Encyclopedias are good sources for finding background information on a subject. This is factual, common knowledge information that can help you gain an understanding of a subject that is new to you. There are general encyclopedias and subject specific encyclopedias. Many encyclopedias are now available online.
You can find many encyclopedias on religion by searching OneSearch for "encyclopedia religion."
Offers fully-indexed, cross-searchable dictionary, language reference, and subject reference works published by Oxford University Press, including Oxford Companions Series. Covers a wide range of fields and includes illustrations, maps, timelines, biographies, and links to authoritative websites.