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The Sacred and the Profane: Contemporary Demands on Hermeneutics
by Jeffrey F. KeussHermeneutics continues to be an area of interest to many, yet recent discussions in hermeneutic theory have turned toward fringe areas - whether found in realms of post-structuralism or radical orthodoxy - that have resulted in a 'forgetfulness' of one of hermeneutics' key thinkers, Immanuel Kant. This book seeks to reaffirm Kant's place as a central thinker for hermeneutics and to challenge and support prevailing criticisms. It has been argued that Kant merely offers a theory of the subjective universality of a rational aesthetic judgement where only reason connects us to the transcendent and sensation is only a subjective and confusing factor that distracts and distorts reason. This position is challenged as well as supported by the contributors to this book, scholars who bring key issues in hermeneutics to light from American, British, and continental perspectives, grounded in questions and concerns germane to today's culture. The discussion of hermeneutics is framed as being deliberately an interdisciplinary, cross-cultural affair. The Sacred and the Profane provides a welcome addition to contemporary discussions on hermeneutic theory through its assertion that there is still a need to support a critical approach to hermeneutics after Kant.
The Sacred and the Sinister: Studies in Medieval Religion and Magic
by David J. Collins, S. J.Inspired by the work of eminent scholar Richard Kieckhefer, The Sacred and the Sinister explores the ambiguities that made (and make) medieval religion and magic so difficult to differentiate. The essays in this collection investigate how the holy and unholy were distinguished in medieval Europe, where their characteristics diverged, and the implications of that deviation.In the Middle Ages, the natural world was understood as divinely created and infused with mysterious power. This world was accessible to human knowledge and susceptible to human manipulation through three modes of engagement: religion, magic, and science. How these ways of understanding developed in light of modern notions of rationality is an important element of ongoing scholarly conversation. As Kieckhefer has emphasized, ambiguity and ambivalence characterize medieval understandings of the divine and demonic powers at work in the world. The ten chapters in this volume focus on four main aspects of this assertion: the cult of the saints, contested devotional relationships and practices, unsettled judgments between magic and religion, and inconclusive distinctions between magic and science.Freshly insightful, this study of ambiguity between magic and religion will be of special interest to scholars in the fields of medieval studies, religious studies, European history, and the history of science.In addition to the editor, the contributors to this volume are Michael D. Bailey, Kristi Woodward Bain, Maeve B. Callan, Elizabeth Casteen, Claire Fanger, Sean L. Field, Anne M. Koenig, Katelyn Mesler, and Sophie Page.
The Sacred and the Sinister: Studies in Medieval Religion and Magic
by David J. Collins, S.J.Inspired by the work of eminent scholar Richard Kieckhefer, The Sacred and the Sinister explores the ambiguities that made (and make) medieval religion and magic so difficult to differentiate. The essays in this collection investigate how the holy and unholy were distinguished in medieval Europe, where their characteristics diverged, and the implications of that deviation.In the Middle Ages, the natural world was understood as divinely created and infused with mysterious power. This world was accessible to human knowledge and susceptible to human manipulation through three modes of engagement: religion, magic, and science. How these ways of understanding developed in light of modern notions of rationality is an important element of ongoing scholarly conversation. As Kieckhefer has emphasized, ambiguity and ambivalence characterize medieval understandings of the divine and demonic powers at work in the world. The ten chapters in this volume focus on four main aspects of this assertion: the cult of the saints, contested devotional relationships and practices, unsettled judgments between magic and religion, and inconclusive distinctions between magic and science.Freshly insightful, this study of ambiguity between magic and religion will be of special interest to scholars in the fields of medieval studies, religious studies, European history, and the history of science.In addition to the editor, the contributors to this volume are Michael D. Bailey, Kristi Woodward Bain, Maeve B. Callan, Elizabeth Casteen, Claire Fanger, Sean L. Field, Anne M. Koenig, Katelyn Mesler, and Sophie Page.
The Sacred Andean Codes: 10 Shamanic Initiations to Heal Past Wounds, Awaken Your Conscious Evolution, and Reveal Your Destiny
by Marcela LobosDiscover powerful energetic rites based on Andean shamanic teachings to heal the wounds of your past, further your spiritual evolution, and reveal your sacred purpose.Our world is desperately in need of a new compass and the rites of the Munay-Ki, which have been crafted for a Western audience, offer shamanic wisdom for the modern person. These initiations—based on initiatory practices of the shamans of the Andes and the Amazon—are profoundly healing and will alchemize your deepest wounds and limiting beliefs into sources of compassion. They encourage you to grow your love and empathy and see the interconnectedness of all life as you join a lineage of healers and Earthkeepers. The Sacred Andean Codes includes detailed explanations of each rite&’s benefits, how it came to be, and how you can incorporate its wisdom into your own life. As a powerful blueprint for self-realization, these initiations invite you on a heartfelt evolutionary path with love at its core. Embark on your own sacred journey, recognize your innate wholeness, tune into unlimited energy, and fulfill your potential as a luminous being—and an agent of change and transformation in the world.
Sacred Art: Catholic Saints and Candomblé Gods in Modern Brazil
by Henry Glassie Pravina ShuklaSacred art flourishes today in northeastern Brazil, where European and African religious traditions have intersected for centuries. Professional artists create images of both the Catholic saints and the African gods of Candomblé to meet the needs of a vast market of believers and art collectors.Over the past decade, Henry Glassie and Pravina Shukla conducted intense research in the states of Bahia and Pernambuco, interviewing the artists at length, photographing their processes and products, attending Catholic and Candomblé services, and finally creating a comprehensive book, governed by a deep understanding of the artists themselves.Beginning with Edival Rosas, who carves monumental baroque statues for churches, and ending with Francisco Santos, who paints images of the gods for Candomblé terreiros, the book displays the diversity of Brazilian artistic techniques and religious interpretations. Glassie and Shukla enhance their findings with comparisons from art and religion in the United States, Nigeria, Portugal, Turkey, India, Bangladesh, and Japan and gesture toward an encompassing theology of power and beauty that brings unity into the spiritual art of the world.
Sacred Attunement: A Jewish Theology
by Michael FishbaneContemporary theology -- and Jewish theology in particular -- Michael Fishbane asserts, now lies fallow, beset by strong critiques from within and without. For Jewish reality, a coherent and wide-ranging response in thoroughly modern terms is needed. "Sacred Attunement" is Fishbane's attempt to renew Jewish theology for our time, in the larger context of modern and postmodern challenges to theology and theological thought in the broadest sense. The first part of the book re-grounds theology in this setting and opens up new pathways through nature, art, and the theological dimension as a whole. In the second section, Fishbane introduces his hermeneutical theology -- one grounded in the interpretation of scripture as a distinctly Jewish practice. The third section focuses on modes of self-cultivation for awakening and sustaining a covenant theology. The final section takes up questions of scripture, authority, belief, despair, and obligation as theological topics in their own right. The first full-scale Jewish theology in America since Abraham J. Heschel's "God in Search of Man" and the first comprehensive Jewish philosophical theology since Franz Rosenzweig's "Star of Redemption"; "Sacred Attunement" is a work of uncommon personal integrity and originality from one of the most distinguished scholars of Judaica in our time.
The Sacred Bones: A Novel
by Michael ByrnesTensions erupt across Christian, Islamic, and Jewish faiths when a coveted artifact is stolen from Jerusalem in this international conspiracy thriller.An ancient burial box has disappeared from its long-hidden vault located directly beneath Jerusalem’s Temple Mount. With the violent theft leaving thirteen Israeli soldiers and policemen dead, and the Palestinians up in arms over the desecration of sacred grounds, the tension between the two groups is dangerously high.Meanwhile, American forensic scientist Charlotte Hennesey has been hired by the Vatican to examine the two-thousand-year-old bones of an unidentified, crucified man—the first complete skeleton of a crucifixion victim ever found. Together with Italian anthropologist Giovanni Bersei, Charlotte makes startling discoveries that lead her to wonder if these could be the bones of Jesus Christ. The Sacred Bones blends historic fact with fast-paced fiction in a thrilling tale of conspiracy that stretches from the days of the Templar Knights to the shifting alliances of contemporary Middle Eastern politics.
The Sacred Bridge: Carta's Atlas of the Biblical World Second Edition
by Anson F. Rainey R. Steven NotleyDocumenting over 3,000 years of East Mediterranean history, The Sacred Bridge is an up-to-date depiction of Biblical history and geography by way of the ancient sources with original texts and translations from native languages incorporated into the narrative of the Atlas. With impeccable scholarship, this stunning Bible atlas with full-color maps, pictures, and diagrams reflects 10 years of research and is the gold standard of Bible atlases. Emphasis throughout the current work is on the ancient written sources every ancient passage is interpreted firsthand, from its native language. Archaeological evidence has been taken into account whenever it is relevant.
The Sacred Canopy: Elements of a Sociological Theory of Religion
by Peter L. BergerThis important contribution to the sociology of religion provides an analysis that clarifies the often ironic interaction between religion and society.
The Sacred Canopy: Elements of a Sociological Theory of Religion
by Peter L. Berger&“The most important contribution to the sociology of religion since Max Weber&’s The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism&” (Commonweal). Acclaimed scholar and sociologist Peter L. Berger carefully lays out an understanding of religion as a historical, societal mechanism in this classic work of social theory. Berger examines the roots of religious belief and its gradual dissolution in modern times, applying a general theoretical perspective to specific examples from religions throughout the ages. Building upon the author&’s previous work, The Social Construction of Reality, with Thomas Luckmann, this book makes Berger&’s case that human societies build a &“sacred canopy&” to protect, stabilize, and give meaning to their worldview.
Sacred Capital: Methodism and Settler Colonialism in the Empire of Liberty (Jeffersonian America)
by Hunter PriceHow Methodist settlers in the American West acted as agents of empire In the early years of American independence, Methodism emerged as the new republic&’s fastest growing religious movement and its largest voluntary association. Following the contours of settler expansion, the Methodist Episcopal Church also quickly became the largest denomination in the early American West. With Sacred Capital, Hunter Price resituates the Methodist Episcopal Church as a settler-colonial institution at the convergence of &“the Methodist Age&” and Jefferson&’s &“Empire of Liberty.&” Price offers a novel interpretation of the Methodist Episcopal Church as a network through which mostly white settlers exchanged news of land and jobs and facilitated financial transactions. Benefiting from Indigenous dispossession and removal policies, settlers made selective, strategic use of the sacred and the secular in their day-to-day interactions to advance themselves and their interests. By analyzing how Methodists acted as settlers while identifying as pilgrims, Price illuminates the ways that ordinary white Americans fulfilled Jefferson&’s vision of an Empire of Liberty while reinforcing the inequalities at its core.
Sacred Causes: The Clash of Religion and Politics, from the Great War to the War on Terror
by Michael BurleighBeginning with the chaotic post-World War I landscape, in which religious belief was one way of reordering a world knocked off its axis, Sacred Causes is a penetrating critique of how religion has often been camouflaged by politics. All the bloody regimes and movements of the twentieth century are masterfully captured here, from Stalin's Soviet Union, Hitler's Germany, Mussolini's Italy, and Franco's Spain through to the modern scourge of terrorism. Eloquently and persuasively combining an authoritative survey of history with a timely reminder of the dangers of radical secularism, Burleigh asks why no one foresaw the religious implications of massive Third World immigration, and he deftly investigates what are now driving calls for a civic religion to counter the terrorist threats that have so shocked the West.
