- Table View
- List View
Some New World: Myths of Supernatural Belief in a Secular Age
by null Peter HarrisonIn his famous argument against miracles, David Hume gets to the heart of the modern problem of supernatural belief. 'We are apt', says Hume, 'to imagine ourselves transported into some new world; where the whole form of nature is disjointed, and every element performs its operation in a different manner, from what it does at present.' This encapsulates, observes Peter Harrison, the disjuncture between contemporary Western culture and medieval societies. In the Middle Ages, people saw the hand of God at work everywhere. Indeed, many suppose that 'belief in the supernatural' is likewise fundamental nowadays to religious commitment. But dichotomising between 'naturalism' and 'supernaturalism' is actually a relatively recent phenomenon, just as the notion of 'belief' emerged historically late. In this masterful contribution to intellectual history, the author overturns crucial misconceptions – 'myths' – about secular modernity, challenging common misunderstandings of the past even as he reinvigorates religious thinking in the present.
Somehow: Thoughts on Love
by Anne Lamott“Love is our only hope,” Anne Lamott writes in this perceptive new book. “It is not always the easiest choice, but it is always the right one, the noble path, the way home to safety, no matter how bleak the future looks.” <P><P> In Somehow: Thoughts on Love, Lamott explores the transformative power that love has in our lives: how it surprises us, forces us to confront uncomfortable truths, reminds us of our humanity, and guides us forward. “Love just won’t be pinned down,” she says. “It is in our very atmosphere” and lies at the heart of who we are. We are, Lamott says, creatures of love. <P><P> In each chapter of Somehow, Lamott refracts all the colors of the spectrum. She explores the unexpected love for a partner later in life. The bruised (and bruising) love for a child who disappoints, even frightens. The sustaining love among a group of sinners, for a community in transition, in the wider world. The lessons she underscores are that love enlightens as it educates, comforts as it energizes, sustains as it surprises. <P><P> Somehow is Anne Lamott’s twentieth book, and in it she draws from her own life and experience to delineate the intimate and elemental ways that love buttresses us in the face of despair as it galvanizes us to believe that tomorrow will be better than today. Full of the compassion and humanity that have made Lamott beloved by millions of readers, Somehow is classic Anne Lamott: funny, warm, and wise.
The Songbird of Hope Hill: A Novel
by Kim Vogel SawyerA young woman sings of God&’s love—even if she doesn&’t believe He can forgive her—in this heartwarming novel inspired by historical events, from the bestselling author of A Tapestry of Grace.&“An unforgettable story of God&’s grace and redemption.&”—Kathleen Y&’Barbo, author of The Black MidnightDriven by survival to a life at a house of ill repute, Birdie Clarkson now longs only for escape. So when Reverend Isaiah Overly and his son, Ephraim, appear and offer a better life, she jumps at the chance. Ignoring the furious raging of the madam, Birdie climbs into the back of the preacher&’s wagon. The men take her to Hope Hill, the haven the reverend and his wife, Ophelia, founded so women like Birdie can be taught skills to help them rise above their pasts. Soon a resistant Birdie finds herself singing in the choir Ephraim leads at revival meetings, even though she&’s certain she&’s the last person who should be representing God. Reverend Overly teaches that no one is irredeemable, but even as Ephraim is falling in love with her, Birdie remains convinced that she&’s past saving. After all she&’s been through, can she ever believe that God&’s redemption wipes every soul clean? And can Ephraim convince her that God loves her more than she can grasp—and that he does, too?
Sounds of Innate Freedom: The Indian Texts of Mahamudra, Volume 2 (Sounds of Innate Freedom #2)
by Karl BrunnhölzlThe second volume in a historic six-volume series containing many of the first English translations of the classic Mahamudra literature compiled by the Seventh Karmapa.Sounds of Innate Freedom: The Indian Texts of Mahamudra are historic volumes containing many of the first English translations of the classic Mahamudra literature. The texts and songs in these volumes constitute the large compendium called The Indian Texts of the Mahamudra of Definitive Meaning, compiled by the Seventh Karmapa Chötra Gyatso (1456–1539). Translated, introduced, and annotated by Karl Brunnhölzl, acclaimed senior teacher at the Nalandabodhi community of Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, the collection offers a brilliant window into the richness of the vast ocean of Indian Mahamudra texts cherished in all Tibetan lineages, particularly in the Kagyü tradition, giving us a clear view of the sources of one of the world&’s great contemplative traditions. This volume 2 (thirty-four texts) contains two long-established sets of Mahamudra works: &“The Sixfold Pith Cycle&” and short texts of Maitripa&’s &“Twenty-Five Dharmas of Mental Nonengagement,&” which present a blend of Madhyamaka, Mahamudra, and certain tantric principles, as well as two commentaries by Maitripa&’s students. The vital focus of this volume is the accomplishment of true reality.
