at the back of the text.

Updated timelines, population figures and photographs have been incorporated into the text.

Revised and updated review and discussion questions help students focus their reading while remaining mindful of the broader religious context and implications.

Chapter 12 on globalization has been updated to reflect the rapidly changing nature of this phenomenon.

A new "Religion in the Media" feature draws attention to the ways that different religions become part of the national and international discourse. Accompanying questions expand and contemporize classroom discussion of religious events and issues.