Religion Books

Book SynopsisLearn how to overcome distraction in meditation practice and develop clarity in your relationships, work, and activities with this new guide from a beloved meditation teacher.The mind can be a potent tool, used to guide extraordinary achievements, inspire good works, and incline your spiritual path toward peace and awakening. But the mind can also produce thoughts that lead to suffering. For many people, thoughts run rampant and seem to oppress or control their lives. Even the Buddha tells us that before his enlightenment, he sometimes found his mind preoccupied by thoughts connected with sensual desire, ill will, and harm. But he figured out how to respond to thoughts skillfully and developed a step-by-step approach to calm the restless mind. Now, Insight Meditation teacher Shaila Catherine offers an accessible approach to training the mind that is guided by the Buddha’s pragmatic instructions on removing distracting thoughts. Drawing on two scriptures in the Middle Length Discourses of the Buddha, Shaila shows you how to overcome habitual modes of thinking, develop deeper concentration, and discover the insights into emptiness that are vital for a liberating spiritual path. Following the Buddha’s pragmatic approach, Shaila guides you through five steps for overcoming distraction and focusing the mind: 1. Replace unwholesome thoughts with wholesome thoughts. For example, if you find yourself thinking thoughts of ill will toward a person, try thinking instead of their good qualities as an antidote. 2. Examine the dangers of distracting thoughts. Weigh the costs of allowing thoughts of ill will, lust, greed, and so forth to obsess your mind. The costs of dwelling on distracting thoughts nearly always outweigh any supposed benefits. 3. Avoid it, ignore it, forget it. Develop the skill to turn your attention away from habitual distractions. Remove the fuel and let the fires of distraction die out. 4. Investigate the causes of distraction. By understanding the conditions that perpetuate habitual thoughts, you can learn to free yourself from those patterns. 5. Apply determination and resolve. Supported by wisdom, you can make a firm decision to stop dwelling on patterns of thought that are not supporting your deepest values and goals in life. Each chapter includes exercises and reflections to help you cultivate the five steps to deeper concentration. You’ll learn about your mind and develop your ability to direct your attention more skillfully in meditation and daily activities. And ultimately, you’ll discover for yourself how these five steps boil down to one key realization: In the moment you recognize that a thought is just a thought, you will find yourself on the path to a life of remarkable freedom.

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Book SynopsisNames and celebrates aspects of the Dominican tradition that are at the very core of its spirituality. One of the things which has characterized the Dominican spirit from the beginning is a sense of openness to the world. This book presents the Dominican vision of life.Trade ReviewWhile most of us wouldn't associate Dominic's Order with the love of learning or with mystical experience, Dominican spirituality has, in fact, been congenial to the work of the likes of St. Thomas Aquinas, Meister Eckhart, and Mechthild of Magdeburg. Murray's charming book urges readers to make use of Dominican spirituality by drinking the experience of the world while remaining rooted in God's word. * Library Journal *Through his rich knowledge of Dominic, Thomas, Catherine of Siena and modern-day Dominicans, Murray draws his readers through compelling narrative and poignant use of anecdote into exploring a tradition that has produced some of the sharpest minds and some of the most passionate preachers of Christian History.' -- Dr Natalie Watson * Methodist Recorder *Sit back, relax and drink in this book: you are in the hands of an enthusiast! ... I can't recall reading as lucid account of the balance between action and contemplation anywhere as in the section The World Within God's Hand in the first chapter. What a joy, too, to read some genuinely exuberant writing on the importance of happiness for Dominicans. -- Roland Riem, Canon Pater and Missioner, Winchester Cathedral * The Pastoral Review *...combines impeccable scholarship, profound wisdom, accessible clarity and a wonderful sense of fun, bringing admirably to life the captivating humanity of early Dominicans. -- Fernandi Cervantes * The Tablet *Table of ContentsForeword by The Most Reverend Timothy Radcliffe OP Introduction; 1. What is Dominican Spirituality?; 2. Dominicans and Happiness; 3. Eat the Book; 4. Dominicans Drinking.

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Book SynopsisIn a modern-day parable about a man and his transforming love for his dog, Lass, best-selling author Phillip Keller paints a vivid picture of God's love for the unlovable.

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Book SynopsisThis introductory textbook presents Christian philosophical and theological approaches to ethics.Table of ContentsContents1. Varieties of Ethics and Moral ThoughtCase Study: Violence against Women and Children2. Ethics in the Hebrew ScripturesCase Study: Care for the Environment3. Ethics in the Christian ScripturesCase Study: The Nearest and the Neediest4. Divine Command TheoryCase Study: Intervention, Exemptions, and Conscience5. Natural Law EthicsCase Study: Human Sexuality6. Individualistic EthicsCase Study: Abortion7. Kantian EthicsCase Study: Capital Punishment8. UtilitarianismCase Study: War9. Continental EthicsCase Study: Euthanasia10. Virtue EthicsCase Study: LyingEpilogue: Love and Christian EthicsGlossaryFurther ReadingIndexes

