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A Little History of Religion


Synopsis


"For readers in search of a thoughtful, thorough, and approachable survey of the history of religion, this book is an excellent place to start."-Booklist
 
Written for those with faith and for those without-and especially for younger readers-A Little History of Religion sweeps us through the story of religion in our world, from the dawn of religious belief to the present.
 
An emphathetic yet discerning guide to the enduring importance of faith, Richard Holloway introduces us to the history and beliefs of the major world religions-Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism. He also explores where religious belief comes from; the search for meaning through the ages; how differences in belief sometimes lead to hostility and violence; what is a sect and what is a cult; and much more. Throughout, Holloway encourages curiosity and tolerance, accentuates nuance and mystery, and calmly restores a sense of the value of faith.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Dawn of Religion

* Explores the origins of religious belief and practice in prehistory.
* Discusses the evidence for early religious rituals, beliefs in animism, and the emergence of shamans and priests.

Real Example: The Lascaux Cave paintings in France depict animals and human-like figures, suggesting a possible connection to early religious beliefs.

Chapter 2: The Axial Age

* Examines the period from 800 to 200 BCE, when major religious traditions emerged in multiple regions.
* Discusses the rise of Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism.

Real Example: The teachings of the Buddha, emphasizing compassion and enlightenment, had a profound impact on societies in South and East Asia.

Chapter 3: The Spread and Transformation of Religions

* Traces the dissemination of religions through trade, conquest, and missionary activity.
* Discusses the syncretism and adaptation that occurred as religions interacted with different cultures.

Real Example: The spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire was facilitated by the empire's network of roads and the conversion of prominent figures.

Chapter 4: Religion and Empire

* Examines the relationship between religion and political power.
* Discusses the use of religion to legitimize authority, suppress dissent, and promote social order.

Real Example: The Roman emperor Constantine's conversion to Christianity in the 4th century had a significant impact on the development of the Church and its relationship with the state.

Chapter 5: Religion and Science

* Explores the historical interactions between religion and scientific inquiry.
* Discusses the conflicts and collaborations that have shaped the relationship between these two realms of thought.

Real Example: The Galileo affair in the 17th century illustrated the tension between religious dogma and scientific observation.

Chapter 6: Religion and Modernity

* Assesses the impact of modernity on religious beliefs and practices.
* Discusses the rise of secularism, the challenges to traditional religious authority, and the emergence of new religious movements.

Real Example: The Enlightenment era in Europe witnessed a decline in religious authority and the rise of skepticism and rationalism.

Chapter 7: Religion and the Future

* Speculates on the future of religion in a rapidly changing world.
* Discusses the challenges facing religions, such as globalization, environmental degradation, and the decline of traditional religious affiliation.

Real Example: The rise of religious fundamentalism in response to modernization and globalization has raised complex questions about the role of religion in the 21st century.