In this enlightening and entertaining work, Charles Panati explores the origins of hundreds of religious rituals, customs, and practices in many faiths, the reasons for religious holidays and sacred symbols, and the meanings of vestments, sacraments, devotions, and prayers. Its many revelations include:

* Why the Star of David became the Jewish counterpart of the Christian cross

* What mortal remains of the Buddha are venerated today

* How the diamond engagement ring became a standard

* That the first pope was a happily married man

* How Hindu thinkers...