Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions: [2 volumes]

This is the first comprehensive resource on the subject of love in the teachings of the world's major religions, cultures, and philosophies. Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions is the first reference work to offer a comprehensive portrait of love in the context of the classic and contemporary literature of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, as well as other cultures and philosophies. Like no volume published to date, it reveals the full richness of religious teachings on love in all its many forms, exploring an extensive range of topics that offer philosophical, psychological, and religious perspectives to guide the quest for the meaning of love. Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions features approximately 300 subject entries, as well as insightful biographic sketches of preeminent thinkers, all written by a multidisciplinary team of some of the foremost scholars on the subject. Entries examine both general and culture-specific interpretations of love: not just the dichotomy of spiritual and physical love, but the full emotional spectrum of love in relationships and practices. Collectively, they encompass love's integral—and sometimes conflicting—role in shaping beliefs and behavior in a vastly diverse world.

About the Author :
Yudit Kornberg Greenberg, PhD, is professor of religion and director of the Jewish studies program at Rollins College, Winter Park, FL.

Review :
The references are very carefully developed for each entry. There are neither too few or too many, and the ones included can safely be deemed as the essential ones. Thus, the Encyclopedia is a terrific starting point for any scholar, however junior or advanced, who wants a reliable perspective on what has been done to date on a topic. it is a worthy inclusion in most college and university libraries as well as larger public libraries. The 2-volume set Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions is a top pick for any high school to college-level collection strong in world religious studies. Recommended. Lower-level undergraduates and above; general readers. For large academic libraries with strong religious collections, or for seminary libraries, this is a worthwhile addition. The Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions is the first reference work to offer a multidisciplinary investigation of love in the past and present texts and practices of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism. . . . I can say up front that, in my judgment, it is an excellent resource. The articles are relatively brief as encyclopedias go, but very comprehensive. They are perfect for use by advanced high school and college students. But mature scholars can learn much as well, especially on subjects beyond their specialization. Cross-references are effectively used and each article has a list of references for further reading. I am enthusiastic about this encyclopedia. I have been studying the subjects covered in its two volumes for years. I learned something new on every page. I strongly recommend it. [A] worthwhile reference tool both for undergraduate and graduate students that can serve as a great starting point for those studying love in one or more of the world religions. I would recommend it highly for all theological/religion libraries with the exception of those whose main reference focus falls outside the major religious traditions. Granted the tremendous significance and complexities of the topic of love, no single tool can hope to accomplish full treatment of this area yet and it is hoped that more reference materials of this type will soon emerge with sharper clarity in editorial scope and criteria.