South Asian Islam: A Spectrum of Integration and Indigenization (Global Islamic Cultures)
by Nasr M Arif Abbas PanakkalThis volume explores the historical trajectory of the spread of Islam in South Asia and how the engagements of the past have played a crucial role in the making of the present outfits of South Asian Islam. Islam in South Asia has maintained a distinct role while imbibing cultural, social, ethnic, folk, and artistic networks of the subcontinent in diverse echelons. In an unequivocal analysis, this volume showcases the visible varieties of Islam from an array of regional cultural, ethnic, and vernacular groups. While many characteristics remain distinct in different provinces or regions of South Asia, similarities are palpable in etiquettes, customary laws, art, and architecture. More than regional differences, various ethnic groups from all poles of the Indian subcontinent have paved the way for the dissimilar landscapes of Islam, in tandem with differences in language, culture, and festivals. The case studies in this book exhibit forms of cultural pluralism in the communities, which have helped in building a cohesive community. Part of the ‘Global Islamic Cultures’ series that looks at integrated and indigenized Islam, this book will be of interest to students and researchers of religion, religious history, theology, study of Islamic law and politics, cultural studies, and South Asian Studies. It will also be useful to general readers who are interested in world religions and cultures.
Southeast Asian Islam: Integration and Indigenisation (Global Islamic Cultures)
by Nasr M. Arif Abbas PanakkalThis book explores Muslim communities in Southeast Asia and the integration of Islamic culture with the diverse ethnic cultures of the region, offering a look at the practice of cultural and religious coexistence in various realms.The volume traces the origins and processes of adoption, transmission, and adaptation of Islam by diverse ethnic communities such as the Malay, Acehnese, Javanese, Sundanese, the Bugis, Batak, Betawi, and Madurese communities, among others. It examines the integration of Islam within local politics, cultural networks, law, rituals, education, art, and architecture, which engendered unique regional Muslim identities.Additionally, the book illuminates distinctive examples of cultural pluralism, cosmopolitanism, and syncretism that persisted in Islamic religious practices in the region owing to its maritime economy and reputation as a marketplace for goods, languages, cultures, and ideas.As part of the Global Islamic Cultures series that investigates integrated and indigenized Islam, this book will be of interest to students and researchers of theology and religion, Islamic studies, religious history, political Islam, cultural studies, and Southeast Asian studies. It also offers an engaging read for general audiences interested in world religions and cultures.
Speak the Blessing: Send Your Words in the Direction You Want Your Life to Go
by Joel OsteenNew York Times bestselling author and pastor of Lakewood Church Joel Osteen shares how the power of our words can help create a better reality. Your words are like seeds. Every time you say them, they're taking root and growing. Are you planting good seeds? Are you seeing the increase, the health, the relationships, and the happiness you dream about? If not, check out what you&’re saying. Whether you realize it or not, the words you speak today are setting the direction for the rest of your life. In Speak the Blessing, New York Times bestselling author Joel Osteen offers you unique insights into this profound truth: Your words have creative power. When you discover the power of speaking what God says about you, you give those words the right to come to pass. There is a miracle in your mouth. There is healing in your mouth, freedom in your mouth, and new levels in your mouth. But nothing happens until you speak the blessing. Your words become your reality. Start blessing your future today. Use the words you speak to unlock the power within and create the life you were designed to live. The life-changing possibilities are limitless.
Speaking Words of Wisdom: The Beatles and Religion (American Music History)
by Michael McGowan“More popular than Jesus.”Despite the uproar it caused in America in 1966, John Lennon’s famous assessment of the Beatles vis-à-vis religion was not far off. The Beatles did mean more to kids than the religions in which they were raised, not only in America but everywhere in the world.By all accounts, the Beatles were the most significant musical group of the twentieth century. Their albums sold in the hundreds of millions, and the press was always eager to document their activities and perspectives. And when fan appreciation morphed into worship, Beatlemania took on religious significance. Many young people around the world began to look to the Beatles—their music, their commentary, their art—for meaning in a turbulent decade. Speaking Words of Wisdom is a deep dive into the Beatles’ relationship to religion through the lenses of philosophy, cultural studies, music history, and religious studies. Chapters explore topics such as religious life in Liverpool, faith among individual band members, why and how India entered the Beatles’ story, fan worship/deification, and the Beatles’ long-lasting legacy. In the 1960s, the Beatles facilitated a reevaluation of our deepest values. The story of how the Beatles became modern-day sages is an important case study for the ways in which consumers make culturally and religiously significant meaning from music, people, and events.In addition to the editor, the contributors to this book include David Bedford, Kenneth Campbell, John Covach, Melissa Davis, Anthony DeCurtis, Mark Duffett, Scott Freer, Murray Leeder, Sean MacLeod, Grant Maxwell, Christiane Meiser, and Eyal Regev.
Spilled Ink
by Nadia HashimiIn this insightful and affecting YA novel by well-loved author of books for adults and middle graders Nadia Hashimi, an Afghan American teenager's small town is thrown into controversy and violence when her brother, taking a stand against hatred, plays a prank that some think went too far…When Yalda hears that her twin brother, Yusuf, will be performing with his band at a local venue, she lets her friends convince her to sneak out to see his show. But the night has something else in store: After the opening band makes some ugly jokes about “terrorists,” Yusuf uses his time in the spotlight for an impulsive stunt responding to the hate speech. Suddenly, simmering tensions begin boiling over in their Virginia town, where many Afghan refugees have sought safety. When a video of Yusuf’s performance goes viral online, it seems like everyone in town turns against their family’s restaurant, leaving their livelihood in jeopardy. And then Yusuf is seriously injured in a mysterious fall.Despite her grieving and frightened family, friends she is not sure she can trust, and a town that no longer feels like a safe home, Yalda must try to find her own voice—and do what she can to change her world for the better.
Spinoza: Freedom's Messiah (Jewish Lives)
by Ian BurumaIan Buruma explores the life and death of Baruch Spinoza, the Enlightenment thinker whose belief in freedom of thought and speech resonates in our own time &“An elegant, relevant biography of a vital thinker.&”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Baruch (Benedictus) Spinoza (1632–1677) was a radical free thinker who led a life guided by strong moral principles despite his disbelief in an all-seeing God. Seen by many—Christians as well as Jews—as Satan&’s disciple during his lifetime, Spinoza has been regarded as a secular saint since his death. Many contradictory beliefs have been attached to his name: rationalism or metaphysics, atheism or pantheism, liberalism or despotism, Jewishness or anti-Semitism. However, there is no question that he viewed freedom of thought and speech as essential to an open and free society. In this insightful account, the award-winning author Ian Buruma stresses the importance of the time and place that shaped Spinoza, beginning with the Sephardim of Amsterdam and followed by the politics of the Dutch Republic. Though Spinoza rejected the basic assumptions of his family&’s faith, and was consequently expelled from his Sephardic community, Buruma argues that Spinoza did indeed lead a Jewish life: a modern Jewish life. To Heine, Hess, Marx, Freud, and no doubt many others today, Spinoza exemplified how to be Jewish without believing in Judaism. His defense of universal freedom is as important for our own time as it was in his.
