Tanzanian society is very religious. Indigenous belief systems prevalent in Africa were joined first by Islam, and later Christianity. Pervasive, useful and powerful as they are, religions can also be a source of problems. The relationships between and within religions are inherently potentially conflictual. The relationship between religion and politics is even more so. In 25 chapters, this collective volume explores four main themes. The introductory Part 1 deals with the historical evolution of the separation of religion and the State , as well as the theoretical and practical justification for the secular State. Part 2 examines the state of indigenous religions in Tanzania and how they relate to the State, the politics of the country and the two main religions, Islam and Christianity. Parts 3 and 4 deal with religious conflicts in Tanzania, including intra-Muslim conflicts, intra-denominational conflict in Christian churches, Muslim-Christian conflicts and religion-State relations and conflicts. Part 5 covers religion and access to education and employment. Contributors: Mohammed Bakari; Amon E. Chaligha, Bruce Heilman, Abel Ishumi, Bernadetta Killian, Yusufu Lawi, Athumani J. Liviga, Ernest T. Mallya, Robert Makaramba, Patrick Masanja, Balla Masele, Amos Kimela Mhina, Maximilian Mmuya, Rwekaza Mukandala, Philemon A.K. Mushi, Samuel Stephen Mushi, Issa Musoke, Laurean Ndumbaro, Mohabe Nyirabu, Mwajabu Possi, Yunus I. Rubanza, John Sivalon, Kapepwa I. Tambila, Zubeida Tumbo-Masabo, and Saïda Yahya-Othman. [ASC Leiden abstract]