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Book SynopsisIn 1913, just before the outbreak of the First World War, a 19-year-old Czech Jew named Jiri Langer left his assimilated family to live in the remote village of Belz, Galicia (now Ukraine). He had gone to live under the Chassidic (or Hasidic) Rokeach dynasty, a line of Rabbis that survives to this day. Nine Gates is the record of Langer''s time amongst these isolated Chassidic mystics of Eastern Galicia, and a window into their world. Langer tells of their enthusiasm, their simple faith, their ecstasies, their austerities, their feasts, their wonder-working Holy Rabbis and their esoteric wisdom. Most of all, he recounts a collection of shrewd and earthy folk tales told by the holy men who ruled these little spiritual kingdoms for generation after generation.Over 80 years since its original publication in Czech, this translation by Stephen Jolly remains the definitive English version of this towering work of Jewish introspection. Nine Gates is a document from another time and place, andTrade Review'Lo! As he reached the roof, an unknown hand gave him a light' Nine Gates is not primarily for those whose approach to Hasidism is detached and analytical, although it would even be interesting to them. It is a book for the reader who wants to breathe Hasidic air. . . . Like the Rebbe Reb Shmelke, the reader of the Nine Gates is given the light without realizing from whence it comes. Isaac Bashevis SingerTable of ContentsForeword by Frantisek Langer Introduction - A Youth from Prague among the Chassidim Gate I - Of diamonds in the Lord's crown the costliest, the holy Reb Sholem of Belz Gate II - Child of God, our dearest, the holy Mayerl of Przemysl Gate III - Heart of our mirth, the holy Reb Naftali of Ropshitz Gate IV - Blazing lion of the heavenly Academy, the holy Reb Urele of Strelisk (also the holy Reb Jude Hersch of Stretena) Gate V - Two golden trambones in the angelic choir, the holy Rebe Reb Meshulem Sussya of Anipol and the holy Rebe Reb Melech of Lizensk Gate VI - Mystic twain, the holy Rebe Reb Schmelke of Mikulov and the holy Rebe Reb Pinchas of Frankfurt Gate VII - Three tall tamarisks in the broad plain, the holy Yismach Moyshe of Ihel - the holy Ohev Yisroel of Apta - and the Saint of Kalev Gate VIII - Mystic shining mirror, the holy Reb Jacob Yitzhak, the Seer of Lublin (also the holy Dyvre Chayyim of Sanz) Gate IX - Most secret brain of Greatness and Wisdom, the holy Reb Pinchas of Koritz (ah! the saints at Slavuta) The City of Wisdom - Gold and silver and pearls and all the precious stones of Kotsk - or the holy Reb Moyshe Yide Lieb of Sassov - Reb Simche Binem of Pzhysha - the Holy Jew - Mendele of Kotsk - and the wise Rim of Gora Kalwariye

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Book SynopsisWild Mercy is essential reading for anyone ready to awaken the feminine mystic within and birth her loving, creative, and untamed power into the world. "Mystical brilliance at its best." —Caroline Myss "No one can take us into the fiery and tender depths of the sacred feminine with more skill, humor, clarity, and vibrant naked honesty than Mirabai Starr." —Andrew Harvey, author of The Hope and The Return of the Mother We live in a world that has suffered the abuses of an unbalanced masculine rule for thousands of years—but the feminine is rising. "Seeds of feminine wisdom that have been quietly germinating underground are now breaking through the surface," writes Mirabai Starr. "Women everywhere are rising to the collective call to step up and repair our broken Earth. And we are activating a paradigm shift such as the world has never seen." With Wild Mercy, Mirabai shares the subversive wisdom and fierce compassion of the feminine mystic across cultural boundaries and throughout history. From saints and sages, to goddesses and archetypal energies, to contemporary teachers and seekers—you’ll meet women who blazed a path that will illuminate your own. Each chapter explores a different facet of feminine mysticism through a tapestry of teachings, reflections, and stories, along with a practice for integrating the chapter’s themes into your own life. As you journey through these pages, you’ll explore: Taking refuge in contemplative practice with St. Teresa of Avila and the Shekinah • Longing, embodiment, and union as the heart of feminine spiritual practice with the Hindu poet Mirabai and Mary Magdalene • Your relationship with the Earth, motherhood in all its forms, and a loving call to action alongside Gaia and Ix Chel • Community and the web of life with Indra, the Beguines, and female prophets throughout history • Wild, playful, and compassionate mercy with Tara and Kuan Yin • Finding joy in creativity and the arts with Saraswati and Chiyo-ni • More inspiration from archetypal goddesses and amazing women past and present—Julian of Norwich, the Sufi saint Rabia, Pachamama, Sophia, Old Spider Woman, Hildegard of Bingen, Demeter, Kali, and more Wild Mercy provides a much-needed alternative to the models of religion and spirituality that have dominated history. Here, Mirabai invites you to welcome the wisdom of women back into the collective field where it may transform the human family, heal the ravaged Earth, and awaken the divine love in our hearts.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Well argued and engaging...It asks the reader to deeply reflect on a number of important philosophical issues that are frequently circumvented in the popular Buddhism-science discourse.”—Anna Lutkajtis, Journal of Religious History“Thompson's erudite and eminently engaging essay should be required reading of all those interested in Buddhist modernism.”—Robert Sharf, University of California, Berkeley“Philosophy should be a project reaching beyond age-old geographical divides, a project anchored on critical reason to promote human transformation. With inspiring intellectual courage, Thompson shows us the way forward.”—Marcelo Gleiser, Dartmouth College"In this beautifully written philosophical memoir, Evan Thompson takes us through his incredible intellectual journey that begins in boyhood at the utopia of Lindisfarne and brings him to the deepest precincts of both Buddhist philosophy and cognitive science. A deeply thoughtful book."—Owen Flanagan, author of The Geography of Morals“This book should be required reading for the increasingly large number of scientists and philosophers who are interested in understanding Buddhism”—Alison Gopnik“This is a wise and thoughtful book. Buddhism, from this perspective, turns out to be many things, but not a science of the mind.”—T.M. Luhrmann, author of When God Talks Back