The Sacred Center: The Ancient Art of Locating Sanctuaries
by John MichellThe symbolism and power behind sacred locations in ancient and modern times • Explains the need and role for ritual centers in modern society • Examines ancient territorial centers in ancient Egypt, Greece, Africa and Asia, and Iceland and the British Isles • Reveals the code of number and geometry behind the idealistic social structure of the ritual center, formed to imitate the heavenly order Symbols of ritual centers are among the most persistent elements of myth and belief between cultures widely separated in time and space. Every tribe and state had its “generation center,” a sacred area within its heartland where its legendary founders gave birth to its people and established their laws. Within the inner sanctum of the sanctuary was an altar or pillar, the omphalos or navel stone, that marked the midpoint of the home territory and represented the world-pole on which everything revolved. It was the focus of a perpetual cycle of rituals and festivals that passed with the seasons around the country and held its people under the spell of a golden age. In this book John Michell reveals the precise methods by which the ancients located the appropriate centers and adopted them as sanctuaries. The same principles of ritual geography in the siting of Akhenaten’s capital in Egypt and Megalopolis in classical Greece apply also to the traditional centers of small territories and islands. The rediscovery of these sites--such as the spot at the center of Ireland where the Celtic High Kings were installed--sheds new light on the ritualized order of prehistoric societies and the sacred, scientific code on which they were founded. These revelations from the distant past are of great significance in present times, for in them are the secrets of harmony on every scale, from the personal to the universal. Restoring the sacred center to its former place of prominence offers the possibility of a renaissance of human culture, ideally centered upon the image of a perfectly ordered Cosmos.
The Sacred Chain: The History of the Jews
by Norman CantorScholarly history of the Jews from the time of the legendary Soloman and King David to the present.
The Sacred Chain: How Understanding Evolution Leads to Deeper Faith
by Jim StumpA thought-provoking and eye-opening work by Jim Stump, Vice President at BioLogos and host of the Language of God podcast, offering a compelling argument about how evolution does not have to be at odds with faith, but can actually enrich and deepen it.In this moving and deeply thoughtful book, Jim Stump takes readers with him on his journey to understanding evolution and reconciling it with his faith. The Sacred Chain draws on philosophy, theology, and the latest scientific research to tackle some of the biggest questions facing humanity and people of faith today, such as:How can we hold the Bible as a sacred text and yet reconcile modern science with it?By condensing noteworthy events in the history of our universe into one calendar week, what can we learn about God’s creative process and priorities, and where humans fit in?If humans are created in the image of God, what does evolution have to teach us about our species and our place in creation?What about the soul? How can we understand our transcendent qualities if the human body is the product of evolution?How does evolutionary science help us understand how God might use pain and suffering for important and good purposes?Does it have to be one or the other—science or religion—or is there a third way, one that not only preserves faith in the face of modern science, but leads to a stronger, more relevant, and more authentic faith?Deeply researched and a delight to read, The Sacred Chain provides clarity in our uncertain times, revealing a bigger picture of our world and our place within it. It is a panorama consistent with the scientific findings about who we are and where we come from that can actually bolster our faith as it engages our curiosity about ourselves, our universe, and the nature of existence itself.
Sacred Choices: Thinking Outside the Tribe to Heal Your Spirit
by Christel NaniWhen you are making a decision, do you feel torn between what you are supposed to do and what you would like to do? Do you feel unable to live a fully spontaneous and authentic life? Are you troubled that some of the things you do conflict with your intuition or inner knowing? Have you wondered why your positive affirmations aren’t coming true? In general, do you feel stuck or frustrated with the way things are?If so, you may be experiencing a conflict between your evolving spirit and your tribal beliefs. Tribal beliefs are a set of unwritten rules that are passed down to us from our families and other cultural, religious, or social organizations about the way life works, what defines a good person, and how we should live our lives. Unfortunately, some tribal beliefs can limit our intuitive choices causing dissatisfaction, anxiety, fatigue, depression, and eventually physical illness.In this warm, engaging, and inspirational work of personal renewal, Christel Nani guides you to listen to your inner “knowing,” the always wise and honest voice of your spirit that will illuminate the specific tribal beliefs that are standing in the way of your success, happiness, and healing. Based on a program that has helped thousands of people transform their lives, Nani shows you how to creatively rewrite your tribal beliefs in areas such as work, marriage, health, and success in a way that harmonizes with your own spirit, talents, secret wishes, and individuality. Best of all, you will be astonished at how easy it is to accomplish such a personal transformation and how quickly you will be healed and liberated from a sense of burden and guilt that you probably believed would be with you for a lifetime.The decision to break free of your limiting beliefs and live the life you were meant to live is truly a sacred choice. With this joyous and enlightening book as your guide, you have the power to make that happen—starting today.
