Biography: religious and spiritual Books

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Book SynopsisThis is a story of dreaming big and working hard, of spectacular success and breathtaking failure, of shouted questions, and, at long last, whispered answers. With trademark wit and heart, Phil Vischer shares how God can use the death of a dream to point us toward true success.Larry. Bob. Archibald. These VeggieTales stars are the most famous vegetables you'll ever eat. Oops, meet. Their antics are known around the world. But so much of the VeggieTales story hasn't been told. In Me, Myself, and Bob, Phil Vischer, founder of Big Idea and creator of VeggieTales, gives a behind-the-scenes look at his not-so-funny journey with the loveable veggies. From famed creator to bankrupt dreamer, Vischer shares his story of trial and ultimate triumph as God inspired him with one big idea after another.

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Book SynopsisAn account of the life of an important personality who Rudolf Steiner linked to Ovid.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A Choice Outstanding Academic Title of the Year""Eire provides an enthralling exploration of the life and influence of an important historical work." * Publishers Weekly *"[An] admirable book."---Lavinia Byrne, Church Times"Carlos Eire relates this story with commendable lightness of touch. In his hands there is nothing suspicious or frightening about Teresa’s interior life with angels and demons, and the reader is given a quasi-divine reassurance that it really doesn’t matter if those modern theoretical interpretations are too abstruse to be readily understood."---Stella Fletcher, Times Literary Supplement"This is an important . . . tribute to a great saint by an intelligent, erudite and humane author."---Alexander Jolliffe, Catholic Herald"The Vida is Teresa’s attempt to come to grips with her visionary experiences, mainly between 1554 and 1565, but within the context of an apologetic or forced confession so that the authorities could examine her writings for fraud, challenge to authority and orthodoxy. The challenge to readers then, and even more so now, is her unquestioning assumption and experience that ‘human beings can transcend the sensory material world and have intimate relations with the Creator of the universe.’" * Paradigm Explorer *"Carlos Eire has written an excellent introduction to The Life of Saint Teresa of Avila. Written in his clear, accessible and lively prose, Eire places the sixteenth-century Spanish nun’s life into each of the contexts a reader would need to engage her mystical writings."---Marc R. Forster, Journal of Ecclesiastical History

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Book SynopsisNo modern, well-versed literature lover can call their education complete without having read Augustine’s Confessions. One of the most original works of world literature, it is the first autobiography ever written, influencing writers from Montaigne to Rousseau, Virginia Woolf to Stephen Greenblatt. It is here that we learn how one of the greatest saints in Christendom overcame a wild and reckless past. Yet English translators have emphasised the ecclesiastical virtues of this masterpiece, at the expense of its passion and literary vigour. Restoring the lyricism of Augustine’s original language, Peter Constantine offers a masterful and elegant translation of Confessions.

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Book SynopsisAn exuberant biography of the world's greatest escape artistTrade Review"Vivid."—David Denby, New Yorker“[This book] examines the secrets of Houdini’s success.”—Simon Yaffe, Jewish Telegraph“Much has been written about the magician over the years but this book, part of a Jewish Lives series, delves not just into his tricks and star-studded life, but also probes his poor background and ferocious determination to succeed.”—Peter Gruner, Camden New Journal “[I]n this fascinating and most entertaining book, Begley chooses to print the history, and it is amazing enough in itself without the need for adding any myths or legends. Read it and be amazed.”—John Rimmer, Magonia Review of Books“Witty, intelligent, and sprightly, Adam Begley’s Houdini tells a story that is not only central to the American experience, but strangely pertinent to the fakery, fraudulence, and self-promotion dominating our news waves at present.”—Wendy Lesser, author of Jerome Robbins: A Life in Dance

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Book SynopsisEmil Bock lectured widely on Rudolf Steiner after the Second World War, and during the course of his research he uncovered many previously unknown aspects of Steiner's life. The Life and Times of Rudolf Steiner brings together the two volumes of this insightful work, which were previously available separately, in one comprehensive book. Part one introduces the great range of people who surrounded and influenced Steiner. Bock tracked down the mysterious 'Felix the herb gatherer', from Steiner's youth, and describes the Viennese social circles and coffee houses frequented by Steiner in his student days. He also details Steiner's meeting with Friedrich Nietzsche, and the various literary, artistic and eccentric people from Steiner's time in Berlin.Part two reveals some of the themes and ideas in Steiner's work - the early years of Jesus, the Christmas festival and the break from the Theosophical Society to the Anthroposophical Society - as well as exploring the nature of destiny. Bock also examines the circle of people around Steiner at this time and, using Steiner's ideas on karma and reincarnation, draws interesting parallels with Rome, Byzantium, Ephesus and the Grail Castle.Trade Review'Emil Bock is able to communicate and make accessible his enthusiasm and understanding of anthroposophy and Rudolf Steiner’s mission... The reader can certainly feel animated to explore further.'-- Perspectives'A fascinating book for those who would like to find out more about Steiner's early background.'-- Scientific and Medical Network Review'Provides an intimate glimpse into the mysterious old-world sensibilities and consciousness of the times in which Steiner lived. Presents many of the very interesting and provocative ideas that were espoused by Rudolph Steiner. Also interesting are the author's insights and views on Steiner's life's work, destiny and the role he played in shaping human consciousness.''-- The Beacon'A monumental biography of the great anthroposophist. More than a life history, this book explores the development of Steiner's thought, from Theosophy to Anthroposophy and beyond.'-- Inner Light Magazine

