Introduction to the History of Religions Handbooks on the History of Religions, Volume IV

"Introduction to the History of Religions" by Crawford Howell Toy is an early 20th-century book that explains different religious beliefs and practices across different societies and eras, paying close attention to the basic traditions and thoughts behind public religion. This book examines the development alongside social structures. The author starts by explaining the volume's goal, highlighting the importance of understanding religion's real nature and its connection to society. Toy starts by talking about the common features of early human beliefs, especially how early humans felt dependent on unknown forces that influenced their religious feelings. He claims that religion and science have existed together, changing as societies grew. This introduction sets the stage for the rest of the book, which goes into detail about many religious practices and ideas, from the nature of the soul to specific religious rituals.