Religion Books

Book SynopsisA skilled storyteller who has spent her life in two worlds, Mahnaz Afkhami shares her unexpected and meteoric rise from unassuming English professor to a champion of women’s rights in Iran; the clash between Western feminists and those from the Global South; and the challenges of international women’s rights work during the so-called war on terror.

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Book SynopsisTruth is under attack. The gospel is under attack. We must be aware and equipped if we are going to respond.Voddie Baucham has a message for Christians in today’s culture—it’s time to take a stand for the truth. In The Ever-Loving Truth, this powerful preacher and teacher addresses the cost of being a twenty-first-century Christian and helps readers apply the unchanging truth of God’s Word to contemporary life issues. The book draws parallels between committed Christians in our society and the New Testament writers, Peter and John, as followers of Christ who proclaimed and stood for truth in their non-Christian environment. You will find this compelling study leads you to evaluate what it means to be a Christian today and how to apply God’s unchanging truth to a variety of circumstances.

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Book SynopsisIf you never have enough room for notes in your Bible, this is your answer.The NKJV Interleaved Bible, Journal Edition is the ultimate scripture journaling experience. Following a historic practice of placing blank pages throughout the entire Bible, it allows you to record study notes, prayers, observations from the Bible, sermon notes, and the story of your spiritual growth.Trusted by millions of believers around the world, the New King James Version (NKJV) remains a bestselling modern “word-for-word” translation. It balances the literary beauty and familiarity of the King James tradition with an extraordinary commitment to preserving the grammar and structure of the underlying biblical languages. And while the NKJV translators relied on the traditional Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic text used for the 1611 KJV, the comprehensive translator notes offer important insights about the latest developments in biblical manuscript studies. The result i

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Book SynopsisAre churches looking for the wrong kind of leaders? The last decade has witnessed a rising number of churches wrecked by spiritual abuse--harsh, heavy-handed, domineering behavior from those in a position of spiritual authority. And high-profile cases are only a small portion of this widespread problem. Behind the scenes are many more cases of spiritual abuse that we will never hear about. Victims suffer in silence, not knowing where to turn.Of course, most pastors and leaders are godly, wonderful people who don''t abuse their sheep. They shepherd their flocks gently and patiently. But we can''t ignore the growing number who do not. We have tolerated and even celebrated the kind of leaders Jesus warned us against.We need gentle shepherds now more than ever, and in Bully Pulpit, seminary president and biblical scholar Michael J. Kruger offers a unique perspective for both church leaders and church members on the problem of spiritual abuse, how Trade Review'I have been waiting for a book like this that I can assign for my seminary courses on abuse. Michael has brought much needed clarity and wisdom to the devastating reality of spiritual abuse. Michael's perspective as a Bible scholar and seminary president is invaluable. He brings church leaders face-to-face with the destruction abusers cause. He does this to help us take spiritual abuse seriously, to foster the motivation to enact real change, and to fill us with compassion for those who suffer from abusive 'leaders.'' * Justin S. Holcomb, Episcopal priest, seminary professor, and coauthor of God Made All of Me *'Learned and wise, urgent and timely, biblical and hopeful--this book deals with a sensitive topic with enormous skill and care. I can think of no better book on the subject and hope it will be read widely.' * Sam Allberry, pastor and author of Why Bother with Church? *'Michael has written a courageous book for such a time as this. I pray he is a prophet who is accepted and welcomed in his own country, particularly within a Reformed and Presbyterian community not immune to this pervasive plague within the church.?' * Rev. Chuck DeGroat, PhD, professor of pastoral care and Christian spirituality at Western Theological Seminary *'Spiritual abuse is one of the greatest stains on the bride of Christ today. Too few with pulpits and platforms are willing to recognize the basic truths that Michael Kruger addresses clearly, convincingly, and biblically. I thought Bully Pulpit would be a book every pastor and Christian leader ought to read. But I changed my mind: every Christian from pulpit to pew needs to read this wise and timely work--for the sake of the church and her people.' * Karen Swallow Prior, research professor of English and Christianity & Culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and author of On Reading Well *'The apostle Paul tells us the overseer of God's people is not to be a bully, but gentle (1 Tim. 3:3, CSB), and yet we too often overlook significant character issues or actions that should be disqualifying for ministry because of how God seems to be using an individual or growing a church. Bully Pulpit provides wise and measured reflections on the reality of shepherds who reject Christ's vision of leadership and leave spiritual destruction in the wake of their sin. I hope this important book prompts serious discussion among God's people.' * Trevin Wax, vice president of research and resource development at the North American Mission Board and visiting professor at Cedarville University, author of The Thrill of Orthodoxy *'The topic of spiritual abuse needs careful attention and sober reflection, so I'm thankful for this thoughtful, wise, and biblical book. Dr. Kruger provides helpful clarity on a controversial subject while courageously cautioning ministry leaders about the kind of leadership that doesn't reflect the heart of Christ. Anyone who serves the spiritual needs of people should read this timely book.' * Mark Vroegop, lead pastor of College Park Church and author of Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy *'This book is not a reaction but a response. Reactions to spiritual abuse are understandably passionate, but often without constructive insight. Dr. Kruger responds with both passion and constructive insight into both how leadership dynamics often deny the character of our Lord Jesus and how building new dynamics will put that very character on vibrant display.' * Jeremy Pierre, Lawrence & Charlotte Hoover Professor of Biblical Counseling Chair, Department of Biblical Counseling and Family Ministry at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and author of When Home Hurts *'While exposing spiritual abuse has become commonplace in American Christianity, few offer constructive solutions or practical wisdom. In this book Michael Kruger diagnoses the problem of spiritual abuse, describes what it is (and is not), and equips leaders to prevent abuse as well as respond appropriately when it happens. I hope every pastor reads this book and that it leads to faithfully representing our Lord, who used his power to serve.' * Jeremy Treat, pastor for preaching and vision at Reality LA and author of Seek First *'Who would ever have thought we would reach a point in the life of the church where the adjective bully would modify the noun pulpit? Yet, sadly, we have arrived. This book is both urgent and timely, as the presence of domineering and abusive church leaders continues to make headlines. This book is not only for pastors and elders but should be read by all Christians who care about the life and health of the body of Christ. I highly recommend it.' * Sam Storms, lead pastor for preaching and vision at Bridgeway Church and author of Understanding Spiritual Gifts *'With prophetic courage and pastoral compassion, Mike Kruger has written an important book on a difficult subject. No one likes to think or talk about spiritual abuse, especially in the church, but if we neglect and ignore this very real problem and don't find the right ways to confront it, woe to us. So if you're a church leader who wants to shepherd the precious flock of God in the paradigm, pattern, and posture of the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, pick up this must-read book, then listen and learn.' * Julius J. Kim, PhD, president of the Gospel Coalition *