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Book Synopsis* A SUNDAY TIMES HISTORICAL FICTION BOOK OF 2023 * 'A gloriously foreboding Gothic tale' - HEAT 'A thrillingly dark page-turner' - MAIL ON SUNDAY 'Marta is Jane Eyre's black-hearted alter ego' - THE TIMES Many would find much to fear in Fyneshade's dark and crumbling corridors, its unseen master and silent servants. But not I. For they have far more to fear from me... On the day of her beloved grandmother's funeral, Marta discovers that she is to become governess to the young daughter of Sir William Pritchard. Separated from her lover and discarded by her family, Marta has no choice but to journey to Pritchard's ancient and crumbling house, Fyneshade, in the wilds of Derbyshire. All is not well at Fyneshade. Marta's pupil, little Grace, can be taught nothing, and Marta takes no comfort from the silent servants who will not meet her eye. More intriguing is that Sir William is mysteriously absent, and his son and heir Vaughan is forbidden to enter the house. Marta finds herself drawn to Vaughan, despite the warnings of the housekeeper that he is a danger to all around him. But Marta is no innocent to be preyed upon. Guided by the dark gift taught to her by her grandmother, she has made her own plans. And it will take more than a family riven by murderous secrets to stop her... Perfect for readers of Laura Purcell, Jessie Burton and Stacey Halls, Fyneshade is a dark and twisted gothic novel unlike any you've read before...Trade ReviewA highly original work of dark gothic brilliance. In a house with monstrous secrets, Marta is a heroine like no other. She will steal your heart, believe me. A story so inventive and exciting, I simply couldn't wait for the next page -- Janice Hallett, author of THE APPEALDark, heady and bold, Fyneshade is a seductive treat, with a protagonist who is both wicked and irresistible. I was entranced from the first page to the last -- Antonia Hodgson, author of THE DEVIL IN THE MARSHALSEAWhat a brilliant, chilling, thrilling gothic masterpiece... I do love a clever, evil heroine. Magnificent -- Clare BaldingJane Eyre but with an icy heart... a dark, inventive story * Sunday Times *Marta is Jane Eyre's black-hearted alter ego... ingenious * The Times *Victorian menace with echoes of both Jane Eyre and The Secret Garden * Financial Times *A thrillingly dark page-turner with deeply satisfying nods to a number of gothic classics * Mail on Sunday *A gloriously foreboding Gothic tale, with a delicious anti-heroine and a fiendish final twist in the tale * Heat *A tour de force! I thoroughly enjoyed this darkest of dark tales with its canny and complicated heroine, and a final twist that made me gasp out loud. Gloriously wicked -- Rosie Andrews, author of THE LEVIATHANWith a satisfyingly dark anti-hero at its core Fyneshade makes for compelling storytelling and proves Kate Griffin's a new standout voice in gothic fiction -- Susan Stokes-Chapman, author of PANDORAA darkly delicious joy of a historical gothic novel. Mature and accomplished storytelling that's utterly compelling. I loved it -- Essie Fox, author of THE SOMNAMBULISTPlayful and compelling, and a wonderful love letter to Gothic -- Nicola Upson, author of AN EXPERT IN MURDERWonderful and well-deserved. I loved Fyneshade's clever reworking of Jane Eyre's gothic tropes, it's wicked anti-heroine and immaculate plotting. A perfectly shivery read for a hot summer day... Stupendously good -- Amanda Craig, author of THE LIE OF THE LANDI absolutely adored this unforgettable and original take on the governess gothic. Marta is the anti-heroine you can't help rooting for: I was under her spell from the very first page. A deliciously dark and decadent novel, sure to bewitch readers everywhere -- Emilia Hart, author of WEYWARDWhat a devious and delightful tale. In Marta, Kate Griffin gives us one the most inventive and compelling characters of recent years. A gloriously gothic and often darkly funny story. I devoured it whole -- Anna Mazzola, author of THE CLOCKWORK GIRL

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Book SynopsisExplore the Bible alongside daily insights from pastor-teacher Dr. John MacArthurFor more than 50 years, Dr. John MacArthur has helped Christians gain greater clarity and insight into Scripture. Now you can read through the Bible in a year while learning from wisdom gleaned from a lifetime of study with The MacArthur Daily Bible. This Bible offers an achievable approach to reading the entire Bible with readings from the Old and New Testaments, Psalms, and Proverbs for each day of the year. Combined with insights drawn from The MacArthur Study Bible, you will gain greater clarity and understanding as you read.Features include: The complete NASB (1995) translation presented with daily readings from the Old and New Testaments, Psalms, and Proverbs Daily notes from Dr. John MacArthur drawn from the MacArthur Study Bible to help you better understand key tr

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Book SynopsisA reexamination of the biblical David, legendary warrior, poet, and king, by one of America's most respected rabbis Of all the figures in the Bible, David arguably stands out as the most perplexing and enigmatic. He was many things: a warrior who subdued Goliath and the Philistines; a king who united a nation; a poet who created beautiful, sensitive verse; a loyal servant of God who proposed the great Temple and founded the Messianic line; a schemer, deceiver, and adulterer who freely indulged his very human appetites. David Wolpe, whom Newsweek called the most influential rabbi in America, takes a fresh look at biblical David in an attempt to find coherence in his seemingly contradictory actions and impulses. The author questions why David holds such an exalted place in history and legend, and then proceeds to unravel his complex character based on information found in the book of Samuel and later literature. What emerges is a fascinating portrait of an exceptional human being who, despite his many flaws, was truly beloved by God.Trade Review"This is an excellent study of the most fascinating character in the Old Testament."—Wall Street Journal"How can a man who murders his lover's husband in order to cover up an adulterous affair be fit to be king? . . . Wolpe gently and gracefully explores the many facets—king, sinner, father, lover, and husband, among others—that together create David's outsized personality . . . In the end, the author observes, contemporary readers identify with David so well because he is full of contradictions, and he is great because of this complexity, not in spite of it."—Publishers WeeklyFinalist for the 2014 National Jewish Book Awards sponsored by the Jewish Book Council in the Biography, Autobiography and Memoir category"A sensitive and utterly unsparing reading of the most attractive and least edifying character in the Hebrew Bible."—Jack Miles

