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Book SynopsisThe Orphic hymns are fascinating historical artifacts 87 devotions, invocations, and entreaties to the Greek gods that are as powerful today as they were when they were originally developed thousands of years ago.

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Book Synopsis'Funny, sharp explications of what these sometimes not-very-nice women were up to!' – Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid's TaleThe Greek myths are among the world's most important cultural building blocks and they have been retold many times, but rarely do they focus on the remarkable women at the heart of these ancient stories.Now, in Pandora's Jar: Women in the Greek Myths, Natalie Haynes – broadcaster, writer and passionate classicist – redresses this imbalance. Taking Pandora and her jar (the box came later) as the starting point, she puts the women of the Greek myths on equal footing with the menfolk.Stories of gods and monsters are the mainstay of epic poetry and Greek tragedy, from Homer to Aeschylus. But modern tellers of Greek myth have usually been men, and have routinely shown little interest in telling women’s stories. And when they do, those women are often painted as monstrous, vengeful or just plain evil. But Pandora – the first woman, who according to legend unloosed chaos upon the world – was not a villain, and even Medea and Phaedra have more nuanced stories than generations of retellings might indicate.After millennia of stories telling of gods and men, be they Zeus or Odysseus, the voices that sing from these pages are those of Hera, Athena and Artemis, and of Clytemnestra, Jocasta, Eurydice and Penelope.'A treasure box of classical delights. Never has ancient misogyny been presented with so much wit and style' - historian Amanda ForemanTrade ReviewReading Pandora's Jar: Women in the Greek Myths by Natalie Haynes: Funny, sharp explications of what these sometimes not-very-nice women were up to, and how they sometimes made idiots of . . . but read on! -- Margaret AtwoodIf I'm ever prosecuted, I'd like Natalie Haynes to defend me. She argues persuasively, carving out space for women denied a voice (Medusa), overshadowed (Jocasta) and unjustly condemned (Helen of Troy) . . . Agile, rich, subversive, Pandora's Jar proves that the classics are far from dead, and keep evolving with us. -- Madeleine Feeny * Mail on Sunday *Haynes is a brilliant classicist as well as a stand-up comedian and with her latest offering, Pandora's Jar, she has effectively written the first textbook codifying this new feminist take on the Greek myths. -- Neil Mackay * Herald *Hugely enjoyable and witty * Guardian *Impassioned and informed . . . When Haynes gets down to retelling the stories . . . and teasing out their distortions and elisions, the book flies. * Sunday Times *An erudite, funny and sometimes angry attempt to fill in the blank spaces. -- Stephanie Merritt * Observer *The best kind of academic writing; engaged, engaging and fun (Beyoncé, Ray Harryhausen and Buffy the Vampire Slayer all turn up within). * Herald, Christmas Books 2020 *Witty and frequently surprising -- Farah Abdessamad * TLS *Beyoncé, Star Trek, Ray Harryhausen . . . the most enjoyable book about Greek myths you will ever read, absolutely brimming with subversive enthusiasm. -- Mark HaddonWitty, erudite and subversive, this takes the women of Greek myth—the women who are sidelined, vilified, misunderstood or ignored—and puts them centre stage. -- Samantha Ellis, author of How to Be a Heroine and Take CourageNatalie Haynes is beyond brilliant. Pandora’s Jar is a treasure box of classical delights. Never has ancient misogyny been presented with so much wit and style. -- Amanda ForemanNatalie Haynes is the nation's muse -- Adam RutherfordNatalie Haynes is both a witty and an erudite guide. She wears her extensive learning lightly and deftly drags the Classics into the modern world. I loved it. -- Kate Atkinson, author of Life After Life

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Book SynopsisFresh and never-before published talks on the crux of Buddhist practice and how to uncover wonder in your daily life from legendary Zen teacher and bestselling author Charlotte Joko Beck."As you embrace the suffering of life, the wonder shows up at the same time. They go together."--Charlotte Joko BeckIn this collection of never-before published teachings by Charlotte Joko Beck, one of the most influential Western-born Zen teachers, she explores our “core beliefs”—the hidden, negative convictions we hold about ourselves that direct our thoughts and behavior and prevent us from experiencing life as it is. Wryly humorous and relatable, Beck uses powerfully clear language to show how our lives present us with daily opportunities to move from thinking to experiencing, from compulsivity to confidence, and from anguish to peace. Whether you are a Zen practitioner or a reader interested in exploring these teachings for the first time, Ordinary Wonder offers the depth and breadth of Beck’s remarkable experience in an accessible guide to practice amidst the struggles of daily life.

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Book SynopsisThe fascinating and quirky biography of a disheveled poet, skillfully interwoven with his original works.Zen monk Santoka Taneda (1882-1940) is one of Japan's most beloved modern poets, famous for his "free-verse" haiku, the dominant style today. This book tells the fascinating story of his life, liberally sprinkled with more than 300 of his poems and extracts from his essays and journals—compiled by his best friend and biographer Sumita Oyama and elegantly translated by William Scott Wilson.Santoka was a literary prodigy, but a notoriously disorganized human being. By his own admission, he was incapable of doing anything other than wandering the countryside and writing verses. Although Santoka married and had a son, he devoted his life to poetry, studying Zen, drinking sake and wandering the length and breadth of the Japanese islands on foot, as a mendicant monk.The poet's life alternated between long periods of solitary retreat and restless travel, influenced by his tragic childhood. When not on the road, he lived in simple grass huts supported by friends and family. Santoka was a lively conversationalist who was often found so drunk he could only make it home with the help of a friendly neighbor or passerby. But above all, throughout his life, he wrote constantly; poetry and essays flowed from him effortlessly.Santoka's eccentric style of haiku is highly regarded in Japan today for being truly modern and free from formal constraints. His journals and essays are equally thought-provoking—the musings of an unkempt but supremely self-conscious mind on everything from writing to cooking rice and his failure to live a more orderly life.This translation and its introduction are by best-selling author William Scott Wilson, whose other works include The Book of Five Rings and The Lone Samurai. Wilson provides sensitive renditions of the haiku illustrating Santoka's life as well as an extensive introduction to the influences on Santoka's work, from contemporary haiku poets and his Buddhist teachers.Alongside the book, readers have access to a two-hour online audio recording of 331 of Santoka Taneda's haiku, read in Japanese by a native speaker, and in English.Trade Review"I feel guilty, finding so much joy in another man's sadness…" --Red Pine, author of Finding Them Gone, translator of The Heart Sutra"William Scott Wilson has unearthed yet another neglected Japanese treasure. Both biography and poems are elegant, inspirational, and brimming with life. Wilson has outdone himself." --Barry Lancet, award-winning author of Japantown and The Spy Across the Table"In this extraordinary book, William Scott Wilson brings his vast experience as a renowned translator of Japanese literature and religious thought…a must read for all those interested in how traditional Japanese culture endures in modern times." --Steven Heine, author of Readings of Dogen's Treasury of the True Dharma Eye

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Book Synopsis2020 Christianity Today Book Award Winner for Church/Pastoral Leadership 2019 TGC Ministry Book of the Year Winner Drawing on a lifetime of pastoral experience, The Care of Souls is a beautifully written treasury of proven wisdom which pastors will find themselves turning to again and again. Harold Senkbeil helps remind pastors of the essential calling of the ministry: preaching and living out the Word of God while orienting others in the same direction. And he offers practical and fruitful advice—born out of his five decades as a pastor—that will benefit both new pastors and those with years in the pulpit. In a time when many churches have lost sight of the real purpose of the church, The Care of Souls invites a new generation of pastors to form the godly habits and practical wisdom needed to minister to the hearts and souls of those committed to their care.