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Book SynopsisThe story of the Dutch girl who became known as 'the Mother of Malawi' for her work with that country's orphansTrade Review"An inspiration" -- The Sunday Times"I can't stop talking about Kondanani!" -- Guy Ritchie"Kondanani is a five-star orphanage, what they are doing here is extraordinary. It's a center of excellence." -- Jacques Peretti, Channel 4"Everywhere across Malawi, children sit by the roadside, waiting for something terrible to happen. Here, they run up to you, each more charming, clever, funny and take-home-able than the last." -- The Guardian"This is an amazing work of faith and compassion. Annie has suffered much and her consequent compassion shines through. Her huge courage and determination to bring hope and good news to the poor is motivating. So also is her sacrificial lifestyle." -- Evangelicals Now

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Book SynopsisThe figure of D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981) dominates the history of British evangelicalism in the twentieth century. As perhaps the greatest non-conformist statesman of his generation, 'the Doctor' is best known as a preacher and mentor of young preachers. From the pulpit of Westminster Chapel in London and other platforms, he called the evangelical movement back to a robust reformed Christianity, with a passion for biblical conviction and Spirit-empowered revival. His impact upon evangelicalism was immense, and his legacy remains deeply influential. By building on, and engaging with, the work of earlier biographers and theologians, this valuable collection of new studies seeks to advance our understanding of Lloyd-Jones' life and legacy in a number of fresh directions. The topics covered are: the interwar Calvinist resurgence, Wales, revival, the charismatic controversy, ministerial education, fundamentalism, Barth, Rome, the Anglican secession crisis, and the Protestant past. The volume concludes with a chronological bibliography of Lloyd-Jones' writings. The contributors are Andrew Atherstone, Ben Bailie, David W. Bebbington, John Coffey, Philip H. Eveson, David Ceri Jones, William K. Kay, John Maiden, Robert Pope, Ian M. Randall and Robert Strivens.

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Book SynopsisA biography of Louis Jacobs, rabbi, theologian and author of the highly controversial book on Jewish thought and religion, We Have Reason to BelieveLouis Jacobs was Britain''s most gifted Jewish scholar. A Talmudic genius, outstanding teacher and accomplished author, cultured and easy-going, he was widely expected to become Britain''s next Chief Rabbi.Then controversy struck. The Chief Rabbi refused to appoint him as Principal of Jews'' College, the country''s premier rabbinic college. He further forbade him from returning as rabbi to his former synagogue. All because of a book Jacobs had written some years earlier, challenging from a rational perspective the traditional belief in the origins of the Torah.The British Jewish community was torn apart. It was a scandal unlike anything they had ever previously endured. The national media loved it. Jacobs became a cause celebre, a beacon of reason, a humble man who wouldn''t be compromised. His congregatTable of ContentsList of Illustrations Introduction 1 An Unlikely Rabbi 2 Becoming an English Rabbi 3 A Reasonable Faith 4 High Society 5 In the Limelight 6 Jews' College 7 Friends in Need 8 A Bigger Affair 9 New London Synagogue 10 An International Reputation 11 Stability 12 A Mood, not a Movement 13 Out of the Pulpit 14 Personal Belief 15 Winding Down Notes Glossary Acknowledgements For Further Reading Index A Note on the Author

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Book SynopsisThe publication of Richard Burridge's What Are the Gospels? in 1992 inaugurated a transformation in Gospel studies by overturning the previous consensus about Gospel uniqueness. Burridge argued convincingly for an understanding of the Gospels as biographies, a ubiquitous genre in the Graeco-Roman world.Trade ReviewBurridge's book is a standard and exemplary resource for historical research on the Gospels. -- Ben Witherington IIITable of Contents Preface to the Twenty-Fifth Anniversary Edition Foreword to the Second Edition Preface to the Second Edition Preface to the Original Edition Abbreviations [new to the 25th anniversary edition] Gospels and Biography, 2000-2018: A Critical Review and Implications for Future Research A. The Literary Theory of Genre B. Gospel Scholarship and Commentaries C. Gospel Genre and Audience D. The Genre of Acts E. Roman Catholic Reactions F. Biography and Historiography G. Further Implications for New Research Conclusion Critical Review Bibliography PART ONE: THE PROBLEM 1. Historical Survey 2. Genre Criticism and Literary Theory 3. Genre Criticism and Graeco-Roman 4. Evaluation of Recent Debate PART TWO: THE PROPOSED SOLUTION 5. Generic Features 6. The Generic Features of Early Graeco-Roman Bioi?á 7. The Generic Features of Later Graeco-Roman Bioi 8. The Synoptic Gospels 9. The Fourth Gospel 10. Conclusions and Implications 11. Reactions and Developments Appendix I: Analysis Charts of Verb Subjects Appendix II: Gospel Genre, Christological Controversy and the Absence of Rabbinic Biography Appendix III: The Genre of Acts Revisited Select Bibliography Index of Passages Index of Names and Subjects

