People have always sought the meaning of life. In religion, most find an answer. Today, three-quarters of the world's population adhere to one of the major faiths: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism. This reference work explains the fundamentals of these belief systems, their historical development, as well as their respective gods, scriptures, and ceremonies. More than 200 illustrations, along with numerous timelines and maps, illustrate the essential contents of these religions.