The 10th edition of Living Religions by Mary Pat Fisher and Robin Rinehart offers a comprehensive exploration of world religions, emphasizing their relevance in modern society through a sympathetic and accessible approach, published by Pearson.
Overview of the Book
Living Religions, 10th Edition, authored by Mary Pat Fisher and Robin Rinehart, provides a comprehensive and empathetic exploration of the world’s major religious traditions. Published by Pearson, the book covers Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and more, emphasizing their relevance in today’s diverse and evolving world.
Importance of Studying Living Religions
Studying Living Religions fosters understanding of diverse faiths, promoting tolerance and empathy in a multicultural world. It explores how religions shape identities, address suffering, and adapt to modern challenges, offering insights into their enduring relevance and the universal quest for meaning and spirituality in human life.
Key Features of the 10th Edition
The 10th edition of Living Religions includes updated content, a sympathetic perspective on diverse faiths, and coverage of major world religions; It also features contributions from Mary Pat Fisher and Robin Rinehart, enhancing its depth and relevance for modern learners.
Updates and New Content in the 10th Edition
The 10th edition of Living Religions features revised sections on major world religions, new case studies, and updated discussions on religion’s role in addressing modern global issues. It also includes expanded coverage of contemporary religious movements and digital enhancements for improved learning experiences.
Authors’ Sympathetic Approach to Religions
Mary Pat Fisher and Robin Rinehart approach religions with deep respect and empathy, presenting each tradition’s beliefs and practices in a balanced and accessible manner. This method fosters understanding and appreciation, making Living Religions a trusted resource for students and scholars alike.
Coverage of Major World Religions
The 10th edition comprehensively covers Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, Shintoism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Sikhism. Each chapter explores core beliefs, practices, and historical contexts, providing a holistic understanding of these diverse traditions and their enduring influence in the modern world.
Contributions of Mary Pat Fisher and Robin Rinehart
Mary Pat Fisher and Robin Rinehart bring unique perspectives, blending academic research with real-world experiences; Fisher’s global interactions enrich the text, while Rinehart’s scholarly insights ensure depth. Their collaborative approach fosters empathy and understanding, making the book accessible and engaging for students exploring religious diversity.
Major World Religions Covered
The 10th Edition covers major religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, Shintoism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Sikhism, providing a comprehensive overview of global faiths.
Hinduism
Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest living religions, emphasizes nonviolence and spirituality. It explores diverse teachings, practices, and philosophies, including dharma, karma, reincarnation, and the caste system. The Bhagavad Gita and Vedas are central scriptures, guiding followers toward moksha, liberation from the cycle of rebirth, through devotion, knowledge, or selfless action.
Buddhism
Buddhism, rooted in ancient India, teaches interconnectedness and the path to enlightenment. It emphasizes suffering’s origin in attachment and offers the Noble Eightfold Path for liberation. Meditation and compassion are central practices, aiming to achieve nirvana, the cessation of suffering. This philosophy has spread globally, influencing cultures and fostering harmony in modern times.
Confucianism and Daoism
Confucianism emphasizes ethics, morality, and societal harmony through proper conduct, while Daoism advocates living in harmony with nature and the “dao” (way). Both philosophies, rooted in Chinese tradition, focus on balance and self-cultivation, influencing East Asian culture profoundly and offering complementary approaches to achieving personal and societal well-being.
Shintoism
Shintoism is Japan’s indigenous religion, focusing on the worship of kami—spirits or deities believed to inhabit natural phenomena. It emphasizes rituals, purification, and offerings to maintain harmony with the divine. Shintoism is deeply intertwined with Japanese culture and identity, fostering a connection to nature and community through its practices and beliefs.
Judaism
Judaism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, centered on the covenant between the Jewish people and God. It emphasizes the Torah, sacred texts, and traditions like Sabbath observance and dietary laws. Jewish identity is deeply rooted in community, history, and ethical conduct, shaping a unique spiritual and cultural heritage.
