Religion Books

Book SynopsisCults are bigger than ever, with broad ramifications for national and international terrorism. This edition reveals what cults are and how they work, focusing on the coercive persuasion techniques of charismatic leaders seeking money and power.Table of ContentsForeword xi Acknowledgments xv Introduction to the Revised Edition xvii Introduction to the First Edition xxi Part 1 What Are Cults? 1 1. Defining Cults 3 Definitions and Characteristics Cult Types Who Joins Cults? Why Do They Join? 2. A Brief History of Cults 29 Cults in the 1800s The 1960s: Fertile Ground for Cults The 1970s: Cults to Expand Awareness The 1980s: Psychological, Occult, and Prosperity Cults Examples of New Cults Cause for Concern 3. The Process of Brainwashing, Psychological Coercion, and Thought Reform 52 Historical Examples of Brainwashing Packaged Persuasion Attacking the Self How Thought Reform Works Producing a New Identity Impermissible Experiments 4. What's Wrong with Cults? 83 Cults Threaten Legitimate Institutions Cults Harm Our Children and Tear Apart Our Families Cults Are Violent Cults Engage in Conspiracy and Fraud Small Cults Can Be Just as Harmful as Large Cults Take Away Our Freedom Cults Take Away Our Possessions Cults Escape Scrutiny What Is to Be Done? Part 2 How Do They Work? 103 5. Recruiting New Members 105 First Approach Invitation First Cult Contact Follow-Up: Gaining Greater Commitment Young and Old Alike Are Vulnerable The Double Agenda 6. Physiological Persuasion Techniques 125 Mass Marketing of Experiential Exercises Techniques Producing Predictable Physiological Responses Meditation May Not Always Be Good for You 7. Psychological Persuasion Techniques 150 Trance and Hypnosis Trickery Revision of Personal History Peer Pressure and Modeling Emotional Manipulation Psychotherapy Cults 8. Intruding into the Workplace 182 Clarification of New Age A Clash in the Workplace Violation of Civil Rights What Goes On in an LGAT? Development of a New Age Training Program: A Case Example Problems with Being "Transformed" at Work Psychological Casualties Buyer Beware: Thought-Reform Processes at Work 9. The Threat of Intimidation 209 Co-opted Professionals Intimidation and Harassment of Critics Part 3 How Can We Help Survivors to Escape and Recover? 241 10. Rescuing the Children 243 Children of Jonestown Children of Waco Children of Other Cults Role of the Cult Leader Role of Cult Parents What Children Learn in Cults After the Cult Children Are Survivors 11. Leaving the Cult 266 Why It's Hard to Leave Ways of Leaving the Cult Deprogramming and Exit Counseling 12. Recovery: Coming Out of the Pseudopersonality 295 Recovering from Cult Aftereffects Practical Issues Psychological and Emotional Difficulties Cognitive Inefficiencies Social and Personal Relations Philosophical and Attitudinal Issues Helpful Tasks for Individuals Leaving Cults There Is Life After the Cult Postscript to the First Edition: The Millennium, Cults, and the End of the Century 335 Postscript to the Revised Edition 339 Chapter Notes 357 Resources and Organizations 379 Further Reading 383 The Author 385 Index 387

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Book SynopsisBe inspired to pray boldly, pray powerfully, pray with passion, and trade ineffective prayers and lukewarm faith for raw, daring prayers that will transform your daily life.Do you ever wonder if God answers your prayers? Do you wish you could see the evidence that prayer changes lives? Do you long for more than playing it safe in your faith? Join New York Times bestselling author Craig Groeschel as he helps you discover the power of authentically communicating with God, breaking out of the restrictive spiritual safety bubble, and expanding your ideas about what''s possible with God.The Bible tells us that prayer has the power to move God''s heart, but some prayers move him more than others. He wants more for us than a tepid faith and half-hearted routines at the dinner table. God called you to a life of courage, not comfort.In Dangerous Prayers, Groeschel will show you how to pray the prayers that search your soul, break your habits, and send you out to pursue the calling God has for you. But be warned: If you''re fine with settling for what''s easy, or if you''re okay with staying on the sidelines, this book isn''t for you. You''ll be challenged. You''ll be tested. You''ll be moved to take a long, hard look at your heart. But you''ll be inspired, too.Dangerous Prayers will give you the encouragement and tools you need to: Transform the patterns around your daily prayer life Truly embrace and believe in the power of intentional prayer Start to pray daring, faith-filled, God-honoring, life-changing, world-transforming prayers You''ll discover the secret to overcoming fears of loss, rejection, failure, and the unknown, and you''ll welcome the blessings God has for you on the other side. But best of all, you''ll gain the courage it takes to pray dangerous prayers.

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Ibn Taymiyya (1263–1328) of Damascus was one of the most prominent and controversial religious scholars of medieval Islam. He called for jihad against the Mongol invaders of Syria, appealed to the foundational sources of Islam for reform, and battled against religious innovation. Today, he inspires such diverse movements as Global Salafism, Islamic revivalism and modernism, and violent jihadism. This volume synthesizes the latest research, discusses many little-known aspects of Ibn Taymiyya’s thought, and highlights the religious utilitarianism that pervades his activism, ethics, and theology.

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Book SynopsisMany pastors today see themselves primarily as counselors, leaders, and motivators. Yet this often comes at the expense of the fundamental reality of the pastorate as a theological office. The most important role is to be a theologian mediating God to the people. The church needs pastors who can contextualize biblical wisdom in Christian living to help their congregations think theologically about all aspects of their lives, such as work, end-of-life decisions, political involvement, and entertainment choices. Drawing on the Bible, key figures from church history, and Christian theology, this book offers a clarion call for pastors to serve as public theologians in their congregations and communities. It is designed to be engaging reading for busy pastors and includes pastoral reflections on the theological task from twelve working pastors, including Kevin DeYoung and Cornelius Plantinga.Table of ContentsContents Preface Owen Strachan and Kevin J. Vanhoozer Introduction: Pastors, Theologians, and Other Public Figures Kevin J. Vanhoozer * Problem: A Lost Vision * Proposal: The Pastor-Theologian as Peculiar Public Figure * Prospect: The Ministry of What Is "in Christ" Pastoral Perspectives Gerald Hiestand--Six Practical Steps toward Being a Pastor-Theologian Josh Moody--Seven Ways to Theologize as a Pastor Part 1: Biblical Theology and Historical Theology 1. Of Prophets, Priests, and Kings: A Brief Biblical Theology of the Pastorate Owen Strachan * The Ministry of the Old Covenant in the Old Testament * Participating in Jesus's Ministry of the New Covenant: The New Testament * Conclusion: The Pastorate as Theological Office Pastoral Perspectives Melvin Tinker--The Pastor as Public Theologian Todd Wilson--Human Origins: A Test Case for Pastor-Theologians Jim Samra--A Practical Theology of Technology 2. Of Scholars and Saints: A Brief History of the Pastorate Owen Strachan * The Early Church * The Medieval Period: Scholasticism and Monasticism * The Reformational Awakening: Protestant Pastors * Theological Shepherds: The Puritans and the Practicality of Truth * Agents of "Divine Business": The Edwardseans and Pastoral Dominion * The Modern Turn: Populism, Professionalism, and the Taming of the Pastorate * Glimmers of Hope: Harold Ockenga and Neoevangelical Boldness * Conclusion: Toward What Pastorate? Pastoral Perspectives Wesley G. Pastor--How the Theology of Saving Faith Has Affected My Congregation Kevin DeYoung--A Place for Truth Part 2: Systematic Theology and Practical Theology 3. In the Evangelical Mood: The Purpose of the Pastor-Theologian Kevin J. Vanhoozer * The Many Moods of Theology: Between Death and Resurrection * A Ministry of Reality: Theology in the Indicative Mood * A Ministry of Understanding: The Diakonia of God's Word * A Ministry of (New) Life: Theology in the Imperative Mood * The Goods of Theology: What Are Seminaries For? Pastoral Perspectives David Gibson--On Death Bill Kynes--Preaching the Doctrine of the Gospel as Truth, Goodness, and Beauty Cornelius Plantinga Jr.--Reading for Preaching 4. Artisans in the House of God: The Practices of the Pastor-Theologian Kevin J. Vanhoozer * The Great Pastoral Commission: "Make Disciples"; "Build God's House" * Evangelist: Presenting What Is in Christ * Catechist: Teaching What Is in Christ * Liturgist: Celebrating What Is in Christ * Apologist: Demonstrating What Is in Christ Pastoral Perspectives Guy A. Davies--The Drama of Preaching Jason B. Hood--The Pastor-Theologian as Pulpit Apologist Conclusion: Fifty-Five Summary Theses on the Pastor as Public Theologian Kevin J. Vanhoozer Indexes

