Sacred Origins of Profound Things: The Stories Behind the Rites and Rituals of the World's Religions

In this enlightening and entertaining work, Charles Panati explores the origins of hundreds of religious rituals, customs, and practices in many faiths, the reasons for religious holidays and sacred symbols, and the meanings of vestments, sacraments, devotions, and prayers. Its many revelations include:

* Why the Star of David became the Jewish counterpart of the Christian cross

* What mortal remains of the Buddha are venerated today

* How the diamond engagement ring became a standard

* That the first pope was a happily married man

* How Hindu thinkers arrived at their concept of reincarnation

* Why Jews don't eat pork, why some Muslims don't eat certain vegetables, and how some Christians came to observe meatless Fridays

Sacred Origins of Profound Things is an indispensable resource for all those interested in the history of religion and the history of ideas--and an inspiring guide to those seeking to understand their faith.

Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Penguin Publishing Group
Published: 12/01/1996
ISBN: 9780140195330
Pages: 608
Weight: 1.50lbs
Size: 9.20h x 6.10w x 1.50d

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 10/28/1996 pg. 72
New York Times 01/12/1997 pg. 20
Library Journal 12/01/1996 pg. 100