Christianity
Christianity, centered on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizes the Holy Trinity and divine love. It relies on the Bible as its primary text, guiding followers through prayer, sacraments, and community. With diverse branches like Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern Orthodoxy, Christianity remains a globally influential faith, shaping cultures and societies worldwide.
Islam
Islam, founded by Prophet Muhammad, is centered on the Quran and the Five Pillars: faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage. It emphasizes submission to Allah, promoting peace, justice, and compassion. With a global community of over a billion Muslims, Islam is a vibrant, diverse faith shaping cultures and societies worldwide.
Sikhism
Sikhism, founded by Guru Nanak, emphasizes equality, service, and devotion to one God. The Guru Granth Sahib serves as its holy text, guiding followers to a path of truth and spiritual growth. Sikh practices include the Five Ks (e.g., uncut hair and a dagger) and community service, fostering a strong sense of unity and compassion.
Ancient and Indigenous Religions
Ancient and indigenous religions, like Shintoism and Zoroastrianism, are explored, highlighting their enduring influence and unique practices, such as Shinto’s nature worship and Zoroastrianism’s dualistic cosmology.
Jainism
Jainism, one of the oldest living religions, emphasizes nonviolence and spirituality. It teaches the path to liberation through self-control, meditation, and the avoidance of harm to all living beings.
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism, an ancient Persian religion, emphasizes dualism and ethical choices. It teaches the struggle between good and evil, advocating truth, justice, and righteousness. Despite its near-extinction today, it influences major world religions. This highlights its enduring legacy.
Modern and Contemporary Religious Movements
Modern religious movements reflect evolving spiritual practices and globalized influences. They often blend traditional beliefs with contemporary values, addressing today’s societal challenges and fostering diverse expressions of faith worldwide.
Overview of New Religious Movements
New religious movements emerge in response to societal changes, blending traditional beliefs with modern practices. They often address contemporary issues like spirituality and global interconnectedness, attracting diverse followers. These movements, such as Scientology or the Unification Church, reflect evolving religious landscapes and the human quest for meaning in a changing world.
Examples of Modern Movements
Modern movements include Scientology, the Unification Church, and contemporary pagan groups like Wicca. These movements often emphasize personal spirituality and adapt traditional practices to modern contexts, offering fresh perspectives on faith and community in a rapidly evolving global environment.
Themes and Concepts Explored
The book explores themes like nonviolence, spirituality, and suffering, emphasizing the Noble Eightfold Path. It also examines religion’s role in a changing world, blending tradition with modern relevance.
Nonviolence and Spirituality
The 10th edition emphasizes nonviolence as a core spiritual principle, particularly in Jainism, which advocates for harmlessness toward all life. Buddhism’s Noble Eightfold Path is explored as a guide to ethical living, fostering inner peace and compassion. These concepts highlight the enduring relevance of spirituality in addressing global challenges and personal growth.
Role of Religion in a Changing World
The 10th edition explores how religions adapt to societal shifts, emphasizing their role in addressing global challenges. It highlights the importance of understanding diverse faiths to foster tolerance and unity. By examining how religions evolve while preserving their core values, the text underscores their enduring relevance in navigating modern complexities and promoting harmony.
Suffering and the Noble Eightfold Path
The 10th edition delves into Buddhism’s core teachings, where suffering is identified as life’s inherent condition. It arises from attachment and desire, as explained in the Four Noble Truths. The Noble Eightfold Path offers a practical guide to ending suffering through ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom.
By following this path, individuals can transcend suffering and achieve enlightenment, emphasizing mindfulness and compassion. The text highlights how these ancient teachings remain relevant, addressing universal human struggles and promoting spiritual growth in a modern context.
Publisher and Publication Details
Published by Pearson, the 10th edition of Living Religions was released on January 13, 2016, authored by Mary Pat Fisher and Robin Rinehart.
Pearson as the Publisher
Pearson, a leading publisher of academic and educational content, released the 10th edition of Living Religions on January 13, 2016. Known for its commitment to quality and accessibility, Pearson ensures the book’s content is engaging and up-to-date, reflecting the diversity of religious beliefs in a changing world.