The Sacred Cipher: A Novel (The Jerusalem Prophecies #1)
by Terry BrennanHistory's greatest secret could be tomorrow's greatest threat More historically and biblically accurate than The DaVinci Code and just as adventurous as an Indiana Jones movie, The Sacred Cipher, the first book in The Jerusalem Prophecies, combines action and mystery to draw readers into a world of ancient secrets and international escapades.When an ancient scroll appears in a secret room of the Bowery Mission in New York City, Tom Bohannon is both stunned and intrigued. The enigma of the scroll's contents will send Bohannon and his team ricocheting around the world, drawing the heat of both Jewish and Muslim militaries, and bringing the Middle East to the brink of nuclear war in this heart-pounding adventure of historical proportions. The Sacred Cipher is a riveting, fact-based tale of mystery and suspense.
Sacred Circles: A Guide To Creating Your Own Women's Spirituality Group
by Robin Deen Carnes Sally CraigFrom Jewish to Christian, Mormon and Pagan, women's sacred circles are sprouting up everywhere, in astonishing variety providing a haven where essential female values can be discussed and embraced.This much-needed guide celebrates the rich diversity of women's spiritual lives and offers practical, step-by-step advice for those who want to create and sustain a spirituality group of their own.Sacred Circle shows us how we can use a group to explore our relationship to the sacred, and honor the divine in everyday life. The authors, drawing from their own group experiences as well as those of many diverse groups around the country, share the model they've developed, while offering wise advise on how and why groups work. They propose circle basics, such as listening without an agenda and rotating leadership, and also offer reflections on the power of personal storytelling and thoughts on reclaiming and reinventing ritual. Women longing for a powerful and supportive feminine community in which to thrive spiritually will find vital wisdom here.
Sacred Companions: The Gift of Spiritual Friendship Direction
by David G. BennerECPA 2003 Gold Medallion Finalist
Sacred Companions: The Gift of Spiritual Friendship and Direction
by David G. BennerDavid G. Benner introduces you to the riches of spiritual friendship and direction, explaining what they are, how they are practiced and how they move beyond mere moral lifestyle accountability to care for souls.
The Sacred Cookbook: Forgotten Healing Recipes of the Ancients
by Nick Polizzi Michelle PolizziDiscover the healing power of food using over 100 ancient recipes and ingredients adapted for the modern world, from the author of The Sacred Science.Satisfy your tastebuds, appetite, and soul with this inspiring collection of easy-to-make, flavorful recipes. Nick Polizzi grew up in a restaurant and has spent much of his life traveling the world, studying traditional healing foods from Northern Africa all the way to remote regions of the Amazon rainforest. In their home kitchen, Nick and his wife, Michelle, have translated this hard-earned culinary wisdom into everyday meals meant for sharing.Every recipe meets three fundamental criteria: 1) it has ingredients that can be traced back at least 500 years, 2) it has well-documented health benefits, and 3) it's absolutely delicious. Accessible and easy-to-follow, this cookbook focuses on:Soups and stews Medicinal spices and saucesFermented superfoodsDried and cured snacksNutrient-dense proteinsSavory mushroom dishesGreens, petals, and grassesForgotten ancient grainsEnzyme-rich breadsHealing elixirs and spiritsTeas and tonicsAppealing to a broad palate, this full-color cookbook provides tips and substitutions for adjusting to different needs, including gluten-free and vegan diets.
