Religious Studies Resource Guide

This ten-part series examines religion from spiritual, historical, social, and political viewpoints. From the roots of various belief systems to New Age religious practices, each program outlines a particular aspect of humankind’s quest for spiritual fulfillment.

Spiritual belief has shaped society through the ages and continues to play a vital role in the lives of billions of adherents. Drawing from the sacred texts of each, this series provides an introduction to the seven largest religions practiced today. Historical origins, main tenets, holidays and special ceremonies are all covered, along with important worship locales around the world. The eight-part series also looks at what the seven major religions have in common. 8-part series, 20–25 minutes each.

The identities of the founders of three major religions—Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam—are studied in this program. The story of Confucianism and how its tenets spread to the Chinese social and political structure includes discussions about the yin (feminine principle) and the yang (masculine principle). The significance of Jesus as a prophet for Muslims, and God incarnate for Christians, is analyzed. Mohammed and the religion he created as codified in the Koran are examined. Temples, churches, and mosques are discussed as intrinsic to the practice of each religion. (53 minutes)

This program examines the structure and major tenets of these four eastern religious philosophies.