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Book SynopsisThis companion study guide covers all 9 chapters of Deeper, offering 10 reflection questions per chapter. By learning gospel truths, Christians will deepen their faith and grow in godliness.

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Book SynopsisThe KJV Personal Size Large Print Reference Bible is as easy to read as it is to carry along with you. At the same time, it has a substantial set of resources to enhance your time reading and studying the Scriptures.

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Book SynopsisThis is the first fully annotated, academic edition of the Book of Mormon in its 200-year history. Modelled after the Oxford line of annotated Bibles, it provides readers with the information they need to understand this classic text of American religious history. This edition reformats the complete scriptural text in the manner of modern Bible translations with paragraphs, quotation marks, poetic stanzas, and section headings, all of which clarify the book''s complicated narrative structure. As a result, readers experience a more accessible and readable presentation than the standard version. Annotations explain the meaning and context of specific passages, delineate extended arguments, identify rhetorical patterns, explore theological implications, highlight ancient and modern parallels, and point out intertextual connections, particularly with the Bible.The Book of Mormon is subdivided into internal books; in this edition, each book is preceded by an introduction that discusses its Trade ReviewThe Annotated Book of Mormon opens up rich nuances of the texts and the impact of their reception as spirituality and literature. A significant contribution to understanding that reveals the contribution of the Book of Mormon to theology and religion. * Andrew Teal, Faculty of Theology and Religion, Oxford University *The Annotated Book of Mormon encourages serious study of a central text in American religious, literary, and cultural history. An essential guide for all readers. * Matthew Bowman, Howard W. Hunter Chair of Mormon Studies, Claremont Graduate University *The Annotated Book of Mormon is a rich study resource that I hope will help transform the way we engage with the Book of Mormon as a people. * Conor Hilton, Twenty-First Century Mormon Literature *Table of ContentsEditor's Preface Abbreviations Title Page Introduction to the Small Plates 1 Nephi 2 Nephi Jacob Enos Jarom Omni Words of Mormon Introduction to Mormon's Abridgment of the Large Plates Mosiah Alma Helaman 3 Nephi 4 Nephi Mormon Introduction to Moroni's Additions Ether Moroni Testimonies Three Witnesses Eight Witnesses Emma Smith Joseph Smith General Essays The Origins of the Text The Transmission and Language of the Text The Book of Mormon and the Bible Book of Mormon Theology Lived Religion in the Book of Mormon The Book of Mormon and the Latter-day Saints The Book of Mormon in American History The Book of Mormon as Literature Reading the Book of Mormon as Ancient History Reading the Book of Mormon as Fiction Reading the Book of Mormon as Revealed Scripture Reading the Book of Mormon as World Scripture Further Reading Maps and Charts Possible Routes of Lehi's Journey Mormon's Map Book of Mormon Plates and Records Record Keepers in the Book of Mormon Key Families in the Book of Mormon Jaredite Kings Time Line of Nephite History Chronology of the Translation Glossary Biblical Quotations, Allusions, and Verbal Parallels Index of Names

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Book SynopsisMost books exploring the Enneagram are focused on understanding oneself. But how does the Enneagram lend insight to our relationships? Specifically, your relationship with your spouse and the unique pairing you share? In this incredibly practical and easy-to-understand book, counselor and psychologist Christa Hardin combines her expertise in psychological assessment and marriage and family counseling to explore all 45 possible Enneagram pairings in relationships. She calls it the Enneagram Glow--the unique, mutual influence of two types in intimate relationship across the seasons and shifts that every couple experiences. She helps you learn to ? understand your partner's emotions and reactions ? extend more grace to your partner and yourself ? have productive conversations that foster connection ? build a legacy together with intention You've never read a relationship book or an Enneagram book like this before! Discover how you and your partner can build on your shared gifts, overcome the shadows, and shine a bright and beautiful light on each other and everyone you encounter.

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Book SynopsisThis fresh study from an internationally respected scholar of the Reformation and post-Reformation eras shows how the Reformers and their successors analyzed and reconciled the concepts of divine sovereignty and human freedom. Richard Muller argues that traditional Reformed theology supported a robust theory of an omnipotent divine will and human free choice and drew on a tradition of Western theological and philosophical discussion. The book provides historical perspective on a topic of current interest and debate and offers a corrective to recent discussions.Table of ContentsContentsPart I: Freedom and Necessity in Reformed Thought: The Contemporary Debate1. Introduction: The Present State of the Question2. Reformed Thought and Synchronic Contingency: Logical and Historical IssuesPart II: Philosophical and Theological Backgrounds: Aristotle, Aquinas, and Duns Scotus3. Aristotle and Aquinas on Necessity and Contingency4. Duns Scotus and Late Medieval Perspectives on FreedomPart III: Early Modern Reformed Perspectives: Contingency, Necessity, and Freedom in the Real Order of Being5. Necessity, Contingency, and Freedom: Reformed Understandings6. Scholastic Approaches to Necessity, Contingency, and Freedom: Early Modern Reformed Perspectives7. Divine Power, Possibility, and Actuality8. Divine Concurrence and Contingency9. Conclusions