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Book SynopsisReza Aslan is an internationally acclaimed writer and scholar of religions. He is also a graduate of the Iowa Writers' Workshop. At Harvard, Aslan was elected president of Harvard's chapter of the World Conference on Religion and Peace, a UN organisation committed to global understanding. His is first book, No god but God: The Origins, Evolution and Future of Islam, has been translated into thirteen languages and named by Blackwells as one of the hundred most important books of the last decade. Currently teaching an introductory course on Islam at Iowa, Aslan is also at work on a novel.Trade ReviewA brief and lively history... Extraordinary. -- Alexander Waugh * Spectator *Aslan turns Genesis on its head. The extent of our divine anthropomorphism is fascinating. As an introductory biography of a figure who has good claim to be called the most influential of all time, it is interesting indeed. -- Catherine Nixey * The Sunday Times *Timely, riveting, enlightening and necessary. * Huffington Post *[Aslan’s] slim, yet ambitious book [is] the story of how humans have created God with a capital G, and it’s thoroughly mind-blowing. * Los Angeles Review of Books *Reza Aslan offers so much to relish in his excellent ‘Human History’ of God. In tracing the commonalities that unite religions, Aslan makes truly challenging arguments that believers in many traditions will want to explore further, and to mull over. This rewarding book is very ambitious in its scope, and it is thoroughly grounded in an impressive body of reading and research. * Philip Jenkins, author of Crucible of Faith *

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Book SynopsisWhen a woman prays, something wonderful happens. Not just to the person for whom the prayers are spoken, but also for the person praying.Prayer changes things. It is a stress-reliever. It's a chain-breaker. It's a peace-bringer, and it's necessary for every child of God no matter their age or experience.Throughout history, women have been especially powerful in taking up the mantle of prayer. It is largely the prayers of women that establish the spiritual sanctuary of their family. Praying women warriors fight against oppression and injustice. Their prayers defend the innocent and the untrained. And through their prayers they are seen as shining examples in the darkness of the world.This journal gives you the space to write out your prayers and note how they are answered. It will give you a place to continue your progressive march of empowerment by dreaming like your daughters and praying like your grandmothers.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Ambitious and field-defining, Leila Ahmed’s Women and Gender in Islam laid the foundations for decades of scholarship on Muslim history and thought."—Kecia Ali, Boston University

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Book SynopsisMagic, witches, and demons have drawn interest and fear throughout human history. In this comprehensive primary source reader, Martha Rampton traces the history of our fascination with magic and witchcraft from the first through to the seventeenth century. In over 80 readings presented chronologically, Rampton demonstrates how understandings of and reactions toward magic changed and developed over time, and how these ideas were influenced by various factors such as religion, science, and law. The wide-ranging texts emphasize social history and include early Merovingian law codes, the Picatrix, Lombard’s Sentences, The Golden Legend, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. By presenting a full spectrum of source types including hagiography, law codes, literature, and handbooks, this collection provides readers with a broad view of how magic was understood through the medieval and early modern eras.Rampton’s introduction to the voTrade Review"Anyone looking for significant attention paid to the medieval period, and especially the earlier medieval centuries, will find it here. And for the late medieval and early modern periods, its attention to different kinds of sources, especially its mix of literature and drama along with legal and demonological texts, is a welcome addition." -- Michael D. Bailey, Iowa State University * The Medieval Review *"For several decades now, magic and witchcraft have been the focus of scholarly attention, and Martha Rampton’s reader – a collection of primary texts that prepares the topic in all its breadth for use in the classroom – is a welcome addition. University of Toronto Press has to be thanked for providing teachers, students, and scholars alike with a rich and voluminous source-book, albeit less affordable than one might have hoped. European Magic and Witchcraft presents carefully selected texts, eighty-six examples from very different genres, from biblical times to the early modern period in chronological order. Some of these texts are famous and have had an enormous cultural impact, such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream or Augustine’s City of God, while others are quite rare, such as Alferic of Eynsham (ca. 955–1010) or court records of the use of torture in early modern witchcraft trials." -- Sergius Kodera, University of Vienna * Renaissance and Reformation / Renaissance et Réforme *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Preface Chapter One: Late Classical and Early Christian Archetypes 1. Moses and Aaron Challenge Pharaoh’s Magicians 2. The Pythoness Brings the Dead to Life: The Witch of Endor 3. Odysseus and Circe the Sorceress 4. Medea: The Classic Witch 5. Erictho: Divination through the Dead 6. Simon Magus: Money for Miracles 7. Goddess Diana of the Ephesians Bests the Apostle Paul 8. Hecate and the Chaldean Oracles 9. Magic Transforms One into a Bird, Another into an Ass 10. Justin Martyr and the Fallen Angels 11. The Apostle Peter Bests Simon Magus 12. Antony of the Desert Combats Demons 13. Curse Tablets and Binding Spells 14. Saint Martin Battles with Pagans and Demons 15. Augustine: Demons and Magic in the City of God Chapter Two: Post-Roman Kingdoms of Europe: Traffic with Demons (500–750) 16. Three Post-Roman Law Codes against Malicious Magic 17. Caesarius of Arles Preaches against Magic and Paganism 18. Continuity in Magic Spells 19. A Warning to Peasants about the Evils of Trafficking with Demons 20. Sorcery in Gregory of Tours’s Sixth-Century Gaul 21. Saint Patrick Battles Pagan Magicians 22. Early Medieval Sainthood and Demons: Saint Radegund 23. Isidore of Seville Defines Magic: The Etymologies 24. Penance for Sins of Magic 25. A Demoniac in Early Medieval England: Bede Chapter Three: The Carolingian Dynasty: Demons Cut Down to Size (750–1000) 26. An Eighth-Century List of Pagan Practices 27. Paganism of the Saxons 28. Beowulf Fights the Demons: Grendel, and Grendel’s Mother 29. Agobard of Lyons and Weather Magic 30. Carolingian Catalogue of Magical Acts: Council of Paris 31. Treatise on Magic: Hrabanus Maurus 32. Magic at the Court of Louis the Pious: Paschasius Radbertus 33. The Devil of Kempten and the Villager 34. Marriage and Magic: The Divorce of Lothar 35. Loosed Women and Night Flight: Canon episcopi 36. Anglo-Saxon Healing Cures and Charms 37. Anglo-Saxon Sermon against Augury: Aelfric of Eynsham 38. A Prayer to Mother Earth and Other Charms 39. An Eleventh-Century Penitential: Burchard of Worms Chapter Four: The High Middle Ages: Many Threads (1000–1300) 40. Evil Angels: Lombard’s Sentences 41. Divination and the Court: The Policraticus 42. Lanval and the Fairy Queen: Marie de France 43. The Gentle Werewolf: Marie de France 44. Guide for the Perplexed: Jewish Magic and Maimonides 45. Weather Well and Magic Ring: Chrétien de Troyes 46. Norse Magic: Saga of the Volsungs 47. Magic as a Cautionary Tale: Caesarius of Heisterbach 48. A Saintly Dog and the Changelings 49. Picatrix: Arabic Magic 50. Astronomy: Natural Magic or Necromancy? 51. The Golden Legend: Saints and Devils 52. Heresy versus Sorcery 53. A New Kind of Devil: Thomas Aquinas Chapter Five: The Fourteenth and Fifteenth Centuries: Diabolism 54. A Priest Dupes His Friend with a Promise of Magic in The Decameron 55. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight 56. Key to Occult Mysteries of Solomon 57. Clerical Magic: A Handbook 58. A Warning to the People of Siena to Expunge Witches from the City 59. Trial of Joan of Arc 60. Witch Beliefs Coalesce: Formicarius 61. The Ordinal of Alchemy 62. Natural Magic and Renaissance Humanism: Oration on the Dignity of Man 63. Pope Innocent VIII Empowers the Inquisitors 64. The Witch Hammer Chapter Six: The Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries: The Full Fury of the Witch-Hunts 65. Defending the Harvest: The Cult of the Benandanti 66. In Praise of Natural Magic: Cornelius Agrippa 67. Martin Luther’s Devil 68. Papists, Popedom, and Witchery: John Calvin 69. A Voice of Skepticism from the Medical Profession: Johann Weyer 70. Witch Persecutions in Trier 71. Charms, Tricks, and Day-to-Day Sorcery 72. Demon Mania in France: Jean Bodin 73. Mechanics of Torture: Dr. Fian and Suzanne Gaudry 74. King James and the Witches of North Berwick: “News from Scotland” 75. Skepticism and a Forced Recantation 76. King James I of England: Treatise on Demons and Witchcraft 77. A Midsummer Night’s Dream 78. Shakespeare’s Witches: Macbeth 79. A Jacobean Comedy 80. The Witches’ Sabbath 81. Persecution of the Burgomaster of Bamberg 82. The Witches of Würzburg 83. Witch Panic in Bonn 84. In Defense of the Accused 85. The Demonic Possession of the Nuns of Loudun 86. England’s Witch Finder General Sources Index of Topics

