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The Illustrated World’s Religions: A Guide to Our Wisdom Traditions
Retaining all the beloved qualities of Huston Smith's classic The World's Religions, this stunning pictorial presentation refines the text to its wonderful essentials. In detailed, absorbing, richly illustrated, and highly readable chapters on Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and primal religions, we find refreshing and fascinating presentations of both the differences and the similarities among the worldwide religious traditions.
The approach is at once classic and contemporary, retaining all the empathy, eloquence, and erudition that millions of readers love about the earlier edition, while being edited and designed for a contemporary general readership. This delightful marriage of engaging text and remarkable pictures vividly brings to life the scope and vision of Huston Smith's expertise and insight.
The approach is at once classic and contemporary, retaining all the empathy, eloquence, and erudition that millions of readers love about the earlier edition, while being edited and designed for a contemporary general readership. This delightful marriage of engaging text and remarkable pictures vividly brings to life the scope and vision of Huston Smith's expertise and insight.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
30 people are currently reading
268 people want to read
About the author
Huston Smith
127 books322 followersSmith was born in Suzhou, China to Methodist missionaries and spent his first 17 years there. He taught at the Universities of Colorado and Denver from 1944–1947, moving to Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri for the next ten years, and then Professor of Philosophy at MIT from 1958–1973. While at MIT he participated in some of the experiments with entheogens that professor Timothy Leary conducted at Harvard University. He then moved to Syracuse University where he was Thomas J. Watson Professor of Religion and Distinguished Adjunct Professor of Philosophy until his retirement in 1983 and current emeritus status. He now lives in the Berkeley, CA area where he is Visiting Professor of Religious Studies at the University of California, Berkeley.
During his career, Smith not only studied, but practiced Vedanta Hinduism, Zen Buddhism (studying under Goto Zuigan), and Sufism for over ten years each. He is a notable autodidact.
As a young man, Smith, of his own volition, after suddenly turning to mysticism, set out to meet with then-famous author Gerald Heard. Heard responded to Smith's letter, invited him to his Trabuco College (later donated as the Ramakrishna Monastery) in Southern California, and then sent him off to meet the legendary Aldous Huxley. So began Smith's experimentation with meditation, and association with the Vedanta Society in Saint Louis under the auspices of Swami Satprakashananda of the Ramakrishna order.
Via the connection with Heard and Huxley, Smith eventually experimented with Timothy Leary and others at the Center for Personality Research, of which Leary was Research Professor. The experience and history of the era are captured somewhat in Smith's book Cleansing the Doors of Perception. In this period, Smith joined in on the Harvard Project as well, an attempt to raise spiritual awareness through entheogenic plants.
He has been a friend of the XIVth Dalai Lama for more than forty years, and met and talked to some of the great figures of the century, from Eleanor Roosevelt to Thomas Merton.
He developed an interest in the Traditionalist School formulated by Rene Guenon and Ananda Coomaraswamy. This interest has become a continuing thread in all his writings.
In 1996, Bill Moyers devoted a 5-part PBS special to Smith's life and work, "The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith." Smith has produced three series for public television: "The Religions of Man," "The Search for America," and (with Arthur Compton) "Science and Human Responsibility." His films on Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Sufism have all won awards at international film festivals.
His latest DVD release is The Roots of Fundamentalism - A Conversation with Huston Smith and Phil Cousineau.
During his career, Smith not only studied, but practiced Vedanta Hinduism, Zen Buddhism (studying under Goto Zuigan), and Sufism for over ten years each. He is a notable autodidact.
As a young man, Smith, of his own volition, after suddenly turning to mysticism, set out to meet with then-famous author Gerald Heard. Heard responded to Smith's letter, invited him to his Trabuco College (later donated as the Ramakrishna Monastery) in Southern California, and then sent him off to meet the legendary Aldous Huxley. So began Smith's experimentation with meditation, and association with the Vedanta Society in Saint Louis under the auspices of Swami Satprakashananda of the Ramakrishna order.
