This comprehensive reference portrays the great religions of humankind through authoritative text and vivid photographs, each from its ancient roots to its role in modern life. Explore the landscapes and cultures where these faiths took hold and flourished and follow them as they spread around the world, survive conflict, and evolve. Through the words of eminent scholars, learn what it means to be Hindu and bathe in the sacred Ganges, Buddhist and revere a statue of the Enlightened One, Muslim and trek to Mecca, Christian and walk the stations of the cross in Jerusalem, or Jewish and pray at the Wailing Wall. Geography of Religion is a graceful and masterful look at the faiths and beliefs that have inspired people both individually and politically and have shaped the timeline of human history from its very beginning.