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Book SynopsisA richly informed, practical guide to Buddhism’s most subtle teaching.Guy Armstrong has been a leading figure and beloved teacher of insight meditation for decades. In this book, he makes difficult Buddhist topics easy to understand, weaving together Theravada and Mahayana teachings on emptiness to show how we can liberate our minds and manifest compassion in our lives.  

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Book SynopsisWe live in an age of scepticism. Our society places such faith in empirical reason, historical progress, and heartfelt emotion that it''s easy to wonder: why should anyone believe in Christianity? What role can faith and religion play in our modern lives? In this thoughtful and inspiring book, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Timothy Keller invites sceptics to consider that Christianity is as relevant now as ever. As human beings, we cannot live without meaning, satisfaction, freedom, identity, justice and hope - and Christianity provides us with unsurpassed resources to meet all these needs. Written for both sceptic and believer, Making Sense of God shines a light on the profound value and importance of Christianity in our lives.

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Book SynopsisThis humble effort is an attempt to facilitate the Tilaawah of The Holy Quran with proper Tajweed.

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Book SynopsisThe only official companion book to the Tony Award winner for Best Musical from the creators of "South Park" and the co-creator of "Avenue Q". It features the complete script and song lyrics, with 4-color spot illustrations throughout, an original introduction by the creators, and a foreword by Mark Harris. "The Book of Mormon", which follows a pair of mismatched Mormon boys sent on a mission to a place that's about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get, features book, music, and lyrics by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez and Matt Stone. Parker and Stone are the four-time Emmy Award-winning creators of Comedy Central's landmark animated series South Park. Tony Award-winner Lopez is co-creator of the long-running hit musical comedy Avenue Q. "The Book of Mormon" is choreographed by three-time Tony Award-nominee Casey Nicholaw ("Monty Python's Spamalot", "The Drowsy Chaperone") and is directed by Nicholaw and Parker. The book includes: an original foreword by journalist Mark Harris (author of "Pictures at a Revolution"); an original introduction by the authors on the genesis of the show; a production history; and the complete book and lyrics, with four-color spot illustrations throughout.

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Book SynopsisThis booklet contains essays on the four sublime states (brahmavihara) of love, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity by Ven. Nyanaponika Thera and Ven. Nanamoli Thera. Nyanaponika describes all four states with contemplation exercises, while Nanamoli focuses on metta with translations from the Pali Canon.

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Book SynopsisVenerable Maha Kaccana, though not always with the Buddha, was highly respected for his intellect, insight into Dhamma, and speaking skills. Other monks sought his help in understanding the Buddha's teachings due to his profound understanding and clarity in explanations.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“It is a delight to see this beautifully smooth English translation of On the Happy Life, with commentary that is both learned and engaging! Foley’s Augustine will reach students, scholars, and many others too.”—John C. Cavadini, University of Notre DamePraise for the series: “Foley’s exceptional labors now allow modern Anglophone readers to access the treasure of these dialogues, along with the related On the Immortality of the Soul. In each of Foley’s four volumes, an excellent translation is accompanied by a short introduction, then a commentary slightly longer than Augustine’s text, as well as hundreds of footnotes. Each volume stands on its own for classroom use.”—Daniel E. Burns, Review of Politics “Michael Foley’s orchestration of the Cassiciacum dialogues—a four-part translation, annotation, and commentary—renders Augustine’s most important voice, the voice of the seeker, readily available to a broad readership. These are perfect teaching texts, and they are equally compelling for experts. This welcome return of the dialogues, separate and yet intimately related in Foley’s handling of them, marks the most important literary event in Augustinian studies since Peter Brown’s biography.”—James Wetzel, Villanova University “Yale University Press has excelled in publishing these beautiful volumes. Michael Foley models good translation, deeply engaged with the intricacies of the Latin and yet flowing elegantly and readably across the page. Foley’s commentary introduces the reader carefully and invitingly into these important and complex texts from Augustine’s first years as a Christian writer. They belong on the shelves of all who value the wisdom of the early Christian tradition.”—Lewis Ayres, Durham University “A truly impressive undertaking.”—Marc D. Guerra, Assumption College “A consistent, faithful and elegant translation of the crucial but relatively neglected dialogues by Augustine of Hippo.”—Simon Oliver, Durham University “Michael Foley’s lively, precise new translation makes this dramatic dialogue accessible to today’s reader, adding yet another dimension to our understanding of the endless breadth of Augustine’s developing thought.”—Brian Daley, University of Notre Dame “Foley has provided a vital and long-needed service, giving us lively, engaging and accurate translations, and commentaries that are well-grounded without being overwhelming.”—Erik Kenyon, Bryn Mawr Classical Review “Michael P. Foley has given us a clear, compelling, and valuable resource in his new translation of Augustine’s inaugural work as a Christian convert. . . . Foley’s commentary and introductions somehow manage to be both informative and contextualizing without overshadowing the intricacies and insights of the text they are in service of.”—Zachary Thomas Settle, Augustinian Studies “Michael Foley’s new translation of Augustine’s Cassiciacum dialogues (of which the first two of a projected four volumes are now available) is clear, useful, and long overdue.”—Elizabeth Klein, Theological Studies “Foley is to be congratulated on providing a good critical edition and not least a readable translation of the text.”—Nicholas Paxton, Melita Theologica “Foley’s translation reads easily and is transparent. Literal translation and identical formatting in each volume contribute substantially to the reader’s insight into the plan of the Cassiciacum dialogues. Michael Foley’s reading and translation are convincing in many respects.”—Martin Claes, Augustiniana “Foley’s translations and commentaries on the Cassiciacum dialogues offer a smooth presentation of Augustine’s ear

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Book Synopsis"Williams's masterful translation satisfies (at last!) a long-standing need. There are lots of good translations of Augustine's great work, but until now we have been forced to choose between those that strive to replicate in English something of the majesty and beauty of Augustine's Latin style and those that opt instead to convey the careful precision of his philosophical terminology and argumentation. Finally, Williams has succeeded in capturing both sides of Augustine’s mind in a richly evocative, impeccably reliable, elegantly readable presentation of one of the most impressive achievements in Western thought—Augustine's Confessions." —Scott MacDonald, Professor of Philosophy and Norma K. Regan Professor in Christian Studies, Cornell UniversityTrade Review"A major new translation of what is no doubt Augustine's best known and most influential work. There are many good translations of the Confessions, but this is the first one to be carefully sensitive to the philosophical nuances of Augustine's text. The careful yet readable translation is accompanied by an informative and thoughtful Introduction, ample notes, and appendices." —Paul Vincent Spade, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, Indiana University, Bloomington"The best overall translation of Augustine's Confessions to date. . . . Williams captures the immediacy of Augustine's prayer, the playfulness of his language, and (without striving too hard) the properly elevated poetry of the text. As priest and philosopher and an Anglican with a good sense of English, Williams understands Augustine from the inside. For the foreseeable future, this will be my go-to translation for the Confessions." —Jared Ortiz, Hope College, in Catholic World Report"The best translators of Augustine's Confessions are not rivals of one another, but comrades and co-conspirators. They have a worthy friend in Thomas Williams, whose frank, graceful, wise, thoughtfully annotated English rendering is a brand new revelation of the power and beauty of Augustine's scripturally infused philosophical prose.” —Carol Zaleski, Professor of World Religions, Smith College"It might be wondered why we need yet another translation of Augustine's Confessions, when so many fine and mellifluous ones already exist. But Thomas Williams supplies a compelling answer in his Introduction to this volume: nowhere else will the philosopher reading Augustine find complete consistency in the translation of key words in Augustine's armoury, vital for understanding his distinctive views about the self and God; and nowhere else is the reader guided so accurately to Augustine's biblical sources, yet with full clarification of the creative freedom with which he uses them. This is a masterly achievement, and will from now on be my own favoured translation for teaching and philosophical reflection." —Sarah Coakley, University of Cambridge and Australian Catholic University, Melbourne"Williams is the one I’d hand to an Augustine newcomer. In both its lyrical prose and its excellent, spiritually rich apparatus you can feel Williams's teaching experience. . . . [A] surprisingly necessary new Confessions." —Eve Tushnet, in The University Bookman"A model of the translator's art. Williams's Confessions, accurate to the nuance, is as perfect a mirror of Augustine's Latin text as the English language will allow." —Stanley Lombardo, Professor Emeritus of Classics, University of Kansas"For courses in universities and seminaries that approach the Confessions as a spiritual or philosophical text, this is now the translation to use."—Ray Van Dam, University of Michigan, in Speculum

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Book SynopsisThe second volume in a prominent new series on Buddhism and science, directed by the Dalai Lama and previously covered by the BBC.Science and Philosophy in the Indian Buddhist Classics compiles classical Buddhist explorations of the nature of our material world, the human mind, logic, and phenomenology and puts them into context for the modern reader.  This ambitious four-volume series—a major resource for the history of ideas and especially the history of science and philosophy—has been conceived by and compiled under the visionary supervision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself. It is his view that the exploratory thinking of great Indian masters in the first millennium CE still has much that is of interest to us today, whether we are Buddhist or not. These volumes make those insights accessible. This, the second volume in the series, focuses on the science of the mind. Readers are first introduced to Buddhist conceptions of mind and consciousness and then led through traditional presentations of mental phenomena to reveal a Buddhist vision of the inner world with fascinating implications for the contemporary disciplines of cognitive science, psychology, emotion research, and philosophy of mind. Major topics include: -The distinction between sensory and conceptual processes and the pan-Indian notion of mental consciousness -Mental factors—specific mental states such as attention, mindfulness, and compassion—and how they relate to one another -The unique tantric theory of subtle levels of consciousness, their connection to the subtle energies, or “winds,” that flow through channels in the human body, and what happens to each when the body and mind dissolve at the time of death -The seven types of mental states and how they impact the process of perception -Styles of reasoning, which Buddhists understand as a valid avenue for acquiring sound knowledge In the final section, the volume offers what might be called Buddhist contemplative science, a presentation of the classical Buddhist understanding of the psychology behind meditation and other forms of mental training. To present these specific ideas and their rationale, the volume weaves together passages from the works of great Buddhist thinkers like Asanga, Vasubandhu, Nagarjuna, Dignaga, and Dharmakirti. His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s introduction outlines scientific and philosophical thinking in the history of the Buddhist tradition. To provide additional context for Western readers, each of the six major topics is introduced with an essay by John D. Dunne, distinguished professor of Buddhist philosophy and contemplative practice at the University of Wisconsin. These essays connect the traditional material to contemporary debates and Western parallels, and provide helpful suggestions for further reading.

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Book SynopsisWith her customary grace, intelligence and wit, Barbara Brown Taylor wonders why science and faith have become polarized in the popular imagination. She explores what quantum physics, the new biology and chaos theory can teach people of faith and why scientists sound like poets and why physicists use the language of imagination, ambiguity, and mystery that is also found in scripture. In explaining why the church should care about the new insights of science, Taylor suggests ways we might close the gap between spirit and matter, between the sacred and the secular, and celebrate our shared life in the “web of creation” where nothing is without consequence, where all things coexist, where faith and science together seek to discover the same truths about the universe.

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Book SynopsisDaily dharma teachings on compassion, wisdom, mindfulness, and joy--ideal for creating moments of peace and reflection in our chaotic world.Awaken Every Day shares a quick dose of everyday wisdom, encouraging us to understand the true causes of our suffering and the paths to freedom. These insightful reflections help us understand our minds, our connections to our communities, and how to become the people we aspire to be.

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Book SynopsisInstant bestseller: Buddhist teacher Pema Chödrön shares life-changing practices for living with wisdom, confidence, and integrity amidst confusing situations and uncertain timesWe live in difficult times. Life so often seems like a turbulent river threatening to drown us and destroy our world. Why, then, shouldn’t we cling to the certainty of the comfortable—to our deep-seated habits and familiar ways? Because, Pema Chödrön teaches, that kind of fear-based clinging keeps us from the infinitely more powerful experience of being fully alive. The Buddhist teachings she presents here—known as the “Three Commitments”—provide a treasure trove of wisdom for learning to step right into the unknown, to completely and fearlessly embrace the groundlessness of being human, for people of all faiths. When we do, we begin to see not only how much better it feels to live an openhearted life, but we find that we begin to naturally and more effectively reach out to help and heal all those around us.

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Book SynopsisWe are living through a period of cultural climate change. We have outsourced morality to the markets on the one hand, and the state on the other. The markets have brought wealth to many, and the state has done much to contain the worst excesses of inequality, but neither is capable of bearing the moral weight of showing us how to live. This has had a profound impact on society and the way in which we interact with each other. Traditional values no longer hold, yet recent political swings show that modern ideals of tolerance have left many feeling rudderless and adrift. In this environment we see things fall apart in unexpected ways - toxic public discourse makes true societal progress almost unattainable, a more divisive society is fuelled by identity politics and extremism, and the rise of a victimhood mentality calls for 'safe spaces' but stifles debate. The influence of social media seems all-pervading and the breakdown of the family is only one result of the loss of social capital. Many fear what the future may hold. Delivering a devastatingly insightful critique of our modern condition, and assessing its roots and causes from the ancient Greeks through the Reformation and Enlightenment to the present day, Sacks argues that there is no liberty without morality, and no freedom without responsibility. If we care about the future of western civilisation, all of us must play our part in rebuilding our common moral foundation. Then we will discover afresh the life-transforming and counterintuitive truths that a nation is strong when it cares for the weak, and rich when it cares for the poor. Here is an inspiring vision of a world in which we can all find our place, and face the future without fear.Trade ReviewAwarded Book of the Year 2020 in the National Jewish Book AwardsLady Elaine Sacks commented: 'I know my late husband was very proud of Morality and would have been most honoured by this recognition from the Jewish Book Council. Though he had won many previous Jewish Book Awards, none of his books had been named as the Book of the Year. This shows the particular relevance of Morality in today's increasingly complex world. In the book, he aimed to show society a way forward, and one which prioritises the "We" over the "I" - something he passionately believed in throughout his life. Though he is much missed by our family and so many others, I am delighted the book has been recognised in this way.'His last book, Morality, while written before the spread of coronavirus, is highly relevant to today's situation. He would not have been silent were he still with us, and his voice is sadly missed. * The Times *Jonathan Sacks is one of the great moral thinkers of our time. His latest book, Morality, applies his powerful approach to the unprecedented challenges of our time - social, political, economic, and above all, cultural. May his words be heeded throughout the land. -- Robert D. Putnam Professor, Harvard University and author of Bowling Alone (2000) and The Upswing (2020)the work will stand as a worthy successor to, and, in many respects, summation of Sacks's impressive oeuvre * Jewish Chronicle *Sacks unpacks a whole litany of dystopian trends arising from our relentless preoccupation with me, me, me * Premier Christianity *Sacks presents an articulate and impassioned argument . . . He is a fine exegete of the Hebrew Scriptures, and his belief in the common good is profound. * Reform *The strength of Morality does not reside in Jonathan Sacks's discussion of political and philosophical theorists, but in those passages in which he speaks to us as rabbi and community leader. * TLS *'Sacks argues convincingly that this pursuit of the common good has been disappearing from the West, and has left us impoverished and damaged.' * Jewish Renaissance *The inheritor of a tradition with a long historical memory of loss, exile, death and mourning, Sacks has things to say that speak more directly to our present condition than anything in recent liberal thinking. * New Statesman *'Let Us Dream thus joins a growing body of Covid-era literature calling for a communitarian reset of liberal values and institutions... Morality by the late Jonathan Sacks have all traversed similar territory. The collective pro noun is back in fashion.' * Observer *And so this last book reads like a summation of his life's work - a propitiously timed gift and a starting point for discussion. * The Washington Post *

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Book Synopsis59 beautifully designed cards on the classic Buddhist practice of lojong for everyday inspiration and contemplation--with instructive commentaries by Pema Chödrön to make the teachings accessible and applicable to contemporary life.Let compassion and fearlessness guide you and you’ll live wisely and effectively in good times and bad. Here Pema Chödrön offers a powerful method to awaken these qualities using a practice called lojong, which has been a primary focus of her teachings and personal practice for many years. In this boxed set, she provides all the tools needed to practice it in your own life. It includes: * an introduction to the practice * fifty-nine cards representing the full set of lojong teachings for daily inspiration and contemplation * practical commentary from Pema on the reverse of each card * a card stand for easy display * and an audio download of Pema’s teachings on the related practice of tonglen.These cards were previously published as part of The Compassion Box.

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Book SynopsisClear and illuminating commentary on one of Bodhidharma?s most important texts?designed to help Chan practitioners apply timeless and essential advice to their practice Legend has it that more than a thousand years ago an Indian Buddhist monk named Bodhidharma arrived in China. His approach to teaching was unlike that of any of the Buddhist missionaries who had come to China before him. He confounded the emperor with cryptic dialogues, traveled the country, lived in a cave in the mountains, and eventually paved the way for a unique and illuminating approach to Buddhist teachings that would later spread across the whole of East Asia in the form of Chan?later to be known as Seon in Korean, Thien in Vietnamese, and Zen in Japanese. This book, a translation and commentary on one of Bodhidharma?s most important texts, explores Bodhidharma?s revolutionary teachings in English. Guo Gu weaves his commentary through modern and relatable contexts, showing that this centuries-old wisdom is just as crucial for life now as it was when it first came to be. Masterfully translated and accompanied by helpful insights to supplement daily practice, The Essence of Chan is the perfect guide for those new to Chan, those returning, or those who have been practicing for years.

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Book SynopsisThis forty-day devotional based on the classic bestselling novel Redeeming Love leads you on a personal, six-week journey into God’s all-consuming embrace.We know that God loves us unconditionally. So why is it so hard to break free from the past and live in that truth? Inspired by the biblical book of Hosea, Redeeming Love introduces a love so profound that it forever changes Angel, a woman who had viewed herself as broken beyond redemption. With A Path to Redeeming Love: A 40-Day Devotional, you can immerse yourself daily in the truth of God’s unshakable love for you. Personal essays from Francine explore key themes from the novel—Rejected, Resigned, Rescued, Redeemed, Reconciled, Restored—inspired by Scripture. In addition, each daily devotion includes: • an excerpt from Redeeming Love, Angel and Michael Hosea’s classic love story• Bible verses for meditation• prompts for Bible study, prayer, and journaling to enhance reflection and application Whether you feel stuck or hurt, confused or lost—or simply want to experience more deeply God’s boundless grace—this devotional invites you into a transformative understanding of God’s redeeming love.