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Book SynopsisAcclaimed biographer, Donald Spoto, strips away the legends from the life of Francis of Assisi to reveal the true story of a man who has too often been obscured by pious iconography. Drawing on unprecedented access to unexplored archives, plus Francis''s own letters, Spoto places Francis within the context of the multifaceted ecclesiastical, political and social forces of mediaeval Italy, casting new light on Francis and showing how his emphasis on charity as the heart of the Gospel''s message helped him pioneer a new social movement. This nuanced portrait reveals the multifaceted character of a man who can genuinely be said to have changed the course of history.

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Book SynopsisTells the story of the Tibetan people. This title offers an introduction to Tibetan Buddhism. It presents a quest for purification and buddhahood in a single lifetime, tracing the path of a great sinner who became a great saint.

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Book SynopsisThe fascinating and insightful biography of one of the most intriguing, thoughtful and controversial figures of the 19th century.

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Book SynopsisWilliam Wilberforce is probably best known as the leader of the parliamentary campaign for the abolition of the slave trade in the United Kingdom. But behind his heart for justice lay a commitment and desire to serve God that permeated not only his life, but also his writings. Michael D. McMullen has worked extensively on the life and manuscripts of Wilberforce and has carefully selected these daily readings to help readers not only know the man better, but also to point their eyes to the God whom he served. Taken from his spiritual journals and his one published book, as well as his unpublished works, letters and recorded reflections on scriptures, we meet in these writings a man who is introspective and self–deprecating, believing he fell far short of the standards expected of a Christian. But his devotion and love for the God who called him to be an ‘Agent of Usefulness’ is abundantly clear. These words that he wrote to challenge and encourage himself will do the same for a new generation of readers.Trade ReviewWilliam Wilberforce is known as the leader of the Evangelicals in parliament who were responsible for the abolition of the British slave trade. Blessed with a sunny personality, he was also a genuinely humble man who laid out his inner thoughts in written musings on his faith. Michael McMullen has selected some of the best of them as daily readings. Each extract is given under a verse from scripture, the source of his reflections. -- David Bebbington (Professor of History, University of Stirling, Stirling)What a wonderful addition to Kevin Belmonte’s fine books! I can’t recommend his work highly enough. -- Michael D. McMullenWe can benefit greatly from taking unhurried time to reflect on these daily extracts. May our desire be as Wilberforce’s expressed in this book: ‘I would grow in grace, and labour to live a life more honourable to God and more useful to man.’ -- Marylynn Rouse (Director, John Newton Project)What a wonderful opportunity we now have daily to be getting to know Wilberforce through his letters and writings… I am grateful to Professor McMullen for this service to the church. -- Ben Virgo (Director, Christian Heritage London)What a gem this is and what thanks we owe Prof McMullen for his fine editorial skills. -- Michael A. G. Haykin (Professor of Church History and Biblical Spirituality, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky)Michael McMullen has done us a huge favour in making Wilberforce’s devotional reflections into a devotional source for us all. William Wilberforce was a man who had a real faith in Jesus that worked itself out in all of life. I pray these daily readings may inspire that same integrated faith in us all. -- Jago Wynne (Rector of Holy Trinity Clapham, London)

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisSrila Prabhupada introduced Vedic teachings to America, founded ISKCON, and gained followers worldwide, inspiring self-realization.

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Book SynopsisThe remarkable true story of how one Peruvian carpenter led hundreds of Christians to Judaism, sparking a pilgrimage from the Andes to Israel and inspiring a wave of emerging Latin American Jewish communities  “If Gabriel García Márquez had written the Old Testament, it might read like Graciela Mochkofsky's staggering true account of a humble Peruvian carpenter's spiritual odyssey from a shack in the Andes, via the Amazon, to the Promised Land of Israel with a community of devoted followers. —Judith Thurman, award-winning author of Isak DinesenSegundo Villanueva was born in 1927 in a tiny farming village perched in the Andes; when he was seventeen, his father was murdered and Segundo was left with little more than a Bible as his inheritance. This Bible launched Segundo on a lifelong obsession to find the true message of God contained in its pages. He found himself looking for answer