Via the connection with Heard and Huxley, Smith eventually experimented with Timothy Leary and others at the Center for Personality Research, of which Leary was Research Professor. The experience and history of the era are captured somewhat in Smith's book Cleansing the Doors of Perception. In this period, Smith joined in on the Harvard Project as well, an attempt to raise spiritual awareness through entheogenic plants.
He has been a friend of the XIVth Dalai Lama for more than forty years, and met and talked to some of the great figures of the century, from Eleanor Roosevelt to Thomas Merton.
He developed an interest in the Traditionalist School formulated by Rene Guenon and Ananda Coomaraswamy. This interest has become a continuing thread in all his writings.
In 1996, Bill Moyers devoted a 5-part PBS special to Smith's life and work, "The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith." Smith has produced three series for public television: "The Religions of Man," "The Search for America," and (with Arthur Compton) "Science and Human Responsibility." His films on Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Sufism have all won awards at international film festivals.
His latest DVD release is The Roots of Fundamentalism - A Conversation with Huston Smith and Phil Cousineau.
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July 17, 2020السؤال الأهم هو: هل يمكننا مناقشة مبادئ دينِ ما وتعليماته بمنأى عن السياق التاريخي وبمعزل عن السلوكيات التي تصدر عن معتنقيه؟
حان الوقت لبعض الحكمة، للنهل من معين الثقافات الأخرى بعيداً عن الحسابات العلمية الدقيقة. في الحقيقة تأخرت كثيراً عن القراءة في مجال الثيولوجيا. أعتقد أن ذلك يترك لدي ثغرات في سور المعرفة، مما قد يعرضني لخطر الأحكام المسبقة، التحامل والتجهيل. يظل هذا الميدان صعباً على النفس فهي شديدة الحساسية لكل ما قد يهدد ثوابتها التي بنت عليها عدداً كبيراً من قراراتها المصيرية.
يتميز هذا الكتاب بطرحه المتجرد من الأحكام والمقارنات. حسب مقدمة المؤلف، لم يُكتب هذا الكتاب لنقد دين معين أو لتفضيل دين على آخر. بإمكاني رؤية فشل هذا الطرح مع كثير من القراء الذين استشاطوا غضباً في مراجعاتهم لأن الكاتب لم ينتقد ديناً ما. بالطبع لم يتضايق أولئك القرّاء من أن الكاتب لم ينتقد دينهم، فهو في ذهنهم أفضل الأديان قاطبة وبالتالي هو عصي على النقد. تلك إحدى مظاهر التحيزات البشرية التي لا تنتهي. يقول الدكتور الوردي أن أغلب البشر عندما يبحثون فهم يركزون على مايؤكد صحة وجهة نظرهم ويغضون الطرف عما تبقى. بعض ردود الأفعال التي رأيتها تؤكد صحة افتراض الوردي.
لم يكتف سميث بعدم نقد المعتقدات بل عمل على توضيح النقاط المثيرة للجدل في كل ديانة. فمثلاً تحدث عن الطبقية في الهندوسية، تعدد الزوجات في الإسلام، الاصطفاء في اليهودية والثالوث في المسيحية. أحياناً ليس من السهل على القارئ أن يقرأ أفكاراً إيجابية عن دين يرى في أتباعه أعداءً اقترفوا أفعالا شنيعة. ولكن هدف الكتاب –كما ذكرت- هو المعرفة ومحاولة فهم الآخر.
خصص هذا الكتاب المزخرف بصورة رائعة وملهمة فصلاً لكل دين ابتداء بالهندوسية، البوذية، التاوية، الكونفوشيوسة ثم الأديان السماوية، يتبعها فصل قصير عن الأديان البدائية. واجهتُ صعوبة مع بعض الديانات الآسيوية التي بدت مختلفة عن الأديان السماوية من حيث عدم تركيزها على مسائل جوهرية مثل الرب والخلق واليوم الآخر.
