Book excerpt: Authored by distinguished scholars of religion writing in their areas of specialty, PATTERNS OF RELIGION examines key religious traditions around the world, from the ancient origins of religion to contemporary religious movements. Expertly written and organized, this text offers unparalleled flexibility for instructors. Each chapter explores the history, beliefs, practices, and contemporary perspectives for a major religious tradition. This unified chapter structure helps to emphasize the patterns that link diverse religious traditions. The readings at the end of chapters include selections from scriptures and other important texts, eliminating the need for a separate scripture anthology. Now in full color, the supporting maps, photographs, chronologies, glossaries, and tables help contextualize each tradition and encourage further inquiry.