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Book SynopsisIn Jewish Radical Ultra-Orthodoxy Confronts Modernity, Zionism and Women''s Equality, Motti Inbari undertakes a study of the culture and leadership of Jewish radical ultra-Orthodoxy in Hungary, Jerusalem and New York. He reviews the history, ideology and gender relations of prominent ultra-Orthodox leaders Amram Blau (18941974), founder of the anti-Zionist Jerusalemite Neturei Karta, and Yoel Teitelbaum (18871979), head of the Satmar Hasidic movement in New York. Focussing on the rabbis'' biographies, the author analyzes their enclave building methods, their attitude to women and modesty, and their eschatological perspectives. The research is based on newly discovered archival materials, covering many unique and remarkable findings. The author concludes with a discussion of contemporary trends in Jewish religious radicalization. Inbari highlights the resilience of the current generations'' sense of community cohesion and their capacity to adapt and overcome challenges such as rehabilitTrade Review'… Inbari's book stands as a major contribution to the literature on ultra-Orthodoxy and Jewish fundamentalism, an excellent introduction to and overview of a fascinating corner of the Jewish world.' Hadas Fischer, H-Net 'Inbari's book gives us a comprehensive and fascinating account of the ideological origins of some of the most significant radical ultra-Orthodox anti-Zionist movements, shedding new light on their fraught battle with modernity. Particularly illuminating is his use of new documents from Rabbi Amram Blau's personal archive.' Lihi Ben Shitrit, Politics and Religion'There is nothing in this book that is not extremely interesting.' Reuven Firestone, Journal of Religion and Violence'This is an important introductory work that serves to revive the sociological interest in Haredi society both in Israel and abroad. It joins Motti Inbari's other important studies, devoted to Rabbi Uzi Meshulam and his followers, the Temple Mount groups, and ultra-Orthodox radicals. Collectively, these works show Inbari to be an important scholar of the radical fringes of religious Jewish society and the ideologies supporting them.' Nissim Leon, Israel Studies Review'His new book … will interest all students of modern Jewish religious history …' Marc Shapiro, AJS Review'The book's strength is in the breadth of its vision, encompassing several significant developments in Haredi Judaism over the past century. … the book is a useful study of an important phenomenon and could be readily adopted by course instructors wishing to include accessible material on an important contemporary phenomenon in Judaism.' Ira Robinson, Nova ReligioTable of ContentsIntroduction; 1. The de Haan assassination and the background to the formation of Neturei Karta; 2. Rabbi Amram Blau, founder of the Neturei Karta movement; 3. The modesty campaigns of Rabbi Amram Blau and the Neturei Karta movement, 1938–74; 4. Messianic activism in the work and thought of Rabbi Chaim Elazar Shapira (the Munkacser Rebbe) in the interwar period; 5. The life and work of Rabbi Yoel Teitelbaum, founder of the Satmar Hasidic court in New York; 6. Eschatology, dualism, and the decline of the generations - the world view of radical ultra-orthodoxy; 7. Jewish zealotry - past and present; Epilogue. Contemporary trends in radical ultra-orthodoxy.