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Book SynopsisHidden within the first three chapters of Genesis rests one of the greatest jewels of Western mystical literature. For millennia religious literalism has dominated our understanding of the Bible, imprisoning its subtle inner wisdom within the most coarse and superficial aspects of the narrative. Generations have been led to believe that Genesis 1-3 is only a primitive proto-cosmic history, a mythological explanation of the human moral disposition, a religious fairy tale. But by accepting the text as pure kabbalistic metaphor, the mystical content of Genesis springs forth, revealing the Divine nature of creativity as well as a new understanding of the human mind. Deconstructing each line of Genesis 1-3 with esoteric methods derived from the oral teachings of the Kabbalah, David Chaim Smith reveals how the ten sefirot, collectively known as the Tree of Life, are not simply a linear hierarchy. They are a unified interdependent whole with ten interactive functions, forming the template through which creative diversity manifests. Through acts of creation and creativity, the mind expresses its Divine nature. Through our Divine creative power, we are able to touch upon Ain Sof (the infinite), the lifeblood of all creative expression. Smith's line-by-line examination of Genesis 1-3 reveals a complete model not only of Divine creativity but also of the predicament of the human mind, of the Divine nature of consciousness as well as our inability to recognize the mind's Divinity. With this new interpretation, which removes the concept of a Creator God, we are able to transcend the contrasting notions of "being" and "non-being" at the heart of conventional habits of perception and awaken a new mystical understanding of Unity and the fathomless depth of Divinity.Trade Review“An amazing book--boy does it have chutzpah!” * Hymenaeus Beta, Frater Superior, Ordo Templi Orientis *“A gifted artist who has a deep contemporary understanding of Jewish mystical wisdom, David Chaim Smith takes us into the domain where zero is one, where the all is nothing, and where the creative moment is constantly renewing itself. The Kabbalistic Mirror of Genesis is not a book simply to read but to contemplate and live with.” * Rodger Kamenetz, author of Burnt Books and The Jew in the Lotus *“A unique mystical voice out of a Blakean tradition, The Kabbalistic Mirror of Genesis is a mind-expanding spiritual text that will both clarify and transform you. Smith has rethought biblical basics from the ground up (‘with-beginningness’) providing insights into the profound depths of mind, perception, reality, life, creativity, luminosity, and transcendence. . . . This is kabbalistic commentary from a living practitioner that will help us immeasurably to help heal the world.” * John Zorn, musician *Table of ContentsIntroduction Part I Window of Manifestation 1 The Essential Nature of Creativity The First Word of Genesis 2 Blueprint of the Creative Process Commentary on the First Chapter of Genesis Part II PriMordial Gnosis and Its Obscuration 3 The EdeNic State Commentary on the Second Chapter of Genesis 4 The CoNsequence of Habit Commentary on the Third Chapter of Genesis Appendix I Kabbalistic SyNopsis of the Three Chapters Appendix II Kabbalistic Array of names Index About the Author

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Book SynopsisYou were always meant to be brave. Whether you''re making a major decision, dealing with a difficult transition, or facing fear, 100 Days to Brave Guided Journal will help you develop courage and confidence to move forward. Hundreds of thousands of readers have learned what it means to be brave enough to step into their true selves through Annie F. Down''s book 100 Days to Brave.The guided journal takes you even further on your journey toward being brave in every aspect of your life by: Weaving excerpts from 100 Days to Brave with journaling prompts, Bible verses, and memorable quotes Exploring the state of your faith and analyzing the path you are on compared to where you want to be Establishing daily habits to keep you mentally strong and to be the best version of yourself This highly interactive book can be used on its own or along with the 100 Days to Brave devotional. With a

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Book SynopsisThe life and legacy of one of Mohammad’s closest confidants and Islam’s patron saint: Ali ibn Abi TalibTrade Review“Ali was a hugely gifted thinker and speaker, one of the earliest scribes and something of a poet. But it is hard to be objective about him. The evidence is often contradictory and he is shrouded by accretions, pious and otherwise. In The Prophet's Heir, Hassan Abbas - an enthusiast for his subject, and an objective enthusiast - pursues Ali on the ground. Fantastic.“—Tim Mackintosh-Smith, author of Arabs“An erudite and accessible biography of Ali, one that tells his life story, and discusses his teachings and values, and how his legacy continues to loom large over Muslim world.”—Vali Nasr, author of The Shia Revival"This erudite but readable book shows why the Prophet's cousin and son-in-law Ali is central to Islam today, and should be both an inspiration and a figure for reconciliation."—John McHugo, author of A Concise History of Sunnis & Shi'is

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Book SynopsisA spiritual classic along the lines of The Tibetan Book of the Dead, this text is a clear and accessible guide to the essence of Dzogchen and the attainment of Buddhahood A text belonging to the same cycle as The Tibetan Book of the Dead, this instruction on the method of self-liberation presents the essence of Dzogchen, The Great Perfection, regarded in Tibet as the highest and most esoteric teaching of the Buddha. Teaching the attainment of Buddhahood in a single lifetime, this text was written and concealed by Guru Padmasambhava in the eighth century and rediscovered six centuries later by Karma Lingpa. The commentary by the translator is based on the oral teachings of Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche and Lama Tharchin Rinpoche.

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Book SynopsisThe fifth volume of the Dalai Lama’s definitive Library of Wisdom and Compassion series, which has sold nearly 15,000 copies to date.In Praise of Great Compassion, the fifth volume of the Library of Wisdom and Compassion, continues the Dalai Lama’s teachings on the path to awakening. While previous volumes focused on our present situation and taking responsibility for creating the causes for the happiness we seek, this volume is about opening our hearts to others and generating the compassion, joy, and fortitude to make our lives meaningful by benefiting them. We are embedded in a universe with other beings, all of whom have been kind to us in one way or another. More than any other time in human history, we depend on one another to stay alive and flourish. We are sometimes oblivious to their kindness, or take it for granted, which leads to feelings of discontent. But when we look closely, it becomes apparent that we have been the recipient of great kindness and naturally we want to repay it. To do this, we begin by cultivating a positive attitude toward others by contemplating the four immeasurables—immeasurable love, compassion, empathic joy, and equanimity—and the altruistic intention of bodhicitta. We learn to challenge the deluded logic of the self-centered attitude that leads to misery and replace it with a more realistic perspective that helps us to remain balanced when we experience either happiness or suffering. This enables us to make all circumstances favorable to the path to awakening.

