Exploring Religious Meaning (5th Edition) [Paperback]

Robert Monk (Author), Kenneth T. Lawrence (Author), Walter Hofheinz (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 23, 1998

Providing the tools and resources for exploring the many dimensions of religion, this basic introduction to religious studies suggests an inductive and integrative approach to critical inquiry.

Materials are drawn from classic and contemporary sources that seek to interpret religion in its various dimensions. This edition clarifies and updates the discussion of Islam and Judaism; contains updated charts comparing the major religious traditions; expands and revises the discussion of religion and science; and presents additional questions designed to expand thought and interest.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Very comprehensive in terms of topics covered." — Anne Wetherilt, Emmanuel College

"I find the selections introducing the world's religions very helpful and one of the strongest parts of the book .... I find it very helpful to have this stretched all through the texts and it offers a way to teach this class that allows it to be an interesting introduction." — Jeffrey C. Pugh, Elon University

--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

From the Publisher

A basic text for introduction to religious studies that provides the tools and resources for exploring the many dimensions of religion. The design of this text suggests an approach to critical inquiry that may be called inductive and integrative. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 340 pages
• Publisher: Prentice Hall; 5 Sub edition (January 23, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0137783582
• ISBN-13: 978-0137783588
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.9 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 3.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,858,446 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Analysis of Philosophical and Religious Issues, April 9, 2005

By 

Anicca Nirdesa (Miami, FL) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Exploring Religious Meaning (6th Edition) (Paperback)

I use this text in my intro level religion classes. It's not a world religions text however. The book is organized thematically, which can be confusing for non-linear thinkers. For example, if the topic is "religious experience" the text will compare various texts (primary and secondary) from different traditions. Consequently, one can see the similarities and difference between various religious traditions. It's a rather postmodern religious studies text.

At the same time, that may be its weakness. I usually recommend that students have already taken world religions prior to the class where we read this book. It can be a great springboard for discussion and other projects. However for students who don't know much about religion and philosophy (or history, etc) the text may prove a bit superficial. On the other hand, because of how it's organized there is usually something that everyone can relate to.

3.0 out of 5 stars not a bad intro, November 29, 2010

By 

mw - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Exploring Religious Meaning (6th Edition) (Paperback)

I feel I learned a lot by reading this book. Keep in mind it's just an introduction to religion. If you want in-depth exposure to a religion or an aspect of the study of religion, you will need to go to other sources.

1 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars fair, October 26, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Exploring Religious Meaning (Paperback)

While the book does present an accurate and unbiased view of world religions, the text itself is less than gripping (the writing is dry), and the book's organization is a little confusing. This may not be the best text to use if you are interested in getting a clear, overall picutre of a particular religion. It includes studies of Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.