Does the Quran demand Jihad? What has the synagogue meant for the survival of the Jewish people? Where can we find Nirvana? And how are religious convictions fuelling today's conflicts in the Middle East? Beliefs that Changed the World answers these & other fundamental questions in this compelling introduction to the great religions. From the Jewish exodis over 3,000 years ago to the importance of Shinto in modern Japan, the histories of the world's prominent religions are brought to light, & the central tenets behind eacha re revealed This is not only an enligtening exploration of how faiths have evolved throughout history, but a timely reflection on the way religious beliefs continue to shape our world. The religions covered include Judaism, Christianity, Islan, Hinduism, Jainism, Zoroastrianims, Sikhism, Biddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, & Shinto.