Sacred Cows Make Gourmet Burgers: Ministry Anytime, Anywhere, By Anyone
by William M. EasumThis book shows how an atmosphere of permission-giving, which signals the end of leaders as enablers, can help church leaders transcend bureaucracy and enhance spiritual gifts rather than assign them. The 'sacred cows' of control and regulation can be devoured, as leaders and people are converted to a new style of ministry.
Sacred Creativity: Inspiration to Reclaim the Joy of Your God-Given Gifts
by Jena HollidayIn this gorgeous and inspiring book, the beloved artist behind Spoonful of Faith shows you how to overcome your fears and harness your own creative gifts as an act of worship.With thoughtful stories, powerful reflections, hand lettering, and beautiful original artwork, Jena Holliday invites you to discover how you uniquely reflect the heart of a creative God. Using the lessons she&’s learned along the way and creative prompts throughout, Jena encourages readers to overcome the pressure to perform, face the fears of failure and imposter syndrome, believe in the gifts that God has given, step forward in creativity, and delight in the fruit that comes from freely creating as an act of worship.Each section provides space to digest what you&’ve read with thoughtful questions to respond to in words or drawings, an affirmation to encourage you, and a prayer to guide you. With suggested songs to listen to as well, Sacred Creativity is the ultimate invitation to offer your God-given gifts back to the Creator in joyful worship. To yield to the One who Created all, and allow your art, creativity, and life to be a love offering.
Sacred Cyberspaces: Catholicism, New Media, and the Religious Experience (Advancing Studies in Religion)
by Oren Golan Michele MartiniIn recent years every major institution has had to adapt to the fast-evolving technologies of the digital age or risk being left behind. Amid a global crisis of faith and declining levels of religious participation in places around the world, the Catholic Church has likewise come face to face with the challenges and possibilities of new media. Sacred Cyberspaces reveals how long-standing conflicts over power, influence, and legitimacy within religious organizations are being waged in the digital realm. Oren Golan and Michele Martini describe the tensions that arise as religious groups seek to reach the faithful in online spaces where traditional clerical authorities have less expertise and control. Focusing on the Catholic world, they examine the rise of devotional digital entrepreneurship and the roles of lay religious webmasters: the video makers, app developers, and web designers who devote their lives to evangelization and who literally run the show. The book also explores the nature of religious experience as it pivots to online platforms: cyberculture, prayer, ceremonies, pilgrimage, proselytization, and the relation to the transcendental.From live-streaming at world-famous sites in the Holy Land to the Instagram feed of Pope Francis, Sacred Cyberspaces evaluates the contemporary media strategies of the Catholic Church and sheds light on the future of religion online.
The Sacred Diary of Adrian Plass: Adrian Plass and the Church Weekend
by Adrian PlassAdrian has been trying to keep a low profile at church but his son Gerald is now an Anglican vicar and the two churches are getting together for a joint weekend away. Now Adrian's been volunteered to run it...From the confusion of arrival when Anne is allocated to the top bunk with a schizophrenic recovery group, and Adrian is in a low-ceilinged 'pod' at the top of the tower, to the hugs and tears of departure, this is typical Plass, humorous and heartwarming in equal measure. Adrian has a simple conversation about birdlife that ends with him being accused of harassment, Leonard Thynn and his wife turn up just in time to leave again after falling out with the SatNav lady, and Gerald's wit just keeps getting the better of him.There are as many questions as answers, of course. Will poor Sally, the unwilling nomad of the community, ever find a proper bed to sleep in? What exactly is it about Adrian's twinkle that Minnie Stamp 'lovey-doves' so very much? And how do you cope when your daughter-in-law shares a secret you simply cannot, must not tell? Once again, Adrian Plass gets us laughing just long enough for the truth to slip in by the back door, and for all the mishaps, this new instalment of the Sacred Diary series once again shows just how good God is at caring for this mixed bag of people we call the church.