ومن وحي هذا الكتاب يبزغ سؤال حرج: هل يمكننا مناقشة مبادئ دين ما وتعليماته بمنأى عن السياق التاريخي وبمعزل عن السلوكيات التي تصدر عن معتنقيه؟ هل الدين الحقيقي هو مايُستقى من الكتب المقدسة أم من الشخصيات الدينية أمو هو مانراه من المؤمن العادي؟ نرى كثيراً من المنتسبين لهذا الدين أو ذاك وذاك يقولون عن الآخرين ممن ينتمون لنفس المذهب: هذا لا يمثل ديننا الحقيقي... لا تحكم بناءً على هذا الفعل أو الشخص أو المجتمع. والأكثر طرافة أنني سمعت أحد العلمانيين يقول عن آخر: هذا لا يمثل العلمانية الحقيقية.
أختم بهذا الاقتباس الذي يمثل هدف هذا الكتاب وكذلك هدفي من قراءته:
"إلى جانب الدين الذي نعتنقه، نحاول الإنصات إلى معتقدات الآخرين، بما فيهم العلمانيين. نستمع إليهم أولاً لأن زمننا يتطلب ذلك. العالم يغدو أصغر فلا يترك للسلام مجالاً سوى عن طريق التفهم. أولئك الذين ينصتون هم الذين يسعون نحو السلام. سلامٌ لا يرتكز على السيطرة الدينية أو السياسية، بل على الإدراك والاهتمام المتبادل. ذلك أن التفهم يحقق الاحترام، والاحترام يمهد الطريق لمبدأ أسمى وهو المحبة."
حان الوقت لبعض الحكمة، للنهل من معين الثقافات الأخرى بعيداً عن الحسابات العلمية الدقيقة. في الحقيقة تأخرت كثيراً عن القراءة في مجال الثيولوجيا. أعتقد أن ذلك يترك لدي ثغرات في سور المعرفة، مما قد يعرضني لخطر الأحكام المسبقة، التحامل والتجهيل. يظل هذا الميدان صعباً على النفس فهي شديدة الحساسية لكل ما قد يهدد ثوابتها التي بنت عليها عدداً كبيراً من قراراتها المصيرية.
يتميز هذا الكتاب بطرحه المتجرد من الأحكام والمقارنات. حسب مقدمة المؤلف، لم يُكتب هذا الكتاب لنقد دين معين أو لتفضيل دين على آخر. بإمكاني رؤية فشل هذا الطرح مع كثير من القراء الذين استشاطوا غضباً في مراجعاتهم لأن الكاتب لم ينتقد ديناً ما. بالطبع لم يتضايق أولئك القرّاء من أن الكاتب لم ينتقد دينهم، فهو في ذهنهم أفضل الأديان قاطبة وبالتالي هو عصي على النقد. تلك إحدى مظاهر التحيزات البشرية التي لا تنتهي. يقول الدكتور الوردي أن أغلب البشر عندما يبحثون فهم يركزون على مايؤكد صحة وجهة نظرهم ويغضون الطرف عما تبقى. بعض ردود الأفعال التي رأيتها تؤكد صحة افتراض الوردي.
لم يكتف سميث بعدم نقد المعتقدات بل عمل على توضيح النقاط المثيرة للجدل في كل ديانة. فمثلاً تحدث عن الطبقية في الهندوسية، تعدد الزوجات في الإسلام، الاصطفاء في اليهودية والثالوث في المسيحية. أحياناً ليس من السهل على القارئ أن يقرأ أفكاراً إيجابية عن دين يرى في أتباعه أعداءً اقترفوا أفعالا شنيعة. ولكن هدف الكتاب –كما ذكرت- هو المعرفة ومحاولة فهم الآخر.
خصص هذا الكتاب المزخرف بصورة رائعة وملهمة فصلاً لكل دين ابتداء بالهندوسية، البوذية، التاوية، الكونفوشيوسة ثم الأديان السماوية، يتبعها فصل قصير عن الأديان البدائية. واجهتُ صعوبة مع بعض الديانات الآسيوية التي بدت مختلفة عن الأديان السماوية من حيث عدم تركيزها على مسائل جوهرية مثل الرب والخلق واليوم الآخر.