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Book SynopsisWhen Buddhists say ''things arise due to causes and conditions,'' they mean things come into being from a whole assembly of interrelated factors and events. We cannot trace a linear history or causal chain of events to their arising; they just come into being when the appropriate causes and conditions congregate at an appropriate time and place. When the causes and conditions that perpetuate or sustain the existence of that particular entity cease to present themselves, that particular entity will then disintegrate. Letter To A Friend explores coordinating body, speech and mind i such a way that produces positive karma and good outcomes. The Buddhist approach to moral or ethical values is not moralistic. Our moral and ethical values are part of a moral psychology, and part of our spiritual aspirations and orientation; they are not just about conduct.

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Book SynopsisBiblical and Pastoral Poetry was written by Alcimus Avitus, bishop of Vienne, in the late fifth or early sixth century. This volume presents new English translations alongside the Latin texts of the Spiritual History, his most famous work which narrates biblical stories, and verses addressed to his sister, In Consolatory Praise of Chastity.

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Book SynopsisThe story of the spiritual journey of the famous Tibetan yogi Milarepa is often told, but less well known are the stories of his encounters with those he met and taught after his own Enlightenment, eleven of which are the catalyst for volumes 18 and 19 of the Complete Works. The first three were originally published in The Yogi's Joy, and to these have been added an intriguing fourth, `The Shepherd's Search for Mind'. The other seven stories form a sequence tracing the relationship between Milarepa and his disciple Rechungpa, from their first meeting to their final parting, when Rechungpa is exhorted to go and teach the Dharma himself. As portrayed in The Hundred Thousand Songs of Milarepa, Rechungpa is a promising disciple, but he has a lot to learn, being sometimes proud, distracted, anxious, desirous of comfort and praise, over-attached to book learning, stubborn, sulky and liable to go to extremes. In other words, he is very human, and surely recognizable to anyone who has embarked on the spiritual path. He all too often takes his teacher's advice the wrong way, or simply ignores it, and it takes all of Milarepa's skill, compassion and patience to keep their relationship intact and help his unruly disciple to stay on the path to Enlightenment. Sangharakshita's commentary is based on seminars he gave to young, enthusiastic but as yet inexperienced Dharma followers, and while much can be gleaned from it about the path of practice of the Kagyu tradition, the main emphasis is simply on how to overcome the difficulties that are sure to befall the would-be spiritual practitioner, how to learn what we need to learn - in short, the art of discipleship.

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Book SynopsisIn Rage and Carnage in the Name of God, Abiodun Alao examines the emergence of a culture of religious violence in postindependence Nigeria, where Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions have all been associated with violence. He investigates the root causes and historical evolution of Nigeria’s religious violence, locating it in the forced coming together of disparate ethnic groups under colonial rule, which planted the seeds of discord that religion, elites, and domestic politics exploit. Alao discusses the histories of Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions in the territory that became Nigeria, the effects of colonization on the role of religion, the development of Islamic radicalization and its relation to Christian violence, the activities of Boko Haram, and how religious violence intermixes with politics and governance. In so doing, he uses religious violence as a way to more fully understand intergroup relations in contemporary Nigeria.Trade Review"Throughout this insightful book, [Alao] explores both post-independence Nigeria’s history and the global religious movements in their connection with religious violence. ... The book will be useful for students, researchers, policymakers and anyone who is interested in understanding the religious violence in Nigeria beyond the narratives that are common in the media." -- Adeyemi Balogun * Religion *"Abiodun Alao’s book is an interesting contribution to the literature on religious violence in Nigeria – a country where religious and ethnic divides come into play at all times. ... It offers a compelling explanation of the dynamics as well as the divergence between Christianity, Islam, and traditional religion in Nigeria. This book will definitely open up more discussions and debates on religiously motivated violence in Nigeria." -- Zainab Mai-Bornu * Religion, State & Society *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments ix Introduction: Of Nigeria, Religion, and Violence 1 1. Religion and Nigerian Society 19 2. Islam and Violence in Nigeria 45 3. Christianity and Violence in Nigeria 77 4. Traditional Religions and Violence in Nigeria 101 5. Boko Haram and the New Phase of Violence 115 6. National Politics, Intergroup Relations, and Religious Violence in Nigeria 153 7. The Economics of Religious Violence in Nigeria 189 8. Nigeria's Religious Violence in the Context of Global Politics 207 Conclusion: The Impossibility of the Best and the Unlikelihood of the Worst 225 Notes 239 Bibliography 267 Index 285

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Book SynopsisExamines the development of early Christian reflection on the Trinity, arguing that essential contributions of Patristic theology are preserved and expanded in the thought of Thomas Aquinas.

