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A Dictionary of Christian Art
by Peter Murray Linda MurrayThe Dictionary of Christian Art, now rebranded in the best-selling Oxford Paperback Reference series, is a unique and fascinating exploration of the art and architecture that has been influenced and inspired by biblical stories and Christian history and beliefs. The Dictionary combines general essays on the periods and styles important in the history of Christian art with lots of shorter entries that describe specific works, artists, themes, and visual images, and which give the reader practical guidance on where in Europe to locate the works described. The Dictionary of Christian Art is a unique and fascinating exploration of the art and architecture that has been influenced and inspired by biblical stories and Christian history and beliefs. Among the many features of this dictionary are: detailed essays on periods and styles in art and architecture, including Byzantine, Renaissance, Baroque; general background to the Old and New Testaments, and to Christian tradition and beliefs; forms of art influenced by Christianity, such as illuminated manuscripts, stained glass; artists and architects and their works, for example Fra Angelico, Donatello, Pugin, and many others; and places and buildings, including Assisi, Roma, St Paul's, the Sistine Chapel. There are also descriptions and explanations of features of Christian churches, significant saints, popes, saints, and rulers, and a glossary of Architectural Terms and detailed bibliography.
A Dictionary of Creation Myths
by David A. Leeming Margaret A. LeemingGod made Heaven, and then, after measuring the space underneath with a ball of thread, he began to form the earth. A mole asked to help, and God gave him the thread to hold while he wove the patterns of the earth. Sometimes the mole would let out too much thread, and finally the earth grew too large for the space under heaven. The mole was so upset that he hid under the earth. God sent the bee to look for him; he wanted the mole's advice on what to do about the mistake. The bee found the mole and he just laughed at the idea of advising God. The bee, however, hid in a flower and overheard the mole mumbling to himself about what he would do if he were God. 'I would squeeze the earth,' he said. 'That would make mountains and valleys and make it smaller at the same time.' When the bee heard this, he went directly to God and told him. God did what the mole had said, and everything fit fine." The myth of Rumanian Creation in which God weaves the earth from a ball of thread is just one the many stories that make up the wondrous world of creation myths. In virtually every culture throughout the ages, creation myths have played a vital role in providing not only explanations of the origins of societies but also specific cultural identities--serving as a "projection of an aspect of a culture's soul." Covering thousands of years of intricate creation tales, A Dictionary of Creation Myths is the first and most comprehensive work devoted to creation myths from cultures throughout the world. With an easy-to-use A-Z format, this around-the-world tour provides access to information on the beliefs(both exotic and ordinary) of ancient civilizations from Sumeria and Babylonia to Egypt, Greece, and ancient Rome, from India and China to Japan and Indonesia, as well as the rich mythological history of Native Americans, the indigenous peoples of Australia, and many other cultures. We read of the creation myth of the Diegueno tribe of southern California in which the creator, Tu-chai-pai, made the earth female and the sky male and then formed mud into people; and the myth of Japanese creation in which Izanagei, and his sister Izanami, watch the first land form from ocean water dripping from Izanagi's spear. Alongside these ancient beliefs are the more modern, such as Darwin's theory of evolution and the big bang theory. Each entry identifies the culture associated with the myth, and each myth is retold in clear, eloquent prose, with extensive cross-referencing to guide readers to other entries. Throughout, the authors share insightful analyses of the surprisingly intricate relationship of certain myths across cultures, regions, and time. From cosmic eggs and the Garden of Eden to the Spider Woman and the Gaia Principle, from myths of the apocalypse and the great world religions to myths of love, rebirth, and science, this guide illuminates the phenomenon of creation from all aspects of the human experience. Richly illustrated,A Dictionary of Creation Myths is essential for anyone who has ever wondered how the world was created, where we came from, or why we are here at all.
A Dictionary of Gnosticism
by Andrew Phillip SmithA Dictionary of Gnosticism is a scholarly yet accessible guide that covers the people, mythology, movements, scripture, and technical terms related to this pre-Christian Western religion. It contains nearly 1700 entries, from Aachiaram, an angel in the Secret Book of John to Zostrianos, a third-century Gnostic text, and is a reliable reference for the Nag Hammadi library and other Gnostic texts. An introduction explains who the Gnostics were and provides a whirlwind tour through the history of this captivating movement.
