Religions of the World

One of the world's oldest surviving religions, Judaism is both a theology and a way of life for over 12 million followers in the world today. The first religion to be founded upon the principle of monotheism, Judaism has survived despite persecution against its people throughout the ages. Trace the history of Jewish culture, from Abraham's covenant with God to the Exile of the Jews from the Holy Land by Roman conquerors. Examine the sacred texts and various holidays while exploring the two centers of Jewish life -- the synagogue and the home.

From the public ministry of Jesus to the legendary battles of the Crusades, examine the interwoven histories of these two distinct branches of Christianity. Although its followers were long persecuted by the Roman Empire, Christianity spread throughout the Mediterranean region and eventually became the favored religion of the Empire, following the ascension of Constantine to the Roman throne. Discover the differences between these two orders of religion and the various practices of the people of the Eastern and Western followers.

Political, religious and social events of 16th-century Europe changed the course of history. These factors sparked the birth of Protestant Christianity, whose new doctrines and practices were formulated in reaction to the Roman Catholic Church. Led by Martin Luther, this spiritual revolution gained momentum and, under the helm of other Protestant leaders, thrived and grew into new factions in Europe and North America. Viewers will explore the numerous denominations that developed over the centuries, including Baptists, Calvinists, Mennonites, Presbyterians, Puritans and Quakers. Discover the common ideas shared by most Protestant Christian denominations, despite the wide range of ceremonial practices and rituals across affiliations.

Islam is one of the great monotheistic world religions practiced today. Discover the Islamic culture through the daily life and rituals of Muslims around the world. Viewers will learn about Islam's history -- from its inception in the seventh century, when Muhammad led his fellow Arabs to Islam's way of life, to the rise of the Ottoman Empire between the ninth and 12th centuries and to the present, where customs of dress, dietary laws and holidays still exist. Explore the wealth of Islamic art, architecture, calligraphy and other contributions that have made Islam a vital influence in the 20th century.

Learn how and why Hinduism has survived to be one of the oldest and largest world religions with nearly one billion followers located mostly in India. Hinduism encompasses wide practices and traditions largely due to its great capacity to integrate the new with the old. This program explores the descendants of the Indus River Valley, who, around 1500 B.C.E., used Sanskrit to transcribe their daily rituals and customs. Discover Hinduism's impact on the literary world with its library of tens of thousands sacred hymns and poems known as the Vedas, which means "truth" or "knowledge."

Discover the history behind the philosophy that has led millions of followers on a quest for spiritual enlightenment. Through the epic story of Siddhartha Gotama, learn why Buddhists believe the key to "Nirvana" lies within themselves, accessible through thoughtful meditation and prayer. From its origins in central Asia, see how different Asian cultures have adapted the teachings of Buddha over time -- from the Mahayana Buddhists of China and Korea to the Dalai Lama and the Buddhists of Tibet.