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Book SynopsisThis volume examines the major cultural, religious, political, and urban changes that took place in the Iranian world of Inner and Central Asia in the transition from the pre-Islamic to the Islamic periods.One of the major civilizations of the first millennium was that of the Iranian linguistic and cultural world, which stretched from today's Iraq to what is now the Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China. No other region of the world underwent such radical transformation, which fundamentally altered the course of world history, as this area did during the centuries of transition from the pre-Islamic to the Islamic period. This transformation included the religious victory of Islam over Buddhism, Nestorian Christianity, and the other religions of the area; the military and political wresting of Inner Asia from the Chinese to the Islamic sphere of primary cultural influence; and the shifting of Central Asia from a culturally and demographically Iranian civilization to a TurTrade Review“The History and Culture of Iran and Central Asia makes substantial new contributions to our understanding of a transitionary period.” —Jamsheed K. Choksy, author of Conflict and Cooperation"The contributions to this volume are uniformly of high quality, representing commendable international collaboration between Asian, European, and American scholars based in six different countries. Anybody pursuing the history of Central Asia in the first millennium CE will find material of interest in this volume."—Journal of the American Oriental Society * Journal of the American Oriental Society *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments 1. D.G. Tor, Introduction: The Enduring Significance of the Iranian World in the First Millennium CE: Transformation and Continuity I. Iranian Central Asia in Late Antiquity 2. Frantz Grenet, “Types of town planning in ancient Iranian cities: new considerations” 3. Nicholas Sims-Williams, “The proto-Sogdian inscriptions of Kultobe: New fragments and new reconstructions” 4. Etsuko Kageyama, "Xian Temples of the Sogdian Colonies in China" 5. Yutaka Yoshida, “Three scenarios for the historical background of the Xi’an Sino-Pahlavi inscription — Post Sasanian Zoroastrian traders?” II. From the Pre-Islamic to the Islamic 6. Michael Shenkar, “The Arab Conquest and the Collapse of the Sogdian Civilization” 7. Minoru Inaba, “Wukong’s itinerary towards India: Central Asia in the mid-eighth century” 8. Rocco Rante, “Evolution of the habitat in Paykend” 9. Arezou Azad, “Notes on Islamisation Narratives in the Faḍāʾil-i Balkh” III. The Transformation of the Pre-Islamic Past 10. Sören Stark, “The New Garden of the Amir: Samanid Land-Development at the Borders of the Bukhara Oasis” 11. Louise Marlow “Al-Thaʿālibī’s Iranian Past: Assimilation and Aesthetics” 12. Gabrielle van den Berg, “Representations of the Pre-Islamic Past in Early Persian Court Poetry” 13. Dilnoza Duturaeva “From Turkistan to Tibet: The Qarakhanids and the Tsongkha Tribal Confederation”

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Book SynopsisDynamic New Teaching from Bestselling Author Ed SilvosoIt''s no secret that the church today has lost its influence in culture. But why? With the technology, affluence, and knowledge we have today, why are we less effective than the first-century church--which didn''t have social media, fancy buildings, professional pastors, or even religious freedom?What are we missing?In these vital, eye-opening pages, bestselling author Ed Silvoso digs into Scripture, unearthing Jesus'' true design for his church--his Ekklesia. He shows how the early church was a radical, countercultural force of people who transformed the hostile, pagan places in which they lived. Here Dr. Silvoso shows how we, in the midst of social, economic, political, and moral chaos, can once again become the revolutionary, transformational, life-giving Ekklesia Jesus called us to be.

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Book SynopsisOne of the great works of Western literature, from perhaps the most important thinker of Christian antiquity, in a revolutionary new translation by one of today’s leading classicists Sarah Ruden’s fresh, dynamic translation of Confessions brings us closer to Augustine’s intent than any previous version. It puts a glaring spotlight on the life of one individual to show how all lives have meaning that is universal and eternal. In this intensely personal narrative, Augustine tells the story of his sinful youth and his conversion to Christianity. He describes his ascent from a humble farm in North Africa to a prestigious post in the Roman Imperial capital of Milan, his struggle against his own overpowering sexuality, his renunciation of secular ambition and marriage, and the recovery of the faith his mother had taught him during his earliest years. Augustine’s concerns are often strikingly contemporary, and the confessional mode he inve

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Book SynopsisThe mythologies of the world are collective cultural dreams, and as such should be analyzed first from cultural perspectives. How do myths of the ancient Egyptians or Greeks, for instance, reflect the realities of the Egyptian and Greek cultures? When compared, however, mythologies reveal certain universal themes or motifs that point to larger trans-cultural issues such as the place of the human species in creation or the nature of deity as a concept. World Mythology: A Very Short Introduction is organized around the universal motifs. Creation, the Flood, the Hero Quest, the Trickster/Culture Hero, the Pantheons, the High God, the Great Goddess. Veteran mythology scholar David Leeming examines examples of each motif from a variety of cultures--Greek, Egyptian, Norse, American Indian, African, Polynesian, Jewish, Christian, Hindu--treating them as reflections of the cultures that dreamed them. He compares and analyzes them, exposing their universal significance and creating a world mythology.Trade ReviewDavid Leeming distils world mythology into some of its most essential forms — deity, creation, flood, trickster, and hero — and he offers illuminating examples of each one. His clear, concise summaries and interpretations will surely serve as springboards for further research. This volume makes an inspiring introduction for newcomers to the field, and a handy reference guide for anyone already working with myth. * Joanna Gardner, Co-founder, Fates and Graces Mythologium *Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Definitions 1 Deity 2 Creation 3 The flood 4 The trickster 5 The hero Conclusion References Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisArthur McKeown examines newly revealed Tibetan and Chinese biographies of Sariputra and a collection of historical documents in Sanskrit, Tibetan, and Chinese. These sources point to a fundamental reconsideration of later Indian Buddhism, its relationship with Brahmanism and Islam, and its enduring importance throughout Asia.

