Series editors:
John Hinnells and Ninian Smart

This series provides pioneering and scholarly introductions to different religions in a readable form. It is concerned with the beliefs and practices of religions in their social, cultural and historical setting. Authors come from a variety of backgrounds and approach the study of religious beliefs and practices from their different points of view. Some focus mainly on questions of history, teachings, customs and ritual practices. Others consider, within the context of a specific region, the interrelationships between religions; the interaction of religion and the arts; religion and social organisation; the involvement of religion in political affairs; and, for ancient cultures, the interpretation of archaeological evidence. In this way the series brings out the multi-disciplinary nature of the study of religion. It is intended for students of religion, philosophy, social sciences and history, and for the interested lay person.

Other titles in the series include:

Hindus

Their Religious Beliefs and Practices

Julius Lipner

Mahayana Buddhism

The Doctrinal Foundations

Paul Williams

Muslims

Their Religious Beliefs and Practices

Andrew Rippin

Religions of Oceania

Tony Swain and Garry Trompf

Theravada Buddhism

A Social History from Ancient Benares to Modern Colombo

Richard Gombrich

Zoroastrians

Their Religious Beliefs and Practices

Mary Boyce

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