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Book SynopsisAbdallah Azzam, the Palestinian cleric who led the mobilization of Arab fighters to Afghanistan in the 1980s, played a crucial role in the internationalization of the jihadi movement. Killed in mysterious circumstances in 1989 in Peshawar, Pakistan, he remains one of the most influential jihadi ideologues of all time. Here, in the first in-depth biography of Azzam, Thomas Hegghammer explains how Azzam came to play this role and why jihadism went global at this particular time. It traces Azzam''s extraordinary life journey from a West Bank village to the battlefields of Afghanistan, telling the story of a man who knew all the leading Islamists of his time and frequented presidents, CIA agents, and Cat Stevens the pop star. It is, however, also a story of displacement, exclusion, and repression that suggests that jihadism went global for fundamentally local reasons.Trade Review'For anyone wishing to understand the story of global jihad, understanding the life and thought of Abdallah Azzam is essential. Hegghammer provides a first-rate guidebook. Meticulously researched, this reads like a Graham Greene thriller - only it's true.' James L. Gelvin'Thomas Hegghammer's exceptional book is a detailed account of the life of Abdallah Azzam, Islamist ideologue, activist and organiser. It is a fascinating story in itself, told with forensic skill and a powerful sense of place and time. But it is also much more than this. Through this narrative of Azzam's ideas and activities we get an unparalleled insight into the many dimensions of the world of transnational Islamism.' Charles Tripp, author of The Power and the People: Paths of Resistance in the Middle East'Thomas Hegghammer's long-awaited biography of Abdallah Azzam turns out to be more than an interesting account of his life. It is about the rise of global jihadism, an entirely new phenomenon in the 20th century. Azzam's role cannot be fully appreciated without this valuable book.' Lawrence Wright, author of The Looming Tower: Al-Qaeda and the Road to 9/11'The Caravan deals with a highly sensitive and controversial subject, but it is evidence-based, meticulous and full of carefully judged distinctions - recent history at its finest.' Ian Black, The Observer'… Hegghammer's massive research effort makes this essential reading for all scholars studying terrorism.' S. Waalkes, Choice'The book is a remarkable scholarly achievement that adds new and provocative layers to the study of jihadism in Africa.' Sebastian Elischer, Comparative Politics'The trouble the author has taken to foolproof his conclusions, interviewing the largest cast of characters and triangulating just about every testimony, is remarkable … Hegghammer consistently fills gaps in the history of the transnational jihadist movement.' José S. Vericat, Journal of Palestine Studies'The Caravan – Abdallah Azzam and the Rise of Global Jihad is an important addition to the scholarship of jihadism and political Islam. It is not a dry academic text; it's simply a good read for anyone interested in some of the most significant developments in modern history. Hegghammer's panoramic view of jihadism makes this book a vital resource for anyone seeking to further understand the development of jihadism.' Ilan Fuchs, AMU Edge'Hegghammer's book is a must read for anyone who wants to understand the origins of the global jihad movement and the soil from which al-Qaeda sprung.' A. J. Caschetta, Middle East QuarterlyTable of ContentsIntroduction; Prologue; 1. Palestinian; 2. Brother; 3. Fighter; 4. Scholar; 5. Vagabond; 6. Writer; 7. Pioneer; 8. Diplomat; 9. Manager; 10. Recruiter; 11. Ideologue; 12. Mujahid; 13. Resident; 14. Enemy; 15. Martyr; 16. Icon; Conclusion.

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Book SynopsisPeter Adamson presents a lively introduction to six hundred years of European philosophy, from the beginning of the ninth century to the end of the fourteenth century. The medieval period is one of the richest in the history of philosophy, yet one of the least widely known. Adamson introduces us to some of the greatest thinkers of the Western intellectual tradition, including Peter Abelard, Anselm of Canterbury, Thomas Aquinas, John Duns Scotus, William of Ockham, and Roger Bacon. And the medieval period was notable for the emergence of great women thinkers, including Hildegard of Bingen, Marguerite Porete, and Julian of Norwich. Original ideas and arguments were developed in every branch of philosophy during this period - not just philosophy of religion and theology, but metaphysics, philosophy of logic and language, moral and political theory, psychology, and the foundations of mathematics and natural science.Trade ReviewAccessible and comprehensive. * Alban McCoy, The Tablet, Books of the Year 2019 *Peter Adamson's Medieval Philosophy gives fantastically compendious account of medieval philosophy. Adamson manages to be accessible, lucid, witty, incisive; luminously conveying the rambunctious ambivalences of the logic-chopping, devout, doubting, bawdy, bloodthirsty, mystical medievals. * Jane O'Grady, The Tablet *a volume that— despite its weight and heft—one could easily give to a non-philosopher as a first introduction to the field. For even the most obscure authors (such as that most prolific of medieval philosophers, Anon) and the most arcane of topics comes to life under Adamson's magic touch. But what is most impressive about the book is its sheer scope of knowledge. . . . If you want a good, light-touch, yet still not glossing over the difficulties, introduction to medieval philosophy, this is the book for you. * Sara L. Uckelman, Philosophical Quarterly *Adamson's history of medieval philosophy has, among its many merits, two great ones. First, is very clearly written and philosophically acute. . . .A second merit is that it proposes an updated interpretation of medieval philosophy, obtained by taking into account the most dominant trends present in literature. This makes Peter Adamson's volume a fine piece of work and a recommended volume. The history of medieval philosophy is investigated in its depth and full development, no significant gap can be found indeed in the proposed reconstruction. * Fabrizio Amerini, Philosophical Inquiries *Let me say at once on the evidence of this volume, [Adamson] succeeds brilliantly. Over some 78 sections he covers a huge range of figures ... Special attention is given - and rightly so - to female philosophers, such as Catherine of Siena ... This book (and the others in the series), which are a delight to read, will be of great interest to general readers, aside from students of culture. * Peter Costello, The Irish Catholic *Adamson writes with a light style, beginning each short chapter with an anecdote, which rewards both sticking with the long narrative and dipping in and out. * Nick Mattiske, Journey, Isolation Reading Recommendations *A staggering philosophical achievement ... the clarity of the animated text is further enhanced by the authors humour, bringing a light touch to complex matters ... This volume will surely attain classic status, and can be read either sequentially or consulted as a detailed encyclopaedia of mediaeval philosophy and its variegated personalities. * Paradigm Explorer *Table of ContentsPreface Early Medieval Philosophy 1: Arts of Darkness: Introduction to Medieval Philosophy 2: Charles in Charge: Alcuin and the Carolingian Period 3: Grace Notes: Eriugena and the Predestination Controversy 4: Much Ado About Nothing: Eriugena's Periphyseon 5: Philosophers Anonymous: The Roots of Scholasticism 6: Virgin Territory: Peter Damian on Changing the Past 7: A Canterbury Tale: Anselm's Life and Works 8: Somebody's Perfect: Anselm's Ontological Argument 9: All or Nothing: The Problem of Universals 10: Get Thee to a Nunnery: Heloise and Abelard 11: It's the Thought that Counts: Abelard's Ethics 12: Learn Everything: The Victorines 13: Like Father, Like Son: Debates over the Trinity 14: On the Shoulders of Giants: Philosophy at Chartres 15: The Good Book: Philosophy of Nature 16: One of a Kind: Gilbert of Poitiers on Individuation 17: Two Swords: Early Medieval Political Philosophy 18: Law and Order: Peter Lombard and Gratian 19: Leading Light: Hildegard of Bingen 20: Rediscovery Channel: Translations into Latin 21: Straw Men: The Rise of the Universities The Thirteenth Century 22: No Uncertain Terms: Thirteenth Century Logic 23: Full of Potential: Thirteenth Century Physics 24: Stayin' Alive: Thirteenth Century Psychology 25: It's All Good: The Transcendentals 26: Do the Right Thing: Thirteenth Century Ethics 27: A Light That Never Goes Out: Robert Grosseteste 28: Origin of Species: Roger Bacon 29: Stairway to Heaven: Bonaventure 30: Your Attention Please: Peter Olivi 31: None for Me, Thanks: Franciscan Poverty 32: Begin the Beguine: Hadewijch and Mechtild 33: Binding Arbitration: Robert Kilwardby 34: Animal, Vegetable, Mineral: Albert the Great's Natural Philosophy 35: The Shadow Knows: Albert the Great's Metaphysics 36: The Ox Heard Round the World: Thomas Aquinas 37: Everybody Needs Some Body: Aquinas on Soul and Knowledge 38: What Comes Naturally: Ethics in Albert and Aquinas 39: What Pleases the Prince: The Rule of Law 40: Onward Christian Soldiers: Just War Theory 41: Paris When it Sizzles: The Condemnations 42: Masters of the University:

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Book SynopsisFBI profiler Kaely Quinn visits Nebraska to care for her ailing mother. She can't help but notice suspicious connections among a series of local fires, so she calls on her partner, Noah Hunter, to help find the arsonist. Together they unwittingly embark on a twisted path to catch a madman who is determined his last heinous act will be Kaely's death.

