約480名の専門家が執筆した、東西世界を結ぶ広大な空間と時間軸にわたる本格的レファレンス。This is the first comprehensive single-volume reference covering the ancient religions in the Mediterranean world. The volume's scope extends from pre-historical antiquity in the 3rd millennium B.C.E. through the rise of Islam in the 7th century C.E. An interdisciplinary approach draws out the common issues and elements among religious traditions in the Mediterranean basin. The volume includes maps and a timeline of major events, innovations, and individuals.