ISBN Information
The 10th edition of Living Religions carries ISBN-10: 0134168976 and ISBN-13: 978-0134168975. These unique identifiers help in identifying and purchasing the book. Published by Pearson, these ISBNs ensure accurate and reliable access to the textbook in various formats, making it easier for students to find and acquire the book.
Publication Date
The 10th edition of Living Religions was originally published on January 13, 2016. A later publication date of July 22, 2021, is also noted, likely for a reprint or updated release. These dates reflect the book’s availability over time, ensuring students access updated content for their studies.
Digital and eTextbook Options
Living Religions 10th Edition is available in digital formats, including eTextbooks, offered through platforms like Pearson’s website. Rental options are also accessible, providing flexible access for students.
Availability of Digital Versions
The 10th Edition of Living Religions is available as an eTextbook and digital version through Pearson’s REVEL platform and other online retailers. Students can access the content in various formats, including PDF, ensuring flexibility and easy access to the material. Rental options and digital subscriptions further enhance affordability and convenience for learners.
Platforms Offering the eTextbook
The 10th Edition of Living Religions is accessible on Pearson’s REVEL platform, courseware platforms, and popular eBook retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Rental options are also available for added flexibility, ensuring students can access the material conveniently and affordably.
Rental Options for the Textbook
Students can rent Living Religions 10th Edition at affordable rates on platforms like Amazon and Chegg. Rentals typically include a 21-day AnyQ access, allowing flexibility for those who prefer temporary access without purchasing the full eTextbook or paperback version outright.
Educational Resources and Supplements
REVEL for Living Religions offers interactive content, while a test bank provides assessment tools, enhancing learning and teaching experiences for both students and educators, published by Pearson.
REVEL for Living Religions
REVEL for Living Religions enhances learning with interactive content, quizzes, and simulations, providing a dynamic digital experience. It helps students engage deeply with religious traditions, fostering understanding and critical thinking while aligning with the 10th edition’s comprehensive coverage of global faiths.
Test Bank Availability
The Living Religions 10th Edition test bank is available for instructors to support exam preparation. It can be downloaded from platforms like testbankfan.com, offering accurate and complete content aligned with the textbook for effective assessment and teaching strategies.
Author Insights and Contributions
Mary Pat Fisher and Robin Rinehart bring unique perspectives, blending academic research with global religious experiences. Their collaborative effort ensures a balanced and insightful exploration of diverse faiths, enriching the understanding of living religions worldwide.
Mary Pat Fisher’s Approach
Mary Pat Fisher’s approach combines academic rigor with personal insights, offering a unique perspective on world religions. Her experiences with diverse faiths worldwide provide an empathetic understanding, making complex traditions relatable and accessible for students. Her work fosters a deeper appreciation of religious diversity and global understanding.
Robin Rinehart’s Contributions
Robin Rinehart brings scholarly expertise and a nuanced understanding of religious traditions. Her contributions enrich the 10th edition with detailed insights, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive exploration of faiths. Her collaborative approach with Mary Pat Fisher enhances the depth and accessibility of the text, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars alike.
Living Religions, 10th Edition is a vital resource for understanding diverse faiths. It bridges tradition and modernity, fostering empathy and knowledge in an interconnected world through its insightful exploration of religious traditions and their relevance today.
Living Religions, 10th Edition is a comprehensive guide to understanding the world’s major and minor faiths. It emphasizes the living traditions of religions, their cultural contexts, and their relevance in shaping global spirituality. The book’s empathetic approach fosters cross-cultural understanding, making it an essential resource for students and scholars alike in exploring the significance of diverse religious practices and beliefs.
Final Thoughts on the Book’s Relevance
Living Religions, 10th Edition, remains a vital resource for understanding global spirituality. Its comprehensive coverage of major faiths, coupled with a sympathetic approach, makes it accessible to both students and general readers. The book’s relevance lies in its ability to connect ancient traditions with contemporary issues, fostering cross-cultural understanding in a rapidly changing world.