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Book Synopsis'And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.' Micah 6:8 NIVThis book contains 365 short daily devotions on the theme of mercy. Each day's reading will take about one minute to read, and is accompanied by a short scripture passage and a gentle tug on your heart to be the light of mercy in someone's life each day, because a merciful heart looks beyond its own difficulties and encourages others. Written by Don Stephens, bestselling author of Ships of Mercy, and founder of the charity Mercy Ships which offers free surgical care to people in desperate need in Africa, these daily devotional readings are inspired by the very best stories from the work of the people who volunteer on the ship. But each day's reflection points to the need for mercy everywhere... not just across the ocean, but down the street, next door, and even in our very own homes.

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Book SynopsisA deeper understanding of the grand history of mission leads to a faithful expression of God's mission today. From the beginning, God's mission has been carried out by people sent around the world. From Abraham to Jesus, the thread that weaves its way throughout Scripture is a God who sends his people across the world, proclaiming his kingdom. As the world has evolved, Christian mission continues to be a foundational tradition in the church. In this one-volume textbook, Edward Smither weaves together a comprehensive history of Christian mission, from the apostles to the modern church. In each era, he focuses on the people sent by God to the ends of the earth, while also describing the cultural context they encountered. Smither highlights the continuity and development across thousands of years of global mission.

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Book SynopsisCreation and the giving of orders are closely entwined in Western culture, where God commands the world into existence and later issues the injunctions known as the Ten Commandments. The arche, or origin, is always also a command, and a beginning is always the first principle that governs and decrees. This is as true for theology, where God not only creates the world but governs and continues to govern through continuous creation, as it is for the philosophical and political tradition according to which beginning and creation, command and will, together form a strategic apparatus without which our society would fall apart. The five essays collected here aim to deactivate this apparatus through a patient archaeological inquiry into the concepts of work, creation, and command. Giorgio Agamben explores every nuance of the arche in search of an an-archic exit strategy. By the book's final chapter, anarchy appears as the secret center of power, brought to light so as to make possible a philosophical thought that might overthrow both the principle and its command.Trade Review"Adam Kotsko's lucid translation has continued his service to the field in making Agamben's texts accessible to a wider readership."—Devin Singh, Reading Religion

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Book SynopsisWhat is the difference between a ghost and a ghoul? How do you tell a good Jinn from a bad one? Where would you find a chimera or a manticore? What did Herodotus have to say about werewolves? In this enchanting little book, television producer and mythozoologist Tam OMalley explores the rich world of mythological animals, from banshees to harpies, griffins to vampires. These ancient beasties still intrigue us today, filling popular novels, screens and imaginations. "Fascinating" FINANCIAL TIMES. "Beautiful" LONDON REVIEW OF BOOKS. "Rich and Artful" THE LANCET. "Genuinely mind-expanding" FORTEAN TIMES. "Excellent" NEW SCIENTIST. "Stunning" NEW YORK TIMES. Small books, big ideas.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 The Banshee 2 Basilisk and Cockatrice 4 Blemmyae and Sciapods 6 Centaurs and Satyrs 8 Chimera 10 Cyclopes 12 Dragons and Wormes 14 Fairies, Elves, Goblins, Pixies and Gnomes 16 Ghouls 18 The Gorgons 20 The Griffin 22 Harpies and Sirens 24 Hydra and Cerberus 26 Jinn 28 Lamassu and Manticore 30 Leviathan, and Kraken 32 Mandrakes and Dryads 34 Mermaids and Fishmen 36 The Minotaur 38 Nagas and Naiads 40 The Phoenix 42 The Sphinx 44 Trolls 46 Typhon 48 Unicorns 50 Vampires 52 Werewolves and Anubis 54 Living Myths 56 Modern Myths 58

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Book SynopsisCollection of lectures by Godwin Samararatne on Buddhist Meditation in 1998 at Chin Lin Nunnery, Hong Kong. Explores the significance and popularity of Buddhist Meditation worldwide, emphasizing its role in developing the mind and achieving mental concentration or samadhi.

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Book SynopsisEarly Islam has emerged as a lively site of historical investigation, and scholars have challenged the traditional accounts of Islamic origins by drawing attention to the wealth of non-Islamic sources that describe the rise of Islam. A Prophet Has Appeared brings this approach to the classroom. This collection provides students and scholars with carefully selected, introduced, and annotated materials from non-Islamic sources dating to the early years of Islam. These can be read alone or alongside the Qur'an and later Islamic materials. Applying historical-critical analysis, the volume moves these invaluable sources to more equal footing with later Islamic narratives about Muhammad and the formation of his new religious movement. Included are new English translations of sources by twenty authors, originally written in not only Greek and Latin but also Syriac, Georgian, Armenian, Hebrew, and Arabic and spanning a geographic range from England to Egypt and Iran. Ideal for the classroom and personal library, this sourcebook provides readers with the tools to meaningfully approach a new, burgeoning area of Islamic studies.Trade Review"A marvel of concision and originality; best of all, it is readily accessible to the general reader. . . . A Prophet Has Appeared is one of the most readable and exciting books in Islamic history." * Middle East Quarterly *"Indeed, Shoemaker provides one of the most cohesive alternative visions to the emergence of Islam. A Prophet Has Appeared is a pivotal piece of this vision." * Reading Religion *"This sourcebook is a valuable contribution to reliable historical data concerning theologically based approaches to the rise of Islam." * CHOICE *"This is an excellent book and essential reading for anyone interested in the history of Islam during its formative period." * Journal of Near Eastern Studies *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1 The Teaching of Jacob the Newly Baptized 2 Synodical Letter, Homily on the Nativity, and Homily on Epiphany Sophronius of Jerusalem 3 A Syriac Fragment Concerning the Believers' Invasion of Syria 4 Letter 14 Maximus the Confessor 5 Chronicle Thomas the Presbyter 6 The Armenian Chronicle of 661 attributed to Sebeos 7 The Spiritual Meadow, Appendix to the Georgian Version John Moschus 8 Homily on the End-Times Ps.-Ephrem the Syrian 9 Letter 14C Ishoʿyahb III of Adiabene 10 Edifying Tales, Homily on the Lord’s Passion, The Hodegos, and Questions and Answers Anastasius of Sinai 11 The Khuzistan Chronicle 12 The Apocalypse of Rabbi Shimʿōn b. Yohai, The Secrets of Rabbi Shimʿōn b. Yohai 13 Pirqe de-Rabbi Eliezer 30 14 The Maronite Chronicle 15 On the Holy Places Adomnán / Arculf 16 The Apocalypse of Ps.-Shenoute 17 The Book of Main Points John Bar Penkaye 18 Fourth Letter to John the Stylite Jacob of Edessa 19 The Passion of Peter of Capitolias 20 Excerpts from a Lost Seventh-Century Greek Source, The Chronicle of Theophanes, The Chronicle of Agapius, The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian, and The Chronicle of 1234 Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisBased on the latest text of the NIV, this updated commentary reflects the most current scholarship. This updated and revised Pillar commentary seeks to clearly explain the meaning of John's letters to teachers, pastors, and general readers looking for a reliable and trusted resource for personal study. Colin Kruse introduces the important issues involved in interpreting the Johannine letters, gives verse-by-verse comments, and provides extensive discussion of John's major theological themes, including the real humanity of Christ, atonement, the role of the Spirit, Christian assurance, the meaning of koinonia, Christian love, and eternal life. Designed both for serious students and for general readers of the Bible, the Pillar New Testament Commentary volumes seek to make clear the meaning of the text of Scripture as we have it. The scholars writing these volumes interact with the most important, informed contemporary debate yet avoid undue technical detail. Their ideal is a blend of rigorous exegesis and exposition, scholarship and pastoral sensitivity, with an eye alert both to biblical theology and to the contemporary relevance of the Bible.Trade ReviewA splendid achievement and a welcome addition to the excellent Pillar series. The numerous notes on Johannine themes and the helpful attention to the relevant patristic sources are notable features. Comprehensive, thorough, and judicious, Kruse’s work promises to be a standard for many years. * Paul Barnett, former bishop of North Sydney, Australia *Serious students of the Johannine literature will find in this book a reliable and trustworthy guide to John’s let­ters. Kruse brilliantly reconstructs the context of the struggles that John’s church faced, and he successfully expounds the apostle’s defense of orthodox belief in what must have been a tumultuous and difficult era. Many generations will find themselves in Kruse’s debt for his outstanding contribution * Gary Burge, Calvin Theological Seminary *