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Book SynopsisThis biography of Joseph Smith is especially interesting because to was written by a man who knew him, George Q. Cannon, and drawn from first hand accounts of people who were present when the events described actually happened.Table of ContentsPrefaceThe Ripened TimeThe Apostasy and the RestorationJoseph Smith at NauvooThe "Choice Seer"Joseph's Humble Extraction -- The Godliness and Fair Fame of His Ancestry -- A Premonition of His WorkBirth of Joseph -- Family Circumstances -- Toil and Poverty -- Removal to New York -- Intense Religious ExcitementLight from the Scriptures -- The Prayer and its Answer -- "This is my Beloved Son: Hear Him" -- Persecution and Scoffing of the Multitude -- Joseph Doubts Himself and Supplicates for Renewed HelpThe Angel Moroni Visits Joseph Thrice in One Night -- A Record to be brought forth -- vision of CumorahA Mid-day Visitation -- Joseph Confides in His Earthly Father -- Cumorah and the Sacred Box -- A New Probation is Fixed -- Successive Visits and Ministrations of the Angel -- Joseph's Growth in GodlinessJoseph's Willing Toil -- Four Years of Waiting -- He Finds Work in Pennsylvania -- His Marriage with Emma Hale -- The Probation CompletedFinal Visit to Cumorah -- Delivery of the Plates by the Angel Moroni -- Solemn Caution to Joseph -- Attacks by Assassins and Robbers -- Poverty and Persecution -- Help from Martin Harris -- Removal to PennsylvaniaJoseph Copies and Translates from the Plates -- Martin Harris Again Comes Opportunely -- Professor Anthon and the Characters -- Martin's Labors as a Scribe -- His Broken Trust -- The Translation Lost to Joseph -- The Prophet Punished for WillfulnessOliver Cowdery is Sent of Heaven to Aid the Prophet -- The Aaronic Priesthood is Brought to Earth by Christ's Forerunner -- First Baptism of This DispensationThe Prophet's Brother Samuel Baptized by Oliver -- Renewed Danger to the Work -- Help From Fayette -- Miraculous Interposition to Aid David Whitmer -- Hyrum Smith and Others Believe and are BaptizedEleven Chosen Witnesses View the Plates -- Their Unimpeachable Testimony -- Restoration of the Melchisedec Priesthood by Disciples of our Lord -- The Apostleship Conferred -- Other Baptisms -- The Translation CompletedOrganization of the Church at Fayette -- Review of the Prophet's Labors -- His Unpretentious Character -- The Courage which Animated Him was shared by his Associates -- The Witnesses and Early Members of the ChurchThe All-Comprehending Character of Joseph's Inspiration -- First Public Meeting of the Church after Organization -- Believers Asking Baptism -- Mobs seeking the Life or the Liberty of the Prophet -- Twice Arrested and Acquitted -- Joseph's Lawyer Hears a Mysterious Voice -- Copying the RevelationsDissensions Within the Fold -- Oliver Cowdery and Hiram Page Lead the Whitmer's Astray -- Mobs at Colesville and Persecution at Harmony -- Isaac Hale and his Family Oppose Joseph -- The Prophet Removes to Fayette -- Prophetic Outline of the GatheringThe Second Conference of the Church -- Harmony and Love Among the Elders -- Accessions to the Congregation -- the Mission to the Lamanites -- Individual Revelations -- God's Chosen Servants in MissouriSidney Rigdon and Edward Partridge Join the Church -- Joseph Commences the Translation of the Scriptures -- Saints Commanded to Gather at Ohio -- Joseph Migrates from New York -- The Kirtland Saints Fall into Error -- God's Power Manifested -- Important RevelationsFourth General Conference -- God Designates Missouri as the Place of Holding the Next Conference -- Transgression of the Thompson Branch -- Joseph Goes to the Place of the New JerusalemOn the Borders of the Wilderness -- Laying the First Log -- Dedication and Consecration of the Land of Zion and the Temple Site -- Back to Civilization -- Sign Seeking and ViolenceA Methodist Priest Converted by a Miracle -- Wants Power to Smite -- The Prophet at Hiram Engaged in Translating -- Order for Publication of the "Evening and Morning Star" -- Man-made CommandmentsA Night of Fury -- The Murderous Mob at Hiram -- Joseph Dragged from his Bed, and is Stripped, Bruised and Almost Slain by a Profane and Drunken Crowd Led by Apostates and Sectarian MinistersDeparture of the Prophet from Hiram for the Consecrated Land in Missouri -- Accepted as the President of the High Priesthood -- Returning from Zion, an attempt is made to Poison Him -- Saved Under Bishop Whitney's AdministrationBrigham Young Receives the Gospel -- His Memorable Meeting with the Prophet -- His Constant devotion -- "That Man will yet Preside over the Church" -- A Revelation on Priesthood -- Joseph Visits the Eastern States -- His Numerous Labors -- Prophecy Concerning the Civil War -- Its Subsequent FulfillmentOrganization of the School of the Prophets -- The Translation of the Scriptures -- The Word of Wisdom Revealed -- Joseph Selects Counselors -- The Savior and Angels Appear after the Ordination -- Lands Purchased in and around KirtlandThreats of a Mob of Three Hundred at Independence -- Purity Required of Church Members -- Excommunication of Dr P Hurlbert -- His Threats Against the Prophet -- Pixley Joins the Mob -- His Malicious Falsehoods -- Meeting of a Base Element -- Wicked Determinations -- Destruction of the Saints' Printing Establishment W W Phelps Driven from Home -- Bishop Partridge and Elder Allen Tarred and Feathered -- "You Must Leave the Country" -- Another Meeting of the Enemy -- The Saints Agree to Leave Jackson CountyThe Corner Stone of the Kirtland Temple Laid -- A Printing Establishment Opened -- The Prophet's Mission to Canada -- A Minister's Opposition -- Baptisms -- Persecutions at Kirtland -- Wilford Woodruff Receives the GospelThe Jackson County Persecutions -- Appeal to Governor Dunklin -- His Timid Reply -- Heartless Drivings -- A Brutal Murder -- Boggs Allows the Mob to Organize as a Militia -- Pitcher Placed in Command -- Certain Men Taken in Custody by the Mob -- Settlement in Clay County -- Court of InquiryHurlbert's Efforts to Destroy Joseph -- High Councils Organized -- The Camp of Zion -- A Hard Journey -- Rattlesnakes in Camp -- The Prophet's Philosophy -- Elder Humphrey's ExperienceVain Appeal of the Jackson County Saints for Protection -- The Approach of Zion's Camp -- Attempts to Raise an Opposing Army -- James Campbell's Prophecy and its Fulfillment -- A Providential Storm -- Remarkable Rise of Fishing River -- Joseph States the Object of Zion's Camp -- A Comforting RevelationThe Scourge of Zion's Camp -- Joseph and Hyrum Attacked by Cholera -- Their Deliverance -- The Camp Disbanded -- Threats Against the Prophet -- His Fearlessness -- Joseph Returns to Kirtland -- Sylvester Smith's Charge of Impurity -- The Prophet Vindicated -- Visit to Michigan -- The Law of TithingThe Calling of Christ's Apostles in the Last Dispensation of the Fullness of Times -- Duties and Powers of the Twelve -- Their Labors in the World -- Organization of the SeventiesJoseph as a Restorer as well as a Prophet -- The Book of Abraham -- Joseph's Growth into Scholarship and Statesmanship -- Difficulties with William SmithCompletion and Dedication of the Kirtland Temple -- Sublime Visions to the Saints -- The Words of the Divine Redeemer -- Joseph's Grandmother Visits Him, then Dies in Peace -- His Mission to the EastClay County Sorrowfully Bids the Saints to Migrate into the Wilderness -- Joseph Sends a Dignified Letter to the Citizens -- Continuance of Mob Autocracy in Jackson -- Dunklin's Helplessness -- The Saints Form the New County of Caldwell and Lay Out Far WestThe First Serious Apostasy and the First Great Missionary Movement -- Dissensions at Kirtland, and Successful Labors in England -- Joseph Meets John Taylor in Canada -- Trials and Murderous Mobs at Painesville -- The Prophet Wades Through Swamps in the Night, Carrying Sidney upon his backJohn Taylor's Brave Defense of Joseph -- The Prophet Encounters the Spirit of Apostasy in Missouri -- Hyrum in the First Presidency -- Brigham Young's Courage and Devotion -- Joseph Driven from Kirtland -- David W