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Book SynopsisSurah Yusuf, a chapter of the Qur'an (Koran), was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad at a critical juncture of his life. This was the time when he had gone through ten to eleven years of ridicule and rejection in Makkah, a time when he lost his wife and partner, Khadija, a time when he lost his dear uncle Abu Talib. Allah revealed this precious surah to strengthen the Prophet Muhammad’s heart. To remind him that he lives in the footsteps of the great prophets of the past and that Allah’s help and support is there. This surah is full of meaningful messages of patience, reliance on Allah and how to overcome hardship and betrayal. It was also educational, teaching the Prophet Muhammad the answers to queries that were posed to him by the local Jews and Muslims. Finally this surah was a timely morale booster for the Prophet and his companions in a time of need. Yasir Qadhi has clearly divided the surah into related themes, as per the revelations, so that the reader can easily understand and grasp the great wealth of knowledge relayed through this surah to all.

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Book SynopsisFrom the Rigveda to the New Atheism, 250 Milestones in the History of Philosophy

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Book SynopsisThe Old Testament is full of many remarkable stories that pose a challenge to our modern understanding. In this collection of essays, Rudolf Frieling demonstrates his unique gift for delving deeper into the meaning of the Old Testament stories, presenting them from a fresh perspective that makes them more comprehensible to today's readers. In this insightful book Frieling: -- Explores the accounts of the creation of the human being in Genesis.-- Demonstrates the ongoing power of the Psalms. -- Shows how the events of the Old Testament are a preparation for the coming of Christ. Frieling's commanding grasp of the original Hebrew and close attention to detail brings to life the rich imagery of these accounts and songs, making this a unique guide to the wisdom of the Old Testament.Trade Review'A fundamental aspect of Frieling’s approach shines out the moment one starts reading: his wide, deep and detailed knowledge of Hebrew, of the Bible and of other ancient literature. His unique ability to elucidate the meaning of words as they were used at the time of their writing and to place them into the context of what precedes and what follows them brings the text to life and makes stimulating reading… Frieling’s comprehensive grasp of his subject allows him to show convincingly, in a most lively and inspiring manner, how stories and events in the Old Testament again and again transpire as precursors of what is developed further or which reaches its fulfilment in the New Testament; his recounting of the story of the sacrifice of Isaac, or even the story of Creation, seen in this light, are positively gripping… Investigated in this warm, sympathetic, but also precise way, the Old Testament no longer appears as a relic from a bygone age, but much more as an essential aid to grasping the place and role of Christianity in the world… An enlivening and thought-provoking read.'-- Perspectives

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Book SynopsisOver 800 years since his death, Saladin''s fame as the Muslim liberator of Jerusalem, the great foe of Richard the Lionheart and the paragon of justice and nobility remains as powerful as it was during his lifetime.In this new edition, the author A. R. Azzam traces the historical rise of the great Kurdish general and the dramatic events that led to his famous victory at the battle of Hattin. The author also examines how Saladin became a legend in his own lifetime and how and why the legend has continued to endure so powerfully to the present age. But in Saladin: The Triumph of Sunni Revival, the author goes beyond the myth and argues that the legend of Saladin''s chivalry has neglected his inner spiritual life and beliefs and the vital role he played in upholding religious orthodoxy. Thus, Saladin: The Triumph of Sunni Revival is not just the study of the man but also the study of the historical age in which he lived and of the profound intellectual forces that influenced his thoughts and actions so deeply. It is a study of the power of an idea and how this idea, the Sunni Revival, began to take root and flourish in the century before Saladin was born and spread rapidly across the Muslim worldfrom Baghdad to Damascus, from Damascus to Cairo and ultimately and triumphantly, thanks to Saladin, from Cairo to Jerusalem.This book starts in Baghdad with the disintegration of the Abbasid caliphate, and introduces great figures such as Nizam ul-Mulk and al-Ghazali. And although this may appear to have little relevance in a biography of Saladin, A. R. Azzam argues that Saladin was in reality a child of the Sunni Revival and that it was the ideals of this Revival which more than anything affected his beliefs and actions and constitute the foundations of the greatness of his political and spiritual vision.

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Book SynopsisAcross the Islamic world, illuminating Korans from Morocco to Malaysia, and adorning mosques, mausoleums and palaces, are hidden some of the most exquisite geometrical devices ever conceived by man. In this excellent little book, geometer Daud Sutton unravels the mystery of Islamic patterns, explaining where they come from, how to draw them, and hinting at the Divine messages they encode. WOODEN BOOKS are small but packed with information. "Fascinating" FINANCIAL TIMES. "Beautiful" LONDON REVIEW OF BOOKS. "Rich and Artful" THE LANCET. "Genuinely mind-expanding" FORTEAN TIMES. "Excellent" NEW SCIENTIST. "Stunning" NEW YORK TIMES. Small books, big ideas.

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Book SynopsisMost Christians truly want to understand what Jesus would do, and we want to follow His example in any given situation: we want to love and honor our heavenly Father as Jesus did, we want to obey the Ten Commandments as He did, and we want to learn how to love other people as He did. But do we want to eat as Jesus ate?Jesus cared about the health of people. After all, many of his healing miracles are a testimony to that fact. In the What Would Jesus Eat Cookbook, Dr. Colbert combines excerpts from his bestseller, What Would Jesus Eat? with new research and data that will help you find balance in body, mind, and spirit.Join Dr. Colbert, a board-certified family practice doctor for more than 25 years and a board-certified practitioner through the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine as he shares: 90+ simple yet healthy recipes that anyone can make Key takeaways at the end of each chapter that provide answers to fre

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