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Book SynopsisAre you ready to be blessed beyond what you can ask or imagine? Lysa Terkeurst will equip you to hear and recognize God’s voice and discover the incredible opportunities He’s already placed in front of you as you learn to say yes to His call.

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Book SynopsisWhat happens when the pastor of a mega church loses his faith? Discover one man’s life-changing journey to resolve his crisis of faith in Italy by retracing the footsteps of Francis of Assisi, a saint whose simple way of loving Jesus changed the history of the world.Pastor Chase Falson lost his faith in God, the Bible, evangelical Christianity, and his super-sized megachurch. When he fell apart, the church elders told him to go away—as far away as possible. Broken, Chase crossed the Atlantic to Italy to visit his uncle, a Franciscan priest. There, he was introduced to the revolutionary teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi and found an old, but new way of following Jesus that heals and inspires.Chase Falson''s spiritual discontent mirrors the feelings of a growing number of Christians who walk out of church asking, Is this all there is? This book is perfect for believers who are:Weary of celebrity pastors and empty calor

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Book SynopsisBest known today as a fine composer, the twelfth-century German abbess Hildegard of Bingen was also a religious leader and visionary, a poet, naturalist and writer of medical treatises. Despite her cloistered life she had strong, often controversial views on sex, love and marriage too - a woman astonishing in her own age, whose book of apocalyptic visions, Scivias, would alone have been enough to ensure her lasting fame.In this classic and highly praised biography - first published by Headline in 2001 - distinguished writer and journalist, Fiona Maddocks, draws on Hildegard''s prolific writings to paint a portrait of her extraordinary life against the turbulent medieval background of crusade and schism, scientific discovery and cultural revolution. The great intellectual gifts and forceful character that emerge make her as fascinating as any figure in the Middle Ages.More than 800 years after her death, Pope Benedict XVI has made Hildegard a Saint and a Doctor of the Church (one of only four women). Fiona Maddocks has provided a short new preface to cover these tributes to an extraordinary and exceptional woman.

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Book SynopsisSo often we think of the Christian faith as an obligation or as a set of beliefs that we must hold. With this outlook, we can lose sight of what is most important: the invitation to experience a loving, personal relationship with God. It’s a relationship we can trust, where we can find refuge and solid ground upon which to stand. The Way of Love set forth by the Episcopal Church's Presiding Bishop Michael Bruce Curry is the journey of a lifetime. It’s a way of knowing God, receiving and sharing Jesus’ love, and being a blessing to the world. Mariann Edgar Budde shares her thoughts on how the reader can come to know--to receive--Jesus more deeply in practicing the Way of Love. Through the seven practices that have been put before us: to turn, to learn, to pray and to worship, to bless, to go, and to rest, she will share biblical stories, wisdom from the Christian tradition, and her own personal stories of spiritual growth.Trade Review"If you are a long-time church-goer, eager for your faith to really come alive, a spiritual seeker who has never really felt connected to a faith community, or if you once were part of a church but have dropped out, here is a book that will help you find what matters most in the spiritual life. It's beautiful, personal, simple, practical, and understandable, and on top of that, it's honest, deep, and true. I've been looking for a book like this for years. I will recommend it every chance I get." —Brian D. McLaren, author of The Great Spiritual Migration"Life is a spiritual adventure. Receiving Jesus: The Way of Love is a beautiful and harmoniously colorful piece of tapestry. Bishop Mariann brings different threads together to help the reader journey in search of, connecting with, or rekindling their own spiritual self. Each spiritual practice is a door that invites the reader to step into to a different space of self-discovery in the love of Jesus. What a wonderful adventure! Join her, yes… you are invited!" —The Rev. Canon Jesús Reyes, Episcopal Diocese of El Camino Real "Receiving Jesus is a beautifully written, simple yet deeply profound guide to the spiritual life. I was inspired, moved, challenged, and refreshed by its words. I highly recommend this book." —Adam Hamilton, author of The Walk: Five Essential Practices for the Christian Spiritual LifeTable of ContentsForeword IntroductionChapter 1 To Turn: Pause, Listen, and Choose to Follow JesusChapter 2 To Learn: Reflect on Scripture Each Day, Especially on Jesus’ Life and TeachingsChapter 3 To Pray: To Dwell Intentionally with God Each DayChapter 4 To Worship: Gather in Community Weekly to Thank, Praise, and Dwell with GodChapter 5 To Bless: Share Faith and Unselfishly Give and ServeChapter 6 To Go: Cross Boundaries, Listen Deeply, and Live Like JesusChapter 7 To Bless: Receive the Gift of God’s Grace, Peace, and RestorationEpilogueAppendix The Way of Love Lectionary

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Book SynopsisThis revised Lifebuilder Bible Study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and an extra "Now or Later" section in each study.

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Book SynopsisReconnect with the healing wisdom of Mother Earth and to yourself with this diverse, brightly illustrated oracle deck from the author of Witchery and Plant Witchery.The Earthcraft Oracle is a tool to help you reconnect to Mother Earth and to your highest self. Each card message is an invitation to listen to Mother Earth''s guidance; each spell, ritual, or invocation an opportunity to bring these lessons off the pages and into your daily practice; and each illustration a reminder that we are part of nature, not outside of it. With bodies of every shape, size, skin-tone, and hair texture represented, this deck affirms we are all Mother Earth''s children.Mother Earth is our sacred home. We rely on her for everything from the air we breathe and the water we drink. She gives us so much and yet we take her magic for granted. We squander her gifts and ignore the results. But it is not too late. We have stopped listening, but she has not stopped comm

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Book Synopsis"When something is bothering you-a person is bugging you, a situation is irritating you, or physical pain is troubling you-you must work with your mind, and that is done through meditation. Working with our mind is the only means through which we'll actually begin to feel happy and contented with the world that we live in." -Pema Chödrön Pema Chödrön is treasured around the world for her unique ability to transmit teachings and practices that bring peace, understanding, and compassion into our lives. With How to Meditate, the American-born Tibetan Buddhist nun presents her first book exploring in depth what she considers the essentials for a lifelong practice. More and more people are beginning to recognize a profound inner longing for authenticity, connection, and aliveness. Meditation, Pema explains, gives us a golden key to address this yearning. This step-by-step guide shows readers how to honestly meet and openly relate with the mind, embrace the fullness of our experience, and live in a wholehearted way as we discover: - The basics of meditation, from getting settled and the six points of posture to working with your breath and cultivating an attitude of unconditional friendliness - The Seven Delights-how moments of difficulty can become doorways to awakening and love - Shamatha (or calm abiding), the art of stabilizing the mind to remain present with whatever arises - Thoughts and emotions as "sheer delight"-instead of obstacles-in meditation "I think ultimately why we practice is so that we can become completely loving people, and this is what the world needs," writes Pema Chödrön. How to Meditate is an essential book from this wise teacher to assist each one of us in this virtuous goal.

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Book SynopsisWriting to Awaken is an inspirational investigation of the self through expressive writing, guiding you along the path of awakening through radical truth-telling and self-inquiry. With targeted and revelatory questions, you'll be prompted to explore your own personal narrative-to write honestly about your deepest wounds, greatest challenges, hidden gifts, yearnings, and opportunities for growth-in order to discover a deeply authentic understanding of yourself and move toward a more liberated, truthful life.We each have our own story, a personal myth constructed from the content life presents us: we connect dots to shape the narrative, devise plotlines from circumstance, change characters, fashion conflicts, and adjust structure, settings, and themes as our lives unfold. But so often, over time, we come to believe that we are our story, identifying so strongly with the tales we've told ourselves and others that we cling to them for our very existence-even when they don't quite fit. The realization that there's a discrepancy between the narrative you've crafted and your authentic self can be disconcerting at first, but the exploration of that gap is a doorway to personal freedom, and this book will lead you through it.The writing exercises in this guide, one for nearly every week of the year, ask you to tell the whole truth about your experience. In doing so, you'll come to realize that once you engage in this radical truth-telling, expressing yourself with complete honesty, your story changes; and when your story changes, your life is transformed. Rather than sticking with your illusive and tricky "Story of Me," you'll be prompted to go even deeper, piercing your personal myth and illuminating aspects of psyche and spirit that give way to profound moments of understanding and personal healing.This is not a how-to book for writers; it's an invitation on a journey of self-discovery-a guide to facing yourself without flinching, accepting yourself as you are, surrendering to what is, and daring to question and transform what isn't true. With Writing to Awaken, you'll learn how to break free from the trance of mistaken identity and discover your essential, authentic self.

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Book Synopsis'These stories of witchcraft, true and vividly told, demonstrate the potent reality of belief in evil and how in any era or place fear can be weaponised and marginal people, mostly women, labelled as wicked and dangerous. Together they comprise not just a history of witchcraft but a cautionary tale’ Malcolm Gaskill, author of The Ruin of All Witches   The world of witch-hunts and witch trials sounds archaic and fanciful, these terms relics of an unenlightened, brutal age. However, we often hear ‘witch-hunt’ in today’s media, and the misogyny that shaped witch trials is all too familiar. Three women were prosecuted under a version of the 1735 Witchcraft Act as recently as 2018. In Witchcraft – a stunning hardback with 16 pages of beautiful illustrations – Professor Marion Gibson uses thirteen significant trials to tell theTrade Review'These stories of witchcraft, true and vividly told, demonstrate the potent reality of belief in evil and how in any era or place fear can be weaponised and marginal people, mostly women, labelled as wicked and dangerous. Together they comprise not just a history of witchcraft but a cautionary tale of the uncomfortably human habits of paranoia and persecution' -- Malcolm Gaskill, author of The Ruin of All Witches'It is wonderful to come across a book that breathes such fresh life and energy into a well-worked subject, covering a huge range of time and space with a unified, passionate and convincing message. Any expert is going to learn something new from it, any newcomer to be enthralled and motivated' -- Ronald Hutton, author of The Witch'Thought-provoking and timely... Searing' -- Jessie Childs * The Times *'A vital and vivid study on the history of witch trials. Fantastic’ -- Anya Bergman, author of The Witches of Vardo’Thirteen witch trials are brought vividly to life in Gibson’s wide-ranging book’ * Daily Mail *'Inventive and compelling... A work of restitution and historical reparation, an attempt to give voice to those who have been silenced over the centuries' -- Laura Kounine * Times Literary Supplement *'The trials of the accused people in Witchcraft return to us, in detail, lives about which we might otherwise know nothing' * New Yorker *

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Book SynopsisA new translation of Tibet''s most important manual for Mahāmudrā view and meditationThis classic Buddhist work, written in the sixteenth century, comprehensively presents the entire scope of the Tibetan Kagyu Mahāmudrā tradition. These profound yet accessible instructions focus on becoming familiar with the nature of one’s mind as the primary means to realize ultimate reality and thus attain buddhahood. Dakpo Tashi Namgyal’s manual for the view and practice of Mahāmudrā is widely considered the single most important work on the subject, systematically introducing the view and associated meditation techniques in a progressive manner.Moonbeams of Mahāmudrā, along with the Ninth Karmapa Wangchuk Dorje’s Dispelling the Darkness of Ignorance, are to this day some of the most studied texts on Mahāmudrā in the Kagyu monasteries throughout Tibet and the Himalayas. Elizabeth M. Callahan, a renowned translator of classical Kagyu literature, has provided new translations of these two texts along with ancillary materials and annotations, making this a genuine resource for both scholars and students of Tibetan Buddhism. This historic contribution therefore offers the necessary tools to properly study and apply the Mahāmudrā teachings in a modern context.

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Book SynopsisWhat does the Bible really tell us about the heavenly host? Everyone knows that angels have wings, usually carry harps, and that each of us has our own personal guardian angel, right? We all have some preconceptions about angels from movies, television shows, and other media, but you might be surprised to know that a lot of those notions aren't based on anything from the Bible. If you read Luke 1:26–38 and imagine the angel Gabriel standing before Mary with neatly folded white wings, you're not getting that picture from anything the Bible itself says. What the Bible really says about angels is overlooked or filtered through popular myths. This book was written to help change that. It's a book about the loyal members of God's heavenly host, and while most people associate them with the word "angel," that's just one of many terms the Bible uses for supernatural beings. In The Unseen Realm Michael Heiser opened the eyes of thousands to seeing the Bible through the supernatural worldview of the ancient world it was written in. In his latest book, Angels, Dr. Heiser reveals what the Bible really says about God's supernatural servants. Heiser focuses on loyal, holy heavenly beings because the Bible has a lot more to say about them than most people suspect. Most people presume all there is to know about angels is what has been passed on in Christian tradition, but in reality, that tradition is quite incomplete and often inaccurate. Angels is not guided by traditions, stories, speculations, or myths about angels. Heiser's study is grounded in the terms the Bible itself uses to describe members of God's heavenly host; he examines the terms in their biblical context while drawing on insights from the wider context of the ancient Near Eastern world. The Bible's view on heavenly beings begins with Old Testament terms but then moves into literature from the Second Temple period—Jewish writings from around the fifth century BC to the first century AD. This literature from the time between the Old Testament and the New Testament influenced the New Testament writers in significant ways. With that important background established, the book focuses on what the New Testament tells us about God's holy ones. Finally, the book reflects on common misconceptions about angels and addresses why the topic is still important and relevant for Christians today.

