You are currently viewing 8 fundamental books about religion

8 fundamental books about religion

Humans have always tried to think about the biggest questions of meaning and existence. There have been many writers and thinkers who have written books about religion.Religion is one of the most fascinating topics to read.For many people on earth, it is an integral part of their lives.There are many non-fiction books about religion. Whether people practice religion or not, they still identify themselves with one or the other. Religion has its own long history, and was in different shapes in different phases of history. 

Similarly, religion has sometimes been in conflict with science. With gradual advancement of science, religion has responded differently. Writers around the world have studied and written about religion. If you are among those, who are interested not only  in their religion but also in others then this list is for you. Go ahead and pick your best.

  1. World Religions: The Great Faiths Explored and Explained by John Bowker  

World Religions: The Great Faiths Explored and Explained by John Bowker  October 12, 2021

352 pages

World Religions: The Great Faiths Explored and Explained by John Bowker elaborates on almost all religions. From small unknown to largely known religions, the book offers good study on  religions. Besides,the information is accompanied by illustration and art work.In addition, the author provides both ancient and contemporary insight on religions. It is a perfect addition to your library. It will satiate the curiosity of readers interested in engaging nonfiction books about religion. 

  1. 12 Major World Religions: The Beliefs, Rituals, and Traditions of Humanity’s Most Influential Faiths by Jason Boyett  

12 Major World Religions: The Beliefs, Rituals, and Traditions of Humanity's Most Influential Faiths by Jason Boyett  August 30, 2016

302 pages

12 Major World Religions: The Beliefs, Rituals, and Traditions of Humanity’s Most Influential Faiths represents Jason Boyett’s extensive study of the world’s 12 major religions. The included aspects are origin, resemblance and difference of 12 major religions. Besides, the author has done a tremendous job by giving unbiased facts and information. This is one of the best books about faith that can be beneficial for both beginners to have a good introduction to religion, and also for experts who would like to refresh their knowledge. 

 

  1. The Religions Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by DK 

The Religions Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by DK November 13, 2018

352 pages

Looking for a book that can give a complete overview of different religions in easy and understandable language. The Religions Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by DK will serve you the purpose. This book includes information about all religions and their concepts. Besides, the style is easy and simple. This book is highly recommended for beginners to start, and experts who want to refresh their knowledge quickly. 

 

 

4. Comparative Religion: Investigate the World Through Religious Tradition by Carla Mooney  

Comparative Religion: Investigate the World Through Religious Tradition by Carla Mooney  October 13, 2015

128 pages

84% of the earth population consider themselves religious. What religion actually means to them or why is it so important for them? Comparative Religion: Investigate the World Through Religious Tradition by Carla Mooney  investigates all the questions mentioned above and many others. It explores different religions, their culture, art, festivals, etc. Through comparative study of all the religions it establishes answers. It is based on interviews, different sacred scriptures, and architecture. It can be a good pick for those  interested in the culture and art of various religions

 

  1. Religion and the Rise of Capitalism by Benjamin M. Friedman 

Religion and the Rise of Capitalism by Benjamin M. Friedman January 11, 2022

560 pages

Religion and the Rise of Capitalism by Benjamin M. Friedman explores the roots of religion in economic policies. The book builds the relationship between religious beliefs and western way of building the economy. Unlike others who take the economy as a secular, enlightenment product, Benjamin establishes the influence of religion on finance through this book. If you are curious and would like to know some facts about the relationship of economy and religion then this book should be your next pick.

 

  1. Theology and the Scientific Imagination: From the Middle Ages to the Seventeenth Century by Amos Funkenstein 

Theology and the Scientific Imagination: From the Middle Ages to the Seventeenth Century by Amos Funkenstein November 13, 2018

464 pages

Theology and the Scientific Imagination: From the Middle Ages to the Seventeenth Century by Amos Funkenstein marks the start of  intellectual history which shaped our concept of theology and science. The book takes metaphysical science as the foundation of science and explains how by the 1600s, theological thinking dived into science and became one. It is considered one of the classics. It is an exemplary source of knowledge to know about religion and science history. 

 

 

  1. Science and Religion: A Historical Introduction by Gary B. Ferngren

Science and Religion: A Historical Introduction by Gary B. FerngrenAugust 1, 2002

496 pages

Science and Religion: A Historical Introduction by Gary B. Ferngren explores the relationship between science and religion through western tradition of religion and science in different phases of history. From the start of Christainity to the late 19th century, it underscores different trends of both.  The book discusses the relation through critical essays. Readers skeptical of religion or readers interested in reading about the relation of both, should at once grab this book. 

 

 

  1. A History of God: The 4,000-Year Quest of Judaism, Christianity and Islam by Karen Armstrong

A History of God: The 4,000-Year Quest of Judaism, Christianity and Islam by Karen ArmstrongAugust 9, 1994

496 pages

A History of God: The 4,0000-Year Quest of Judaism,Christianity and Islam by Karen Armstrong discusses the history of monotheistic religions. What is the concept of God for them, how they influenced each other, and how they shaped the concept of God for people. The book explains history from the Abraham era to the present. Besides, the book draws on classical philosophies and medieval mysticism to the reformation. Readers interested in the history of different ideologies related to God should grab this book.

I hope you liked this list of best books on religion. Let us know which book is your favorite and why?

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