Today’s conversation dwells on the multiplicity of religious influences that entered Dagestan through the ancient city of Derbent, as well as through the Western Caucasus. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all had established presences here at various times and much architecture remains to show it. While religion may be a tender subject to bring up in mixed company in some parts of the world, in the North Caucasus, it’s unavoidable. Hardly a day goes by that we don’t talk religion with one friend or another. To understand the Caucasus, then, is to talk—and listen, and hear, and think—about religion. Over the next three episodes we will air an extended conversation between the two of us about the many colorful facets of religion in this region. As always, much is based on our experience with our many friends from many backgrounds. We want to acknowledge up front that even though we are not endorsing one thing or another, some listeners will likely feel misrepresented. Please know that is not our purpose at all. If you know us, you know that we are open to learning more! So let this serve as an invitation for more discovery about this rich, deep, and pervasive part of life in the North Caucasus. Enjoy the conversation!