A History of Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim Perspectives on War and Peace: The Bible to 1914

This massive, two-volume work is an extensive survey of the interactions between organized religions and war from the Exodus to Gulf War II. The major emphases are on Judaism, Christianity and Islam, with additional chapters on Hinduism, Buddhism, and sections on Shinto, Quakerism, and others. It will attract scholars in a variety of disciplines: peace studies, religion, history, and political science. "With this publication, J. William Frost joins that elite company of scholars whose breadth of knowledge and accessible writing style enable scholars and students in several fields to gain a new level of understanding of an extraordinarily important and timely topic. The author's chronological approach enables him to relate the evolution of religious thought and practice in relation to war to the major political and military developments in world history rather than treating each religion in isolation from the wider culture or cultures in which it exists. He also portrays insightfully the religious aspects of nationalism during times of war. A powerful tool of war throughout human history, religion at its best can also be a uniquely important resource for peace, Frost concludes. May the publication of this unusually comprehensive work contribute to knowledge of the former and support for the latter at a time when both are desperately needed." - Melvin B. Endy, Jr., Professor of Religious Studies, Emeritus, St. Mary's College of Maryland.