A Dictionary of Gnosticism
by Andrew Phillip SmithA Dictionary of Gnosticism is a scholarly yet accessible guide that covers the people, mythology, movements, scripture, and technical terms related to this pre-Christian Western religion. It contains nearly 1700 entries, from Aachiaram, an angel in the 'Secret Book of John to Zostrianos', a third-century Gnostic text, and is a reliable reference for the Nag Hammadi library and other Gnostic texts. An introduction explains who the Gnostics were and provides a whirlwind tour through the history of this captivating movement.
A Dictionary of Gods and Goddesses, Devils and Demons (Routledge Dictionaries Ser.)
by Manfred LurkerContaining around 1,800 entries this Dictionary covers, in one volume, all the important deities and demons from around the world. The gods of ancient mythology appear alongside the gods of contemporary religion, and `lesser' mythologies and religions are also fully covered. The author provides an extensive network of cross-references, allowing the reader to draw cross-cultural comparisons. The Dictionary will be an invaluable source of information for anyone interested in comparative religion or the diversity of religious views throughout the world.
A Dictionary of Hinduism: Its Mythology, Folklore and Development 1500 B.C.-A.D. 1500 (Routledge Library Editions: Hinduism #2)
by Margaret and Stutley‘Hinduism’ is a term often used to summarize the aspirations of the majority of the Indian people. But any simple definition of it is difficult, if not impossible. This is partly owing to the nuances of the Sanskrit language, in which many texts are written, and partly to the too literal interpretation of Hindu imagery and mythology that often veils its real significance. This book, first published in 1977, is an essential reference source that goes some way to clarifying the difficulties of understanding Hinduism.
A Dictionary of World Mythology
by Arthur CotterellRecent interest in mythology indicates a general recognition of the power of the poetical tales. But there is still a fair measure of disagreement as to what is the strength of myths. For Plato, the first known user of the term, mythologia meant no more than the telling of stories which usually contained legendary figures. Another theory of origin is that folklore and mythology are almost indistinguishable. In the arrangement of this book can be discerned the seven great traditions of world mythology: namely, West Asia, South and Central Asia, East Asia, Europe, America, Africa, and Oceania.
A Dictionary of the Bible
by W. R. F. BrowningThis revised edition is the most authoritative, accessible, and up-to-date dictionary of the Bible available in paperback. As well as providing helpful information about important places and personalities, it is particularly concerned to expound the themes and doctrines of the Bible and to indicate their status in the light of modern scholarship. With entries ranging from earthquakes and mice to feminism and the Dead Sea Scrolls, the dictionary is a lively and absorbing reference work for all readers of the Bible. -Over 2,000 entries from Adam to Zechariah -Clear explanations of technical terms, methods of interpretation, and critical analysis, as well as notes on leading biblical scholars and their contributions -Broad coverage includes the books of the Bible, people and places, customs, religions and worship, history, and theology -Takes into account the work of Christian scholars of all denominations and Jewish scholars
A Dictionary of the English Bible and its Origins (Biblical Seminar Ser. #No. 67)
by Alec GilmoreThe Dictionary of the English Bible and Its Origins is designed to increase awareness of the origins of the Bible; to introduce readers to the variety of versions and manuscripts that lie behind the familiar English translations;to provide, in alphabetical order, entries on texts, versions, manuscripts, persons, places and terminology, covering the origins of the Hebrew Bible, the New Testament and the English Bible, including the most recent translations; and generally to facilitate a more intelligent understanding of the Bible among lay people by removing some of the mystique and prejudices associated with it. Entries are factual, not evaluative, and reflect contemporary biblical scholarship. Dictionary of the English Bible and Its Origins will prove to be a handy reference tool for anyone with an interest in the Bible.
A Dictionary of the Sacred Language of All Scriptures and Myths (Routledge Revivals)
by G GaskellG. A. Gaskell’s Dictionary of the Sacred Language of All Scriptures and Myths, first published in 1923, examines several different aspects of religion, including examples from Ancient Egyptian religion and mythology to modern-day Christianity, providing explanations of gods, events, and symbols in alphabetical order. This is a perfect reference book for students of theology or the history of religion.
A Different Kind Of Cell: The Story Of A Murderer Who Became A Monk
by W. JonesThe gripping story of one man s remarkable spiritual journey A "most dangerous" criminal, convicted of five violent murders, Clayton Anthony Fountain was condemned in 1974 to live out his days in solitary confinement at the highest-security prison in the U.S. Without ever again emerging from his cell, however, Fountain underwent a profound spiritual transformation. Father W. Paul Jones, who served as Fountain s spiritual adviser for six years until Fountain's sudden death in 2004, shares his amazing story with candor and compassion in these pages.
A Different Kind of Christmas Leader Guide: Living and Giving Like Jesus (A Different Kind of Christmas)
by Mike SlaughterA Different Kind of Christmas is a practical and inspirational study for the Advent season. Based on Mike Slaughter's popular book Christmas Is Not Your Birthday, this five-week study will empower your family and your church to reclaim the broader missional meaning of Jesus' birth and experience a Christmas season with more peace and joy than any toy or gadget could ever bring. This comprehensive resource includes a 64-page Leader Guide containing everything needed to guide your group through the study. Inside you'll find five full session plans, discussion questions, and activities, as well as multiple format options and suggestions of ways to make the study a meaningful experience for any group. Sessions include: 1. Expect a Miracle 2. Giving Up on Perfect 3. Scandalous Love 4. Jesus' Wish List 5. By a Different Road Help your church cast a vision for how Christians can experience the true joy of living and giving like Jesus beginning with the Christmas season and continuing as a lifestyle. This six week study helps participants see the traps and discontentment of consumerism and the call of God to live generously to fulfill God's mission in the world.
A Different Kind of Christmas Youth Study: Living and Giving Like Jesus (A Different Kind of Christmas)
by Michael B. Slaughter Kevin AltonA Different Kind of Christmas is a practical and inspirational study for youth during the Advent season. Based on Mike Slaughter's popular book Christmas is Not Your Birthday, this engaging study will help youth reclaim the broader missional meaning of Jesus' birth and experience a Christmas season with more peace and joy than any toy or gadget could ever bring. This five-week resource for youth includes leader helps. It also provides resources for incorporating A Different Kind of Christmas: Small Group DVD With Leader Guide and for leading a book study of Mike Slaughter's Christmas Is Not Your Birthday.
A Different Kind of Christmas: Devotions for the Season (A Different Kind of Christmas)
by Mike SlaughterEvery year, we say we're going to cut back, simplify, and have a family Christmas that focuses on the real reason for the season--Jesus. But every year, advertisements beckon, the children plead, and it seems easier just to indulge our wants and whims. Overspending, overeating, materialism, and busyness rob us of our peace and joy and rob Jesus of his rightful role as the center of our celebration. This book of devotional readings is designed to draw your entire family into closer fellowship with God as you respond to this Christmas season and the call of God to live generously all year around. The devotional includes thirty short readings, Scripture, prayer, and stories about helping others at Christmas. A Different Kind of Christmas: Devotional Readings for the Season is a great gift idea for family, friends, teachers, and ministry leaders.
A Different Kind of Courage: A Top-Rated Blue Angel Pilot Finds That Being the Best is Not Enough
by Jim HorsleyAs a decorated Navy combat pilot, Jim Horsley flew to the top of his field, yet still felt unfulfilled. A Different Kind of Courage is the engaging account of his search for true significance.
A Different Way: Recentering the Christian Life Around Following Jesus
by Christopher A. Hall“A genuine treasure and superb work in spiritual formation.” — Richard J. Foster, author of Celebration of DisciplineFollowing in the tradition of Richard J. Foster’s A Celebration of Discipline and Dallas Willard’s Divine Conspiracy, the former president of Renovaré calls all Christians to recenter the Christian life around what has always been its core: following Jesus.“Change” is at the heart of Christian life. As Christians, we are called to be disciples of Jesus, to actively follow his teachings and become more like him. But the church has lost sight of what has always been its center, Christopher A. Hall argues. In A Different Way, he reminds us that faith is not meant to be merely rigid and static and so guides us back to Christianity’s spiritual foundation, helping us reconnect with Jesus and live the life he calls to live.Filled with personal stories that encourage introspection, thoughtful meditations on spiritual formation, and profound wisdom, A Different Way is an interactive book that encourages reflection through daily journaling and Bible passages to read and consider. With thoughtful introspection and Bible study, we can begin our spiritual journey of actively following the way Jesus teaches us to live.
A Dime a Dozen (The Million Dollar Mysteries, #3)
by Mindy Starns ClarkFast-paced and inspirational, The Million Dollar Mystery series is from bestselling author Mindy Starns Clark. Attorney Callie Webber investigates nonprofit organizations for the J. O. S. H. U. A. Foundation and awards the best of them grants up to a million dollars. In this series, Callie comes across a mystery she must solve using her skills as a former private investigator. A young widow, Callie finds strength in her faith in God and joy in her relationship with her employer, Tom. --- In book number three of The Million Dollar Mystery series, Callie suddenly finds herself involved in the life of a young wife and mother whose husband has disappeared&possibly the victim of foul play. Callie has come to the beautiful Smoky Mountains hoping to award a million-dollar grant to the charity set up in the woman's late husband's honor. But in the search for a missing migrant worker, a body is discovered, which puts the grant on hold and her new romance with her mysterious boss in peril. Trusting in God, Callie forges steadily ahead through a mire of clues that lead her deeper and deeper into danger.
A Direct Path to the Buddha Within
by Klaus-Dieter MathesMaitreya's Ratnagotravibhaga, also known as the Uttaratantra, is the main Indian treatise on buddha nature, a concept that is heavily debated in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy. In A Direct Path to the Buddha Within, Klaus-Dieter Mathes looks at a pivotal Tibetan commentary on this text by Go Lotsawa Zhonu Pal, best known as the author of the Blue Annals. Go Lotsawa, whose teachers spanned the spectrum of Tibetan schools, developed a highly nuanced understanding of buddha nature, tying it in with mainstream Mahayana thought while avoiding contested aspects of the so-called empty-of-other (zhentong) approach. In addition to translating key portions of Go Lotsawa's commentary, Mathes provides an in-depth historical context, evaluating Go's position against those of other Kagyu, Nyingma, and Jonang masters and examining how Go Lotsawa's view affects his understanding of the buddha qualities, the concept of emptiness, and the practice of mahamudra.
A Disabled Apostle: Impairment and Disability in the Letters of Paul
by Isaac T. SoonSpeculation around the health of Paul the Apostle has been present since soon after his death. Recently scholars have understood Paul to be disabled but have been wary of isolating precisely what his disabilities may have been or whether they are important for understanding his writings. <p><p>This book is the first full-length study of Paul the Apostle and disability. Using insights from contemporary disability studies, Isaac Soon analyses features of Paul's body in his ancient Mediterranean context to understand the ways in which his body was disabled. Focusing on three such ancient disabilities--demonization, circumcision, and short stature--this book draws on a rich variety of ancient evidence, from textual sources and epigraphy, to ancient visual culture, to analyze ancient bodily ideals and the negative cultural effects such 'deviant' persons generated. The book also examines Paul's use of his own disabilities in his letters and shows how disability is not subsidiary to his thought but a central aspect of it. <p><p>This book also provides scholars with a new method for uncovering previously unrecognized disabilities in the ancient world. Last of all, it critiques the latent ableism in much New Testament scholarship, which assumes that the figures of the early Jesus movement were able-bodied.
A Disciple's Heart - Companion Reader: Growing in Love and Grace
by James A. Harnish Justin LarosaDiscipleship in the Methodist tradition affirms that there is always more work for God to do in the human heart. A Disciple's Heart attempts to reclaim and, in a sense, reinterpret for today John Wesley's understanding of this transformation of the heart, which he called "Christian perfection," with the goal of equipping participants to continue to grow into the likeness of God's love in Christ. Designed to be used in a small group and, if desired, a congregation-wide emphasis, the Companion Reader, designed for both group members and leaders, provides background and deeper understanding of each week's theme from a distinctly Wesleyan perspective.
A Disciple's Heart - Daily Workbook: Growing in Love and Grace
by James A. Harnish Justin LarosaDiscipleship in the Methodist tradition affirms that there is always more work for God to do in the human heart. A Disciple's Heart attempts to reclaim and, in a sense, reinterpret for today John Wesley's understanding of this transformation of the heart, which he called "Christian perfection," with the goal of equipping participants to continue to grow into the likeness of God's love in Christ. Designed to be used in a small group and, if desired, a congregation-wide emphasis, the Daily Workbook fosters personal spiritual growth as group members develop their own pattern of daily Scripture reading, prayer, and personal reflection (five readings per week). Participants are invited to journal in response to guided questions, define their own next steps, and then share with others in their small group as they learn and grow together in community.
A Disciple's Heart - Leader Guide with Downloadable Toolkit: Growing in Love and Grace
by James A. Harnish Justin LarosaDiscipleship in the Methodist tradition affirms that there is always more work for God to do in the human heart. A Disciple's Heart attempts to reclaim and, in a sense, reinterpret for today John Wesley's understanding of this transformation of the heart, which he called "Christian perfection," with the goal of equipping participants to continue to grow into the likeness of God's love in Christ. Designed to be used in a small group and, if desired, a congregation-wide emphasis, the Leader Guide equips group facilitators with tips for leading a group plus six ready-to-use session guides. An Online Toolkit of downloadable leader helps, such as sample e-mails, handouts, sermon outlines, images for promotion, and customizable media templates that can be modified for any congregation, are accessible with the purchase of the Leader Guide.
A Disciple's Path Companion Reader 519256: Deepening Your Relationship with Christ and the Church (A Disciple's Path)
by James A. Harnish Justin LaRosaA Disciple's Path is an engaging approach to discipleship from a distinctly Wesleyan perspective that is perfect for a new member class or other small group. The six-week program guides individuals to take the next step in discipleship and become dynamic followers of Jesus Christ and engaged, vital members of the local church.The study combines a Wesleyan understanding of our growth in God's love and grace with the time-tested practices of spiritual discipline expressed in the membership vows to uphold the church with our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. Participants will develop spiritual practices, discover their unique gifts, and become engaged in ministry that brings transformation in their own lives, the lives of others, and the world.This Companion Reader provides invaluable insights that enable both participants and leaders to dig deeper into the spiritual practices essential to the life of discipleship. Each chapter corresponds to a week in the Daily Workbook, providing biblical and theological background on the week’s theme from a distinctively United Methodist perspective. Perfect for enhancing personal or group study and reflection, answering questions, and providing material for worship planning during a congregation-wide emphasis.Endorsements"A Disciple’s Path has transformed countless new members into deeply committed disciples – people who are using their gifts, praying in new ways, worshipping regularly and not only when it’s convenient, giving sacrificially of their financial resources, and seeking to be a witness to Christ’s love and light in the world. I am deeply grateful for this resource and recommend it wholeheartedly." Donna Claycomb Sokol, Pastor of Mount Veron Place United Methodist Church and author of A New Day in the City"A Disciple’s Path has the potential to revolutionize the way we view our participation in the church. Following this ‘path’ can transform us from wanderers into pilgrims." —Dr. Steve Harper, Retired Professor of Spiritual Formation; author of Five Marks of a Methodist and Devotional Life in the Wesleyan Tradition"For churches transforming their invitation to membership into an opportunity for a discipleship journey." — Lovett H. Weems, Jr., author and Distinguished Professor of Church Leadership and Director, Lewis Center for Church Leadership, Wesley Theological Seminary"Deeply grounded in the rich theology of the Wesleyan tradition and packed with practical suggestions." – Roger Scholtz, Senior Pastor, Kloof Methodist Church, South Africa and professor at Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary"A very useful explanation of the traditional Wesleyan view of Christian discipleship, strengthened in particular by its stress on the balanced approach of the Methodist way." —Dr. Richard P. Heitzenrater, Duke University Divinity School
A Disciple's Path Daily Workbook: A Guide for United Methodists (A Disciple's Path)
by James A. Harnish Justin LaRosaPrayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness…this is what we commit to when we become members of The United Methodist Church, and it’s a big step. But A Disciple’s Path helps us look beyond membership, presenting an engaging approach to discipleship from a distinctly Wesleyan perspective. Discipleship is ongoing, so the 6-week study is perfect for new-member groups, but also works well in small groups of long-time members. It helps you develop spiritual practices, discover your unique gifts, and engage in ministry that brings transformation to your own life and to the lives of others and the world.The Daily Workbook offers six weeks of daily readings (five per week), Scripture, a message for the day, and prompts for personal reflection.Endorsements"A Disciple’s Path has transformed countless new members into deeply committed disciples – people who are using their gifts, praying in new ways, worshipping regularly and not only when it’s convenient, giving sacrificially of their financial resources, and seeking to be a witness to Christ’s love and light in the world. I am deeply grateful for this resource and recommend it wholeheartedly." Donna Claycomb Sokol, Pastor of Mount Veron Place United Methodist Church and author of A New Day in the City"A Disciple’s Path has the potential to revolutionize the way we view our participation in the church. Following this ‘path’ can transform us from wanderers into pilgrims." —Dr. Steve Harper, Retired Professor of Spiritual Formation; author of Five Marks of a Methodist and Devotional Life in the Wesleyan Tradition"For churches transforming their invitation to membership into an opportunity for a discipleship journey." — Lovett H. Weems, Jr., author and Distinguished Professor of Church Leadership and Director, Lewis Center for Church Leadership, Wesley Theological Seminary "A very useful explanation of the traditional Wesleyan view of Christian discipleship, strengthened in particular by its stress on the balanced approach of the Methodist way." —Dr. Richard P. Heitzenrater, Duke University Divinity School
A Disciple's Path Leader Guide with Download: A Guide for United Methodists (A Disciple's Path)
by James A. Harnish Justin LaRosaA Disciple's Path is an engaging approach to discipleship from a distinctly Wesleyan perspective that is perfect for a new member class or other small group. The six-week program guides individuals to take the next step in discipleship and become dynamic followers of Jesus Christ and engaged, vital members of the local church.The study combines a Wesleyan understanding of our growth in God's love and grace with the time-tested practices of spiritual discipline expressed in the membership vows to uphold the church with our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. Participants will develop spiritual practices, discover their unique gifts, and become engaged in ministry that brings transformation in their own lives, the lives of others, and the world.This Leader Guide provides group facilitators with helpful tips for leading a group, material for leading an introductory session or pastor’s coffee, and six ready-to-use session guides. Also included is a link to downloadable resources, along with previews of these online tools, including sample e-mails handouts, including customizable templates that can be modified for any congregation,and PowerPoint presentations."A Disciple’s Path has transformed countless new members into deeply committed disciples – people who are using their gifts, praying in new ways, worshipping regularly and not only when it’s convenient, giving sacrificially of their financial resources, and seeking to be a witness to Christ’s love and light in the world. I am deeply grateful for this resource and recommend it wholeheartedly." Donna Claycomb Sokol, Pastor of Mount Veron Place United Methodist Church and author of A New Day in the CityEndorsements"A Disciple’s Path has the potential to revolutionize the way we view our participation in the church. Following this ‘path’ can transform us from wanderers into pilgrims." —Dr. Steve Harper, Retired Professor of Spiritual Formation; author of Five Marks of a Methodist and Devotional Life in the Wesleyan Tradition"For churches transforming their invitation to membership into an opportunity for a discipleship journey." — Lovett H. Weems, Jr., author and Distinguished Professor of Church Leadership and Director, Lewis Center for Church Leadership, Wesley Theological Seminary "A very useful explanation of the traditional Wesleyan view of Christian discipleship, strengthened in particular by its stress on the balanced approach of the Methodist way." —Dr. Richard P. Heitzenrater, Duke University Divinity School