CHAMBERS DICTIONARY OF BELIEFS AND RELIGIONS

Summary of Chambers Dictionary of Beliefs and Religions

The Chambers Dictionary of Beliefs and Religions is a comprehensive reference book edited by Rosemary Goring with consulting editor Dr. Frank Whaling. Published in 1992, it provides a broad overview of religious beliefs, traditions, and ideologies worldwide, including both ancient and modern faiths.

Key Features of the Dictionary:

1. Diverse Religious Coverage

• The dictionary covers major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Sikhism, and Bahá’í.
• It also explores lesser-known and indigenous traditions like African, Native American, Pacific, and Australian Aboriginal religions.

2. Historical and Philosophical Insights

• Discusses ancient religions like Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Near Eastern traditions.
• Includes philosophical movements such as atheism, agnosticism, existentialism, and secular humanism.

3. Comprehensive Entries

• Contains definitions and explanations of key religious concepts, figures, texts, rituals, and beliefs.
• Covers religious festivals, sacred texts, theological debates, and major religious movements.

4. Comparative Analysis of Religions

• Highlights both differences and similarities among religious traditions.
• Explores themes such as creation myths, afterlife beliefs, morality, and religious practices across different cultures.

5. Influence of Religion on Society

• Examines the role of religion in history, politics, and culture.
• Discusses modern religious movements, new age beliefs, cults, and reformist ideologies.

Objective of the Book:

The book aims to provide an unbiased and scholarly overview of religious thought. It also seeks to promote understanding by explaining the origins, development, and beliefs of different faiths, reducing misconceptions and fostering interfaith dialogue.