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Book SynopsisAn indispensable guidebook through the journey of life and death, Mind Beyond Death weaves a synthesis of wisdom remarkable in its scope. With warm informality and profound understanding of the Western mind, the Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche makes the mysterious Tibetan teachings on the bardos—the intervals of life, death, and beyond—completely available to the modern reader. Drawing on a breathtaking range of material, Mind Beyond Death shows us how the bardos can be used to conquer death. Working with the bardos means taking hold of life and learning how to live with fearless abandon. Exploring all six bardos—not just the three bardos of death—Mind Beyond Death demonstrates that the secret to a good journey through and beyond death lies in how we live. Walking skillfully through the bardos of dream meditation and daily life, the Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche takes us deep into the mysterious death intervals, introducing us to their dazzling mindscape. This tour de force gives us the knowledge to transform death, the greatest obstacle, into the most powerful opportunity for enlightenment. With both nuts-and-bolts meditation techniques and brilliant illumination, Mind Beyond Death offers a clear map and a sturdy vehicle that will safely transport the reader through the challenging transitions of this life and the perilous bardos beyond death.

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Book Synopsis'A must-read for those who are seeking God, wishing to refresh their own faith, or hoping to lead others into the loving arms of Jesus Christ.' William van der Hart Who was Jesus? Why was he crucified? Did he really rise from the dead? Is it plausible that he was truly divine? Whether you are seeking to understand the Christian faith for the first time, or looking to be reminded of the basics, John Stott offers a clear and full explanation of the Gospel. With over 2.5 million copies sold, this classic introduction is as clear and relevant on the centenary of Stott's birth as when it was first published in 1958.Trade Reviewa fine biography, that can hardly fail to humble the reader and cause thanksgiving ... * Oliver Barclay; Themelios; September 2002 *Lucid, clear and compelling. * Richard Cunningham *A tried and tested exposition. * Ajith Fernando *Explains complex and difficult issues with great insight and wisdom. * Nicky Gumbel *This book has introduced more people to Christ than any other book I know except the Bible. * Jim Sire *Penetrating and fresh. * Dominic Smart *A must-read for those who are seeking God, wishing to refresh their own faith, or hoping to lead others into the loving arms of Jesus Christ. * William van der Hart *

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Book SynopsisA classic of Zen Buddhist literature, this compilation of twelfth-century Zen koans includes commentary and verses from the great Chinese Zen masters The Blue Cliff Record is a translation of the Pi Yen Lu, a collection of one hundred famous Zen koans accompanied by commentaries and verses from the teachings of Chinese Zen masters. Compiled in the twelfth century, it is considered one of the great treasures of Zen literature and an essential study manual for students of Zen.

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Book Synopsis"The Nectar of Instruction" by Srila Prabhupada offers enlightenment for seekers through guidelines on advanced spiritual consciousness, following the lineage of Gaudiya Vaishnavas like Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Maharaja and Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

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Book SynopsisIn the current climate, most of us are undergoing an angst that sometimes can only be cured through self-reflection. In seeking a cure, we look to improve ourselves, especially during this anxious and uncertain time as we live a 'new normal' during this pandemic. Sometimes the journey begins in the hope to better ourselves as a human being and relieve the inner turmoil. Sometimes the journey develops a more spiritual path where we reach out to the Divine in some capacity. In either case, a feeling of contentment can be attained leading to an inner peace. Yet, we can only begin to do this once we identify those feelings that cause anxiety or negative emotions that lead to a sense of heaviness in our day-to- day lives. The Coronavirus outbreak has led to many industries and Government authorities promoting self-care and urging many to look after their mental well-being more than ever before. The virus has forced most of the world to slow down, which in turn has had an impact on many people's daily routines. Many of us are staying at home, spending time with family and now have some new-found time to reflect on ourselves. As a result of this, many of us experience moments of frustration on a daily basis, from being confined to social distancing, or have a fear of losing one's job (or indeed already have), or are unintentionally feeling ungrateful for what we do have. Prior to the pandemic taking over, we would still face similar thoughts and feelings towards something we had seen on social media perhaps, or heard about from family, a friend or colleague. This could include being envious of someone's belongings or achievements, which they have shared on social media, or indeed boasting about our own. Whilst these emotions make us human, it's our intentions and actions that decide whether we are a 'good' person, whether in the eyes of one's self, our friends and family, our colleagues, or in the eyes of the Divine. Pre-Coronavirus, many of us lost the capacity to sit still and reflect upon ourselves. Now that we have the time to look back and contemplate, perhaps we need to think about why we are feeling these negative emotions. Why do we feel a sense of loss within our workday grind or within our family relationships or friendships? A Handbook of Spiritual Medicine is arranged in a unique way, by breaking down the core maladies of the heart into bite size chunks that are much easier to reference for the layperson. It provides a clear presentation using modern management techniques: a tabulated and color-coded format that enables easy access to definitions and signs and symptoms of spiritual illnesses, their cures, and exceptions. The antidotes to our ailments are drawn from Qur'anic verses and authentic ahadith (Prophetic sayings),inspiring mindfulness of the Almighty Cherisher and His Beloved Prophet. This guidebook, drawing on the 11th and 12th Century works of the 'Proof of Islam' and wondrous sage, Imam Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali can be applied to our busy lives in the modern, hi-tech era, and will prove accessible to people of all ages, all denominations: believers and non-believers alike. This book encourages us to continually self-analyse, in order to begin to experience the positive impact of such changes. It encourages us to look after ourselves during this time, acting as a guide on how to do this now and beyond the pandemic. Making this science accessible to a new generation is of utmost importance especially in times of a spiritual vacuum and great uncertainty.Trade Review"This work will enable the reader to self-analyse and assist him or herself in meeting their Creator with a 'sound heart'." Dr. Shaykh Ashraf Makadam Director of Trust, Madani Schools Federation, UK "A beautifully structured and well-presented work, highlighting one of the most important aspects of Islamic teachings." Mufti Muhammad ibn Adam Al-Kawthari Director of the Institute of Islamic Jurisprudence (Darul Iftaa) "The Handbook of Spiritual Medicine is to be commended as a clear presentation of science of internal purification in a format which enables easy access to symptoms of spiritual illness and their cures." Shaykh Zaqir Director of Darul Arqam Educational TrustTable of ContentsThe Author's Journey. Introduction. Recommendations. Acknowledgements. Self-Purification: A Continual Cycle of Self-Purification, How to Use this Book. Chapter 1: Anger. Chapter 2: Antipathy Towards Death. Chapter 3: Blameworthy Modesty. Chapter 4: Boasting, Arrogance & Pride. Chapter 5: Displeasure with Blame or Disapproval. Chapter 6: Displeasure with the Divine Decree. Chapter 7: Envy. Chapter 8: Extravagance. Chapter 9: False Hope. Chapter 10: Fantasizing. Chapter 11: Fear of Poverty. Chapter 12: Fraud. Chapter 13: Hard-Heartedness. Chapter 14: Hatred. Chapter 15: Heedlessness. Chapter 16: Iniquity. Chapter 17: Love of the World. Chapter 18: Miserliness. Chapter 19: Mockery. Chapter 20: Negative Feelings. Chapter 21: Obliviousness to Blessings or Ingratitude. Chapter 22: Ostentation or Showing Off. Chapter 23: Relying on Other than Allah. Chapter 24: Seeking Reputation. Chapter 25: Vanity. Chapter 26: Wantonness or Greed. Index. Bibliography. The Handbook Team.