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Book SynopsisThere’s no time like right now to start preparing for your everlasting future! From bestselling author Amir Tsarfati, Revealing Revelation examines what the Bible’s final book makes known about the end times and beyond.

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Book SynopsisIt's Not About the Burqa is an anthology of frank and insightful essays by Muslim women about the contemporary Muslim female experience.'Passionate, angry, self-effacing, nuanced and utterly compelling in every single way' - Nikesh Shukla, editor of The Good ImmigrantWhen was the last time you heard a Muslim woman speak for herself without a filter?In 2016, Mariam Khan read that David Cameron had linked the radicalization of Muslim men to the ‘traditional submissiveness’ of Muslim women. Mariam felt pretty sure she didn’t know a single Muslim woman who would describe herself that way. Why was she hearing about Muslim women from people who were neither Muslim, nor female?Years later the state of the national discourse has deteriorated even further, and Muslim women’s voices are still pushed to the fringes – the figures leading the discussion are white and male.Taking one of the most politicized and misused words associated with Muslim women and Islamophobia, It’s Not About the Burqa is poised to change all that. Here are voices you won’t see represented in the national news headlines: seventeen Muslim women speaking frankly about the hijab and wavering faith, about love and divorce, about feminism, queer identity, sex, and the twin threats of a disapproving community and a racist country.With a mix of British and international women writers, from activist Mona Eltahawy's definition of a revolution to journalist and broadcaster Saima Mir telling the story of her experience of arranged marriage, from author Sufiya Ahmed on her Islamic feminist icon to playwright Afshan D'souza-Lodhi's moving piece about her relationship with her hijab, these essays are funny, warm, sometimes sad, and often angry, and each of them is a passionate declaration calling time on the oppression, the lazy stereotyping, the misogyny and the Islamophobia.What does it mean, exactly, to be a Muslim woman in the West today? According to the media, it’s all about the burqa.Here’s what it’s really about.Shortlisted for Foyles Non-Fiction Book of the Year'Engrossing . . . fascinating . . . courageous' – ObserverTrade ReviewAn incredibly important collection of essays that explores the pressures of being a Muslim woman today. These essays are passionate, angry, self-effacing, nuanced and utterly compelling in every single way -- Nikesh Shukla, editor of The Good ImmigrantWide-ranging . . . engrossing . . . fascinating . . . these essays take a courageous and panoramic view of Muslims * Observer *A landmark anthology . . . frank and engaging essays on sex and religion, mental health in the Muslim community and queer identity from an impressive selection of writers and activists * Cosmopolitan *Essential reading for our times. These essays are funny, angry, hopeful, sorrowful and inspired - and will leave you feeling much the same -- Kiran Millwood Hargrave, author of The Girl of Ink and StarsAn intelligent and much needed book * Red Magazine *It’s about pushing past the stereotype placed on Muslim women and hearing the individuals themselves; it’s required reading * Stylist *Refreshing, insightful and occasionally raw, It’s Not About the Burqa is a phenomenal collection of essays by a very diverse range of Muslim women. An absolute must read for anyone wanting to better understand the lives and experiences of Muslim Women in the West. -- Akeela AhmedThe result is It’s Not About the Burqa, 17 brilliantly wide-ranging essays covering everything from the rise of the sexualised Islamic influencer, to the Quran’s take on bisexuality – and of course insidious, ugly Islamophobia * i News *Forget the ravings of politicians and pundits, hear from voices who have real, lived experiences across religion, feminism, sex, love and identity, and turn to this nuanced and wide-ranging collection * Emerald Street *Table of ContentsIntroduction - i: Introduction by Mariam Khan Chapter - 1: 'Too Loud, Swears Too Much and Goes Too Far' by Mona Eltahawy Chapter - 2: 'Immodesty is the Best Policy' by Coco Khan Chapter - 3: 'The First Feminist' by Sufiya Ahmed Chapter - 4: 'On the Representation of Muslims: Terms and Conditions Apply' by Nafisa Bakkar Chapter - 5: 'The Clothes of My Faith' by Afia Ahmed Chaudhry Chapter - 6: 'Life was Easier Before I was Woke' by Yassmin Midhat Abdel-Magied Chapter - 7: 'There’s No Such Thing as a Depressed Muslim: Discussing Mental Health in the Muslim Community' by Jamilla Hekmoun Chapter - 8: 'Feminism Needs to Die' by Mariam Khan Chapter - 9: 'Hijabi (R)evolution' by Afshan D’souza-Lodhi Chapter - 10: 'Eight Notifications' by Salma Haidrani Chapter - 11: 'Shame, Shame, It Knows Your Name' by Amna Saleem Chapter - 12: 'A Woman of Substance' by Saima Mir Chapter - 13: 'A Gender Denied: Islam, Sex and the Struggle to Get Some' by Salma El-Wardany Chapter - 14: 'How Not to Get Married (or why an unregistered nikah is no protection for a woman)' by Aina Khan OBE Chapter - 15: 'Not Just a Black Muslim Woman' by Raifa Rafiq Chapter - 16: 'Between Submission and Threat: The British State’s Contradictory Relationship with Muslim Women' by Malia Bouattia Chapter - 17: 'Daughter of Stories' by Nadine Aisha Jassat

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Book SynopsisOne of the first tarot decks to incorporate Caribbean and Latin American symbolism and culture both past and present, featuring vibrant, colorful artwork.Secrets of Paradise Tarot is an inclusive tarot deck like no other, taking a Caribbean and Latin American approach to symbolism. It''s an invitation to discover the hidden secrets of paradise and many beautiful aspects of Latin culture through the sacred art of tarot. This deck showcases religious practices from the Caribbean islands and throughout Latin American countries as well as highlighting local food, animal species, natural and historical landmarks, and music, art, and culture.Latinx tarot readers, enthusiasts, and experimenters who don''t see themselves reflected in the classic card decks will connect deeply with the wisdom of this deck. Rather than trying to connect with symbolism that doesn''t resonate, these readers will gravitate towards the creative symbolism in Secrets of Paradise Tarot:

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Book SynopsisAn enthralling account of paganism in Britain, from the Paleolithic Age to the arrival of ChristianityTrade ReviewShortlisted for the 2015 Hessell-Tilman Prize'At last, a balanced, well-written and original review of Britain's pre-Christian religions that treats the complex and enduring legacy of prehistory with due respect. It is also full of unexpected insights. A delight.' - Francis Pryor, author of Britain BC: Life in Britain and Ireland Before the Romans"A well-written and thoroughly researched study of a most important subject. The book is informed, fair minded and extremely readable. Nothing like this has been done before.'"—Richard Bradley, author of The Prehistory of Britain and Ireland

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Book SynopsisThis timely book invites us to unpick humanity's elusive search for the wrong sort of success and how Jesus' life and teachings invite us to discover a success that truly satisfies our souls.Trade Review'In this provocative book, Pete casts a vision. His vision is of a world where what we profess to believe and the lives we actually live are brought together in congruence. Addressing the worlds of faith and culture with astute analysis and prophetic incisiveness, Pete offers a timely and hope-filled clarion call for today’s generation to reconsider how to live lives of true influence.' -- Ken Costa, chairman, Leadership College, London'Pete Portal offers a refreshing critique of contemporary notions of success, inviting readers into an (un)success "in the world" that is only possible when we embrace as success "not of this world". He offers a rich alternative vision of Jesus-inspired success, born of years of painful struggle living out the gospel in the heart of the impoverished South African township of Manenberg. Pete's vision is born out of his location in a setting of poverty, rampant addiction and gang violence, where dimensions of Christian faith cannot remain separated: contemplation inspires action, Holy Spirit revivalism engenders social justice activism, and power joins compassion. This book feeds a growing hunger like few others, threatening to incite a renewal movement deep enough to warm up hearts growing cold, and positively contagious enough to reach and recruit many to join Jesus and choose the kingdom of God as the best alternative now.' -- Bob Ekblad, co-founder and director of Tierra Nueva and The People's Seminary, and author of Reading the Bible with the Damned'Whenever I look at the actual state of things (the world, the Church, the guy in the mirror), I'm reminded of how desperately I need people such as Pete Portal who can speak from personal experience with prophetic clarity about a better way to live, pray and define success. How to Be (Un)Successful is an invitation to follow the call of Christ by pursuing depth over breadth, building real relationships, and engaging faithfully with the culture around me... It's as challenging as its title implies (thank God for that), but it's also inspiring, beguiling and brimming with hope.' -- Pete Greig, 24-7 Prayer International and Emmaus Rd, England'Pete's own lived faith authenticates and validates the challenging message he brings in this book. His writing stirs, encourages and inspires us in equal measure on our journey with Jesus, and enables us to use different metrics in working out what constitutes a life well lived.' -- Simon Guillebaud, author and founder of Great Lakes Outreach Burundi'When the Church loses confidence in its mission, story and central convictions, secular narratives begin to masquerade as kingdom narratives. These are then embraced by the Church, which then inevitably begins to lose it spiritual vibrancy and potency. We desperately need a wake-up call, which is why I love listening to Pete Portal preach and why I love his new book How to Be (Un)successful. Pete has been raised up as a prophet for such a time as this. He offers a diagnosis for the cultural moment we find ourselves in, invites us on a journey of detoxing from the ways of the world that have damaged our souls, and leads us back to the person, example and ministry of Jesus, where a whole new vision for life is presented. This is the kind of book you want to place in the hand of every follower of Jesus disillusioned by the world, or even the Church, but desperate to rediscover the upside-down way of the kingdom.' -- Pete Hughes, Lead Pastor, KXC, London, and author of All Things New: Joining God's story of re-creation'Great leaders ask great questions. This book raises excellent questions, bringing significant insights and fuel for all disciples seeking to live a kingdom life in the culture and world we inhabit. Much like Pete, this book is reflective, punchy, prophetic and engaging.' -- Tim Hughes, Senior Pastor, Gas Street Church'In this book, you will find yourself rethinking how you have lived your life and asking bigger questions about how to be human in this world. Pete takes you on a necessary journey of reflecting on the life of Jesus and the vast difference between it and how we live our lives now. This book is an invitation to move closer and closer to being someone you were designed to be. Let us say yes to this invitation!' -- Eric Johnson, co-founder and Lead Pastor of Studio Greenville'Actions speak louder than words. Or, as Jesus taught us, "By their fruits ye shall know them" (Matthew 7.20 kjv). Pete Portal is a man who follows the Lord, and his fruits are bountiful. And by those fruits his words have earned our attention.' -- Winston Marshall, musician and contributor to The Spectator'Pete's is a voice I trust. He hasn't just developed deep and beautiful theology - he lives a life that keeps his heart breaking open. He is a witness to the glory of God, moving through grit, grime and grace. An earthy, downward trajectory that leads to the kingdom of God. This book is going to help you to find your way there.' -- Danielle Strickland, author, speaker and activist

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Book SynopsisThis book investigates the life and world of Bede (c. 673-735), foremost scholar of the early Middle Ages and 'the father of English history'. It examines his notable feats, including calculating the first tide-tables; playing a role in the creation of the Ceolfrith Bibles and the Lindisfarne Gospels; writing the earliest extant Old English poetry and the earliest translation of part of the Bible into English; and composing his famous Ecclesiastical History of the English People, with its single dating system. Despite never leaving Northumbria, Bede also wrote a guide to the Holy Land. Michelle P. Brown, an authority on the period, describes new discoveries regarding Bede's handwriting, his research programme and his previously lost Old English translation of St John's Gospel, dictated on his deathbed.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Boyhood and Monkwearmouth-Jarrow 2. Bede the Monk and Priest 3. Bede the Scholar and Scientist: Cosmos and Logos 4. Bede, Poetry and the Origins of Written English 5. Bede the English Patristic 6. Bede the Historian and Reformer 7. Bede the Scribe of Scripture and the Ceolfrith Bibles 8. Bede and Lindisfarne 9. Bede and His Legacy Appendix: Bede's CV References Bibliography Acknowledgements Photo Acknowledgements Index

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Book SynopsisIn this 10-week Bible study for women, Lydia Brownback explores the themes of Colossians, exalting Christ as the ruler of everything and helping readers put him at the center of their own lives.

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Book SynopsisOffering a convenient size and a large print, this Bible also provides over 43,000 cross-references to help you study anywhere.You don’t have to sacrifice readability for portability. With the NKJV Large Print Personal Size Reference Bible, you get the full text of the popular New King James Version presented in a large print format that’s easy to carry. And with Thomas Nelson’s NKJV Comfort Print®, this edition is even easier to read. An extensive cross-reference system and other essential study resources make this a Bible you’ll want with you, wherever your day takes you.Features include: 43,000 end-of-page cross-references allow you to find related passages quickly and easily Full-color maps show a visual representation of locations and themes in the Bible Easy-to-navigate dictionary-concordance

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Book SynopsisThe first account of the dissolution of the monasteries for fifty years—exploring its profound impact on the people of Tudor EnglandTrade Review“The most important book on the subject for two generations. . . . Clark’s achievement is unmistakable. . . . Carefully researched, beautifully structured, and courageously argued, The Dissolution of the Monasteries is precise, polemical, and sweeping. It should be instantly recognized as a classic.“—Crawford Gribben, Wall Street Journal“Deeply researched . . . steeped in primary sources, scrupulously polite and anti-sensational. . . . The result may well be the most important book on the English Reformation since Eamon Duffy’s The Stripping of the Altars.”—Dan Jones, Sunday Times“Clark . . . builds up a huge mosaic of life on the eve of the Reformation, taken from letters and law cases, wills and account books.”—Christopher Howse, Daily Telegraph“This is a book about people, though, not ideas, and as a detailed account of an extraordinary human drama with a cast of thousands, it is an exceptional piece of historical writing.”—Lucy Wooding, Times Literary Supplement“A terrific work of scholarship and profoundly dispiriting with it. . . . The big narrative is enlivened by riveting accounts of individuals caught up in the great events.”—Melanie McDonagh, Catholic Herald, “Books of the Year”“James Clark’s absorbing and formidable study presents much that is refreshingly new. . . . It was easy to misread Henry VIII . . . in the 1530s. This is where Clark’s account is at its most rewarding. . . . For there is no sign until the very last twelve months of monastic life that there was any masterplan for complete suppression.”—Diarmaid MacCulloch, London Review of Books“Important and original . . .; it will deservedly become the standard textbook for the next generation of scholars.”—Hugh Willmott, BBC History Magazine“This book is a considerable achievement, absorbing in its detail, not easy to do justice in a short review. Among many striking discussions, there is vivid, wide-ranging treatment of monastic life in late medieval England and Wales.”—Ann Hughes, Times Higher Education Supplement“An impressively detailed study that yields a rich harvest. Clark has unearthed a wealth of overlooked details to challenge centuries of controversy and misconception, and provides a welcome new perspective on Henry VIII, his ‘henchman’ Thomas Cromwell and other powerful members of the court.”—Tracy Borman, BBC History Magazine, “Books of the Year”“One of the most interesting elements of James Clark’s excellent, substantial new book is the epilogue on the afterlife of the religious houses and indeed of the religious themselves—right into Jacobean England.”—Melanie McDonagh, The Tablet“Clark’s epic work fills the gap for a modern readership: he provides a massive account, the first dedicated one in half a century, which, unfortunately for many historians, will mean that an additional such book will hardly be needed again for another 50 years.”—Sean McGlynn, Spectator“It has been decades since we last had a history of the Dissolution and Clark has made excellent use of recent research, including archaeological reports, alongside his own exceptional and extensive work in the archives. . . . This is quite simply the best history yet written on English monasticism in the 16th century, and it will surely remain so for years to come.”—Mathew Lyons, History Today“Invaluable. . . . A major addition to our understanding of the whole process of the Henrician Reformation [and] the fullest account of the Dissolution ever written.”—Eamon Duffy, The Tablet“Most studies with ‘a new history’ in their title have their obsolescence built in. Newness is a quality rarely long retained. Clark’s book is something different: the product of that most impressive of conjunctions—fine historical writing, high analytical intelligence, and Stakhanovite labours in the archives—it takes its subject to a new level. It looks set to be the authoritative account of the dissolution of the monasteries for decades to come.”—John Adamson, Catholic Herald“Direct quotations of records, complete with the original spellings, involves a bit of enjoyable light work to decipher what the subjects are discussing; it is totally engaging as a motif, and enables Clark to draw the reader deep into his narrative.”—Serenhedd James, The Critic“This is an immersive and thought-provoking read that looks at the social changes from all perspectives.”—Family Tree Magazine“A starting point for all future students of the Dissolution. . . . The book’s strongest point is its back-story. . . . You will not read this book for its account of government policy: rather, for its view of how that policy looked and felt to the communities that were destroyed by it.”—Alec Ryrie, Church Times“Immense scholarship . . . an enjoyable and essential read.”—Susan Doran, Journal of Religious History“By any standards this is a remarkable book. . . . It sets the standard for the kind of work that is needed to clarify the process of Reformation.”—Raymond Gillespie, Search“It is hard to see how Clark’s account could be improved upon: it is to be admired not only for its scholarship and attention to detail, but also for the understanding that it generates. . . . Clark has achieved much in this extensive study and it will, in time, become the leading examination of this complex subject.”—Paul Flux, Albion Magazine“A wonderfully researched and engaging account of this terrible calamity.”—Barney White Spunner, Aspects of History“This extraordinary and impressive piece of scholarship, delivered in marvellously clear prose, offers a forensic investigation of how and why, under Henry VIII, monasticism in England was brought to such a swift and merciless end, and charts, as no other work has done, the profound social consequences of this seismic change. This long-awaited study is required reading.”—Suzannah Lipscomb, author of The King Is Dead“Exceptional. . . . The author’s extensive research has unearthed a wealth of previously overlooked details that challenge centuries of controversy, rumour and misconception. As well as providing a fresh perspective on well known characters such as Henry VIII and his ‘henchman’ Thomas Cromwell, the narrative brings the people who lived and worked in the monasteries vividly to life. A stunning achievement.”—Tracy Borman, author of Thomas Cromwell“Establishes Professor Clark as the leading authority on Tudor monasticism and the experience of its end; and it is therefore now the main text in that major field.”—Ronald Hutton, author of The Making of Oliver Cromwell“This is a landmark book. Clark has swept away many old generalisations and assumptions in favour of a much more detailed and nuanced account of this social (as well as religious) revolution. The end result is nothing short of magnificent—yet also intricate, intimate, touchingly human and endlessly fascinating.”—Ian Mortimer, author of The Time Traveller’s Guide to Medieval England

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Book SynopsisIngredients for a successful life are free: our thoughts. Transforming them leads to happiness and success. Swami Mukundananda teaches how to manage thoughts, be creative, meditate, and evolve spiritually. Focus on revolutionizing thoughts to fulfill life's purpose.

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Book Synopsis'In the beginner''s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert''s there are few.' So begins this most beloved of all American Zen books. Seldom has such a small handful of words provided a teaching as rich as has this famous opening line of Shunryu Suzuki''s classic. In a single stroke, the simple sentence cuts through the pervasive tendency students have of getting so close to Zen as to completely miss what it''s all about. An instant teaching on the first page. And that''s just the beginning. In the thirty years since its original publication, Zen Mind, Beginner''s Mind has become one of the great modern Zen classics, much beloved, much re-read, and much recommended as the best first book to read on Zen. Suzuki Roshi presents the basics—from the details of posture and breathing in zazen to the perception of nonduality—in a way that is not only remarkably clear, but that also resonates with the joy of insight from the first to the last page. It''s a book to come back to time and time again as an inspiration to practice.

