Religion Books

Book SynopsisGod's Word tells us we must "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have" (1 Peter 3:15). This updated classic from Josh McDowell and Sean McDowell will give you the tools you need to do just that. The modern apologetics classic that started it all is now completely revised and updated-because the truth of the Bible doesn't change, but its critics do. With the original Evidence That Demands a Verdict, bestselling author Josh McDowell gave Christian readers the answers they needed to defend their faith against the harshest critics and sceptics. Since that time, Evidence has remained a trusted resource for believers young and old. Bringing historical documentation and the best modern scholarship to bear on the trustworthiness of the Bible and its teachings, this extensive volume has encouraged and strengthened millions. Now, with his son Sean McDowell, Josh McDowell has updated and expanded this classic resource for a new generation. This is a book that invites readers to bring their doubts and doesn't shy away from the tough questions.

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Book SynopsisA Course in Miracles (ACIM) - the self-study spiritual-thought system that teaches the way to love and forgiveness - has captivated the minds and captured the hearts of millions of people. Delivering inner peace where fear and pain once prevailed, its universal message is unsurpassed in its power to heal. Yet many students report that they have difficulty grasping the principles or keeping up with the lessons. So even while they yearn for the spiritual freedom the Course offers, they put the book aside, hoping to get to it one day.Alan Cohen, ACIM student and teacher of more than 30 years, takes the big-picture ideas of the Course and brings them down to earth in 22 concise, easy-to-understand chapters. Featuring entertaining examples, stories and real-life applications, this unique, reader-friendly guide will prove invaluable to longtime ACIM students and newcomers alike.Trade ReviewAlan Cohen describes A Course in Miracles as a map out of hell - a way out of the ego mind-set of fear, unworthiness, lack and separation. In this brilliant commentary, Alan shows us how to read the map! -- Robert Holden PhD, author of Holy Shift!: 365 Daily Meditations from A Course in Miracles Excellent, excellent, wonderful, wonderful, deeply meaningful, just what the doctor ordered! Simple, easy to read and filled with neat little stories, this book will go far in helping students of A Course in Miracles understand some of its most basic concepts and principles. -- Jon Mundy PhD, author of Living A Course in Miracles Thank you, Alan, for this beautiful, practical and timely book, which is sure to be a boon to dedicated students and newcomers alike. -- Ian Patrick, founder and manager of the Miracle Network in the U.K. Coming from insight, heart and joy, A Course in Miracles Made Easy is one of the best primers to ACIM I've ever read. Highly recommended. -- Kenneth Bok, ACIM YouTube show host

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Book SynopsisThe self-published spiritual word-of-mouth bestseller.Anna, Grandmother of Jesus became a publishing sensation when the self-published version sold 50,000 copies through word of mouth alone, amassing a worldwide following in the process. Anna is the mother of the Virgin Mary and the grandmother of Jesus. Her teachings and service birthed a spiritual lineage that changed the world. In this book, you'll discover missing pieces of history concerning Anna, Mary and Jesus, as channelled by Claire Heartsong, who has been receiving telepathic messages from Anna for 30 years. Told through the gentle and heartwarming voice of Anna herself, this book offers insights into unknown places the holy family visited, people they knew and intimate details of their daily struggle to complete the Resurrection challenges. You will learn about the Essenes of Mount Carmel and their secret teachings and initiations, and gain a new understanding of Jesus's mission. Containing encoded activations to bring Anna's wisdom and energy into your own spiritual life, this book is an invitation to complete a journey of initiation begun long ago.