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Book SynopsisChristian prayer is always an encounter with God. Drawing from a rich treasury of prayer spanning the Old Testament, the Fathers of the Church and the great saints of the Middle Ages, down to more recent times, this newly edited collection will help those seeking a fuller prayer life. Often too unsure to know how to pray for ourselves, the Holy Spirit helps us in our prayer as we bring our needs before the Father. Contains a wide variety of prayers to accompany us through the day, with well known Catholic devotions, suited to both private and shared settings.

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Book SynopsisWhen Madian Al Jazerah came out to his Arab parents, his mother had one question. ‘Are you this?’ she asked, cupping her hand. ‘Or are you this?’ she motioned with a poking finger. If you’re the poker, she said, you aren’t a homosexual. For Madian, this opposition reveals not who he is, but patriarchy, power, and society’s efforts to fit us into neat boxes. He is Palestinian, but wasn’t raised in Palestine. He is Kuwaiti-born, but not Kuwaiti. He’s British-educated, but not a Westerner. He’s a Muslim, but can’t embrace the Islam of today. He’s a gay man, out of the closet but still living in the shadows: he has left Jordan, his home, three times in fear of his life. Madian has searched for acceptance and belonging around the world, joining new communities in San Francisco, New York, Hawaii and Tunisia, yet always finding himself pulled back to Amman. This frank and moving memoir narrates his battles with adversity, racism and homophobia, and a rich life lived with humour, dignity and grace.Trade Review'A riveting and revealing journey of identity, politics and love in the Arab world. Brave in its honesty, and beautiful in its simplicity.' -- Rana Sweis, author of 'Voices of Jordan'; journalist for The New York Times and others'Madian Al Jazerah writes with the poetic courage of someone who has experienced both the beauty and the trauma of the world. I wish I'd had this book fifteen years ago when facing the same questions about my many identities.' -- Afshan D'souza-Lodhi, poet and playwright'A courageous, timely and humorous journey through questions often silenced in today's Arab world: sexuality, identity and belonging.' -- Ramzi Salti, Stanford University, host of the Arabology podcast and author of 'The Native Informant: Six Tales of Defiance from the Arab World''This fearless memoir, told with warmth and compassion, is an inspiration. Navigating deftly between family drama, social insight and poignant emotion, it is searingly honest and thought-provoking, driven by a desire for hopeful change. I loved it.' -- Matthew Teller, author of 'Quite Alone: Journalism from the Middle East 2008-2019''This is the story of a great man, full of emotions, pride, dignity and determination. A tale of hope in a world of colliding identities; a must-read!' -- Fadi Zaghmout, blogger and author of 'The Bride of Amman''A moving narrative of remarkable courage and sensitivity, which weaves together a tapestry of displacement and belonging, of seeking and giving refuge, and of seeing and insisting on being seen.' -- Safwan M. Masri, Columbia University'When I read this book, I felt that Madian Al Jazerah's words were my own. A story not of guilt or shame, but of a citizen of the world who still loves his home country, despite rejection and suspicion.' -- -- Asmaa al-Ghoul, award-winning Palestinian journalist, and author of 'A Rebel in Gaza'

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Book SynopsisIn 1549 Thomas Cranmer published the first "Prayer Book" in English. Based on a medieval form of worship, its language is both sublime and majestic. "Later Prayer Books" produced by the Anglican Communion are derived from it - and in the eyes of many are inferior. All Christian denominations in England and America owe an incalculable debt to Cranmer's pioneering work. This new edition presents Cranmer's services in a form which is practical, accessible and easy to follow. This is the first edition designed for use in worship since the original publication over 450 years ago. As in the original, the instructions - the "rubrics" - are printed in red. The present publishers hope that churches and informal Christian groups may use if for occasional - or even regular - acts of worship.Trade Review... delightful... excellent resource... I recommend this book to anyone... interest[ed] in liturgy or in the history of the Anglican tradition. The Rev. Jim Snell, The San Joaquin Star

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Book SynopsisPresents an anthology of discourses from the "Pali Canon", providing an account of Buddhist teachings from the earliest primary sources. 17 discourses are provided, including those essential to the study and teaching of early Buddhism. Additional support materials include helpful footnotes, a select bibliography, and a glossary of key terms.

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Book SynopsisThe Mahanidana Sutta is a key discourse on dependent arising in Buddhism, emphasizing its depth and importance. Ananda challenges its complexity, leading to a profound teaching by the Buddha. This book includes the sutta's translation, commentary passages, and philosophical discussions on the topic.

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive guide to connecting with the magic of each of the four elements: Water, Earth, Air, and Fire• Details hands-on techniques, spells, and rituals paired with personal stories from the author’s decades of magical practice • Presents teachings on working with each element in different ways--such as divination, communication, healing, protection, manifestation, and enchantment • Explores elemental altars, scrying and reading the bones, undines and fairies, working with runes and crystals, ancestral healing, weather sensing, fire gazing, candle magic, sex magic, and communicating with the Otherworld A Book of Shadows is a witch’s sacred journal, filled with personal experiences and the intimate working of spells. In this practical guide to elemental witchcraft, Salicrow invites you into her personal Book of Shadows, detailing hands-on techniques, spells, and rituals to work with the magic of the four elements--Water, Earth, Air, and Fire. She presents teachings on each element through the lens of different schools of magic, such as divination, healing, protection, manifestation, and enchantment. Within each of these elemental teachings is a series of progressive lessons, including a personal story from the author’s lifetime of magical practice paired with a technique for you to explore. For the Water witch, she explores scrying, engaging with undines, weather protection, fairy glamour, and healing with kitchen spells. For the Earth witch, she describes reading the bones, animal messengers, listening to plants, crystal grids, and shadow work. For the Air witch, she looks at communicating with sylphs and crows, divination through clouds and wind, sonic magic and healing, spell accelerants, and smudging. For the Fire witch, she examines the Djinn, the magical hearth, fire divination, candle work, and sex magic. For all the elements, she explores how to build elemental altars and customize the ceremonies and rituals. Sharing intimate examples and practices to help you progressively develop the skills of witchcraft, Salicrow invites you to create your own personal Book of Shadows as you forge a magical relationship with the natural world.Trade Review“The Path of Elemental Witchcraft is much more than a book, it is an intimate invitation into the sacred workings of the world. Through personal stories and guided practice you can’t help but be enveloped in the unique vision of Salicrow, whose writing crystallizes the precious usefulness of elemental magic. This Book of Shadows makes a tantalizing subject accessible and beneficial to all.” * Stephanie Rose Bird, author of 365 Days of Hoodoo and Sticks, Stones, Roots, and Bones *“The Path of Elemental Witchcraft is abundantly filled with wisdom, heart, and deep teachings. Salicrow’s writing is authentic, passionate, and inspiring. In this wonder-full book she shares stories of her personal journey that illustrate who and what the elementals are, and she teaches us how to engage and relate with the elementals in safe and respectful ways. Each section is filled with a rich mix of practices, rituals, suggestions, and guidance for deepening our understanding and our relationship with Nature and the visible and invisible worlds around us. Each elemental section explores communication, divination, healing, protection, and magic with the beings of water, fire, air, and earth. Doing the practices will take you deep into your own experience of knowing. This book is a treasure trove that you’ll want to delve into over and over again.” * Kathy Warner, cofounder of Heaven and Earth, LLC *“In The Path of Elemental Witchcraft, Salicrow takes readers into her cave of interconnectedness and sacred communication with a wealth of information and offerings that enable practitioners of any level to develop a richer relationship with the elements and elemental beings from many different origins. Salicrow does not simply tell you how to walk through the shadow, she teaches you how to see within the veil of its profuse darkness.” * Jenn LeBlanc, elemental enchantress *"The Path of Elemental Witchcraft is part memoir and travelogue, part ritual handbook, part metaphysical ethnography of the many types of elemental spirit beings Salicrow meets in the hidden realms. This book strikes me as a generous gift, like a gigantic buffet table onto which Salicrow has piled as many of her observations and insights as the table will hold. Reading The Path of Elemental Witchcraft feels like it might feel sitting with Salicrow over a cup of tea or a bowl of soup.This book is a magnum opus. It is a trip around the worlds." * Sara R. Diamond, FacingNorth.net *Table of ContentsFOREWORD THE ELEMENTS OF MAGICby Anne-Marie Keppel PREFACE WELCOME, SEEKER WATER WITCH COMMUNICATIONUndinesWater AltarsSacred Water from the EarthThe Purple MistConnecting with WilloughbyTransmission through Seclusion DIVINATIONMirrors and TeacupsBath BombsRipples in the WaterMirror, Mirror on the WallMoonlit ReflectionThe Drowning PoolHEALINGHealing in the Soup PotAwakeningWater BlessingSonic WavesHealing Community and Country PROTECTIONReflective MagicAnointed ProtectionHall of MirrorsIrish Piss PotProtective SprayWeather Protection GLAMOUR Fairy GlamourAccentuating the PositiveMisty CamouflageLove Come to MeBecoming the PriestessLaps of ManifestationJump Girl EARTH WITCH COMMUNICATION Gnomes and TrollsEarth AltarsThe Art of ListeningEntering the Fairy WoodThe Troll CaveDevas in the GardenDIVINATION The Wisdom of TreesRoots and BonesWorking with RunesAnimal MessengersEveryday DivinationGEOMANCYConnected LinesStonehengeNeedleBalancing EnergyGreen Heart FarmNagini, the Stone SnakeAttuned to the EarthHEALING Entering the CaveVerdant GnosisThe NestGraveyard DirtThe Wisdom of TreesSlieve GullionPROTECTION Sacred GrovesMagical PermacultureFairy MoundsBoobie-StonesStone GuardiansEarth in My Pocket AIR WITCH COMMUNICATION SylphsAir AltarsTake CautionSpirit Chimes InFae ContactCrow’s Calling DIVINATIONWeather SensingCloud AuguryThe Voice of RemembranceVoices on the WindSmoke on the BreezeThe Way of Birds ASTRAL NAVIGATION The Astral PlaneJourneying through VoiceI Am AwakeStorm WeavingAs the Crow FliesA Voice for the Otherworld HEALINGPurification through SmokeActivating the OlfactoryWhistling and BlowingA Healing VoiceEchoes in the MountainAttuned to Air ENCHANTMENTBubbles to the MoonCatching the WindThe Wyrding WayVoices on the WindEcholocationTime Traveling in the TorFIRE WITCHCOMMUNICATIONSalamandersFire AltarsThe Cleverness of JinnHonoring Fire in the HomeFaces in the FireFire-Breathing Dragons DIVINATION Visions in FlamesAshes to AshesMelted WaxFlaming RunesSamhain FiresCampfire Divination HEALING Light a CandleBonfire of the VanitiesBurning Bridges and Cutting CordsAttuned to FireInternal FlameLocalizing Trauma with Fire TRANSFORMATIONFire ContainmentChange from the HearthCoaxing EmbersPhoenix from the FireBonfire and BeesI Have Walked on Fire, Ho!SEX MAGICSacred SexualitySteamy Offerings Object of DesireAwakening the Snake Fantasy Lover Desired by the Gods AFTERWORD CONTINUING THE JOURNEY INDEX