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Book SynopsisDynasties Intertwined traces the turbulent relationship between the Zirids of Ifriqiya and the Normans of Sicily during the eleventh and twelfth centuries. In doing so, it reveals the complex web of economic, political, cultural, and military connections that linked the two dynasties to each other and to other polities across the medieval Mediterranean. Furthermore, despite the contemporary interfaith holy wars happening around the Zirids and Normans, their relationship was never governed by an overarching ideology like jihad or crusade. Instead, both dynasties pursued policies that they thought would expand their power and wealth, either through collaboration or conflict. The relationship between the Zirids and Normans ultimately came to a violent end in the 1140s, when a devastating drought crippled Ifriqiya. The Normans seized this opportunity to conquer lands across the Ifriqiyan coast, bringing an end to the Zirid dynasty and forming the Norman kingdom of ATable of ContentsIntroduction: Writing the History of the Zirids and Normans 1. Geographic Orientations and the Rise of the Fatimids 2. The Contest for Sicily in the Eleventh Century 3. Commerce and Conflict from 1087 to 1123 4. The End of the Emirate and the Beginning of the Kingdom 5. The Norman Kingdom of Africa 6. The Fall of Norman Africa and the Legacy of Zirid-Norman Interactions Epilogue

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Book SynopsisDig deeper into the Word with The Bible Recap Study Guide. Following a chronological Bible reading plan, it features reflection and research questions specific to each day's reading and space to write what you're learning.

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Book SynopsisGiordano Bruno's The Ash Wednesday Supper presents a revolutionary cosmology founded on the new Copernican astronomy that Bruno extends to infinite dimensions, filling it with an endless number of planetary systems.Trade Review"The volume’s most important contributions to Bruno studies are the extended "Notes" that offer background, interpretation, and explanation of Bruno’s provocative debate." -- Paul Richard Blum, Loyola University Maryland * Isis, vol 110, 1 *Table of Contents1. Introduction 2. A Note on the Text 3. Complete Italian Text: newly edited according to the so-called vulgate version 4. Translation of the Dedication (+ notes) 5. Translation of Dialogue 1 (+ notes) 6. Translation of Dialogue 2 (+ notes) 7. Translation of Dialogue 3 (+ notes) 8. Translation of Dialogue 4 (+ notes) 9. Translation of Dialogue 5 (+ notes) 10. Appendix: Alternative Italian text of folio D 11. Appendix: Alternative English translation of folio D 12. Bibliography of Cited Works

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Book SynopsisIt is a unique book -there has been no comparable synthesis published for a hundred years. It offers a coherent and accessible read, with introductions and summaries for each chapter.

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Book SynopsisVery Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring Debates about science and religion are rarely out of the news. Whether it concerns what''s being taught in schools, clashes between religious values and medical recommendations, or questions about how to address our changing global environment, emotions often run high and answers seem intractable. Yet there is much more to science and religion than the clash of extremes. As Thomas Dixon and Adam Shapiro show in this balanced and thought-provoking Very Short Introduction, a whole range of views, subtle arguments, and fascinating perspectives can be found on this complex and centuries-old subject. They explore the key philosophical questions that underlie the debate, but also highlight the social, political, and ethical contexts that have made the tensions between science and religion such a fraught and interesting topic in the modern world. In this new edition, Dixon and Shapiro connect historical concepts such as evolution, the heliocentric solar system, and the problem of evil to present-day issues including the politicization of science; debates over mind, body, and identity; and the moral necessity of addressing environmental change. Ranging from medical missionaries to congregations adopting new technologies during a pandemic, from Galileo''s astronomy to building the Thirty Meter Telescope, they explore how some of the most complex social issues of our day are rooted in discussions of science and religion. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade Reviewa wonderful book * Morteza Hajizadeh, New Books Network *Review from previous edition A rich introductory text...on the study of relations of science and religion. * R. P. Whaite, Metascience *A marvellous book that should be required reading for dogmatic fundamentalists of every persuasion. * Patricia Fara, British Journal for the History of Science *Dixon shows great skill in composing a book which combines coherence and clarity with a strong forward momentum... The interested reader need not hesitate. * Michael Fuller, The Expository Times *Bracing initiation * Observer. *The relationship between science and religion, past and present, is much more varied and more interesting than the popular caricature of conflict. Thomas Dixon gives us the richer picture, and he does it with clarity and verve. This is an ideal introduction to a fascinating subject. * Peter Lipton. University of Cambridge *Thomas Dixon has made a delightful contribution to this OUP series of Very Short Introductions. * Church Times *Table of Contents1: What are science-religion debates really about? 2: Galileo and the philosophy of science 3: God and nature 4: Darwin and evolution 5: Mind and morality 6: The worlds of science and religion References and further reading Index

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Book SynopsisBest Spirituality Books of 2018 - Spirituality & PracticeA little guide to cultivating tsewa: the loving warmth of heart from which the awakened mind arises--from the popular Buddhist teacher and author of The Intelligent Heart.This is a call to a revolution of heart. In Tibetan Buddhism, it is taught that one of the most essential qualities of enlightenment is tsewa, a form of warm energy and openness of heart. It is the warmth we express and receive through empathy with others, especially those closest to us. In this compact gem of a book, Dzigar Kongtrul opens the door to this life-changing energy and shows us how to transform our attitude toward ourselves and those around us through its practice. And through its practice, we can actually heal our fractured world.This is a guide to the building blocks of compassion and the purest and deepest form of happiness. And with these tools, we can awaken the most powerful force in the world—a tender, open heart.

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Book SynopsisA wise, accessible guide that makes the spiritual and ethical teachings of the yogic tradition immediately relatable to our practice on the mat—and in our everyday relationships and activities“There is no daily practice without some formal training; and there is no deep spiritual training without the mess of relational life. The two are one,” says Michael Stone. At the root of yoga practice there is a vast and intriguing philosophy that teaches the ethics of nonviolence, patience, honesty, and respect. Innovative teacher Michael Stone draws from numerous disciplines—including Buddhism and psychotherapy—to provide an in-depth, completely clear explanation of yogic philosophy, along with teachings on how to bring our understanding of yoga theory to deeper levels through our practice on the mat—and through our relationships with others. Yoga, says Stone, is a practice that helps us be more present with the actual, fluid life we are living right now—and there is no yoga without the conditions of your life. This book describes how to work with those conditions and how to fully appreciate yoga as a practice of being intimate with moment-to-moment reality.

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Book SynopsisElla Harrison is a hereditary witch who aspires to inspire and educate people about witchcraft and pagan practices. Ella was born in New Zealand and raised in a German family of members who practice various aspects of witchcraft. She holds a bachelor in social and cultural anthropology and creates content on YouTube, Instagram and recently TikTok. Ella and her fiancé Karlis co-own a small crystal shop called Silverfern Crystals (ekstones.com). They now live together with their puppies Chip and Bennie in New Zealand.

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Book SynopsisClear comprehension of what''s in the Bible and what it means isn''t a lost cause. This book provides expert observations so that you can comprehend more of Scripture than you ever have before. The Bible was written for us—but not to us. We''re not part of the ancient world that informed its writers. We''re strangers to their ideas, experiences, and worldview. Because we''re cultural and historical outsiders, what we read in the Bible can often be perplexing and leave us with more questions than answers. For instance: What purpose did Old Testament creation stories and genealogies serve when they were written? Why do the ancient Israelites talk about the gods of other nations as though they were real? Why do the gospel accounts differ from each other, and can we trust them? Is everything in the Bible ultimately about Jesus?  Each of this book''s 80 short chapters consist of statements or insightTable of ContentsIntroduction: The best piece of advice I can give you. LET THE BIBLE BE WHAT IT IS 1. Let the Bible be what it is. 2. Don’t second-guess God’s decisions in inspiration. 3. Inspiration was a process, not an event. 4. Inspiration wasn’t a paranormal experience. 5. Editing was part of the process of biblical inspiration. 6. The Bible is not an exhaustive repository of all truth. 7. Most of the authors of biblical books are unknown. 8. The Bible is a product of its time. 9. The setting of a biblical story wasn’t necessarily the time at which it was written. 10. Everything in the Bible isn’t about Jesus. LET THE ANCIENT ISRAELITES BE WHO THEY WERE 11. The world known to the biblical writers was a lot smaller than ours. 12. Biblical writers believed that God made the world they knew, not the world they didn’t know. 13. Ancient Israelite culture didn’t drop from heaven. 14. Biblical people embraced the idea of an active supernatural world. 15. Most people in the biblical world had never read the Bible. LET THE BIBLICAL WRITERS DO WHAT THEY DID 16. Biblical writers were not semi-literate amateurs. 17. The writers of the Bible structured what they wrote to convey meaning. 18. Biblical writers did their homework. 19. The biblical writers were literary artists. 20. Biblical writers didn’t always intend to be taken literally. 21. Biblical writers used translations of the Bible. LET THE FIRST FIVE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE BE WHAT THEY ARE 22. The creation stories target the beliefs of other ancient religions. 23. Old Testament genealogies were not intended to be precise indicators of the age of the earth. 24. The covenant sign of circumcision was a theological statement for Israelite men and women. 25. The rebellion at the Tower of Babel frames the rest of biblical history. 26. Neither God nor the Israelites looked at Old Testament laws as equal in character and importance. 27. The biblical concept of holiness includes, but is not limited to, moral behavior. 28. Some of the strangest ideas in biblical law teach important points of biblical theology. 29. Biblical writers took the concept of holy ground seriously. 30. Old Testament sacrifices weren’t primarily about individual forgiveness for sin. 31. Deuteronomy is one long sermon by Moses to the Israelites. 32. Ancient Israelites believed the gods of the nations were real. 33. God was present in human form in the Old Testament. LET THE HISTORICAL BOOKS BE WHAT THEY ARE 34. Archaeology can validate, but not prove, the Bible. 35. “Israel” doesn’t always mean “Israel” in the Old Testament. 36. 1-2 Chronicles contains propaganda---by design. 37. Most of the cities and towns mentioned in the Bible have not been excavated. 38. The books of Joshua through 2 Kings were likely written by the same person(s) at the same time. 39. Judges weren’t kings. 40. God intended all along for Israel to have a king. 41. The events of the book of Ruth are set in the days of the judges. 42. In the historical books, a person’s tribe and home town are often crucial parts of the storyline. LET THE PROPHETIC BOOKS BE WHAT THEY ARE 43. Most of the material in the prophetic books isn’t about predicting the future. 44. Prophets weren’t crazy men . . . mostly. 45. Old Testament prophets preached at different times and places. 46. Most of the material in the prophets has already been fulfilled. 47. The “servant” of Isaiah is both an individual and the collective nation of Israel. 48. Messianic prophecy was deliberately cryptic. LET THE WISDOM BOOKS BE WHAT THEY ARE 49. Proverbs are neither prophecies nor promises. 50. The books of Psalms and Proverbs were edited and assembled in stages. 51. Understanding Hebrew poetry is essential for interpreting psalms and proverbs. 52. The book of Job is not primarily about suffering. 53. The fundamental focus of wisdom literature is character, and the most praiseworthy character comes from the fear of the Lord. LET