ومن وحي هذا الكتاب يبزغ سؤال حرج: هل يمكننا مناقشة مبادئ دين ما وتعليماته بمنأى عن السياق التاريخي وبمعزل عن السلوكيات التي تصدر عن معتنقيه؟ هل الدين الحقيقي هو مايُستقى من الكتب المقدسة أم من الشخصيات الدينية أمو هو مانراه من المؤمن العادي؟ نرى كثيراً من المنتسبين لهذا الدين أو ذاك وذاك يقولون عن الآخرين ممن ينتمون لنفس المذهب: هذا لا يمثل ديننا الحقيقي... لا تحكم بناءً على هذا الفعل أو الشخص أو المجتمع. والأكثر طرافة أنني سمعت أحد العلمانيين يقول عن آخر: هذا لا يمثل العلمانية الحقيقية.
أختم بهذا الاقتباس الذي يمثل هدف هذا الكتاب وكذلك هدفي من قراءته:
"إلى جانب الدين الذي نعتنقه، نحاول الإنصات إلى معتقدات الآخرين، بما فيهم العلمانيين. نستمع إليهم أولاً لأن زمننا يتطلب ذلك. العالم يغدو أصغر فلا يترك للسلام مجالاً سوى عن طريق التفهم. أولئك الذين ينصتون هم الذين يسعون نحو السلام. سلامٌ لا يرتكز على السيطرة الدينية أو السياسية، بل على الإدراك والاهتمام المتبادل. ذلك أن التفهم يحقق الاحترام، والاحترام يمهد الطريق لمبدأ أسمى وهو المحبة."
March 31, 2020
I've always found Huston Smith insightful, lucid, and fun to read, and so I chose this as one of my course textbooks (when the previous textbook came out in a new edition—for $110!). In spite of its lack of much primary source material (which Philip Novak's collection of scriptures supplements), this is an excellent introduction to the major religions of the world, "our wisdom traditions." Smith's concise chapters describe the big religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, Judaism, Islam, and Christianity—as well as discussing the role of religion in the 21st century and providing tips on how to approach religions and religious diversity. The illustrations are the weakest part of the book. Some are excellent, others (like the image of Mahavira in the chapter on Buddhism) are out of place, and the heavy reliance on the paintings of Marc Chagall didn't make much sense when the religions of the world afford so much imagery.
January 3, 2012
My rating should really be split into two: 5/5 for the art and 2/5 for the written content. The photographs and artworks in The Illustrated World's Religions are gorgeous, and highly illustrative of the various faiths in question. But the text is riddled with sweeping generalities. Peoples with highly different faiths and worldviews are lumped together: the final chapter, "The Primal Religions", includes Australian Aborigines, Native Americans, and various peoples of Africa and New Guinea as all constituting some amorphous religious blob, and even Jainism, a completely distinct religion, is added without clarity to the Hinduism section. The diversity present within numerous religious groups is entirely glossed over. While many of the examples are true, they do not have strong subtlety in dealing with each faith. Yet, the text does do a good job in situating the art within an appropriate religious and historical context.
All in all, a good coffee table book, if the reader considers the text as a complimentary addition to the art and not vice-versa.
All in all, a good coffee table book, if the reader considers the text as a complimentary addition to the art and not vice-versa.
November 29, 2007
A very nicely-put-together book, this consists of chapters written by various authors on different facets of religion: pilgrimages, prayers, modern directions of the church, etc. My favorite part was the photos, which were of National Geographic-type quality and showed people performing various religious activities, as well as some beautiful shots of temples, churches, and scenery.
While not really something I would ordinarily just pick up to read, it was a very easy-reading book--very interesting, beautifully put together, and quite informative. I'd recommend it to anyone interested in an introduction to different religions (the chart outlining the different facets of Christianity is particularly useful!), or anyone wanting to read some religious-topic essays illustrated by beautiful photographs.
While not really something I would ordinarily just pick up to read, it was a very easy-reading book--very interesting, beautifully put together, and quite informative. I'd recommend it to anyone interested in an introduction to different religions (the chart outlining the different facets of Christianity is particularly useful!), or anyone wanting to read some religious-topic essays illustrated by beautiful photographs.
July 1, 2009
I read this book for a World Religions class which was actually the intro class, but I took it at the end :) I didn't expect much from a 101 class, but this book really grabbed me. As Smith says in the beginning, 'There are plenty of sources dealing with the negative aspects of religions and religious strife over the years. This book focuses on the positive aspects, the ideal each religion is striving for.'
