Enciklopedija-zivih-religija-pdf
The Enciklopedija živih religija (Encyclopedia of Living Religions) is a comprehensive reference work originally edited by Keith Crim, Roger A. Bullard, and Larry D. Shinn. The most notable Serbian translation was published by Nolit in Belgrade, often cited in academic research regarding ethnography, theology, and the history of religions.
Below is an overview paper summarizing the scope and significance of this work.
The Encyclopedia of Living Religions: A Gateway to Global Faiths Introduction
The Enciklopedija živih religija serves as a vital scholarly bridge between the complex history of global belief systems and the contemporary practice of faith. Originally published in English as the Abingdon Dictionary of Living Religions, the Serbian edition (notably the one published by Nolit) has become a standard reference for students and researchers in the Balkans exploring the diversity of spiritual traditions. Scope and Structure
The encyclopedia is designed to provide an objective, descriptive account of religions that are currently practiced worldwide. Key features include: Enciklopedija-zivih-religija-pdf
Breadth of Content: Covers major world religions (Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism) as well as smaller movements and indigenous traditions.
Thematic Depth: Entries detail historical origins, key figures, sacred texts, core doctrines, and ritual practices.
Scholarly Rigor: The work avoids proselytization, focusing instead on religious studies (religiologija) from a historical and sociological perspective. Academic Significance in the Balkan Context
In Serbian and regional scholarship, the Nolit edition of this encyclopedia is frequently cited in studies concerning: search institutional repositories (e.g.
Ethnography and Folklore: Used as a comparative tool to understand local customs—such as Serbian folk traditions involving nature and communion—within the broader context of religious history.
Intercultural Dialogue: Provides the necessary vocabulary and historical context for understanding the religious diversity of the modern world.
Theology and Philosophy: Acts as a foundational text for analyzing the development of religious thought across different cultures. Digital Availability and Use
As a comprehensive reference book, it is often sought in PDF format by researchers and students for its accessibility. It is a cornerstone for those studying at the Institute for the Study of Religion or similar theological and sociological departments. Conclusion Encyclopedia of Religion by Eliade
The Enciklopedija živih religija remains one of the most important translated works in the field of religious studies in the region. By documenting the "living" aspect of faith, it ensures that religions are understood not just as historical relics, but as active, evolving forces that continue to shape human culture and identity. partaking of communion with plants and tree fruits 1
5. Legal access and locating legitimate copies
- Search university libraries, national library catalogs, and WorldCat for library holdings.
- Check academic publisher websites or the book’s publisher page for official PDF or e-book versions.
- Use interlibrary loan or request digitization through a library if unavailable.
- Avoid downloading from unauthorized file-sharing sites; prefer licensed sellers or library access.
Detailed Review: Is the Encyclopedia Worth Your Time?
Šta je "Enciklopedija živih religija"?
"Enciklopedija živih religija" (na engleskom: Encyclopedia of Living Religions) jeste jedinstveno izdanje na srpskohrvatskom jeziku koje obrađuje religijske sisteme koji su i dalje aktivni i relevantni u savremenom svetu. Za razliku od klasičnih istorijskih pregleda koji se bave drevnim, izumrlim kultovima, ova enciklopedija se fokusira na žive tradicije – one koje još uvek dišu kroz svoje vernike, rituale i svete tekstove.
Part 4: New Religious Movements (NRMs)
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons)
- Jehovah’s Witnesses
- The Unification Church (Moonies)
- New Age spirituality: Channeling, crystal healing, astrology revival.
- Neopaganism: Wicca, Druidry, Ásatrú.
3. Availability & Legality
- Copyright Status: Most editions (e.g., the 1991 edition by N. Ciklamini, or later prints by publishers like "Nolit" or "BIGZ") remain under copyright. Legitimate free PDFs are unlikely unless the publisher has released it openly.
- Potential Sources: Some academic libraries in Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, or Montenegro may offer digitized copies for registered users. Pirate sites (e.g., Scribd, PDF repositories, or Balkan e-book trackers) may list it, but downloading from such sources often violates copyright.
- Legal Alternatives: Check WorldCat for library holdings; purchase a used physical copy; or see if newer editions (e.g., Enciklopedija religija) are available for purchase.
5. Suggested Ethical & Practical Approach
- First, search institutional repositories (e.g., Hrčak – Portal of Croatian scientific journals, or Digital National Library of Serbia).
- If you need a single chapter or article, contact a university library for interlibrary loan or a scanned excerpt.
- Consider using Google Books or Internet Archive for similar public-domain encyclopedias of religion (e.g., Encyclopedia of Religion by Eliade, though in English).
Deep Dive: What You Will Find Inside
If you secure a copy of the PDF, here are three sections you should prioritize reading: