Faithful Conclusions

The study of religious belief is a fascinating and insightful look into the evolution of cultural identity, history, and struggle for purpose. As humanity has sought to find depth and meaning from the earliest of times, we see the development of various beliefs and ideals, all designed to provide moral compass, ritual meaning, and insight into the great questions of existence (why are we here, where are we going, how should we interact with others, life, death, the divine, and beyond). In Faithful Conclusions: A Religious Encyclopedia of Belief and Practice, religious scholar and professor Dr. Lee Ann B. Marino compiles over 25 years of study, research, and insight into religion, religious beliefs, and ideals and thoughts that relate to religion; from the most ancient of beliefs to modern-day constructs and thoughts about religious concepts. Each section contains an essential breakdown of the central tenets over 40 different groups related to religion: theology; philosophy; adherent identity; traditional languages; sects/divisions; number of adherents; disputes within group; scriptures; basic religious practices; holidays; visual signs and symbols; creeds, books, and laws; eclectic beliefs; relations outside the group; holy sites; notable figures; facts and figures; other important definitions; and believer's characteristics. A thorough view for anyone interested (from the curious to the serious student) in religion, theology, belief, ideas about spirituality, and the way they influence culture, this book is a must-have addition to every religious, theological, and historical library.