Lewis M. Hopfe (1935–1992)

A very interesting read on world religions. Its a textbook, which greatly simplifies the religions being discussed. I wish there was more information on up and coming religions, such as Wicca. I also wish the African religions were discussed more. I thought too much time was devoted to Christianity and Judaism, although I found the history very enlightening.

One thing this book made me realize was just how organized and connected the ancient world was. Its amazing to think that Africa, the show more Middle East, Southern Europe, and Western Asia all had trade routes and an exchange of ideas.

I found the discussion about the Baha'i faith very interesting - I'm always partial to a religion that thinks from the very begining, that all people are equal, including men and women. Also, a religion that emphasizes science is also quite amazing.

One thing, this is the fifth edition of the book printed in 1991. It still references the Soviet Union. Its a small distraction, and the world religions haven't changed much since than, so the book is still very relevant in today's world. show less

A very well written text on several of the major religions. It's broken into regions and offers maps and snippets of scared text to illustrate the information. Information not only is given on the formation of the religion and it's founder but on the history of its beginnings and on to present times as well as someof it's major festivals and holidays.

Lewis M. Hopfe, Mark R. Woodward, & Brett Hendrickson’s Religions of the World is a comprehensive text that deals with many aspects of world religions. The book considers the following: 1) What culture produced a particular religion? 2) What’s the name of its religious founder? 3) What is the religion’s sacred text? 4) What are the major historical developments of the faith? 5) How do the participants practice their religion? 6) What rituals and behaviors shape the lives of the show more believers?
The authors explored various regions of the world, and explained they are conceivably thousands of religions. They focused on religions originating in Africa and the Americas, India, China and Japan, and the Middle East. They brought to light many of these faith traditions that have been neglected, and demonized in the studies on the world of religions, especially in Africa and the Americas. The authors have therefore attempted to correct this imbalance by including these neglected religious traditions, rituals, and customs. show less

A good general survey text for world religions. It has even handed coverage and a balanced approach to religion, covering the major religions in a very broad and general sense. As I said, it is an overview, intended for use in undergrad courses. I have read other books by Hopfe, the lead author, and find him to be both knowledgeable and thorough in his coverage.