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Book SynopsisBased on ancient Mayan, Olmec, and Toltec teachings passed down through the generations by the Twisted Hair Nagual Elders of the Sweet Medicine Sundance Path, the practice of Quodoushka offers practical guidance on sex, intimacy, and relationships as well as how to reach higher levels of orgasm and sexual ecstasy. Working with the healing power of sexual union and orgasm, this practice offers a path to repair emotional wounds and sexual insecurities, revive monotonous relationships, and discover the sweet medicine of sex. Revealing these once-secret teachings for the first time, initiated Quodoushka instructor Amara Charles explains the physical, energetic, and sexual qualities of the nine male and female genital anatomy types--such as Coyote Man or Buffalo Woman--and how to identify and best please each type as well as take pride in your own unique anatomy. Describing the nine variations of orgasmic expression--from avalanche to forest fire--she provides exercises for greater sexual pleasure and increased orgasmic intensity, including the Firebreath exercise, a method for reaching a full-body orgasm through breathwork. Covering role playing and sexual energetic work with the chakras and the light body as well as ceremonies to bring the sacred back into your lovemaking, the practice of Quodoushka reveals how we can--through pleasure--become more sensitive, creative lovers.Trade Review“Amara has a very special gift of being able to articulate these unique and insightful teachings that give real direction on how to heal and move forward as a sexual, spiritual being. She skillfully marries the disciplines of many cultures so that all may relate in some way and, therefore, receive benefit. This book is for anybody looking for expansion, expression, and a new path to enhance sex and intimacy in their lives.” * Laura Kimbro, OB/GYN DO, Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics *“Quodoushka’s Fire Breath full-body orgasm was absolutely the most valuable thing I ever learned about sex. This hotly anticipated brave book is a treasure trove of wisdom that raises the bar on sex education. Amara Charles knows these practices intimately, and her enthusiasm for her subjects rubs off. Great for beginners to advanced.” * Annie Sprinkle, Ph.D., author of Dr. Sprinkle’s Spectacular Sex *“The Sexual Practices of Quodoushka is a comprehensive introduction to a powerful way of connecting to and activating our inherent sexual potencies and abilities to experience pleasure. Amara Charles masterfully guides the reader through the cultural background of the practices into the realm of their concrete application, outlining a new understanding of sexual conditioning and experience while encouraging innovative ways of bringing greater pleasure into our lives. A thorough delight.” * Livia Kohn, author and professor emerita of religion and East Asian studies at Boston University *“With The Sexual Practices of Quodoushka, Amara Charles is helping to make our world a more peaceful and loving place. You will learn the Quodoushka teachings, which state that the lack of healthy sexual expression is the root cause of abusive, addictive, and violent behaviors. And you will learn specific steps you can take to transform your sex life into the sacred and healing practice it was meant to be!” * Veronica Monet, ACS, CAM, certified sexologist, couples consultant, and radio host of The Shame Free *“In The Sexual Practices of Quodoushka, Amara Charles captures the essence of intimacy. From personal experience I can say unequivocally that she is brilliant, knowledgeable, and an absolute cauldron of vital energy. This book will guide you to become a more caring lover, free blocked energy, and delight in your body to align your human, animal, and spiritual aspects. Charles’s explanation of sexual anatomy types is a genuine revelation. Sexual Practices of Quodoushka can make a quantum shift in the way you approach sex and intimacy.” * Steven Barnes, author, lecturer, and martial artist *“Quodoushka weekends led by Amara are always filled with indescribable sexual magick. With this book she combines a vivid literary style with her practical experience of working energetically through blocks to sexual enrichment. The wisdom rooted in the teachings of the elders comes alive on these pages. Amara has somehow captured their spiritual electricity.” * Richard Beck Peacock, film director and coauthor of Learning to Leave: A Woman’s Guide *“The Sexual Practices of Quodoushka is a tremendous resource for anyone trying to understand their own sexuality so that they can bring that sexuality to a relationship and participate fully in that relationship. How wonderful would it be if we could teach children sex through this voice as opposed to through television, the Internet, or pornography. I am of the belief that this would lead to far healthier sexual relationships as adults.” * Allen N. Chiura, M.D., urologist *“In Amara Charles’s brave new book The Sexual Practices of Quodoushka: Teachings from the Nagual Traditions, she introduces us to the little known world of sexual healing known as Quodoushka. You don’t need to be a tantra geek or a new age bindi wearing goddess to find this book transformational. Inside its easy-to-read pages, you will find a compassionate and extraordinary way to learn about sex. If you are ready to go deeper into your own sexuality, pick up this book.” * Pamela Madsen, author of Shameless: How I Ditched The Diet, Got Naked, Found True Pleasure and Someh *“Touching on the controversial history of the Quodoushka tradition and concluding with practices to sustain passion in long-term relationships, Charles’ brave book fuses sexuality with spirituality in a very practical, hands-on way. Your intimate life will surely find immediate benefit from this book.” * Merikah Robertson, Common Ground, October 2011 *“You don’t need to be a tantra geek or a New Age bindi-wearing goddess to find this book transformational. Inside its easy-to-read pages, you will find a compassionate and extraordinary way to learn about sex. If you are ready to go deeper into your own sexuality, pick up this book.” * Pamela Madsen, author of Shameless: How I Ditched the Diet, Got Naked, Found True Pleasure and Someh *“Imagine if we grew up in a culture where we were taught about sexuality and learned to be great lovers and healthy human beings. In The Sexual Practices of Quodoushka, Amara Charles shares once secret teachings and information in a fun and entertaining way that will help save relationships, lives, and our planet. Read this book and give thanks!” * Baba Dez Nichols, founder of the International School of Temple Arts, author of Sacred Sexual Healin *“The Sexual Practices of Quodoushka beautifully complements the ancient knowledge of the Taoist shaman. These transformational teachings reveal ways to deepen and strengthen relationships and offer a means to access the universal healing forces of creation.” * Master Mantak Chia, author of Healing Love through the Tao and Taoist Foreplay *“Passed down through the generations by the Twisted Hair Nagual Elders of the Sweet Medicine Sundance Path, the practice of Quodoushka offers practical guidance on sex, intimacy, and relationships as well as how to reach higher levels of orgasm and sexual ecstasy. Working with the healing power of sexual union and orgasm, this practice offers a path to repair emotional wounds and sexual insecurities, revive monotonous relationships, and discover the sweet medicine of sex.” * Branches of Light, October 2012 *Table of Contents Foreword by Thunder Strikes Acknowledgments Introduction: The Medicine of Sex--Learning Through Pleasure Part One Healing Our Sexual Selves 1 The Legacy of Quodoushka 2 An Initiation into the World of Sexuality 3 Unlocking Sexual Conditioning 4 Sexual Choices, Sexual Preferences 5 The Light and Dark Arrows of Sex Part Two Language, Anatomy, and Orgasms 6 A Natural Language for Sex 7 Our Genital Anatomy 8 Female Genital Anatomy Types 9 Male Genital Anatomy Types 10 The Nine Types of Orgasmic Expression 11 Increasing the Intensity of Orgasms 12 Sexual Healing Practices 13 The Eight Lovers’ Masks 14 Sustaining the Passion of Intimate Unions 15 Creating a Sacred Sexual Ceremony Afterword Resources Notes Index

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Book SynopsisThis deluxe hardback edition presents Gibran''s poetic masterpiece The Prophet, featuring gilded page edges, beautiful black and white illustrations and a foil-embossed cover design. The Prophet is a concise but deeply profound prose poem set in the city of Orphalese. Before leaving on a journey to his homeland, the prophet Almustafa imparts words of wisdom to the crowds, touching on occasions of birth, marriage, death and all of life''s other milestones. An international bestseller, it has furnished individuals the world over with words of joy or consolation. Introduced by John Baldock, this beautiful Wibalin-bound edition makes a wonderful gift for anyone seeking insight and reflection on life''s simple truths. ABOUT THE SERIES: Arcturus Ornate Classics are beautifully bound editions of iconic literary works across history. These compact, foil-embossed hardbacks are printed using deluxe ivory paper and make the perfect gift.

