Its usefulness is limited for research in religions other than Christianity and Judaism. This well-annotated guide is a good starting point for many areas of research in religion. Citing both books and periodicals, it is divided into six main sections, covering most world religions ancient and current, including the occult and parapsychology. This reference work is written in essay format, citing largely english books and periodicals. The essays provide basic information on the subject and explain how or why a cited work is useful.
Appendices exist at the end of some chapters which list main reference materials.
Although quite comprehensive, not recommended for research in Jewish history, Chinese Buddhism, or Sikhism. V.1-3 Encyclopedic Dictionary of Religion Rel. These volumes provide a thorough overview of the history, unique qualities, dynamics, and membership of each religious group cited. This work includes information about a wide variety of subjects related to the New Age movement. The book's introductory essay gives a comprehensive overview of New Age theories, history, etc.