Synopsis An evocative journey into a diverse culture, this the engaging yet long-neglected story of Iran's influence on the beliefs, practices, and scriptures of the world's religious traditions.  Following the paths of the Jews who migrated to Iran in 7 BCE, and the Iranian merchants who carried Buddhism along the Silk Road to China, this informed and informative account explores the impact of Persian culture on Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and the Baha'I Faith.  Author Richard C. Foltz probes beneath the surfact of world history, uncovering a wealth of Iranian ideas and influences, from the sacred formulas of the ancient Aryan inhabitants to the spectacular architecture of Iran's holiest cities.  Spanning the full spectrum of Persian history from the earliest settlers right up to the present age, he offers an invaluable insight into not only Iranian identity, but also the way in which religious traditions grow and change.  Accompanied by a guide to further reading and a full glossary and chronology, this is a long-overdue tribute to Iran's rich spiritual heritage.