Spirit and Life: Religious Education Directory for Catholic Schools Key Stage 3 Book 2
by Paul McHugh Trisha Hedley Claire O'Neill Carol GregsonThis title has received an Imprimatur and has been endorsed by the Catholic Education Service for the new REDEncourage students to engage with Catholic Religious Education at Key Stage 3 and enable them to understand, discern and respond to key concepts and ideas.This accessible Student Book has been written by experienced teachers and diocesan advisors to support the new Religious Education Directory (RED). - Easily deliver engaging lessons with in-depth content and ready-made tasks for each branch of learning within the new curriculum- Teach with confidence, whatever your level of expertise, with comprehensive and reliable guidance to support both specialists and non-specialists- Build students' knowledge with clear content coverage, including topic overviews, annotated extracts from scripture and clear explanations of key terms- Deepen understanding and help students to engage critically with the content by working through the 'Understand', 'Discern' and 'Respond' tasks throughout - Consolidate previous learning with links between topics highlighted to encourage students to revisit and recap what they have already covered
Spirit and Life: Religious Education Directory for Catholic Schools Key Stage 3 Book 2
by Paul McHugh Trisha Hedley Claire O'Neill Carol GregsonThis title has received an Imprimatur and has been endorsed by the Catholic Education Service for the new REDEncourage students to engage with Catholic Religious Education at Key Stage 3 and enable them to understand, discern and respond to key concepts and ideas.This accessible Student Book has been written by experienced teachers and diocesan advisors to support the new Religious Education Directory (RED). - Easily deliver engaging lessons with in-depth content and ready-made tasks for each branch of learning within the new curriculum- Teach with confidence, whatever your level of expertise, with comprehensive and reliable guidance to support both specialists and non-specialists- Build students' knowledge with clear content coverage, including topic overviews, annotated extracts from scripture and clear explanations of key terms- Deepen understanding and help students to engage critically with the content by working through the 'Understand', 'Discern' and 'Respond' tasks throughout - Consolidate previous learning with links between topics highlighted to encourage students to revisit and recap what they have already covered
Spirit of the Century: Our Own Story
by The Blind Boys of AlabamaAn insider history of the Blind Boys of Alabama, the longest running group in American music, and the untold story of their world, written with band members and key musical colleagues. The Blind Boys of Alabama are the quintessential Gospel vocal group, and the longest-running musical institution in America. Their story intersects with pivotal moments and issues in American history and is an ideal prism through which to trace music, culture, history, and race in America. Spirit of the Century invites readers to follow along the Blind Boys&’ eight-decade journey together from a segregated trade school, through the rough and tumble indie record game and grinding tour schedule of the golden age of gospel, to starring in an iconic Broadway musical, performing at the White House for three presidents twice, collaborating with Tom Petty, Lou Reed, and Ben Harper, among others, singing the theme song for &“The Wire,&” and winning five Grammys. More than just a story of the Blind Boys' illustrious career, Spirit of the Century also sheds new light on the larger world of African American gospel music, its origins, and the colorful characters at its center. Though there have been several iterations of the group over the decades, Spirit of the Century rounds up all surviving members of the group as contributors to the telling of their own story, and a result, the book offers a unique and intimate perspective on the group's enduring success. Current drummer and road manager Rickie McKinney has been with the group throughout its renaissance, while guitarist Joey Williams, the group&’s sighted member, has been the eyes of the Blind Boys since 1992. Octogenarian Jimmy Lee Carter has a fascinating history, as a fellow student of the original but deceased Blind Boys Clarence Fountain, George Scott, Olice Thomas, Johnny Fields, J.T. Hutton, and Velma Traylor at the Talladega school. Carter is one of a few performers who have been in both the Blind Boys of Alabama and Mississippi. He fronts the Alabama group today as a classic quartet leader and fiery preacher. Along with extensive interviews of Fountain, these legendary musicians provide this book with the voice, firsthand perspective, and authenticity that bring their story the same inspirational power that you hear in their songs. Thought-provoking, heartfelt, and deeply inspiring, Spirit of the Century is a fascinating and one-of-a-kind read that you won't be able to put down.
The Spirit's Pilgrimage
by Madeleine Slade“The Spirit's Pilgrimage by Madeleine Slade is a spiritual memoir that chronicles the author's journey from a privileged life in England to a life of service in India. Slade, who was known as Mirabehn, was a disciple of Mahatma Gandhi and played a significant role in India's struggle for independence. The book begins with Slade's childhood in England and her early years as a socialite. However, after reading Gandhi's autobiography, she felt a deep calling to serve the Indian people and left her comfortable life to join him in India. The Spirit's Pilgrimage details Slade's experiences living with Gandhi and his followers, as well as her involvement in the Indian independence movement. She writes about the challenges she faced as a foreigner in India and the sacrifices she made to serve the cause she believed in. Throughout the book, Slade reflects on her spiritual journey and the lessons she learned from Gandhi. She writes about her struggles with ego and attachment, and how she found peace and purpose through her service to others. Overall, The Spirit's Pilgrimage is a moving and inspiring memoir that offers a unique perspective on India's struggle for independence and the power of spiritual transformation.”-Print ed.