Patten's Prophetic Objection -- Sad Excommunications -- Fate of Prominent Men -- Adam-ondi-Ahman -- The GatheringPeniston Arouses a Mob -- His Exciting Speech Causes a Cruel Attack upon Twelve Unarmed Brethren -- One Hundred and Fifty Mobocrats Drive them from the Polls -- Adam Black's Promise -- False Charges Against the Saints -- The Sheriff of Daviess County Arrests Joseph -- Boggs Orders the Raising of the Militia -- The Prophet Perceives the Real Object of this OrderJoseph Volunteers for Trial and Lyman Wight Follows -- Beginning the Study of Law -- The Trial Before a Coward Judge, with a Perjured Witness -- Militia Called Out, but the Mob Practically Defies it -- Boggs Continues the Work of OppressionBombardment of De Witt -- Appeal of the Saints to Governor Boggs -- His Heartless Reply -- Joseph's Presence Encourages the Brethren -- The Saints Leave their Possessions in De Witt -- They go to Far West -- Adam-ondi-Ahman Devastated -- The Saints Organize for Defense -- Joseph Controls a Mob who Design to Murder Him -- Apostasy of Thomas B. Marsh -- Death of David W. Patten -- "Whatever you do Else, oh Do Not Deny the Faith."Boggs Issues an order of Extermination -- General Atchison's Threat Against the Tyrant -- Avard Organizes the Danites -- The Haun's Mill Massacre -- Far West Besieged -- Three Noble Ones Refuse to Desert their Friends -- Colonel Hinkle's Base Treachery -- "These are the Prisoners I Agreed to Deliver up" -- A Court-martial Sentences Joseph and his Companions to Death -- General Doniphan's Noble Action -- Demoniac Deeds Enacted in Far WestThe Prophet's Life Saved by the Vanity of Lucas -- Farewell of the Prisoners to their Families -- On Toward Independence -- Continued Ravages at Far West -- General Clark's Inhuman Address -- The Movement Against Adam-ondi-AhmanJoseph Preaches in Jackson and Fulfills his own Prophecy -- Favor in the Eyes of their Captors -- Drunken Guards -- In Richmond Jail -- Majesty in Chains -- Clark's Dilemma -- The mock Trial -- Treason to Believe the Bible -- Close of the Year 1838The Pledge for the Poor Saints in Missouri -- Brigham Young Driven Forth -- Efforts to Secure the Prophet's Release -- Removal to Gallatin -- Examination of the Case by a Drunken Jury -- Wholesale Indictment -- Change of Venue to Boone -- Escape from Missouri to IllinoisThe Exodus Completed -- A Fragment of its Agonies -- The Woes of a Martyr's Widow, a Type of the General Suffering -- Threat that one of Joseph's Prophecies should Fail -- But it is Fulfilled by Courageous Apostles -- Missouri's Punishment and AtonementThe Location of Commerce -- Nauvoo, the Beautiful -- Pity from Prominent Men in Illinois -- A Day of Miracles -- The Prophet Raises the Sick at the Sound of his Voice -- Joseph Sounds the Trump of Warning -- The Mission of the Apostles -- Their Self-sacrifice and Courage -- Conference at CommerceReasons for an Appeal to Washington -- Joseph and Companions Depart for the National Capital -- The Prophet's Act of Physical Heroism -- He sees Ingratitude -- Martin Van Buren and Joseph Smith -- The Latter's Scorn -- Cowardice and Chicanery -- "Your Cause is Just, but I can do Nothing for you."The Mission of the Apostles -- Miraculous Opening of their way to the Old World -- Ordination of Willard Richards -- Special Labors of Each Apostle -- The First Immigrants to Zion -- Joseph's Letters of Instruction and Comfort to Elders and Saints AbroadNauvoo the Beautiful -- Events There During the Year 1840 -- Renewal of Outrages by the Missourians -- Death of the Prophet's Father and Edward Partridge -- Return of Williams and Phelps -- Joseph's Hope for His City -- Demand by Governor Boggs for the Prophet and His BrethrenJoseph Smith at Nauvoo -- His Physical and Mental Personality -- Views of his Opponent Commentators -- Testimony of the Spirit of His InspirationDr J C Bennett Joins the Church -- Nauvoo City Chartered -- Nauvoo University and Legion Organized -- Joseph Smith Commissioned as Lieutenant-General of the State Militia -- Temple Site -- Dedication of the Temple -- An Important ConferenceJoseph's Visit to Governor Carlin at Quincy -- Arrest on the Old Requisition from Missouri -- A Sheriff Nursed by his Prisoner -- Judge Douglas Discharges the Prophet on Writ of Habeas Corpus -- Browning's Eloquent Appeal -- Death of Don Carlos Smith -- Events at Nauvoo, Closing 1841The Power of Human Harmony -- Changing Hell to Heaven -- Joseph as a Servant -- His Sketch of the Church -- A Ringing Editorial -- Organization of the Relief Society -- Bennett Begins his PlotsBennett's Impurities -- His Cowardly Stab at the Prophet's Name and Life -- Fellowship Withdrawn from the Evil-doer -- Quoting his own Letters to Injure the Saints -- Attempt to Kill Boggs -- Absurd Charges Against "The Mormons" -- Joseph's Horse, "Joe Duncan" -- A ProphecyThe Prophet Charged with being an Accessory to the Attempted Assassination of Boggs -- Orrin Porter Rockwell Accused of the Crime -- The Governor's Requisition -- The Arrest -- The Prophet's Desire for Peace -- Wilson Law's Brave Words -- Emma Smith's Noble Appeal to the Governor -- Carlin's False Reply -- Amasa M. Lyman Ordained an Apostle -- Three Hundred and Eighty Faithful VolunteersAttempt to Capture Joseph -- Reward Offered -- Tricks to Entrap the Prophet -- He Submits to Arrest -- Visits Governor Ford -- His Examination and Release -- A Traitor's ThreatA Breathing Spell -- Joseph's Anticipation of his Sacrifice -- Many Prophecies and an Important Theological Epoch in the Early Part of 1843 -- Wrestling and Other Manly Sports -- Extracts from his Sermons -- Attack on the Nauvoo Charter -- The Lull was BriefThe Celestial Order of Marriage -- Eternity and Plurality of the Covenant -- The Revelation Written and Delivered to the High Council -- Joseph, Hyrum and Others Obey itAn Evil Quartette -- Reynolds, Ford, Bennett and Owens -- A New Writ -- Joseph Kidnapped at Dixon and Threatened with Death -- Efforts for Release on Habeas Corpus -- a Wrestling Match -- Entry into Nauvoo -- Joseph Released -- The Kidnappers ask for a Mob Army -- Independence Day at NauvooGrowth of Nauvoo -- The Mansion -- Sidney Rigdon's Recreancy -- Mobocratic Conventions at Carthage -- Inciting the Missourians to Kidnap -- The Prophet Checks a Bombastic Politician -- Appeals for Redress -- Joy on a Christmas Day -- Orrin Porter Rockwell Back from MissouriJoseph Smith for President of the United States -- An Inspired Candidate -- His Views of the Powers and Policy of the General Government -- How the Country could have Saved the Carnage of WarPacific Address by the Prophet -- The Mob ask God to Bless their Work of Massacre -- Looking to the West -- A Sublime Sermon -- Apostates and their Work -- Joseph Indicted for PolygamyThe First and Only Issue of the Nauvoo "Expositor" -- Its Murderous Purpose -- Removal of a Nuisance and Eradication of its Cause -- Trial of the Mayor and Others, and Their Acquittal in an Honest Court -- Gathering of the Mobs -- Threats of Extermination -- Nauvoo Under Martial LawJoseph's Dream -- His Last Public Address -- Consciousness of his Impending Fate -- His Love for his BrethrenPontius Pilate Ford's Entrance upon the Scene at Carthage -- The Old Cry of "Crucify!" -- Joseph's Final Effort to Avert Danger from Nauvoo -- Lack of Faith and Suspicions of Cowardice -- A Fatal Blindness -- Like a Lamb to the Slaughter -- The Arms Demanded -- Farewell to Nauvoo -- At CarthageVoluntary Yielding to Process -- Joseph and Hyrum Charged with Treason -- Ford's Cowardice and Falsehood -- In Carthage Jail -- The First Day and Night -- Preaching to the Guards -- Ford Leaves the Martyrs to their FateAdministration of the Holy Endowments -- The work of the Closing Months -- Union of Satanic Forces Against the Prophet -- A Momentary Glance at him Before the Final HourThe Last Day -- Ford's Action at Nauvoo -- Conspiracy Between the Guards and Murderous Mob Militia -- The Prisoners Left to their Fate -- "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief" -- The Assault and the Murder -- The EndAnecdotes and Sayings of the ProphetAppendix.

