Simple Guides

Orthodoxy is the dominant form of Christianity in Greece, Russia, parts of Eastern Europe, and the Balkans. Its practices are largely unfamiliar in the West and have remained essentially unchanged since the earliest days of the faith. This lucid introduction outlines the tenets, nature, and holy days of Orthodox belief with the Western listener in mind. It describes the physical church, especially icons, services, and common practices, and it offers advice to visitors on how to conduct themselves so that they are accepted and feel comfortable. Several chapters concern the life of Jesus and the beginnings of Christianity; others trace the origins and history of the Church, with particular attention to its great champion, Constantine the Great. The present structure of the Church is described in brief, and the split between the Eastern and the Western Churches is related with differences clearly explained. The great antiquity and beauty of its liturgy, its essentially minimal hierarchy, and its mystical yet pragmatic approach make the Orthodox religion a powerful medium for its profound and universal message.

This book will help you appreciate the timeless wisdom of the oldest form of Buddhism in existence, understand what it means to be a Buddhist, recognize the key practices and traditions of Theravada Buddhism, and avoid faux pas in conversation-both in traveling and personal relationships. Access the world's religions through this entry in this series of simple guides that provide concise, accessible introductions to the world's major religions. Written by experts in the field, these guides offer an engaging and sympathetic description of the key concepts, beliefs, and practices of different faiths. By offering essential insights into the core values, customs, and beliefs of different societies, they also enable visitors to be aware of the cultural sensibilities of their hosts and to behave in a way that fosters mutual respect and understanding. Ideal for spiritual seekers and travelers alike, these guides aim to open the doors of perception.

This book will help you appreciate the significance of Japan's own religion in everyday life, recognize the key traditions and festivals of the Shinto year, understand what you will see at Shinto shrines and in Shinto rituals, and gain insights into the controversies surrounding Shinto politics and nationalism. Access the world's religions through this entry in this series of simple guides that provide concise, accessible introductions to the world's major religions. Written by experts in the field, these guides offer an engaging and sympathetic description of the key concepts, beliefs, and practices of different faiths. By offering essential insights into the core values, customs, and beliefs of different societies, they also enable visitors to be aware of the cultural sensibilities of their hosts and to behave in a way that fosters mutual respect and understanding. Ideal for spiritual seekers and travelers alike, these guides aim to open the doors of perception.