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Book Synopsis"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also." John 14:3 (ESV) Jesus Christ was very clear: one day He will return, and we must know the signs of the times, remain watchful, and be ready for when He comes again. In this insightful study, Steve Motyer explores a number of key biblical texts to unpack The Message of the Second Coming. Examining passages from both the Old and New Testaments, he demonstrates that Jesus Christ is the core of the biblical worldview, the climax of the biblical message, the cornerstone of biblical theology and the centrepiece of authentic biblical faith for the twenty-first century. A new volume in the trusted the Bible Speaks Today series of commentaries, The Message of the Second Coming offers a clear, cogent and thought-provoking exposition of what the Bible tells us about the second coming of Jesus Christ and how the lessons drawn from that can be applied to modern Christian living. Used by Bible students and teachers around the world, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for students who want to deepen their understanding of Scripture and its continued relevance today. This volume is also perfect for those preaching on the second coming of Christ and looking for accessible exposition they can draw on for their sermons. This new edition uses the NIV Bible text and its beautiful cover matches the redesigned editions of existing Bible Speaks Today Commentary. The Message of the Second Coming is perfect for anyone looking for compelling commentaries will help them better understand the meaning of the second coming of Christ and how it applies to their everyday life.

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Book SynopsisTo mark the 40th anniversary of John Paul II's encyclical on human work, published in 1981, a group of globally-recognized scholars presents the critical aspects of this document and its purpose. These original essays revisit John Paul II's approach to work in post-modern society and reconnect the dignity of the working person to a pursuit of holiness. These authors convey that only when it is truly Christian can humanism accomplish the lofty ideals it indicates. This book is a timely contribution to the field of scholarship that focuses on Catholic Social Thought and is ideally suited for graduate studies and the reader interested in more serious questions in Christian theology. Giulio Maspero, "The Bible and the Fathers of the Church on Work" Patricia Ranft, "Work Theology in the High Middle Ages" Angela Franks, "John Paul II's Metaphysics of Labor" Deborah Savage, "Confronting a Technocratic Future: Women's Work and the Church's Social Vision" Martin Schlag, "Contemplation at Work: A Theological Conversation Between John Paul II and Josemaría Escrivá" Richard Turnbull, "Laborem Exercens: A Protestant Appreciation" Michael Naughton, "Good Work: Insights from the Subjective Dimension of Work" Christopher Michaelson, "Subjects and Objects in Meaningful Work" Javier Ignacio Pinto Garay and Alvaro Pezoa Bissieres, "The Worker and the Transistor: The Dignity of Work and Business Ethics in Global Corporate Practices" Gonzalo Flores-Castro Lingán, "The Real Work: Making the Encyclical Laborem Exercens Operational" Geoffrey C. Friesen, "Laborem Exercens and the Subjective Dimension of Work in Economics and Finance"

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Book SynopsisMost of the Bible''s verses that occur in Aramaic are in Ezra and Daniel, a linguistic occurrence that developed as a result of Israel''s exile in Babylon. Totaling 269 verses, Aramaic is key language students of the Old Testament will need to master.Basics of Biblical Aramaic, Second Edition by Miles V. Van Pelt is designed for students who are already familiar with biblical Hebrew and now want to obtain a working knowledge of biblical Aramaic in a single semester. Thus, the grammar is designed for scholars or comparative linguistic analysis, but for all students who wish to faithfully study, teach, and preach the Old Testament.Modeled on Miles Van Pelt''s bestselling Basics of Biblical Hebrew, Basics of Biblical Aramaic, Second Edition includes: Thorough explanation of Aramaic''s grammatical conventions Chapter exercises A complete lexicon of Aramaic words found in the Bible An annotated text of all 269 Bi

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Book Synopsis“Deepak Chopra lights the way to twenty-first century leadership, where consciousness, love, and compassion redefine the locus of power in relationships and organizations.”—John Mackey, co-CEO Whole Foods Market  Bestselling author and spiritual guide Deepak Chopra invites you to become the kind of leader most needed today: a leader with vision who can make that vision real. Chopra has been teaching leadership to CEOs and other top executives for eight years, and the path outlined in The Soul of Leadership applies to any business, but the same principles are relevant in every community and area of life, from family and home to school, place of worship, and neighborhood. “At the deepest level,” Chopra writes, “a leader is the symbolic soul of a group.”  