It really opened up new worlds to me, and it was a breath of fresh air to have Christianity at the end; it allowed you to see it from a broader perspective. And the photos speak as much as the words, giving you a sense of the people who practice, if only a condensed view.
It really opened up new worlds to me, and it was a breath of fresh air to have Christianity at the end; it allowed you to see it from a broader perspective. And the photos speak as much as the words, giving you a sense of the people who practice, if only a condensed view.
May 6, 2025
Huston Smith's 'The Illustrated World's Religions' is an enlightening exploration of global faiths offering a comprehensive and insightful overview of various spiritual traditions. This book serves as an excellent introduction to the subject providing a deeper understanding of the history, beliefs and practices of major world religions. Given the vast scope and depth of each religion, it's a remarkable achievement to condense this knowledge into a single volume. Smith skillfully navigates the complexities, making it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking knowledge and insight into humanity's rich spiritual heritage.
Reflecting on what I have learned, few points that stand out to me…
According to Smith, Buddha critiqued Hinduism because of the caste system, animal sacrifices and ritualism. While the Vedas consist of hymns and rituals, the Upanishads and the Brahmasutras delve into profound philosophical ideas and spiritual exploration. Given Siddhartha's likely in-depth understanding of Hinduism, tgus reasoning seems somewhat improbable. As a matter of fact, the Upanishads and Buddha's teachings share commonalities, such as emphasizing self-realization. However, their approaches differ significantly. Buddhism's core principles include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path which focus on achieving liberation from suffering.
Buddhism also explores the concept of reincarnation, where consciousness continues after death, influenced by an individual's actions (karma). The ultimate goal is liberation (nirvana), freeing oneself from the cycle of suffering.
The book also touches on various branches of Buddhism, Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana and Zen (dhyaan), each with distinct characteristics.
Furthermore, the discussion extends to Confucianism and Taoism, highlighting concepts like jen (benevolence), chun tzu (virtuous person), and te (virtue). These philosophies share similarities with Buddhist principles like metta (kindness), karuna (compassion), mudita (sympathetic joy) and upekkha (equanimity).
I was able to draw the parallels between Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. For example, concepts like balance and harmony in Taoism resonate with Hinduism's Raj Yoga, while Confucianism's focus on moral action aligns with Karma Yoga.
Hinduism's influence on other religions might stem from cultural exchange, shared roots or historical connections. The sophistication and nuance of Hinduism, particularly in its ancient texts like the Upanishads and Brahmasutra, are unparalleled and much advanced. Hinduism's approach to philosophy is distinct from the Western perspective, as it seamlessly intertwines philosophy with spirituality, offering a holistic understanding of existence and human nature.
Jewish beliefs emphasize the significance of human existence and the physical world, differing from concepts like Maya in Indian philosophy. Unlike Maya in Indian philosophy, Jews refuse to abandon the physical aspects of existence as illusory but at the same time believe that human existence is insignificant like dust.
In contrast to Judaism's strong emphasis on adherence to divine law, Christianity focuses on faith in Jesus Christ and his teachings. Hinduism, as a sanatan dharma (universal guidelines) is distinct from dogmatic religions.
Dogmatism in religions can arise from factors like institutionalization, power dynamics, cultural influences, fear, ego and a lack of critical thinking. As religions evolve, interpretations and reinterpretations can also contribute to dogmatic elements.
Jews and Muslims have different relationships with the Old Testament. Jews consider the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) as their sacred scripture while the Quran references some of the same stories and figures as the Old Testament but offers distinct teachings and interpretations.Both Jews and Muslims recognize some of the same prophets and figures, such as Abraham and Moses,however often their understanding and interpretation differ.
Like Islam, Christianity and Judaism are monotheistic religions tgat emphasize the importance of scripture and moral behavior. While Christianity and Judaism also emphasize doctrine and creed, Islam's focus on orthopraxy sets it apart. Whereas Eastern religions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, often have a more nuanced and complex understanding of the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment and often emphasize the individual's spiritual journey and personal growth, Islam's focus is more on community and shared practice and Sufism may explore more mystical dimensions.
