"Religious Festivals" explores the diverse world of religious celebrations, examining their historical roots and modern significance. These festivals, expressions of faith and tradition, vary greatly across cultures. Intriguingly, many festivals have adapted over centuries, influenced by social, political, and economic shifts. The book highlights how religious celebrations are not only about unwavering faith but also about evolving identities and shared values.
The book journeys through core concepts like ritual and sacred time, then examines specific festivals from Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Each chapter dives into the historical context, theological significance, and contemporary practices of selected festivals. This approach provides a broad understanding of how these celebrations shape community identity and promote interfaith understanding.
The later chapters analyze the role of religious festivals in shaping community identity, promoting social cohesion, and fostering interfaith understanding while also considering issues like religious intolerance. Using historical documents, ethnographic studies, and theological texts, the book presents a balanced view of these vibrant cultural expressions.