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Book SynopsisBased on the 1928 Bampton Lectures, The Vision of God was the first of Kenneth E. Kirk''s three major books on moral theology. Drawing inspiration from the ascetic tradition of Christianity, Kirk advocates the priority of worship in ethical thought. Beginning with the sixth beatitude, he places the visio Dei front and centre throughout, placing himself in a eudaimonistic tradition that ranges from Irenaeus to Aquinas and the Shorter Catechism. Worship, he shows, offers the opportunity to discover and acknowledge something more valuable than the self, and thus contains the key to moral instruction. Although Kirk published an expanded ''complete edition'' of The Vision of God in 1931, he notes in the preface to the shorter text presented here that ''what remains approximates to, though it is not quite identical with, the actual lectures as originally delivered.'' The reader therefore has in their hands the essence of Kirk''s thesis, which continues to prompt debate today.Trade Review"It could be argued that Kirk's Vision of God is the single most significant essay on moral theology written by an Anglican in the twentieth century. . . . It is effectively a prolegomenon to virtue ethics, which, since the advent of Alasdair MacIntyre's After Virtue, has once again taken pride of place. But Kirk's argument also directs us towards an integrated vision of theology, where moral, ascetic and doctrinal thought coalesce within one context." Stephen Platten, in Theology, January 2021 "We have never read any theological work which has a more direct bearing on practical problems of ecclesiastical statesmanship and religious policy." Times Literary Supplement "A great book." Expository TimesTable of ContentsForeword Preface Lecture I. The Vision of God in Pre-Christian Thought 1. The Vision of God 2. Formalism and Rigorism 3. Jewish Anticipations 4. Pagan Anticipations 5. Philo of Alexandria Lecture II. The New Testament 1. Rigorism and Eschatology in the Teaching of Jesus 2. New Testament Variations 3. The Origin of New Testament Rigorism 4. The Vision of God in the New Testament Lecture III. Formalism 1. The Beginnings of Codification 2. Codification in the New Testament 3. The Dangers of Formalism 4. The Motive of Reward in the Gospels Lecture IV. Rigorism 1. The Beginnings of Monasticism 2. Monasticism and The Vision of God 3. The Gnostics Lecture V. The Reply to Rigorism (I. - Discipline) 1. Rigorists & Humanists 2. The Two Lives 3. The Reform of Monasticism Lecture VI. The Reply to Rigorism (II. - Doctrine) 1. Naturalism and Christianity 2. St Clement of Alexandria 3. St Augustine 4. St Bernard of Clairvaux Lecture VII. Confusion and Order 1. The Twelfth Century 2. The School of St Victor 3. St Thomas Aquinas 4. St Ignatius of Loyola 5. St Francis de Sales Lecture VIII. Law and Promise 1. The Reversal of Tradition 2. 'Worship' and 'Service' 3. Disinterestedness and Pure Love 4. Conclusion Index

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Book SynopsisStep into the mystical world of witchcraft and learn how magical practices can bring positive change and help you connect to the world around you

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Book SynopsisPresents Joseph Ratzinger not as an unimaginative enforcer of doctrinal conclusions but as a creatively faithful theologian, whose reconfiguration of inspiration should serve as the point of departure for all future reflection on the subject.

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive guide to the mysteries of the I Ching. Originally discovered around 3,000 BCE, the I Ching is a collection of symbols that explain how patterns in the universe change and shift. These sixty-four symbols contain within them one of the most powerful keys to understanding the world around us. The Secrets of the I Ching is the definitive guide to understanding the ancient mysteries and foundations of the I Ching.Authors Dr. David Lee and Joseph K. Kim guide the reader from the very beginning of Eastern thought, the concepts of Tao and Tai Chi, through the theory of Yin-Yang, Trinity, the Five Elements, and other critical concepts that will unlock the full meaning of the I Ching. Instead of simply re-interpreting the myriad of meanings ascribed to the I Ching, they focus on the symbols themselves, offering a new way of understanding its unique power.Filled with over three hundred images and backed by in-depth research and study, T

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Book SynopsisYou are the fountain of life, light, and all grace and truth The hearts of the first Christians beat with praise for Christ. The strength of their devotion is remarkable, considering the times of uncertainty and persecution in which they lived. Despite all of this, the early church flourished, sustained by the God to whom they prayed. Christians today have a lot to learn from the devotional life of the early church. In Fount of Heaven, a collection of carefully selected prayers from the first six centuries of the church, we can pray with our spiritual forefathers. Prayers from luminaries such as Clement of Rome, Irenaeus, and Augustine are arranged by theme to reveal the right prayer for the moment. The prayers have been slightly updated to read more easily, but they retain their joy and mystery. As we turn to the prayers of the first Christians, we can return to the foundations of our own faith.

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Book SynopsisWhat if a healthy, abundant, joyful, faith-filled life is within reach? What if you could increase your energy, vitality, and happiness, and stop dragging through the day, living discouraged and depressed, and settling for less than the life you want?In 15 Ways to Live Longer and Healthier, New York Times bestselling author Joel Osteen, with his trademark wisdom and encouragement, helps you to discover greater success, stronger relationships, tame stress, and find real happiness. He shows that the key to good health, longevity, and abundance is to keep your soul healthy by focusing on your attitude, your thoughts, and your emotional well-being. In this book, he shows you how to:* Stay positive toward yourself;* Deal with difficult people;* Let go of control;* Choose to be happy;* Unclutter your mind;* Live in the present;* Tame the tongue; and* Take care of yourself. Start today to make a real change that lasts. Not just for a week, a month, or a year but for the rest of your life.

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Book SynopsisA plain-English commentary on Vasubandhu''s classic Treatise on the Three Naturesthat shows us an integrative path of personal and social healing and liberation.In this book, Ben Connelly shows the power of integrating early Buddhist psychology with the Mahayana emphasis on collective liberation. You?ll discover how wisdom from fourth-century India can be harnessed to heal and transform systems of harm within ourselves and our communities. The three natures (svabhavas)?the imaginary, dependent, and complete, realized natures?are inherent aspects of all phenomena. The imaginary nature of things is what we think they are. Their dependent nature is that they appear to arise from countless conditions. The complete, realized nature is that they aren?t as we imagine them to be: things that can be grasped or pushed away. The three natures form the backbone of Yogacara philosophy, and by showing us how to see beyond our preconceived notions of ourselves and others, beyond the things that we?re convinced are ?true,? they open up a path to personal and communal healing. Dive into this empowering approach to freedom from suffering, from harmful personal and social patterns, and to finding peace and joyfulness in the present.