Spiritual Life (Talking Philosophy)
by Michael McGheeThe original claim made in the introduction to this classic volume was that it broke fresh ground: that it set a new agenda for the philosophy of religion and was a reaction against a narrow conception of the discipline that had little to say philosophically about human experience, or subjectivity, or about the religious imagination, or the idea of 'spirituality'. In a new Foreword to the book, Michael McGhee reflects on how the discipline has changed or remained the same in the intervening twenty-five years since first publication. He argues that the connections between 'philosophy' and 'spirituality' are still developing; and that what we think of as 'religious' or 'spiritual' is shifting, along with ideas about self-knowledge. The book contains pertinent chapters by some of the leading thinkers in the field, including Rowan Williams, Janet Soskice, Fergus Kerr, Stephen Clark and Paul Williams, who offers a comparative piece on Tibetan Buddhism.
Spirituality as a Resilience Factor in Life Crises: Viktor Frankl's Concept of the Mind and its Significance for Psychotherapy and Counseling (essentials)
by Gerhard SpraktiesThis essential illustrates to psychotherapists and counselors the importance of spirituality for strengthening personal resilience. We live in often exhausting and fast-moving times. The 21st century began with a series of crises on a global scale: the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the financial crisis, climate change, the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Many media outlets today are true artists when it comes to describing unsuccessful lives. Anyone who is constantly preoccupied with negative news runs the risk of losing their inner mental balance. They are in danger of falling into a mood characterized by gloom and resignation. Experienced spiritual counselor and logotherapist Gerhard Sprakties shows how a deep spiritual foundation can help us to deal with these challenges in a constructive way.
Star for Jesus (And Other Jobs I Quit): Rediscovering the Grace that Sets Us Free
by Kimberly StuartA funny, thought-provoking memoir-in-essays about learning to understand—again and again—that we can&’t earn God&’s love no matter how many rules we follow or boxes we check, and learning to accept the grace that is freely given. Growing up, Kimberly Stuart got really good at strapping on her spiritual tap shoes and trying to be a star for Jesus. She could sing all the songs, ace the sword drills, and know all the right theology. From earning creepy Jesus paperweights in her church&’s faux Girl Scout program to trying to calm an actual storm on the Mediterranean, she was doing her best… and still found herself longing for something more. She didn&’t mean to completely ignore the most beautiful tenets of her faith—the unwavering grace and tenacious love of God—but she did. Which, of course, was the problem. Her best was lackluster, and God wasn&’t looking for a star performer anyway.Star for Jesus (And Other Jobs I Quit), is an invitation for readers to spot unvarnished, amazing grace when they see it. With her trademark wit and transparency, Stuart brings readers through both big and small moments that teach us to cling to the fierce love of God instead of the flimsier versions we find elsewhere. With unflinching honesty and relatable humor, Stuart encourages readers to take another look at unrelenting grace; why, contrary to the cultural narrative, we are not actually enough, and that&’s good news; how we always, remarkably, have all the grace we need; and why this moment in history is the perfect time to extend no-strings-attached grace to an emotionally bedraggled, wary world. .