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Book SynopsisThis 2 volume book paints an accurate picture of Joan of Arc both as a religious and historical figure. In this book, Joan emerges as an exemplary human being, with a character as near to perfection as anyone could achieve, whether one believes in Christian teachings or not.Table of ContentsList of Illustrations; Preface; The Royal Army from Soissons to Compiègne. Poem and Prophecy; The Maids First Visit to Compiègne. The Three Popes. Saint-Denys. Truces; The Attack on Paris; The Taking of Saint-Pierre-le-Moustier. Friar Richards Spiritual Daughters. The Siege of La Charité; Letter to the Citizens of Reims. Letter to the Hussites. Departure from Sully; The Maid in the Trenches of Melun. Le Seigneur de lOurs. The Child of Lagny; Soissons and Compiègne. Capture of the Maid; The Maid at Beaulieu. The Shepherd of Gévauda; The Maid at Beaurevoir. Catherine de la Rochelle at Paris. Execution of La Pierronne; Beaurevoir. Arras. Rouen. The Trial for Lapse; The Trial for Lapse (continued); The Trial for Lapse (continued); The Abjuration. The First Sentence; The Trial for Relapse. Second Sentence. Death of the Maid; After the Death of the Maid. The End of the Shepherd. La Dame des Armoises; After the Death of the Maid (continued). The Rouen Judges at the Council of Bâle and the Pragmatic Sanction. The Rehabilitation Trial. The Maid of Sarmaize. The Maid of Le Mans; Appendix I. Letter from Doctor G. Dumas; Appendix II. The Farrier of Salon; Appendix III. Martin de Gallardon; Appendix IV. Iconographical Note; Index.