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Book SynopsisThe Mysticism and Magic of Tarot Cards and the Passion of Italian Illustration in One Enchanted Deck#1 New Release in MysticismTarot cards, witchcraft, and magical folklore. There is an invisible population living in our midst—enchanted “little people” including elves, fairies, and other magical creatures. They exist all over the world, and while they may be called by a variety of names, their mystical qualities are the same.Rider-Waite tarot deck quality. This exquisitely illustrated set of 78 tarot cards made in the Rider-Waite-Smith standard reveals the magical stories of these mystical creatures to help us better understand both them and ourselves. Illustrated by Otto Gabos, a celebrated Italian comic artist and illustrator, Faeries and Enchanted Creatures is a unique gift for collectors and tarot card enthusiasts.Tarot card magic from a scholar. The guidebook that accompanies the tarot cards describes the peculiarities of the magical creatures in the card deck in detail. It is authored by Francesca Matteoni, a scholar with expertise in the history of religion, anthropology of magic and witchcraft, and mysticism and magic in the Renaissance. She teaches at American universities in Florence, Italy and holds workshops on tarot cards, fables, and poetry.In this 78 tarot card deck and guidebook, find: Creatures related to well-known traditions, such as the Leprechaun-Magician or the Anguana-High Priestess in the twenty-two cards of the Major Arcana Tarot card expertise and Italian craftsmanship An ideal companion for self-exploration and insight If you are new to tarot card magic or a fan of The Rider Tarot Deck, Light Seer’s Tarot, or The Modern Witch Tarot Deck, Faeries and Enchanted Creatures: Tarot Card Magic and Mysticism (78 Tarot Cards and Guidebook) is for you.

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Book SynopsisMidwest Book Review 2023 Silver Book Award (Nonfiction - Religion/Philosophy) "A convincing case for all Christians to do more to meet access needs and embrace disabilities as part of God's kingdom. . . . Inclusivity-minded Christians will cheer the lessons laid out here."--Publishers Weekly "A book the church desperately needs."--Sojourners Much of the church has forgotten that we worship a disabled God whose wounds survived resurrection, says Amy Kenny. It is time for the church to start treating disabled people as full members of the body of Christ who have much more to offer than a miraculous cure narrative and to learn from their embodied experiences. Written by a disabled Christian, this book shows that the church is missing out on the prophetic witness and blessing of disability. Kenny reflects on her experiences inside the church to expose unintentional ableism and cast a new vision for Christian communities to engage disability justice. She shows that until we cultivate church spaces where people with disabilities can fully belong, flourish, and lead, we are not valuing the diverse members of the body of Christ. Offering a unique blend of personal storytelling, fresh and compelling writing, biblical exegesis, and practical application, this book invites readers to participate in disability justice and create a more inclusive community in church and parachurch spaces. Engaging content such as reflection questions and top-ten lists are included.Table of ContentsContentsA Note on LanguagePreface1. Disability CurativesTop Ten Recommended Remedies2. Disability DiscriminationTop Ten "At Leasts" 3. Disability DoubtersTop Ten Disability Denials4. Disability JusticeTop Ten Reasons I'm Disabled5. Disability BlessingsTop Ten "I Know How You Feels" 6. Disability MosquitosTop Ten Mosquito Swatters7. Disability LessonsTop Ten Disability Icebreakers8. Disabled FoundationsTop Ten Disability Accolades9. Disabled GodTop Ten Disability Theologies10. Disabled ChurchTop Ten Disability DreamsBenecription for Nondisabled PeopleBenecription for Disabled PeopleFurther Reading

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Book SynopsisWhat can we know about the everyday experiences of Christians during the fourth, fifth, and sixth centuries? How did non-elite men and women, enslaved, freed, and free persons, who did not renounce sex or choose voluntary poverty become Christian? They neither led a religious community nor did they live in entirely Christian settings. In this period, an age marked by “extraordinary” Christians—wonderworking saints, household ascetics, hermits, monks, nuns, pious aristocrats, pilgrims, and bishops—ordinary Christians went about their daily lives, in various occupations, raising families, sharing households, kitchens, and baths in religiously diverse cities. Occasionally they attended church liturgies, sought out local healers, and visited martyrs’ shrines. Barely and rarely mentioned in ancient texts, common Christians remain nameless and undifferentiated. Unfinished Christians explores the sensory and affective dimensions of ordinary Christians who assembled for rituals. With precious few first-person accounts by common Christians, it relies on written sources not typically associated with lived religion: sermons, liturgical instruction books, and festal hymns. All three genres of writing are composed by clergy for use in ritual settings. Yet they may also provide glimpses of everyday Christians’ lives and experiences. This book investigates the habits, objects, behaviors, and movements of ordinary Christians by mining festal preaching by John Chrysostom, Cyril of Jerusalem, Gregory of Nyssa, and Romanos the Melodist, among others. It also mines liturgical instructions to explore the psalms and other songs performed on various feast days. “Unfinished,” then, connotes the creativity and agency of unremarkable Christians who engaged in making religious experiences: the “Christian-in-progress” who learns to work with material and bring something into being; the artisans who attended sermons; and, more widely, the bearers of embodied knowing.Trade Review"In Unfinished Christians, Georgia Frank seeks the sensory and affective experiences of non-elite Christians in late antiquity. She finds them in workshops, nighttime prayer, songs, and processions, and she comprehends them through the metaphor of craft...Frank’s lyrical prose, sensitive insights, transdisciplinary reading, and deep endnotes make this a joyous and enriching contribution to early Christian studies. But Unfinished Christians is also a model for readers in other subfields of the humanities who seek to integrate text, material, and sensation in understanding the formation of religious practices and subjectivities." * Material Religion *