The Star on the Grave: A novel inspired by the 'Japanese Schindler', written by a woman who owes him her life
by Linda Margolin RoyalIn 1940, as the Nazis sweep toward Lithuania, Japanese diplomat Chiune Sugihara defies his government and secretly issues visas to fleeing Jewish refugees. After the war, Sugihara is dismissed and disappears into obscurity.Three decades later, in Australia, Rachel Margol is shocked when her engagement reveals a long-held family secret: she is Jewish. As she grapples with this deception and the dysfunction it has caused, unspoken tragedies from the past begin to come to light. When an opportunity arrives to visit Chiune Sugihara, the man who risked his life to save the Margols during World War II, Rachel becomes determined to meet him. But will a journey to Japan, and the secrets it uncovers, heal the family or fracture them for good?The Star on the Grave is a powerful and moving novel inspired by the true story of Chiune Sugihara, and the thousands of people - including the author - who owe him their lives
Start with Welcome: The Journey toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation
by Bri StensrudYou've seen the headlines. You've watched the TV footage. People around the world are in dire situations and on the move. Current estimates suggest over 100 million people are forcibly displaced from their homes and seeking refuge in other countries. It seems as if everyone wants to come to the U.S., and if we're honest, that gives many of us pause.As Christians we're supposed to love our neighbor as ourselves. But we can't stop wondering if we showed welcome to the world, would it change our culture? Would it make us less safe? Would it be a drain on our taxes and local communities? Whether we realize it or not, our fears have trumped our faith. We fear those who seek a new life in our midst.So does the Bible have anything to say about immigration? Or is it just a political issue? Is it a pro-life issue? Where does this all fit in my faith and worldview?You have questions. You have fears. But you also have compassion.So, let's start there.Let's have the conversation you've always wanted to have about immigration. Let's ask hard questions and detangle from the easy talking points that still leave us curious about our calling. Let's attach confidence to your compassion.Get ready to dive into the whole of scripture to better understand what God calls us to do concerning immigrants and refugees. It's a journey, and I'm here to take it with you.In Start with Welcome, Bri Stensrud reveals that something is stirring in the American Church. Something much bigger than platforms, politics, and pundits. Something that could literally change the world.It all starts with one word: Welcome.
The States of the Earth: An Ecological and Racial History of Secularization
by Mohamed Amer Meziane"An extraordinary book. Mohamed Amer Meziane's breathtaking analysis of the making of fossil states opens to a new genre of history writing where the very layers of earth's riches are at its center."—Ann Laura Stoler, author of Carnal Knowledge and Imperial Power, Along the Archival GrainHow the disenchantment of empire led to climate changeWhile industrial states competed to colonize Asia and Africa in the nineteenth century, conversion to Christianity was replaced by a civilizing mission. This new secular impetus strode hand in hand with racial capitalism in the age of empires: a terrestrial paradise was to be achieved through accumulation and the ravaging of nature.Far from a defence of religion, The States of the Earth argues that phenomena such as evangelism and political Islam are best understood as products of empire and secularization. In a world where material technology was considered divine, religious and secular forces both tried to achieve Heaven on Earth by destroying Earth itself.
The Storied Life: Christian Writing as Art and Worship
by Jared C. WilsonWhen writers write, they are getting in touch with the image of God in them. This is true in some way of all artistry, but writers especially create worlds, characters, histories, and transformation--all ex nihilo ("out of nothing").In The Storied Life, veteran author Jared C. Wilson explores the ins and outs of writers and writing, exploring the myriad ways the craft is more about transformation than simply communication. From decades of experience and with his signature wit, Wilson brings well-earned insight, autobiographical reflections, and meaningful meditations to the topic of writing as a way of life and as a way of worship, showing how the concept of Story--our personal stories and God's grand story of redemption--shapes fiction and non-fiction writers alike.Chapters focus on topics like:The liturgy of story.Writing as a spiritual act.Perseverance and endurance.Writing as a calling.Promotion, publishing, and platform.Whether you're a long-time writer or a beginning author, a daily journaler or an occasional dabbler, The Storied Life will help you improve your craft. It will lead you to think more deeply about the disciplines and dispositions needed to write for transformation.
Stories for Your Soul: Ordinary People. Extraordinary God.
by Max LucadoLife can be hard: grief, loss, busyness, financial hardships, abuse, broken relationships, and illness are just some of the difficulties we all face on a regular basis. It's easy to lose faith in your neighbor and feel like you&’re alone--but Max Lucado assures us that hope is here. Stories for Your Soul: Ordinary People. Extraordinary God. by pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado will reestablish your faith in people and the Lord by sharing the good in the world.Compiled from Max's catalog of treasured stories, this collection of ordinary miracles sheds light on the ways that everyday people are doing God's work while also sharing their gifts with others.Throughout Stories for Your Soul, you'll read about:Nicholas Winton, a twenty-nine-year-old stockbroker, who rescued 669 children during World War IIFavio Chavez and Don Cola Gomez--two men recycling the world&’s trash into musical instrumentsJimmy Wayne and how complete strangers gave him a home and became his familyAnd many more amazing storiesAt the end of each inspiring story, you'll find two reflection questions to help you dig deep into your life and identify ways you can use your own gifts to change the world while deepening your faith in God.