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Book SynopsisMilarepa (1052-1135), a major figure in the history of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and known as one of Tibet''s greatest lamas and poets, continues to inspire Buddhist practitioners worldwide to the present day. Liberation in One Lifetime explores the history and spirituality of the Kagyu lineage in relationship to the narratives and teachings attributed to Milarepa by studying some of the earliest versions of these materials. Offering a detailed analysis of the biographical material that has been written about Milarepa (who was also a student of Marpa, a major figure in the development of the Bka''-brgyud-pa school of Tibetan Buddhism), author, theologian, and well-respected Tibetan Buddhist scholar, Francis V. Tiso, describes the historical context of the tradition of hagiography (biography) in Buddhism and other spiritual traditions, and provides a history of Milarepa''s influence in Tibet. Part One explains the tradition of composing stories about Milarepa''s life and teachings (there have been many throughout the centuries) and includes outlines of the contents of some of them as well as an explanation of the oral versions that have been transmitted via oral epic songs and poems that Milarepa composed. Describing the spiritual components of Bka''-brgyud-pa, Part Two includes tantric practices, an outline for the path of liberation, definitions of "voidness," and the characteristics of fully enlightened Buddhahood. Part Three includes translated biographies and oral teachings of Milarepa (in poetic form) that are considered sacred texts. The book also includes a foreword by Roberto Vitali, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist scholar as well as an extensive bibliography of primary and secondary sources.

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Book SynopsisFethullah Gülen is a leading figure in the current Turkish socio-political context. Regardless of the impression different circles have about him, he is universally acknowledged as an accomplished scholar and independent thinker who has had a life in tears dreaming of a “golden generation,” but also a life spent in persecution and ongoing trials. This book goes beyond the current controversy around his name, and tries to explore Gülen as a scholar around his certain personal traits and some of the key concepts he has been emphasizing over the years to mobilize his audience. Based on a research that covers over seventy books, 564 sermons, over 500 talks by Gülen, more than fifty interviews of his close associates and friends aired on TV networks, and the author''s personal observations, this book is a useful reference for those who study scholarly traditions of Islam in general and Fethullah Gülen in particular.

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