Books with title Understanding Judaism

Understanding Judaism covers the history of Judaism and explores how the religion has evolved and expanded. Readers learn about the branches of Judaism, Jewish beliefs, and the influence Jews have had on the world. This title also discusses anti-Semitism Jews have faced, both today and during history. Features include a glossary, references, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

First published in 2005, Understanding Jihad unravels the tangled historical, intellectual, and political meanings of jihad within the context of Islamic life. In this revised and expanded second edition, author David Cook has included new material in light of pivotal developments such as the extraordinary events of the Arab Spring, the death of Usama b. Ladin, and the rise of new Islamic factions such as ISIS.Jihad is one of the most loaded and misunderstood terms in the news today. Contrary to popular understanding, the term does not mean "holy war." Nor does it simply refer to an inner spiritual struggle. This judiciously balanced, accessibly written, and highly relevant book looks closely at a range of sources from sacred Islamic texts to modern interpretations, opening a critically important perspective on the role of Islam in the contemporary world. David Cook cites from scriptural, legal, and newly translated texts to give readers insight into the often ambiguous information that is used to construct Islamic doctrine. He sheds light on legal developments relevant to fighting and warfare and places the internal, spiritual jihad within the larger context of Islamic religion. He describes some of the conflicts that occur in radical groups and shows how the more mainstream supporters of these groups have come to understand and justify violence. He has also included a special appendix of relevant documents including materials related to the September 11 attacks and published manifestos issued by Usama b. Ladin and Palestinian suicide-martyrs.

Understanding Sikhism covers the history of Sikhism and explores how the religion has evolved and expanded. Readers learn about the guru leaders and the peaceful practices they promoted, as well as the prejudice Sikhs have endured, particularly in the United States after September 11. Features include a glossary, references, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

Understanding Buddhism covers the history of Buddhism and explores how the religion has evolved and expanded. Readers learn about monks and nuns, the branches of Buddhism, and important rituals. This title also discusses misunderstandings about Buddhism and the challenges some women have faced in the religion. Features include a glossary, references, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

Women all around the world have been defying expectations for centuries, yet the fight for equal rights is far from over. Feminists have cracked the glass ceiling, but both men and women now and in the future will have to continue breaking boundaries to shatter it. Riveting examples of feminism will engage readers and teach them what it means to be a feminist, why it's so important, and the steps they can take to join the movement and make their voices heard.

"In ancient India, a wealthy prince named Siddhartha beheld human suffering and became determined to try to put a stop to it. Through meditation and self-discipline, he gained enlightenment and attracted a following that over time grew in the new faith, Buddhism. The religions beginnings are discussed, along with core beliefs, common practices, and challenges for the future"--Provided by publisher.

Many people use religion to guide them and instill a set of principles that they can follow in life. However, not everyone chooses to go down this path. Those who don't believe in things like god or destiny might subscribe to humanism, or the philosophy that humans are independent and in control of their own lives without a higher power to help them along. Using this insightful guide, readers will be well-equipped to navigate the world on their own terms using critical thought and analysis.