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Book SynopsisBelief in magic was, until relatively recent times, widespread in Britain; yet the impact of such belief on determinative political events has frequently been overlooked. In his wide-ranging new book, Francis Young explores the role of occult traditions in the history of the island of Great Britain: Merlin''s realm. He argues that while the great magus and artificer invented by Geoffrey of Monmouth was a powerful model for a succession of actual royal magical advisers (including Roger Bacon and John Dee), monarchs nevertheless often lived in fear of hostile sorcery while at other times they even attempted magic themselves. Successive governments were simultaneously fascinated by astrology and alchemy, yet also deeply wary of the possibility of treasonous spellcraft. Whether deployed in warfare, rebellion or propaganda, occult traditions were of central importance to British history and, as the author reveals, these dark arts of magic and politics remain entangled to this day.Trade Review'The history of magic – in comparison to the history of witchcraft in Britain – has been under-researched in the Anglophone academy. The relationship of occult traditions to the politics of the realm has thus far been virtually ignored. A ground-breaking study of the history of occult traditions – of 'high' magic (elite, literate, clerical and courtly) as compared to 'low magic' (popular, non-literate, non-clerical) – is therefore to be warmly welcomed. This book is full of fascinating and previously little-known vignettes on the significant influence of the role of magic and the occult in the history of British politics, most of which will be unknown to the non-specialist. It would be an excellent text for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the history of the occult.' Philip. C. Almond, University of Queensland'A terrific book. Francis Young is quite correct to say that no such survey has been done before, and the evidence presented by him unequivocally demonstrates that politics in pre-modern Britain cannot be fully understood without some attention to the notion and practice of magic and the occult sciences in general such as alchemy and astrology. The author has also brought together a tremendous amount of scholarship in this volume which is commendable in its own right.' Frank Klaassen, University of Saskatchewan'This is an important and accomplished project which demonstrates that – contrary to received opinion, and in modernity as well as the past – magical beliefs are central to political, religious and social lives, as conventionally categorised. I think the book will provoke much interest and comment with its claim that magic is as important as religion, and think too that there are likely to be over the next few years a series of books and theses that render that claim stronger. Magic's time has indeed come: and in that development the book will lead from the front. It will be accessible to a wide range of readers, written as it is with a light and engaging touch. The scope and detail never overwhelm, while the author's definition of magic and his inclusions and exclusions are convincing.' Marion Gibson, University of Exeter'Thought-provoking' William Tipper, The Wall Street Journal'… an immensely readable book with an engaging style, and likely to capture the attention and curiosity of anyone who explores its pages … it is well researched and referenced, striking an excellent balance between scholarship and entertainment.' Helen Hall, Law and Justice, the Christian Law ReviewTable of ContentsIntroduction; 1. 'Britain indulges in magic': the origins of occult traditions in Britain; 2. The secrets of the king: occult and royal power in medieval Britain; 3. Arthurian dynasty: the Tudors and occult power; 4. House of the unicorn: Stuart monarchy and the contest for occult authority; 5. Politics and the decline of magic, 1649-1714; 6. Emanations of Albion: politics and the occult in modern Britain; Conclusion.

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Book SynopsisJesus was a revolutionary. He led an anti-colonial movement of the dispossessed which affirmed women's leadership, racial equality and sexual diversity. Yet within three centuries, Christianity began being used at the service of the very same forms of discrimination Jesus had spent his life opposing. Open for Liberation argues that the task of liberating humanity from oppression must involve liberating Christianity from the idea that oppression is consistent with faith. Tim Gee restores the radical spirit of Jesus.

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Book Synopsis“The material in this volume is invaluable for those who sincerely wish to understand the Buddhist path and begin to follow it.” —Venerable Sangye Khadro, author of How to MeditateThe third volume in the Dalai Lama’s definitive and comprehensive series on the stages of the Buddhist path, The Library of Wisdom and Compassion. Knowledge of buddha nature reveals and reconciles the paradox of how the mind can be the basis for both the duhkha of samsara (the unpurified mind) and the bliss and fulfillment of nirvana (the state of true freedom and peace). To illustrate this, Samsara, Nirvana, and Buddha Nature first takes readers through Buddhist thought on the self, the four truths, and their sixteen attributes. It then explains afflictions—including how they arise and their antidotes—followed by an examination of karma and cyclic existence, and, finally, a deep and thorough elucidation of buddha nature. Samsara, Nirvana, and Buddha Nature shows us how to purify our minds and cultivate awakened qualities. “This book is a veritable tour de force in its explanation of the role of the mind in samsara and the realization of nirvana, which is the mind’s own ultimate nature. In its examination of buddha nature—spanning early discussions of the mind’s potential in the Pali canon through to the teachings of Dzogchen, the Great Perfection—it casts a bright light to dispel the darkness of materialism, which deludedly reduces the mind to a mere epiphenomenon or emergent property of the brain. Books such as this are urgently needed to trigger a true revolution in the mind sciences.”—B. Alan Wallace, founder and president, Santa Barbara Institute for Consciousness Studies

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Book SynopsisA fascinating investigation into the formation and transmission of the early Buddhist oral tradition.For hundreds of years after his death, the Buddha’s teachings were transmitted orally, from person to person. In this volume, acclaimed scholar-monk Bhikkhu Analayo examines the impact of such oral transmission on early Buddhist texts, be these monastic rules, verses, or prose portions of the early discourses. He scrutinizes various oral aspects of these texts, surveying evidence for memory errors, the impact of attempts at systematization, and instances of additions and innovations. Finally, he explores the implications of the nature of these texts as the final product of centuries of oral transmission and evaluates the type of conclusions that can—and cannot—be drawn based on them.  In-depth but still accessible, Early Buddhist Oral Tradition is an engrossing and enlightening inquiry into the early Buddhist oral tradition.