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Brilliantly edited and introduced by Giancarlo Casale. . . . Osman’s eye-opening reflections on the dilemmas of difference and identity make this a story curiously of our time." * Times Literary Supplement *"An excellent, lively English translation by Giancarlo Casale." * The Times *"Elegantly presented and scrupulously edited by Casale. . . . The reader should undertake this trip into time and place with Osman for both his exploits and his learning." * Middle East Quarterly *"Readers will enjoy the combination of Casale’s erudition and Osman Ağa’s straightforward but exciting story." * Asian Review of Books *"With an intimacy that recalls Ibn Battuta…Prisoner of the Infidels provides a useful and entertaining window into 17th-century Europe and the Ottoman-Habsburg wars. This memoir reveals a depth, nuance, and grittiness that standard historical accounts cannot hope to convey. It centers the human experience, covering everything from mosquito bites to separations from, and reunions with, family." * Reading Religion *"Besides being a splendidly enjoyable read, The Prisoner of the Infidels is also a valuable resource for both academic research and teaching." * Critical Inquiry *Table of ContentsList of Maps Acknowledgments xi A Note on Transcription from Ottoman Turkish A Note on the Translation Introduction: On Being Osman 1. Surrender 2. Ransom 3. Crime and Punishment 4. Death and Resurrection 5. Respite 6. Bonds of Love 7. To the Capital 8. A Friend in Need 9. An Unexpected Turn of Events 10. Into the Lion's Den 11. Grifters 12. To the Border 13. The End Appendix: The Main Characters in Osman's Narrative Notes Index of People Index of Places

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Book SynopsisLas trampas del miedo es una visita a las dimensiones biológicas, psicológicas y espirituales de los temores que debemos desmantelar. El autor explica cómo operan estas trampas y ofrece herramientas para superarlas, pero no se queda allí: incluye varias de las secuelas que el miedo causa y explora alternativas para enfrentarlas.

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Book SynopsisPart of the Biblical Theology of the New Testament series this highly anticipated volume by Douglas Moo summarizes the theology of the apostle Paul, focusing both on the contribution of his individual letters as well as providing a synthesis of his major theological emphases.

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Book SynopsisThe cross of Christ towers over 2,000 years of history. What happened on that hill called Calvary? In this compilation of his life''s work, Billy Graham explains what Jesus accomplished on the day of his death, the meaning of his sacrifice, where he is now, the price of victory, and how to live with hope.It’s almost impossible to find one of Billy Graham’s sermons that didn’t focus on the incredible events that happened over 2,000 years ago on Mount Calvary, and that’s because he centered his life and ministry around its message. In this special collection of the beloved evangelist''s inspiring messages on the cross, discover simple yet profound truths that will change your life.This one-of-a-kind message includes: An exclusive foreword from Franklin Graham and afterword by Will Graham More than 40 bonus pages of Scripture references pointing readers to what God''s Word says about the cross and salvation<

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Book SynopsisWhat do you do when everything falls apart?“Instead of trying to discipline your mind with ill will, fault-finding, guilt, punishment, and fear, use something far more powerful: the beautiful kindness, gentleness, and forgiveness of making peace with life.”—Ajahn Brahm “In free fall, nothing is solid and there is nothing to hold on to. There is no way to control the experience. You have to surrender, and with that surrender comes the taste of liberation.”—Master Guojun Most of us tend to live each day as if it will be just another day—like nothing will change. It always comes as a shock when we lose a job, a loved one, a relationship, our health—even though we’ve seen it happen again and again to those around us. Once we finally realize we’re not immune, then we wonder: what now? How do we continue when the terrain suddenly gets rough? Meet your companions for this rocky part of the path: Ajahn Brahm and Chan Master Guojun—one a teacher in the Theravada Buddhist tradition, the other in the Chinese Zen tradition. These two beloved meditation masters share personal stories and anecdotes from their own experiences of dealing with life’s pitfalls. You’ll learn from their honest, generous teachings how you can live fully—even flourish—even when the road ahead looks steep and lonely. Personal, poetic, instructive, and often laugh-out-loud funny, this is inspiring advice for people from all walks of life. “Falling is Flying is truly unique because it offers a rare glimpse into the personal lives of two living Buddhist masters. With unflinching honesty, Ajahn Brahm and Chan Master Guojun share the struggles they’ve faced, even after becoming monks and respected teachers. Throughout the book, we see how, instead of turning away in aversion from adversity, they’ve used it as a stepping stone for finding the peace and happiness we all seek. I love this book and recommend it most highly!” —Toni Bernhard, author of How To Be Sick

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Book SynopsisAll theology is doxology. Anglican theologian J. I. Packer was one of the most widely respected Christian writers of the twentieth century. Author of over forty books and named one of the most influential evangelicals by Time magazine and the readers of Christianity Today, Packer's impact is immense. He was known for profound theological writing that was always lively and worshipful. Pointing to the Pasturelands recovers several decades of Packer's contributions to the pages of Christianity Today. This includes his editorial columns, longer articles, and brief answers to readers' theology questions. The book concludes with a profile of Packer from Mark A. Noll. Enjoy timeless insights from a man whose life was devoted to knowing God and making him known.

