Over the centuries, a rich diversity of faiths has arisen throughout the world, some deeply contemplative and meditative, others joyously communual in their worship. This text present a comprehensive guide for each religion including information providing: a brief history of the religion and the founder(s); the evolution of the faith, its origins and dissemination ;the doctrines, beliefs, scriptures, rituals and fetivals, and where appropriate the panthenon of gods and goddesses.