Books in Understanding Religions series

Dating back some five thousand years, Hinduism is the dominant faith of India and an increasingly powerful spiritual force in the West. But it is an unusually diverse religion--one divided by caste, community, language, and region--and is thus quite difficult for outsiders to grasp. Now, in Hinduism, Vasudha Narayanan offers an illuminating, compact introduction to this highly complex and ancient religion. Attractively illustrated with many full-color photographs, this informative guide takes readers through the most important aspects of Hinduism--its divinities, sacred places, ethical teachings, and sacred texts, as well as aspects of Hindu culture such as yoga. Readers learn that, though Hindus are monotheistic, there are the many manifestations of divinity, from Vishnu ("All-Pervasive"), Shiva ("Auspicious One"), and Shakti ("Energy"), to Shri-Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth and good fortune, whose picture graces millions of homes, shops, and businesses) and the elephant-headed Ganesha. Narayanan explores the sacred texts, from the earliest writings known collectively as Veda, which emphasized the role of sacrifice, to later works such as the Upanishads, which sought liberation from the cycle of life and death and introduced the notion of immortality. She examines the concept of "dharma" (a word with multiple layers of meaning, including "righteous behavior," "truth," "duty," and "law") and "karma" (the result of good or bad deeds, which can determine the quality of life both now and in later births) and she also includes brief but insightful discussion of Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism, all of which have their roots in Hinduism. Engaging, informative, and richlyillustrated, this book offers a balanced approach to Hinduism that illuminates one of the great world religions.

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.

"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.

This work fully covers all course/exam requirements for existing syllabuses and forthcoming subject specifications for Advanced Level, BTEC, City and Guilds and new computer and IT technologies. Each chapter provides extra help through introductory summaries; 'Did You Know That' sections; hint boxes; screen dumps of examples; and, highlighted key text and revision summaries. Student-friendly material is supported with tables, diagrams, photographs, and examples for accessible and comprehensive learning. Revised and extended business, scientific and real-time applications chapters with past examination questions provided throughout for consolidation and practice. Full-colour sections showing the use of colour in computing are included throughout. It provides thorough coverage on the influence of the Internet.