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Book SynopsisWinner of The PEN Hessell-Tiltman Prize 2022Shortlisted for The Wolfson History Prize 2022A The Times Books of the Year 2022Three thousand years ago, in the Southwest Asian lands we now call Israel and Palestine, a group of people worshipped a complex pantheon of deities, led by a father god called El. El had seventy children, who were gods in their own right. One of them was a minor storm deity, known as Yahweh. Yahweh had a body, a wife, offspring and colleagues. He fought monsters and mortals. He gorged on food and wine, wrote books, and took walks and naps. But he would become something far larger and far more abstract: the God of the great monotheistic religions.But as Professor Francesca Stavrakopoulou reveals, God’s cultural DNA stretches back centuries before the Bible was written, and persists in the tics and twitches of our own society, whether we are believers or not. The Bible has shaped our ideas about God and religion, but also our cultural preferences about human existence and experience; our concept of life and death; our attitude to sex and gender; our habits of eating and drinking; our understanding of history. Examining God’s body, from his head to his hands, feet and genitals, she shows how the Western idea of God developed. She explores the places and artefacts that shaped our view of this singular God and the ancient religions and societies of the biblical world. And in doing so she analyses not only the origins of our oldest monotheistic religions, but also the origins of Western culture.Beautifully written, passionately argued and frequently controversial, God: An Anatomy is cultural history on a grand scale.'Rivetingly fresh and stunning' – Sunday Times'One of the most remarkable historians and communicators working today' – Dan SnowTrade ReviewA learned but rollicking journey through every aspect of Yahweh's body. A book that will offend some but delight more. * Economist Best Books of the Year *Lively . . . [with] a wealth of scholarly detail and much gusto -- Rowan Williams * New Statesman *Rivetingly fresh and stunning . . . I rather like this inexhaustibly powerful, shouting, bearded giant of a God, a fiery, fierce and startlingly “pagan” God, alive to his very fingertips, laughing at human hubris and singing with unbridled joy. -- Christopher Hart * Sunday Times *A marvelous conspectus of references to the divine body in ancient southwest Asian texts. But more than this, it is about recalibrating our understanding of these difficult texts to better understand ourselves. -- Simon Yarrow * Literary Review *Professors of Theology are imagined to be dull, gentle souls. This book, however, is a great rebel shout . . . A book that aims to upend the notion of a cloudy, spiritualised creator . . . instructive, vivid and frequently hilarious. * Economist *Stavrakopoulou is no literalist — indeed, she’s an atheist — but she maintains that her reading makes far more sense than the traditional ones, and her confident tone never falters. -- Dan Hitchens * The Times *God: An Anatomy is a tour de force. Stavrakopoulou has created not just an extraordinarily rich and nuanced portrait of Yahweh himself, but an intricate and detailed account of the cultural values and practices he embodied, and the wider world of myth and history out of which he emerged . . . Stavrakopoulou has taken to heart the biblical injunction to seek the face of God, and what emerges is a deity more terrifyingly alive, more damaged, more compelling, more complex than we have encountered before. More human, you might say. -- Mathew Lyons * New Humanist *A detailed and scrupulously researched book . . . packed with knowledge and insight -- Karen Armstrong * The New York Times *Boldly simple in concept, God: An Anatomy is stunning in its execution. It is a tour de force, a triumph, and I write this as one who disagrees with Stavrakopoulou both on broad theoretical grounds and one who finds himself engaged with her in one narrow textual spat after another . . . A stunning book. -- Jack Miles * Catholic Herald *The sheer amount of primary evidence examined is staggering . . . Stavrakopoulou’s argumentation is intellectually penetrating, analytically robust, and sophisticated . . . Stavrakopoulou’s book, and her public-facing scholarship, demonstrate what makes an outstanding biblical scholar. * Church Times *Good Lord, Stavrakopoulou touches that sweet spot that is scholarly, funny, visceral and heavenly. A revelation. -- Adam Rutherford, author of A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived and How to Argue with a RacistOne of the most remarkable historians and communicators working today. -- Dan SnowIn both Judaism and Christianity God is conceived as non-physical. In God: An Anatomy Francesca Stavrakopoulou shows that this was not yet so in the Bible, where God appears in a much more corporeal form. This provocative work will surprise and may shock, but it brings to light aspects of the biblical account of God that modern readers seldom appreciate. -- John Barton, Emeritus Professor at Oriel College, Oxford and author of A History of the BibleIn Stavrakopoulou's stunning dissection of historical religious texts, the real back-story and context of the God of Judaism and Christianity is revealed . . . Where pious theologians have abstracted him into emptiness, Stavrakopolou gives him back his substance, and he’s so much more interesting in this bodily form! Both scholarly and accessible, and full of fascinating stories - I guarantee you’ll never think of this God the same way again. -- Professor Alice RobertsMarvelous and stimulating . . . scholarly and beautifully illustrated . . . an exciting read! * Methodist Recorder *This is an extraordinary book. It’ll rewire your thinking, and it’s so readable you won’t notice till it’s too late. -- Tim Whitmarsh, author of Battling the GodsWell-researched . . . A refreshing look at ancient Scripture and the people behind it, reminding readers that the concept of ‘God’ in the 21st century is a world away from that of the earliest people of Israel. A challenging, engaging work of scholarship that sheds new light on ancient Hebrew conceptions of the divine. * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisThe NASB Pew and Worship Bible is perfect for any church pew or classroom and matches page-for-page with the NASB Preacher’s Bible. Universally recognized as the gold standard among word-for-word translations, the beloved New American Standard Bible, 1995 Edition, is now easier to read with Zondervan’s exclusive NASB Comfort Print typeface.

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Book SynopsisThe Pilgrim’s Progress has inspired readers across the centuries to persevere in their faith. For longstanding fans of Bunyan’s tale, or for those encountering it for the first time, this illustrated edition offers new beauty and insight with striking hand-painted illustrations and enlightening commentary for all ages. Inside you’ll find: 15 chapters, accompanied by gorgeous hand-painted scenes at the beginning of each chapter annotations embedded across every chapter to help readers gain a deeper understanding of the allegory a presentation page for thoughtful gifting and a notes section to write down your thoughts a ribbon marker for easy referencing colorful artwork throughout the entire book Originally written for the everyman, John Bunyan''s Christian classic has since found its way into the libraries of scholars and universities as well—a true master

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Book Synopsis''Åsne Seierstad is the supreme non-fiction writer of her generation ... Two Sisters isn''t only the story of how a pair of teenage girls became radicalised but an unsparing portrait of our own society - of its failings and its joys'' Luke HardingOn 17 October 2013, teenage sisters Ayan and Leila Juma left their family home near Oslo, seemingly as usual. Later that day they sent an email to their unsuspecting parents, confessing they were on their way to Syria. They had been planning the trip for months in secret.Åsne Seierstad - working closely with the family - followed the story through its many dramatic twists and turns. This is, in part, a story about Syria. But most of all it is a story of what happens to apparently ordinary people when their lives are turned upside down by conflict and tragedy.''A masterpiece and a masterclass in investigative journalism'' Christina Lamb, Sunday Times''Meticulously documented, fulTrade ReviewHauntingly written, this book is both a masterpiece and a masterclass in investigative journalism * Christina Lamb, Sunday Times *A modern tragedy. And a universal one ... None of us truly knows what teenagers think, behind their closed doors, nor what tomorrow will bring * The Times *Meticulously documented, full of drama ... filled with smuggling, violence, ever-changing loyalties and tension ... this is a tale fluently told, and a thriller as well * Kate Adie, Literary Review *Intricate, compelling * Observer *Åsne Seierstad is the supreme non-fiction writer of her generation. Her latest work is haunting, luminously written and compelling. A brilliant book. Two Sisters isn't only the story of how a pair of teenage girls became radicalised but an unsparing portrait of our own society - of its failings and its joys * Luke Harding, author of Collusion *Two Sisters is a masterwork. Brilliantly conceived, scrupulously reported and beautifully written, this book is compulsive reading ... Seierstad fixes her lens on one of the most disturbing conundrums of our time - what leads ordinary people to become terrorists? * Jon Lee Anderson *Simply magnificent ... One of the most important books of our time * Svenska Dagbladet *

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Book SynopsisAn Ancient Collection ReimaginedComposed around the Buddha’s lifetime, the original Therigatha (“Verses of the Elder Nuns”) contains the poems of the first Buddhist women: princesses and courtesans, tired wives of arranged marriages and the desperately in love, those born into limitless wealth and those born with nothing at all. The authors of the Therigatha were women from every kind of background, but they all shared a deep-seated desire for awakening and liberation. In The First Free Women, Matty Weingast has reimagined this ancient collection and created an original work that takes his experience of the essence of each poem and brings forth in his own words the struggles and doubts, as well as the strength, perseverance, and profound compassion, embodied by these courageous women.