Interestingly, the concept of infidelity (Kaafir) in Islam is more shaded towards lack of gratitude. The Quran also prohibits infanticide, grants inheritance rights to daughters, emphasizes women's consent in marriage and requires a husband to provide sum to wife at the time of marriage. The Quran allows polygamy but advises monogamy if one cannot deal justly with multiple wives. Education is considered a divine obligation for both men and women. However, historical interpretations of Islam have varied, with some associated with strict punishments and limited women's rights.
Regarding the coexistence of Hindus and Muslims in India, author gives credit to Muslim rulers. Well! Vasudeva KutumBakam philosophy of Hindus emphasizing openness and tolerance, may have played a significant role. Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism have historically been characterized by inclusivity and tolerance, focus on personal spiritual growth and relatively low levels of proselytization and violence.
In conclusion, I thoroughly enjoyed Huston Smith's masterful exploration of global faiths in ‘The World's Religions’. Despite 1-2 inaccuracies according to my understanding, Smith's work remains a remarkable achievement in comparative religion. His writing is engaging, respectful and insightful, making complex philosophies accessible to a wide audience. A great book!!!
Reflecting on what I have learned, few points that stand out to me…
According to Smith, Buddha critiqued Hinduism because of the caste system, animal sacrifices and ritualism. While the Vedas consist of hymns and rituals, the Upanishads and the Brahmasutras delve into profound philosophical ideas and spiritual exploration. Given Siddhartha's likely in-depth understanding of Hinduism, tgus reasoning seems somewhat improbable. As a matter of fact, the Upanishads and Buddha's teachings share commonalities, such as emphasizing self-realization. However, their approaches differ significantly. Buddhism's core principles include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path which focus on achieving liberation from suffering.
Buddhism also explores the concept of reincarnation, where consciousness continues after death, influenced by an individual's actions (karma). The ultimate goal is liberation (nirvana), freeing oneself from the cycle of suffering.
The book also touches on various branches of Buddhism, Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana and Zen (dhyaan), each with distinct characteristics.
Furthermore, the discussion extends to Confucianism and Taoism, highlighting concepts like jen (benevolence), chun tzu (virtuous person), and te (virtue). These philosophies share similarities with Buddhist principles like metta (kindness), karuna (compassion), mudita (sympathetic joy) and upekkha (equanimity).
I was able to draw the parallels between Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. For example, concepts like balance and harmony in Taoism resonate with Hinduism's Raj Yoga, while Confucianism's focus on moral action aligns with Karma Yoga.
Hinduism's influence on other religions might stem from cultural exchange, shared roots or historical connections. The sophistication and nuance of Hinduism, particularly in its ancient texts like the Upanishads and Brahmasutra, are unparalleled and much advanced. Hinduism's approach to philosophy is distinct from the Western perspective, as it seamlessly intertwines philosophy with spirituality, offering a holistic understanding of existence and human nature.
Jewish beliefs emphasize the significance of human existence and the physical world, differing from concepts like Maya in Indian philosophy. Unlike Maya in Indian philosophy, Jews refuse to abandon the physical aspects of existence as illusory but at the same time believe that human existence is insignificant like dust.
In contrast to Judaism's strong emphasis on adherence to divine law, Christianity focuses on faith in Jesus Christ and his teachings. Hinduism, as a sanatan dharma (universal guidelines) is distinct from dogmatic religions.
Dogmatism in religions can arise from factors like institutionalization, power dynamics, cultural influences, fear, ego and a lack of critical thinking. As religions evolve, interpretations and reinterpretations can also contribute to dogmatic elements.
Jews and Muslims have different relationships with the Old Testament. Jews consider the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) as their sacred scripture while the Quran references some of the same stories and figures as the Old Testament but offers distinct teachings and interpretations.Both Jews and Muslims recognize some of the same prophets and figures, such as Abraham and Moses,however often their understanding and interpretation differ.
Like Islam, Christianity and Judaism are monotheistic religions tgat emphasize the importance of scripture and moral behavior. While Christianity and Judaism also emphasize doctrine and creed, Islam's focus on orthopraxy sets it apart. Whereas Eastern religions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, often have a more nuanced and complex understanding of the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment and often emphasize the individual's spiritual journey and personal growth, Islam's focus is more on community and shared practice and Sufism may explore more mystical dimensions.