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Book SynopsisText and Interpretation examines the main characteristics of the legal thought of Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq, preeminent religious scholar jurist of Medina in the first half of the second century of the Muslim calendar. This book presents an intellectual history of how the Jaʿfarī school began and examines the scholar’s interpretive approach.Trade ReviewScholars of Islamic legal studies can only be grateful for the continued presence and energy of [Modarressi]…In a nonornate style, Modarressi provides an account of the life and views of the eponym of one of Islam’s longest traditions of legal reasoning, and of how his example served as a basis for a school of law that can claim 200 million followers today—in Islam’s fifteenth century. -- Ahmad Atif Ahmad * Journal of the American Oriental Society *Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq is a key figure in the formation of Shīʿī law, Hossein Modarressi’s expertise in the field is legendary, and the book brings together a trove of information that is otherwise scattered in a plethora of arcane sources. -- Michael Cook, Princeton UniversityThis study constitutes an impressive and significant contribution to Islamic legal studies. It provides an unparalleled insight into the legal thought of the founder of the Jaʿfarī school, and can also serve as a reliable introduction to major aspects of Twelver Shīʿī law. The novelty of the approach, the wealth of information provided, the fine rendition of judiciously chosen texts, and the masterful elucidation and analysis of legal terms and concepts will all be of great value to students of the Islamic legal tradition. -- Etan Kohlberg, The Hebrew University of JerusalemThis book represents a lifetime’s research and thinking about the legal thought of Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq, one of the most important figures in the history of the Shīʿī tradition. Most broadly, it is a major contribution toward a better understanding of the formative history of Shīʿism, on the one hand, and of Islamic law in its first centuries, on the other. It will be the standard work of reference on early Shīʿism for many years to come. -- M. Qasim Zaman, Princeton University

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Book Synopsis Stories, spells, rituals, and recipes celebrating the worldwide influence of this beloved Celtic goddess, with contributions from Amy Blackthorn, Laura Tempest Zakroff, Courtney Weber, and many others This anthology celebrates Brigid, an ancient and mysterious Celtic spirit who ranks among today’s most popular modern goddesses. Venerated in many forms including as a saint and a goddess, Brigid has traveled the globe alongside the Celtic diaspora. Once a goddess with a narrow territory, she is now an internationally beloved presence. While acknowledging her origins, this book also explores Brigid from the perspective of those outside her original Celtic homeland. Editors Cairelle Crow and Laura Louella have gathered art, poetry, stories, spells, rituals, recipes, and traditions as an homage to the worldwide influence of Brigid’s magic and lore, especially among the descendants of immigrants to the Americas. In compiling these individual works, Cairelle and Laura have given voice to those traveling ancestors by showcasing a rich and beautiful heritage manifested through embodiments of devotion by their descendants, as well as others touched by Brigid.

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Book SynopsisA new translation and commentary on the extracanonical Coptic text that describes Judas’ special status among Jesus’ disciplesTrade Review“A splendid book that will serve as the standard English-language, scholarly translation and commentary for years to come.”—Dylan Burns, Universiteit van Amsterdam

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Book SynopsisFor sisters Mary Kennedy and Deirdre Ní Chinnéide, spirituality has been at the centre of their lives since childhood. Their home on St Brigid's Road in Clondalkin, Dublin, was around the corner from a holy well, a place that signalled family, community and divinity.In these pages, they draw on this heritage, with an emphasis on Celtic spirituality - a key focus in Deirdre's work and a long-held area of interest for Mary. The journey to the well is a pilgrimage to source, to that which remains steadfast whatever challenges we face. Traversing the Celtic seasons of Samhain, Imbolc, Bealtaine and Lughnasa, the authors explore themes such as hope, love and loss, resilience and new dawns, through personalreflections, stories, lore and healing words.Journey to the Well is a book of rich connection that celebrates the divine within each of us.

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Book SynopsisIndigenous Religious Traditions in Five Minutes aims to answer many of the questions that come to mind when we think about the religious lives of Native and Indigenous peoples of the world. Scholars from many fields answer dozens of questions about a wide variety of specific Indigenous religious traditions and an array of the ideas, practices, and beliefs many people associate with them. Do Native peoples have creator Gods? What is shamanism? Why are there so many spellings of voodoo? Is Paganism considered an Indigenous religious tradition? We also interrogate the concept of Indigenous religious traditions, by asking what the phrase means in relation to the larger fields of Native American and Indigenous Studies and Religious Studies, whether all religions were at some point indigenous, and what the value of studying Indigenous religious traditions is today. Specialists respond to questions like these and many others in easily accessible language and provide references for further exploration, making this volume useful for personal study or classroom use.Table of ContentsPreface Molly Bassett and Natalie Avalos Indigeneity and Religion Why does the title of this book use the phrase “Indigenous Religious Traditions” rather than “Indigenous Religions?” Tisa Wenger, Yale University What makes a religion an ‘Indigenous religion’? Graham Harvey, The Open University Were all religions at one time ‘Indigenous’? Tyler Tully, University of Oxford Are Indigenous religions only those practiced by Indigenous people? Angela Puca, Leeds Trinity University Why is "religion" a problematic category for understanding Indigenous traditions? Philip Arnold, Syracuse University How do ideas about race shape understandings of Native American religious life? Sarah Dees, Iowa State University Why Are Indigenous African and Afro-Diasporic Religions Relevant to You? Ayodeji Ogunnaike, Bowdoin College, & Oludamini Ogunnaike, University of Virginia What makes Vodou an Indigenous tradition? James Padilioni, Jr., Swarthmore College What’s the difference between Vodou, Voudou, and Voodoo? Emily Clark, Gonzaga University Is Adivasi religion the same as Hinduism? William Elison, University of California Is Neo-Paganism an Indigenous religious tradition? Abel R. Gomez, University of Oklahoma The Study of Indigenous Religious Traditions What moral responsibilities do scholars and students have in studying Indigenous religions? Afe Adogame, Princeton Theological Seminary Why is repatriation a religious issue for many Native communities? Greg Johnson, University of California Is an academic approach to Indigenous religions innately colonizing? Afe Adogame What is animism? Graham Harvey How do archaeologists study religion in the Indigenous past? Mallory Matsumoto, University of Texas What’s the deal with cultural appropriation? Gregory Alles, McDaniel College Was the Washington R*dskins cultural appropriation? Matt Sheedy, Universität Bonn Indigenous Religious Traditions What is a Land-based religious tradition? Dana Lloyd, Villanova University Do Indigenous Peoples believe plants, animals, and waters have personhood? Meaghan Weatherdon, University of San Diego What does it mean when Indigenous peoples say animals are sacred? Kelsey Dayle John, University of Arizona What role does pilgrimage play in Indigenous religious life? Paul Gareau & Jeanine LeBlanc, both at University of Alberta Are Indigenous peoples inherently environmentalists? Dennis Kelley, University of Missouri Why is the public expression of Indigenous Religion political? Stacie Swain, University of Victoria What are Native American foodways, and how are they religious? Andrea McComb Sanchez, University of Arizona What do Indigenous religious traditions in the Americas have in common? Inés Hernandez-Avila, University of California What are ancestor spirits, and what role do they play in Hawaiian religious life? Marie Alohalani Brown, University of Hawai'i What is the Ghost Dance? Tiffany Hale, Barnard College, Columbia University How are Indigenous narratives and oral traditions like “texts?” Dennis Kelley What do trickster tales tell us about human beings, and why are they important in Indigenous cultures? Davíd Carrasco, Harvard University How do Indigenous religions approach disability? Zara Surratt, University of North Carolina Are Indigenous religious traditions patriarchal? Donnie Begay, University of Divinity, Australia Did Indigenous people really honor LGBT/Two-Spirit people? Lisa Poirier, DePaul University Indigenous Futurity Indigenous futurism … is that like science fiction? Matt Sheedy