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Book SynopsisFirst released in 1901, Thought-Forms was an in-depth exploration on the visual manifestations of thoughts and the notion that they exist as objects. Conceived by renowned theosophists Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater, the book consists of 58 illustrations based on Besant and Leadbeater’s clairvoyant observations on how music, emotions, experiences, and colors affect thought forms. Expanding beyond its original readership, the book would have great influence on twentieth-century art and go on to inspire many artists including Wassily Kandinsky, Hilma af Klint, Piet Mondrian, and Paul Klee. This updated edition features a new introduction by famed occult author, Mitch Horowitz.

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Book SynopsisIntrigue, double-dealing and conspiracy in the Eternal City. 'A fascinating narrative of the intermingling of secular and religious power' New Statesman 'A highly enjoyable and thrilling read... Hollingsworth has peeled back the veil of secrecy surrounding papal conclaves' History Today 'Full of lively detail and colour' Literary Review August 1559. As the long hot Italian summer draws to its close, so does the life of a rigidly orthodox and profoundly unpopular pope. The papacy of Paul IV has seen the establishing of the Roman Inquisition and the Index of Prohibited Books, an unbending refusal to open dialogue with Protestants, and the ghettoization of Rome's Jews. On 5 September 1559, as the great doors of the Vatican's Sala Regia are ceremonially locked, the future of the Catholic Church hangs in the balance. Mary Hollingsworth offers a compelling and sedulously crafted reconstruction of the longest and most taxing of sixteenth-century papal elections. Its crisscrossing fault lines divided not only moderates from conservatives, but also the adherents of three national 'factions' with mutually incompatible interests. France and Spain were both looking to extend their power in Italy and beyond and had very different ideas of who the new pope should be – as did the Italian cardinals. Drawing on the detailed account books left by Ippolito d'Este, one of the participating cardinals, Conclave 1559 provides remarkable insights into the daily lives and concerns of the forty-seven men locked up for some four months in the Vatican.Trade Review[A] rich, full history of the politicking and personalities of the conclave... A fascinating narrative of the intermingling of secular and religious power' -- Michael Prodger, New StatesmanMary Hollingsworth is an entertaining guide... Brings to life not only the political dimension, but the fascinating material detail' -- Catherine Fletcher, BBC History MagazineA highly enjoyable and thrilling read... Hollingsworth has peeled back the veil of secrecy surrounding papal conclaves' * History Today *Full of lively detail and colour... Readers of history who are both passionate and patient will enjoy it' * Literary Review *PRAISE FOR MARY HOLLINGSWORTH: 'Exceptionally sumptuous... This vivid history brings to life the vices and virtues of the feuding ruling families of Italy' The Times, on Princes of the Renaissance. 'A chance to visit a glittering, at times rather gory, world that is different and yet dreamily familiar to our own' BBC History Revealed, on Princes of the Renaissance. 'Dense politics relieved by dazzling art' Kirkus, on Princes of the Renaissance. 'This forensic study of the Renaissance banking dynasty conjures up a world of art, literature, philosophy – and brutality' Telegraph, on The Medici. 'Lavishly illustrated, clearly written and meticulously edited' * TLS, on The Medici *

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Book SynopsisA guidebook to making life meaningful by cultivating compassion, embracing adversity, and training the mind—from one of the foremost living Buddhist nuns.Freeing ourselves from our habitual emotional patterns starts with taming the mind. Why is this so important? Because a wild mind tends to hurt rather than heal. Taming the mind helps us uncover our true nature and connect with those around us from a grounded place of self-awareness. Through caring for others you can walk the Buddhist path of bodhisattvas, becoming a spiritual hero of compassion.   Based on the classic fourteenth-century mind training text of Tibetan Buddhism called the Thirty-Seven Practices of a Bodhisattva, this guidebook shares pithy advice on how to act as bodhisattvas in our everyday lives, enabling us to possess compassion in an authentic way. Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo, an exemplary spiritual teacher who spent over a dozen years meditating in the Himalayas and one of the first Buddhist nuns to be ordained in the West, shares her reflections on this famous teaching and how to live a life of mindfulness and selflessness. 

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Book SynopsisThe essays collected in Situating Spirituality: Context, Practice, and Power examine not only individual engagements with spirituality, but they show how seemingly personal facets of spirituality, as well as definitions of spirituality itself, are deeply shaped by religious, cultural, and political contexts.Trade ReviewSituating Spirituality successfully, and imaginatively, captures the full breadth of scholarship on spirituality, in all its manifest diversity, making it a critical contribution to this burgeoning, if messy, field. * Galen Watts, Centre for Sociological Research, KU Leuven, Journal of the American Academy of Religion *The volume will be important for scholars interested in the idea that everything can be spiritual. * R. T. Cragun, The University of Tampa, CHOICE *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Contributors Introduction Eminently Social Spirituality: Context, Practice, and Power Brian Steensland, Jaime Kucinskas, Anna Sun Part One: Context 1. Social Practices and Cultural Contexts: Framework for the Study of Spirituality Nancy Ammerman 2. The Gods of Modern Spirituality Linda Woodhead 3. Fearful Asymmetry: Rethinking the Boundaries between Religion and Spirituality Anna Sun 4. Trumping the Devil! Engendering the Spirituality of the Marketplace within Africa and the African Diaspora Afe Adogame 5. Methodological Innovations for the Study of Spirituality Bradley Wright 6. Shifts in Spiritual and Religious Self-Perceptions in the First Year of College Alyssa N. Rochenbach 7. Spirituality among African Americans: Inter-Racial and Intra-Racial Differences across Followers of Various Religious Traditions Jason Shelton Part Two: Practice 8. The Micro-interactive Order of Spirituality Michael Pagis 9. Ecstasies: Or, the Limitations of Vanilla Spirituality Studies Melissa Wilcox 10. Textures of Spirituality in Rural Malawi Ann Swidler 11. Gifts, Weapons, and Values: The Language of Spirituality in 21st Century Central America Robert Brenneman Part Three: Power 12. Everything is Connected: Relocating Spiritual Power from Nature to Society Stef Aupers 13. Yoga Spirituality in the Context of U.S. Institutions Candy Gunther Brown 14. Training Spiritual Caregivers: Spirituality in Chaplaincy Programs in Theological Education Wendy Cage, Beth Stroud, Patrick K. Palmer, George Fitchett, Trace Haythorne, Casey Clevenger 15. Spirituality and Islam: Sufism in Indonesia Rachel Rinaldo 16. The Transmission of Spirituality in Broader Landscapes of Power Jaime Kucinskas Conclusion 17. Three Questions About Spirituality: Its Meaning, Influence, and Future Brian Steensland Index

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Book Synopsis'Timely and important' THE TIMES 'Considered and nuanced ... A must-read' The Rt Hon. Sajid Javid MP 'Compelling and moving' Tom Holland, author of Dominion __________________ Islam is the fastest-growing faith community in Britain. Domes and minarets are redefining the skylines of towns and cities as mosques become an increasingly prominent feature. Yet while Britain has prided itself on being a global home of cosmopolitanism and modern civilisation, its deep-rooted relationship with Islam – unique in history – is complex, threatened by rising hostility and hatred, intolerance and ignorance. There is much media debate about embracing diversity in our communities, but what does integration look like on the ground, in places like Dewsbury, Glasgow, Belfast and London? How are Muslims, young and old, reconciling progressive values – of gender equality, individualism, the rule of law and free speech – with literalist interpretations of their faith? And how is this tension, away from the public gaze, unfolding inside mosques today? Ed Husain takes his search for answers into the heart of Britain’s Muslim communities. Travelling the length and breadth of the country, Husain joins men and women in their prayers, conversations, meals, plans, pains, joys, triumphs and adversities. He tells their stories here in an open and honest account that brings the daily reality of British Muslim life sharply into focus – a struggle of identity and belonging, caught between tradition and modernity, East and West, revelation and reason.Trade ReviewTimely and important ... A compelling account -- Jawad Iqbal * The Times *Fascinating … Mr Husain makes a compelling case * Economist *Considered and nuanced, with the voices of Muslim communities across the country at its very heart. Among the Mosques is a must-read for anyone wanting to learn more about modern Britain's admirable Muslim communities -- The Rt Hon. Sajid Javid MPBracingly honest, often challenging, yet ultimately optimistic, Ed Husain goes on a road trip around Muslim Britain that is also a road trip into the country’s future. A compelling and moving read -- Tom Holland, author of DOMINIONEd Husain is a well-informed and sure-footed guide -- David Goodhart, author of HEAD HAND HEART

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