This comprehensive survey is a thorough introduction to the five great Eastern faiths for all those in the West who wish to fathom the spirit of the East. The vast range of topics covered includes: the life of the Buddha; karma and rebirth; inspiring teachers and gurus; the life of Confucius; sacred Taoist texts; the epics of the 'Ramayana' and the 'Mahabharata; holy landscapes, shrines and festivals; and enlightenment. The book gives an overview of each faith's approach to spiritual and ethical beliefs, art and architcture, sacred writings, ritual and ceremony, and death and the afterlife. Also, included are special documentary sections presenting extracts from and summaries of key texts and other invaluable reference material designed to illuminate central features of all five religions.