The author of Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things tackles questions like: Why do people pray with their hands together? Why are there nine classifications of angels? Who wrote the Bible, the Torah, the Koran? Why does Judaism allow divorce, but Roman Catholicism does not? Panati also explores the origins of sacred practices and custom, the reasons for religious holidays and ritualistic symbols, the meanings of vestments, sacraments, devotions, and prayers, and more.