Sikhism is increasingly capturing the attention of students and scholars of history and sociology, as well as religion.A number of important developments affecting the Sikh community have taken place since 1978 when this book originally appeared. First , the Sikh Dispersion has become firmly established in many countries - especially in Britain and North America - and this on-going process is attracting scholarly attention. Secondly, in 1984, operation Blue Star, the storming of Golden Temple Complex by Indian Army had an affect on sikh world -wide. The repercussion of this event are still being felt. Both these important influences upon the religion, as well as the beginnings of feminist movement within the Panth, are considered.

The search for truth and for a meaningful life has become irresistible. Philosophic ideas and all the wise saying provide only a solace but don't show path to eliminate suffering, a path to liberation. And to the realization of truth ?
The answer can be found in teaching of the Budda, in the understanding of the meaning of Four noble Truths, The Eightfold Path, Nirvana and then transparently sublime personality of Shkyamuni the Budda and what better than in the form of some of the best Quotations compiled from the statement of spiritual leaders, thinkers and stalwarts of faith from all over the world. This book intends to serve that purpose.

This book begins by posing and answering the question: "What is Buddhism"? Assuming no previous knowledge, issues such as legacy of India and life of the Buddha are discussed. Later sections include : The belief and practices of Mahayana and Theravada schools, with particular emphasis on the four main Mahayana schools of Nichiren, Tibetan, Zen and pure Land; the four nobel truths; the Buddhist council; meditation; festivals; concepts of reality; yoga.

It depicts the rich colour and diversity of the many dimensions of Hinduism and deals with the fundamental beliefs which underpin the religion. Contents include the Hindu concept of God; samsara, the cycle of reincarnation; karma, the law of course and effect; dharma, what is right; moksa, the final goal of enlightenment. Hindu scriptures include sruti and smrti literature, the Mahabharat, The Bhagavad Gita and the Ramayana. There is a chapter on Gods and Goddesses: Vishnu the Preserver, Krishna, Siva, the auspicious Ganesh, and the Mother Goddess. Other chapters explain worship in the home and temple, Hindu sysbols, food and caste, festivals and pilgrimages, and life cycles in the Hindu family - particularly, birth, marriages and death. The history and tradition of Hinduism is dealt with in relation to the Indus valley civilization, the Vedic period, the Vedanta, and devotional Hinduism. The book contains a glossary of Hindu terms.