A Hindu temple can be a simple structure by the side of the road or a large complex including many buildings. Temples serve as dwelling places for deities, surrounded by markets selling offerings and flowers. The inner sanctuaries are small and intended for a few worshippers at a time. Above the sanctuaries are central towers, shaped like the mountain home of the gods and brightly painted.

A high level overview of Islam, the 5 pillars of Sunni Islam, and the Muslim belief that Islam is the extension of the faith of Abraham, Moses and Jesus.

An introduction to Shinto, one of Japan's earliest belief systems. Created by Asian Art Museum.

An overview of the founding of the Sikh religion started by Guru Nanak. Discussion of persecution by the Mughals and militarization by Gurus Har Gobind, Teg Bahadur and Gobind Singh. Overview of Khalsa.

Overview of the spread of Islam from the time of Muhammed to the Rashidun, Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphates. Discussion of Muslim conquest and conversion.

An introduction to the Sunni and Shia schism that forms in Islam after the death of Muhammed.

As Ali becomes caliph, the Ummayads under the leadership of Muawiya refuse to recognize him, sparking the first Muslim Civil War. The increased division leads eventually to the Tragedy at Karbala which is a defining event for Shia Muslims.

An introduction to the major schools of Buddhist thought--Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism.

From the Vedas, the oldest known Hindu scriptures, scholars have learned about the existence of the Vedic period in ancient Indian history that followed the Indus River Valley civilization. Sal explains more about this early society.

An introduction to Zen, a form of Buddhism that emphasizes seeking one's own Buddha nature through meditation.