The Pursuit of the Sacred An Introduction to Religious Studies

Globalization has taken the world by storm and has facilitated the unprecedented migrations of the peoples of this world. Whether we like it or not, we will meet foreigners in our communities, schools, universities, buses, and other public places. But, when people migrate they take their religions with them. If people of different religious traditions are to live side by side amicably, interfaith dialogue becomes imperative. But, for people to be able to speak about their own religions with enlightenment and listen to other people's religious beliefs with respect, they must have some basic knowledge of how faiths and believers operate because for some people, religion is inseparably intertwined with their economics, politics, and everyday lives. This book clearly and concisely introduces religious studies to the reader. It makes a strong case for the quest and study of world religions and explores the challenges, controversies, and methodological issues in the study of religions. It also explores other pertinent religious issues such as beliefs, rituals, myths, sacredness, morality, the problem of evil, and interreligious dialogue. Although written from a classroom perspective, this book can be useful to any reader who would like to acquire knowledge of religious issues. ""Dr. Chitakure's book is accessible to an undergraduate classroom and provides a solid foundation for understanding the diversity of religions students will encounter in our increasingly interconnected world. His focus upon culture and bias is refreshing and his ongoing discussion of African indigenous religions will challenge and enlighten many students. He introduces some of the most pressing topics for students of religion today in an insightful and relevant way. I will happily utilize this book in my undergraduate courses on world religions."" --Kevin P. Considine, Assistant Professor of Religious Studies, Calumet College of St. Joseph John Chitakure is an adjunct professor of World Religions and The Religious Quest at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas. He has also taught at the Mexican American Catholic College, Oblate school of Theology, both situated in San Antonio, Texas. Before coming to Texas, John taught at several Theological Schools in Zimbabwe that include Chishawasha Seminary, Arrupe College, Wadzanai Training Center, Holy Trinity College, and Zimbabwe Christian College, all in Zimbabwe.