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisPremier league footballer turned pastor Gavin Peacock tells the story of his career and his faith in this fascinating, thought–provoking and personal read. ‘There is more to life than football, fame and fortune. There is a greater joy and a greater glory to be had.’ What makes a man walk away from his life as a professional footballer turned BBC pundit to become a church minister? They say it is every schoolboy’s dream to play in the F.A. Cup Final and it’s a dream that came true for Gavin Peacock. In his riveting autobiography follow Gavin’s journey from a child growing up in a footballing family to Chelsea captain; from a son following in his father’s footsteps to a husband and father supporting his own family; from pundit to preacher. Experience his highs and lows as he tells his story and explains the driving force behind it all – his love for football, his love for his family, and most importantly his love for God. Trade ReviewWhat a fabulous book! A must–read for all – not just football fans. I loved working with Gavin as his manager at Chelsea and I’ve always said he was in my top 3 players I ever signed as a manager. His talent has shone through again in this wonderful book. A beautiful insight to Gavin’s life and an inspiration to all. Loved it! -- Glenn Hoddle (Former England and Chelsea Manager)The story of a not so ordinary man who gave it up for more, a fascinating read from start to finish … a real insight to life as a player and to life as a Christian and what it means. An honest, sincere, and real thought provoking book … you can only admire him for giving up all he had, and wanting more … which Gavin will tell you he has found. -- Robbie Fowler (Former Liverpool & England International Footballer, Manager of Brisbane Roar)Gavin’s story includes playing for some of the top managers in football including Harry Redknapp, Kevin Keegan, Ossie Ardiles and Glenn Hoddle. I played against Gavin a number of times and he was an outstanding professional but perhaps more importantly, he was also a man of very good character. -- David Moyes (West Ham United Manager)I’ve enjoyed knowing Gavin both as a footballer and co–commentator over many years. I’m full of admiration for him and the way he lives out his faith. I’m thrilled to see him thrive as a pastor in Canada and look forward to the release of his autobiography. -- John Motson ((1945–2023) Television and Radio Football Commentator)As a pastor who would have loved to be a footballer I really enjoyed this book about a footballer who loves being a pastor. A terrific story of someone who has spent his life heading towards the goal to receive a prize that doesn’t tarnish with time. -- Alistair Begg (Senior Pastor, Parkside Church, Chagrin Falls, Ohio)This story is a one off! Be prepared for an insight into the workings of some of the top football managers in England. Also be prepared for some thought provoking, straight forward opinions on society today. I thoroughly recommend this read. -- Alan Curbishley (Former Charlton Athletic & West Ham United Manager)This book is a very well written and fascinating account of a professional footballer’s family’s life, with a great insight into how the industry works, its ups and downs, pressures and triumphs and disappointments. But for myself this book is about life itself, including religion, beliefs, the sacrifices you have to make to be or to do what you might want out of life itself. Making vital decisions under pressure that not only affect you but your whole family. About living your life at whatever level you are at, and making decisions along the road as best you can for yourself and the people you love. What’s important in life for the individual is so different and complex! I thoroughly recommend this book!! -- Gerry Francis (Former Queens Park Rangers and Tottenham Hotspur Manager)… what I appreciated most in this book was a priceless wisdom that has enabled him to navigate life. So how do you work out relationships, disappointment, disability, parenting, marriage, career? In chapter after chapter I just loved the paragraphs that explained how he was thinking and anchored in Jesus Christ when he was confronted by life’s complexity. There was gold in chapter after chapter. A riveting read that I thoroughly recommend to all. -- Rico Tice (Evangelist; Co–founder of Christianity Explored Ministries)Gavin’s story is varied, gripping and moving. I’ve never before read such an evocative description of how it actually feels to score a goal at the top level. Nor have I read a more spine tingling account of what it feels like to step up to the pulpit and preach. Football feels like a matter of life and death to some of us, but the gospel truly is … and Gavin gives us a pitch–side seat as we experience the wonder of both. -- Tim Farron (MP, Former Leader of the Liberal Democrats)Such a thought provoking read … It was a real pleasure to spend time with Gavin in the dressing room all those years ago. -- Les Ferdinand (QPR Director of Football and Former England, QPR, Spurs and Newcastle United striker)Obviously, I know Gavin from our time we played together at Newcastle and our Charlton links but this really is one of the most interesting and fascinating autobiographies I have read in a long time. A successful footballer to BBC pundit to Christian Pastor! Not many players have had such a diverse and fulfilling life. -- Rob LeeGavin Peacock is a unique guy who takes sport seriously and faith even more seriously. I’ve loved getting to know him over the past few years as he has great stories and yet still manages to inspire deeper more passionate faith. I’d recommend this book to anyone. Even if you don’t share his faith. And even if you don’t support Chelsea! -- Keith GettyReading Gavin’s fascinating memoirs sent me down memory lane to our talks & discussions on nights before away matches. A Greater Glory simply confirms the impression that I got of a curious, self–reflecting, helpful, yet ambitious gentleman. At a time when so many people get lost in the superficial world of social media, this book will provide simple tools for anyone to find purpose in life. -- Jakob KjeldbjergA pacey book filled with passion and purpose, the principles of the man and the power in his message shines through! -- Kriss Akabusi OBEUnlike any footballer’s autobiography you’ve ever read. Honest, intelligent and sincere. Rather like the man himself…. -- Tom WattTo be successful in one career takes talent and determination. To do so in three careers is something else. Gavin Peacock’s life story is unique. His autobiography is fascinating. -- Lance HardyI love reading biographies and autobiographies. Sporting and Political. I have read so many from Alex Ferguson to Andre Agassi, Margaret Thatcher to Tony Benn. But Gavin Peacock’s ‘A Greater Glory’ is one of the best I have ever read. It is superbly written, interesting, funny, littered with great anecdotes and thought provoking. An all–round brilliant read. -- Alun EbenezerGavin was a superb footballer, but more importantly a wonderful guy. His life story will be one of the football best ever reads for sure. -- Harry Harris This is about as far as you could possibly get from your ‘traditional’ footballer’s auto–biography. Given the almost unprecedented journey upon which he has embarked, it is both essential and fascinating to learn what shaped Gavin, from his family to his career in football to his faith. -- John DykesPastor Gavin Peacock has written a must–read book. He takes readers on a fun, insightful and nostalgic journey through his life. This book ‘A Greater Glory’ spoke to me personally. Reading through every page gave me more enlightenment as to how blessed I am to be alive in Christ doing the things I love to do. This book has all the elements of life in it and I would recommend it in a heartbeat. -- Jonathan MensahA fascinating insight into how one man coped with the vicissitudes of life in the world of football and beyond. From professional footballer to pundit to preacher is quite some journey. No Damascene moments, just a gradual and growing awareness of the power of faith, which is now central to his life. Despite being an agnostic I found his writing both moving and inspirational. A very good read. -- Guillem Balague This book is compelling, candid and clear. For those who love the beautiful game there is much here that will fascinate and inform you about what is involved in becoming and being a professional footballer. For those who are Christians there is much here to do the same and whole lot more. Is it possible to be a professional footballer and a committed Christian? What is involved in making it to the top of the professional game as a Christian? What is there after the final whistle and your career is over? All of this and more is addressed by Gavin Peacock in this book. Written with pathos, Gavin’s humble assessment of himself and generous evaluation of others in the football world coupled with his growing conviction about the most important things in life will cause you to laugh, cry and think. I believe no one will read this book without benefit, I am delighted to commend it to you. -- Robert BriggsA special man’s goal of finding his Holy Trinity, through a fascinating, thought–provoking journey of football, family and faith. A story for our time and all times. -- Mark SaggersA fascinating read about an alternative lifestyle path for a footballer. Gavin puts as much passion and focus into his life, as he did into his performances as a player. A great man on and off the pitch. -- Pete GravesThe world is struggling with identity but the way Gavin articulates this in his book is truly inspirational. A man with purpose and destiny – who unashamedly has a love for his faith. -- Michael Johnson What a phenomenal read! Gavin’s life story (so far!) surely resonates with many, many people. A proud family man, a never–say–die attitude as a professional footballer and BBC presenter. Not forgetting of course, the assuredness in his mind, body and soul of his ultimate goal! -- Alex McLeish