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Book SynopsisAlways practise safe hex . . . New York Times bestselling author Rachel Hawkins, writing as Erin Sterling, follows her sensational TikTok hit, The Ex Hex, and casts a spell with a new spine-tingling romance full of wishes, witches, and cursed kisses.''A spooky romantic comedy treat that had me sighing at one page, laughing out loud at the next'' TESSA BAILEY on The Ex HexVisit magical Graves Glen in The Ex Hex - out now! - and The Wedding Witch - available to preorder!Readers ADORED The Ex Hex!''If Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Gilmore Girls had a book baby, it would be THE EX HEX. And yes, it''s just as glorious as it sounds!'' ''I loved and adored everything about this book . . . everything I was looking for! 5/5 stars!''''The vibes were immaculate''''One of the be

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Book SynopsisDr. Charles Stanley lays out 30 Life Principles that can help you become more like Christ every day.In this revised and updated 30-lesson study guide, Dr. Charles Stanley guides readers through 30 Life Principles found in God''s Word that have shaped and changed his life. God has given these principles to guide, comfort, instruct, and teach us how to live triumphant Christian lives. When we open His Word and begin to study these truths, we gain hope for the future and fresh insights into His promises and blessings. We find that life doesn''t have to be a constant struggle—it can be an exciting adventure! This begins with us studying the Bible so we can learn about God, know His ways, and follow His awesome plan for our future.Each lesson includes: Key Scripture: The main verse or passage on which the principle is based Life’s Questions: A brief teaching from Dr. Stanley that unpacks the p

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Book SynopsisA charming and witty history of the quirky - but surprisingly widespread - craft of embroidering kneeler cushions. The perfect gift book this Christmas, for those who love kneelers and those who don't!'A lovely look at a not-quite-vanishing craft that lies, literally, below our knees ... Inventive and interesting' The Oldie, 'Best Reads for All Ages This Christmas''A treasure of a collection' Amber Butchart, of BBC's The Great British Sewing Bee'I think I may already have discovered the best non fiction book of 2023' Reverend Richard Coles, author of A Murder Before EvensongKneelers is a celebration of the most widely practised - but often overlooked - folk art in England and Wales over the past ninety years: the design and craft of church kneelers. Featuring charming stories and enchanting designs from churches across the country, the book traces the history of kneelers; from their spectacular beginnings at Winchester in the 1930s to their booming popularity after Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and the present-day congregations who are keeping the tradition alive.In their range and diversity, the kneelers collected here form a fascinating social record of the concerns and interests that occupied their makers - including local fauna and flora, cricket, dragons, post-war tributes and the thrills of high-speed travel.Filled to the brim with beautiful full-colour images, Kneelers displays the quirky artistry and widely varied (and often surprising) motifs which have characterised church kneelers in the twentieth century. It rejoices in the personal stories of some of the people who have practised and advanced the art form, and is a wonderful commemoration of what happens when communities come together to celebrate their history and their environment.'A glorious and delightful salute' Tracy Chevalier, author of A Single Thread'This book is a Godsend!' Alan Titchmarsh, author of The Gardener's AlmanacTrade Review'I think I may already have discovered the best non fiction book of 2023' * Reverend Richard Coles, author of A Murder Before Evensong *'A glorious and delightful salute to some of the UK's most neglected folk art and its makers' * Tracy Chevalier, author of A Single Thread *'For anyone who has been grateful for a kneeler, and found solace in them during a challenging sermon, this book is a Godsend!' * Alan Titchmarsh, author of The Gardener's Almanac *'A treasure of a collection' * Amber Butchart, of BBC's The Great British Sewing Bee *Gives praise at last to an overlooked form of British folk art * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisA collection of 101 hadith sayings, this work is one of the most important and influential early collections of hadith qudsi. Falling into three categories, the first 40 sayings each have a full, unbroken chain of transmission that goes back to God through the medium of the Prophet Muhammad. The second category are sayings mostly taken from well-known written collections. The final section is drawn from similar books, with Ibn 'Arabi adding one extra hadith, orally transmitted. Comprised of a full introduction explaining the meaning of Hadith, the text stresses the importance of this tradition in Ibn 'Arabi's writing.

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