On the major Eastern and world religions, articles give information on the history, scriptures, worship, beliefs and practices of the various faiths. More than 50 specialist authors from many different countries have contributed to the Handbook. The aim has been to describe each faith clearly and objectively, 'as it is. The evidence is presented: the response- whether the faiths of mankind are being studied simply from academic interest or as part of a deep, personal search- is left to the reader.