Interestingly, the concept of infidelity (Kaafir) in Islam is more shaded towards lack of gratitude. The Quran also prohibits infanticide, grants inheritance rights to daughters, emphasizes women's consent in marriage and requires a husband to provide sum to wife at the time of marriage. The Quran allows polygamy but advises monogamy if one cannot deal justly with multiple wives. Education is considered a divine obligation for both men and women. However, historical interpretations of Islam have varied, with some associated with strict punishments and limited women's rights.
Regarding the coexistence of Hindus and Muslims in India, author gives credit to Muslim rulers. Well! Vasudeva KutumBakam philosophy of Hindus emphasizing openness and tolerance, may have played a significant role. Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism have historically been characterized by inclusivity and tolerance, focus on personal spiritual growth and relatively low levels of proselytization and violence.
In conclusion, I thoroughly enjoyed Huston Smith's masterful exploration of global faiths in ‘The World's Religions’. Despite 1-2 inaccuracies according to my understanding, Smith's work remains a remarkable achievement in comparative religion. His writing is engaging, respectful and insightful, making complex philosophies accessible to a wide audience. A great book!!!
August 29, 2020
A well done survey of seven of the major religions of the world, with honorable mention of the lesser acknowledged primal views. The pictorial nature coupled with Houston Smith's superb narrative give the book a balanced and revealing nature to neutrally ponder the similarities, differences, and mysteries.
Delving into historical evolvement as well as the founding principles gives a perspective on the how and why that these religious ideas took hold and spread to become some of the major movements. Anchoring them all is the willingness by those who came into the fold to seek and embrace the concept of faith in the underlying message and in many respects promise.
For the skeptics, and we need not raise our hands, we also can discover why may not see the light in the same vision put forth and maybe confirm to ourselves the human element that so influences the story.
In any light there is enough here to keep one thinking, pondering, and evolving into what may serve as our guide or possibly and entirely our own
unique path.
Delving into historical evolvement as well as the founding principles gives a perspective on the how and why that these religious ideas took hold and spread to become some of the major movements. Anchoring them all is the willingness by those who came into the fold to seek and embrace the concept of faith in the underlying message and in many respects promise.
For the skeptics, and we need not raise our hands, we also can discover why may not see the light in the same vision put forth and maybe confirm to ourselves the human element that so influences the story.
In any light there is enough here to keep one thinking, pondering, and evolving into what may serve as our guide or possibly and entirely our own
unique path.
October 21, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book- it provided an interesting and engaging description of the philosophies and beliefs, rituals and traditions of the major world "wisdom traditions." It's major drawback is that it doesn't delve into the histories of these organized religions as institutions, it solely focuses on their philosophies and core beliefs. Though easy to ignore, this makes the book completely one dimensional and ignores that crucial aspect of religion - the way their beliefs are enacted in an organized community and among different beliefs. That is what I'm interested in, and what this book is lacking. For what it is, though, it is great, and Smith does warn from the beginning that he is only looking at the religions from one angle.
May 5, 2013
The author admits right into the introduction that it isn't a comparative religion text. It doesn't go into the real history of how we got to where we are and takes a very uncritical view of most religions, I think because it is partly an art/photo book and partly because there isn't space for it. Most of what is written are sweeping generalizations and should be read with a critical eye.
That being said I did learn a few little things here and there so it was probably worth my time to read. The photos are, at this point, a bit dated, but the art I still appreciate.
That being said I did learn a few little things here and there so it was probably worth my time to read. The photos are, at this point, a bit dated, but the art I still appreciate.
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February 27, 2016What is Buddhism about? Do Muslims really countenance annihilation of other religions? Well, not according to this book. The writing style of this author is rather esoteric and metaphysical although it does still mange to get to the essentials of each religion discussed. Not a light read but, nevertheless, a rather interesting one. I didn't end up reaidng the section on Christianity. Seemed uncomfortably close to home.