A Story of Islamic Art
by Marcus MilwrightProviding an introduction to the artistic and architectural traditions of the Islamic world, A Story of Islamic Art explores fifty case studies, taken from different regions of the Islamic world and from the seventh to the twenty-first centuries. The novel aspect of these case studies is that they are presented as fictional narratives, allowing the reader to imagine art and architecture, either in their original cultural settings or at some later point in their histories. These stories are supported by a scholarly framework that allows the reader to continue their exploration of the chosen artefacts and their historical context. The fifty case studies take the form of short stories, each of which focuses on one or more object from the Islamic world. These encompass portable items in a wide variety of media, book illustrations, calligraphy, photographs, architectural decoration, buildings, and archaeological sites. The book also provides a detailed introduction, maps, timeline, glossary, and guides for further reading. This book offers accessible answers to key questions in the scholarship on Islamic art and architecture from its earliest times to the present. The issues dealt with in each of the stories include iconography, attitudes towards representation, the role of script, the elaboration of geometric decoration, the creation of sacred and secular spaces in architecture, and the socio-cultural context of art production and consumption. Artistic interactions between the Islamic world and other regions including Europe and China are also discussed in this book. A Story of Islamic Art is an engaging and informative introduction for interested readers and students of Islamic art, history, and architecture.
Story, Ritual, Prophecy, Wisdom: Reading and Teaching the Bible Today
by Mark W. Hamilton Samjung Kang-HamiltonDiscover how studying the Bible can renew your church community. How do we teach the Bible in a way that makes a real difference in our students&’ lives and our communities? Too often, biblical introductions treat Scripture as a mere historical artifact. Mark W. Hamilton and Samjung Kang-Hamilton combine their decades of experience in theological and religious education to devise a new way to teach Scripture that brings out its life-giving qualities. The authors show how Scripture has four modes: story, ritual, prophecy, and wisdom. With an eye toward spiritual formation, the authors explore examples of each of the four genres within the Bible and show how they address real needs in the life of the church today. They also recommend how to incorporate contemporary tools like digital media alongside art, music, and other practices to draw wisdom from Scripture. Combining multicultural sensitivity with ecumenical spirit, this guidebook is ideal for educators and pastors seeking to renew their own Christian communities through biblical education.
Strange Scriptures That Perplex the Western Mind: Clarified in the Light of Customs and Conditions in Bible Lands
by Barbara M. BowenDelve into the intriguing world of biblical interpretation with Barbara M. Bowen's Strange Scriptures That Perplex the Western Mind. This enlightening book offers readers a comprehensive guide to understanding the cultural, historical, and linguistic contexts of various biblical passages that often confuse or perplex modern Western readers.Barbara M. Bowen, an esteemed biblical scholar and educator, provides a detailed exploration of scriptures that seem mysterious or contradictory when viewed through a contemporary Western lens. By shedding light on the ancient customs, traditions, and idiomatic expressions of the times, Bowen reveals the true meanings and profound wisdom contained within these passages.Strange Scriptures That Perplex the Western Mind covers a wide range of topics, including enigmatic sayings, puzzling parables, and complex metaphors found in both the Old and New Testaments. Bowen's accessible and engaging writing style makes these ancient texts come alive, offering readers new insights and a deeper appreciation for the richness of the biblical narrative.The book is organized thematically, making it easy for readers to navigate and find explanations for specific passages that have long puzzled them. Bowen's thorough research and thoughtful analysis provide clear and concise interpretations that bridge the gap between ancient and modern understanding.This book is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the Bible, whether they are students of theology, clergy, or lay readers. Strange Scriptures That Perplex the Western Mind not only clarifies confusing passages but also enriches the reader's overall comprehension of the Bible's message and its relevance to contemporary life.