Includes bibliographical references (pages 424-425) and index.

Introduction -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in Christianity -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in Judaism -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in Islam -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in Zoroastrianism -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in Indian religions -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in the religions of East Asia -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in indigenous and pagan traditions -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in Western esoteric and new age traditions -- New religions, sects, and alternative spiritualities with roots in modern Western culture.

"New Religions offers an authoritative and illustrated guide to more than two hundred varied groups and movements. The volume is organized according to an entirely new method of classification, which associates movements, sects, and spiritualities with the religious traditions from which they arose. Rastafarianism, for example, is shown to have its roots in Christianity, while Bahai is an offshoot of Islam. Included are both long-established groups like the Seventh-day Adventists and the Hutterites and more recent movements like Santeria, the Unification Church, and ISKCON (the "Hare Krishnas"). In addition to Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Zoroastrianism, Indian Religions, and the Religions of East Asia, sections are devoted to movements and groups inspired by Indigenous and Pagan Traditions, and by Western Esoteric and New Age Traditions. Particularly fascinating is the discussion of the religious offspring of Modern Western Culture, including Scientology, UFO-based groups (such as the Raelians), and even the worship of celebrities like Elvis and Princess Diana. Each entry clearly and concisely explains the history, beliefs and practices, and status in the world today of the movement or group in question. Special entries highlight broad topics such as New Religions in China as well as intriguing subjects such as Cargo Cults, Martial Arts, Astrology, and Feng Shui."--Jacket.