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Book SynopsisBuilding on mindfulness and self-compassion practices, this step-by-step guide to secular insight meditation shows the way to freedom from deeply rooted thought patterns.Discover joy within yourself and heartfelt connection with others by releasing the habitual thought patterns that cause suffering and alienation. Drawing on Buddhist wisdom as well as the latest research in psychology and neuroscience, this book provides you with the tools needed to recognize the habits of thinking that fuel anger, desire, jealousy, and pride. Building on mindfulness and self-compassion practice, it offers a step-by-step series of guided meditations that create the conditions for liberating insight and wisdom to naturally arise. Thousands of people in the last decade have benefited from practicing the exercises in this book, which were developed and taught as part of the curriculum at the Mindfulness Association, an organization founded to deliver training in mindfulness, compassion, and insight.

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Book SynopsisYou have just discovered the literary masterpiece that answers your questions about God, life in the inhabited universe, the history and future of this world, and the life of Jesus. The Urantia Book harmonizes history, science, and religion into a philosophy of living that brings new meaning and hope into your life. If you are searching for answers, read The Urantia Book!The world needs new spiritual truth that provides modern men and women with an intellectual pathway into a personal relationship with God. Building on the world''s religious heritage, The Urantia Book describes an endless destiny for humankind, teaching that living faith is the key to personal spiritual progress and eternal survival. These teachings provide new truths powerful enough to uplift and advance human thinking and believing for the next 1000 years.A third of The Urantia Book is the inspiring story of Jesus'' entire life and a revelation of his original teachingTable of ContentsThe central and superuniverse; the local universe; the history of Urantia; the life and teachings of Jesus

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Book Synopsis''Can''t anyone teach me how to pray? Millions of people today are asking the same question. There is a sense of the necessity of prayer - we have to pray. But how?''Prayer is central to Christian faith; indeed, as Timothy Keller notes in his introduction, it is the main way we experience deep change. Yet so many people struggle with prayer - a struggle that the author himself has shared. This wise and inspiring book is the fruit of those struggles, offering a real and glorious vision of what it can mean to seek God in prayer. Keller begins by giving a theological underpinning of what prayer actually is - both conversation and encounter with a personal God - before describing how we can learn to pray, and then deepen that prayer. Finally he gives detailed, practical suggestions on how to make prayer a part of the reality of daily life.Trade ReviewOne to be savoured rather than devoured... gems on every page... Just brilliant. * Woman Alive *The book absolutely blew my mind. * Mum In Zone One Blog *

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Book SynopsisThis elegant Bible edition honors the beauty and richness of the New King James Version in a convenient portable size with essential study tools and traditional red-letter text for the Words of Christ.The New King James Version in the Sovereign Collection reflects the legacy and majesty of the King James Version Bible produced more than 400 years ago, but in language updated for today. This beautiful Bible, which contains design flourishes that pay tribute to the Bible produced in 1611, comes in a convenient portable size with essential study tools and traditional red-letter text for the Words of Christ.The Sovereign Collection continues Thomas Nelson''s long history and stewardship publishing Bibles, featuring elegant letter illustrations leading into each chapter combined with clear and readable Comfort Print®, connects you to the legacy of faith, and inspires your time in the Word to be enjoyable and fruitful.Features i

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Book SynopsisLearn about the primal beliefs to the world''s great faiths in The Religions Book.Part of the fascinating Big Ideas series, this book tackles tricky topics and themes in a simple and easy to follow format. Learn about Religions in this overview guide to the subject, brilliant for beginners looking to learn and experts wishing to refresh their knowledge alike! The Religions Book brings a fresh and vibrant take on the topic through eye-catching graphics and diagrams to immerse yourself in. This captivating book will broaden your understanding of Religions, with:- Each of the world''s five major faiths - Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism in its own, dedicated section- Packed with facts, charts, timelines and graphs to help explain core concepts- A visual approach to big subjects with striking illustrations and graphics throughout- Easy to follow text makes topics accessible for people at any level of undTrade ReviewFascinating material, well presented -- Jon Sutton * The Psychologist (Review of The Psychology Book) *

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Book SynopsisA marvelously readable translation of the great Middle English classic of Christian mysticism—now part of the beautifully designed Shambhala Pocket Library collection This anonymous fourteenth-century text is the glory of English mysticism, and one of the most practical and useful guides to finding union with God ever written. Carmen Acevedo Butcher’s new translation is the first to bring the text into a modern English idiom—while remaining strictly faithful to the meaning of the original Middle English. The Cloud of Unknowing consists of a series of letters written by a monk to his student or disciple, instructing him (or her) in the way of Divine union. Its theology is presented in a way that is remarkably easy to understand, as well as practical, providing advice on prayer and contemplation that anyone can use. Previous translations of the Cloud have tended to veil its intimate, even friendly tone under medieval-sounding language. Carmen Butcher has boldly brought the text into language as appealing to modern ears as it was to its original readers more than five hundred years ago.

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Book SynopsisIn Surprised by Hope, bestselling author Tom Wright encourages to find our hope not just in what we believe about life after death, but also our understanding and experience of life before death.

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Book SynopsisOne of the world's foremost commentators on religious affairs on the history (and destiny) of the world's most misunderstood religion.In the public mind, Islam is a religion of extremes: it is the world's fastest growing faith; more than three-quarters of the world's refugees are Islamic; it has produced government by authoritarian monarchies in Saudi Arabia and ultra-republicans in Iran. Whether we are reading about civil war in Algeria or Afghanistan, the struggle for the soul of Turkey, or political turmoil in Pakistan or Malaysia, the Islamic context permeates all these situations.Karen Armstrong's elegant and concise book traces how Islam grew from the other religions of the book, Judaism and Christianity; introduces us to the character of Muhammed; and demonstrates that for much of its history, the religion has been a force for enlightenment that promoted liberties for women and allowed the arts and sciences to flourish.ISLAM shows how this progressive legacy is today often set aside as the faith struggles to come to terms with the economic and political weakness of most of its believers and with the forces of modernity itself.

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Book Synopsis"No one has done so much as Mr. Eliade to inform literature students in the West about 'primitive' and Oriental religions...Everyone who cares about the human adventure will find new information and new angles of vision."--Martin E. Marty, "New York Times Book Review"

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