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Book SynopsisIn this inspired follow-up to her best-selling To Heaven and Back, Dr. Mary Neal shares untold stories about her encounters with Jesus and powerful insights about how the reality of heaven can make each day magnificent. Dr. Mary Neal's unforgettable account of the Chilean kayaking accident that took her life and sent her on a journey to heaven and back riveted millions of readers, and was on the New York Times bestseller list for more than a year, including several months at number one. But as she shared her story with audiences throughout the world, Dr. Neal realised she had more to tell, especially on the biggest questions, such as how does her story help others? And how does knowing that heaven is real change our lives here on Earth? In 7 Lessons From Heaven, Neal takes readers deeper into her experience, which includes encounters with angels, a journey to a "city of light," and what it was like to meet Jesus face-to-face. Even more, Neal shares how she was sent back with the absolute knowledge that the God we hope for-the one who knows us, loves each of us as though we are the only one, and wants us to experience joy in our daily life-is real and present. She offers practical insights and inspiration for how each of us can experience this God every day and begin living without regret, worry, anxiety, or fear.

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Book SynopsisIt is 1955 and a fifteen-year-old girl, seeking adventure, escapes the greyness of post-war London for the cobbles, sunshine and romance of an ancient Catalan city. When she falls in love with the place she also falls for its charismatic leader. As the years pass and the girl becomes a woman, she returns again and again to Girona and to her lover, the enigmatic José Tarres. She meets captivating characters and hears about visions, a strangely wealthy priest, a fabulous garden owned by a Frenchwoman… Cast as the detective in her own story, she finds herself caught up in a world she barely knew existed. The rich priest was none other than the Abbé Saunière of Rennes-le-Château, and the mysteries surrounding him are at the very heart of the modern Grail legend – the stuff of bestselling novels and movies, historical analysis and esoteric intrigue. The people she has known for so many years, including José, belong to a secret society that guards Saunière’s legacy. Now they ask her to be their messenger. It is time, they say, to present some of their closely guarded secrets to the world. The astonishing result is City of Secrets. Patrice Chaplin’s modern classic is a page-turning, true-life adventure, rich with photographs, remarkable letters and antique documents. This new edition features an Afterword in which Patrice reviews the impact of the book’s publication on her life, on Girona and its mysteries.

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Book Synopsis'A revelatory classic' Maria Popova 'A spiritual polymath, the first and possibly greatest' Deepak ChopraWhat we have forgotten is that thoughts and words are conventions, and that it is fatal to take conventions too seriouslyToo often we fall into the trap of anticipating the future while lamenting the past and in the midst of this negative loop we forget how to live in the now. In this iconic and prescient text, pioneering Zen scholar Alan Watts shows us how, in an age of unprecedented anxiety, we must embrace the present in order to live a fulfilling life.Trade ReviewThe perfect guide for a course correction in life -- Deepak ChopraImmeasurably wonderful - existentially necessary, even - in its entirety, and one of those books bound to stay with you for a lifetime -- Maria Popova

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Book SynopsisContaining Ireland's most popular prayers and blessings, this book is packed full of inspirational words to take comfort in. In turn these words provide us with hope, joy and solace.This little book, designed to fit in the smallest bag or pocket, will bring those old words back to life, reminding us that poetic lines and wise sayings can wrap around you like a hug, making the world seem a better place for a while.

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Book SynopsisIs God Knowable? Paul addresses this fundamental question - not only for theology, but also for philosophy and the sciences as a whole - in Rom. 1.19 ff. He is familiar with the Old Testament and the Jewish tradition, but also knows the Greek popular philosophy of his time. What Paul explains about this has become fundamental for Christian preaching and instruction, teaching and theology. Paul teaches: God is knowable, namely as the Creator out of and in his creative activity, but he cannot be grasped in his essence. In the background of Rom 1.19 f. stands, factually interwoven with the idea of creation, the theologumenon of God's revelation through his works. It is of Old Testament origin, but was also used in Hellenistic-Jewish theology at the time of Paul. For Paul it is not part of a "natural theology", but rather of the biblical understanding of revelation. It is therefore a criterion for the proper evaluation of religion and religiosity. Of course, this can only be the case if the distinction between pagan religiosity and Judeo-Christian revelation is maintained. In the theology of the twentieth century, both in exegesis and dogmatics, this demarcation has been blurred beyond recognition. The aim of the present work is to help ensure that this revelatory theological criterion is reasserted in theology and the church when assessing what is to be understood by natural religion and theologia naturalis

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Book SynopsisAn easy-to-use guide to the last ten ogham of the Celtic tree alphabet; it can also be a companion book to Celtic Tree Rituals and The Healing Power of Trees

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