August 13, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this surprisingly engaging exploration of the thematic and societal underpinnings of the major world religions. The book highlights both the utilitarian purpose of religions as highly successful pieces of social technology as well as the real satisfaction that humans seem to find in discovering spiritual meanings in the world around them.
The first of my pile of books I'm reading for my new job...
The first of my pile of books I'm reading for my new job...
October 2, 2008
The pictures were interesting, but I expected it to be easier reading. The text was heavy and slow-going and after having the book a few weeks, I still only made it most of the way through Hinduism, and no father. Giving up for now and moving on to something else. I think I need "World Religions for Dummies"!
May 13, 2010
I think the reason I didn't like this book is because of the edition. I found out after I started that it's an abridge version, meant to make room for the pictures (but it was the only version my library had). The writing was choppy and hard to comprehend, just as if it had been pared down from an original text. I'd like to try again with the original version sometime.
October 7, 2009
In general, this book is quite good. However, his discussion of Hinduism makes it sound as if it is a monotheistic faith. Though there may be some people in the higher castes who the Divine in this pantheistic way, I'd be willing to bet the vast majority of Hidus are simply polytheists. Yet Smith even goes so far as to make polytheist sound like an insult...
Otherwise, pretty good.
Otherwise, pretty good.
August 7, 2016
This is a cross of coffee table book with a reference, which can often be done with glitzy visuals with little substance. However this book has done an admirable job in summarizing the world's seven major religions through each's principles and practices. Some of the visuals are useful, but many are trite and conventional. However, it is a handy reference for these major religions.
November 8, 2017
I decided to finish ahead of schedule because I’ve had this book for over a month. It isn’t a bad analysis of religion because it makes you think about your wisdom tradition at the end. Meanwhile, the call goes out to listen for the other religions and secularists alike. All in all, this tells you to build respect, relationships, and community around each other in so many words.
March 29, 2020
Good introductory comparative religion book. Took me through out geographical and temporal axes and examine the essence of world most important religions. The language can be a little abstract sometimes and needs thinking, it’s religion after all. In general the book is approachable and hit the essence of the religion without too many technical terms. A good investment of time.
February 21, 2008
I read this book in a World Civilizations class. It is heavy reading, but it contains amazing insight applicable to everyone. It does not relate much history or practice--just the core of several of our world's most wide-spread religions' beliefs.
January 11, 2009
Love this book! Beautiful images and insightful religious descriptions, it does not focus on western modes of thought, but instead really gives a great amount of discussion to easter religions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and others.
January 1, 2009
This is the illustrated version, about 1/2 the content of the un-illustrated. Extremely clear, pared down to basic tenets, void of historical barbaric atrocities all religion has, a lovely accounting of world belief systems.
October 19, 2011
I think Huston Smith is a very thoughtful scholar. I liked having the illustrations in the book to stop and ponder along with Smith's interpretation of the religious texts and the culture of the people from various backgrounds.
March 27, 2014
I only read the Hinduism and Buddhism sections, but it was very, very good! The writing was precise and clear and showed little bias. It was very good at showing the religions at their best and in a positive light. It really opened my eyes!
September 5, 2017
Wonderful overview of many of the world's spiritual traditions. I liked the artwork that was included, all the pieces added rather than detracted.
Read this for my Spiritual Traditions class at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts.
Read this for my Spiritual Traditions class at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts.
November 20, 2021
Beautiful book on comparative world religion with art associated with each, which definitely makes it more interesting. BUT it is somewhat difficult to read. I would have preferred it to be more clearly explained, bulleted, etc. That said, I learned a great deal from this book.
May 29, 2007
This book is a great coffee table piece. It isn't an in-depth series. Basically it goes over the major belief points of many world religions. It's a good starter book!
July 7, 2007
This is one of the books I have my students read. Huston Smith is the best.
September 29, 2008
Nice pictures--if you can see them but this will not help you learn about the world's religions.
April 1, 2009
met the author at his seminar in Rhinebeck, NY.
July 22, 2009
A loving and respectful synopsis of the beliefs of all the major religions. Smith spent time in the practice of each faith so he could better understand them.
January 6, 2014
fantastic for any spiritual study
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