Women and Religious Traditions uses a critical feminist lens to explore the roles and interactions of women with major world faith traditions. Within each particular tradition, the text examines the history and status of women, family structures, sexuality, and social change, as well as texts, rituals, and interpretations by and for women.

"Excellent, cutting-edge scholarship, compellingly written and made accessible to undergraduates. . . . This is a top-notch book." --Michele Murray, Bishop's University "Extremely readable. . . . An excellent introduction to the topic. . . . The chapters do a very good job introducing students to the religious tradition in question, and the structure of each chapter, despite the different authors, helps the student of comparative religion to analyze the information." --Ariana Patey, Memorial University of Newfoundland

Expert Canadian contributors ensure students are exposed to the most up-to-date and in-depth scholarship in the field. Interdisciplinary approach integrates historical, psychological, political, and sociological perspectives, providing students with a well-rounded introduction to the topic. Balanced coverage of Eastern and Western religious traditions, as well as new religions that focus on the notion of the Goddess. Engaging case studies - including a NEW case on women and Chinese traditions - encourage students to think critically about the role of women in the context of different religions.

Leona M. Anderson is professor emeritus in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Regina. Her research interests include Sanskrit literature, classical and popular Hinduism, Hindu ritual, and iconography. Her publications include the Vasantotsava: Indian Spring Festival, Text and Contexts (New Delhi: DK Printworld, 1993/4); The Ganesh Festival (51 mins., colour video [vhs] documentary, 1999 and 2009), and The Orishas of Cuba (dvd, 2008). Her current research focuses on Santeria traditions in Cuba and the Ashtavinayakas in India. Pamela Dickey Young is professor of religious studies at Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario. She is author of many books and articles on feminist theology, women and religion, and religion and sexuality. Her current research focuses on religion, gender, and sexuality among youth in Canada. Her most recent book is Religion, Sex and Politics: Christian Churches and Same-Sex Marriage in Canada (Fernwood Publishing, 2012).

Expert Canadian contributors ensure students are exposed to the most up-to-date and in-depth scholarship in the field. Interdisciplinary approach integrates historical, psychological, political, and sociological perspectives, providing students with a well-rounded introduction to the topic. Balanced coverage of Eastern and Western religious traditions, as well as new religions that focus on the notion of the Goddess. Engaging case studies - including a NEW case on women and Chinese traditions - encourage students to think critically about the role of women in the context of different religions.