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Book SynopsisIn this channelled sequel to the international bestseller Anna, Grandmother of Jesus, we journey with Anna, the Holy Family and 18 other Magdalene-Essenes as they travel to France and Britain after Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection. This book gives a completely new perspective on the gnostic Mount Carmel Essene mystery school, in which Jesus and Mary Magdalene took initiations, as well as on the Holy Family and the Magdalene Order. Through Claire Heartsong, Anna tells not only the story of Jesus, but also the story of the women who surrounded him throughout his life. The book reveals the deeper mysteries they have safeguarded for aeons of time, including aspects of Jesus's personal life not recorded in history - his relationships and, most radically, his offspring. In this one-of-a-kind story, Claire shares the information she received from Anna on the 'Seeding of Light' - the dispersion of Anna, Mother Mary and Jesus's enlightened descendants whose 'bloodline' acts as a living catalyst for the awakening of the Christ-Magdalene potential today. Not only does this book give a new view of the Christ drama 2,000 years ago but, more importantly, it offers the potential to lift the suppressed Divine Feminine voice in our time.

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Book SynopsisWho is the Holy Spirit? How does he change our lives? How does he work in the world? These studies will help you examine these and other critical questions. The Spirit of God is eager to work in your life and draw you to God. Come and meet the Spirit. This 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 SynopsisHow did Christianity become the dominant religion in the West? In the early first century, a small group of peasants from the backwaters of the Roman Empire proclaimed that an executed enemy of the state was God’s messiah. Less than four hundred years later it had become the official religion of Rome with some thirty million followers. It could so easily have been a forgotten sect of Judaism. Through meticulous research, Bart Ehrman, an expert on Christian history, texts and traditions, explores the way we think about one of the most important cultural transformations the world has ever seen, one that has shaped the art, music, literature, philosophy, ethics and economics of modern Western civilisation.Trade Review‘This is the work of a great scholar…a book full of learning and nuance.’ * Tom Holland, Spectator *‘Reading about how an entire culture’s precepts and traditions can be overthrown without anyone being able to stop it may not be heartening at this particular historical moment. All the more reason to spend time in the company of such a humane, thoughtful and intelligent historian.’ * New York Times Book Review *‘Ehrman handles splendid raw materials very deftly to produce an engrossing read.’ * Catholic Herald *‘Drawing on a wealth of ancient sources and contemporary historical research, Bart Ehrman weaves complex questions into a vivid, nuanced, and enormously readable narrative.’ -- Elaine Pagels, National Book Award-winning author of The Gnostic Gospels‘How did a small, provincial Jewish sect called Christianity convert the mighty pagan Roman Empire? Bart Ehrman answers this baffling question with the same wit, passion, and rigorous scholarship that have made him one of the most popular religion writers in the world today. The Triumph of Christianity is a marvellous book.’ -- Reza Aslan, New York Times bestselling author of Zealot‘Bart Ehrman is the leading expert on early Christian texts and here he takes the story on into the fourth century in a vivid and readable narrative that explores why Christianity “triumphed” as a world religion. The work is particularly valuable for its critical survey of the work of other scholars in the field.’ -- Charles Freeman, author of A New History of Early Christianity‘A lucid and convincing account of the growth of Christianity in the Roman world…[Ehrman’s] careful synthesis of existing scholarship creates an approachable study of the early church… Well worth reading.’ * Publishers Weekly *‘One of Christian history’s greatest puzzles after the age of the apostles is how a tiny band of mostly-illiterate outsiders converted the proud and massive Roman Empire in just three centuries – a historical blink of an eye. In The Triumph of Christianity, Ehrman brings impressive research, intellectual rigor, and an instinct for storytelling to this extraordinary dynamic.’ -- David Van Biema, former religion writer at Time and author of the forthcoming Speaking to God‘The value of Ehrman’s book, as is so often the case with his writings, is in his ability to synthesize complex material and distill it into highly readable prose.’ * Booklist *‘An accessible and intriguing…history of the growth of Christianity.’ * Kirkus *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Time Line Introduction Chapter 1 The Beginning of the End: The Conversion of Constantine Chapter 2 Back to the Beginning: The Conversion and Mission of Paul Chapter 3 The Religious World of Conversion: Roman Paganism Chapter 4 Reasons for the Christian Success Chapter 5 Miraculous Incentives for Conversion Chapter 6 The Growth of the Church Chapter 7 Christians Under Assault: Persecution, Martyrdom, and Self-Defense Chapter 8 The First Christian Emperor Chapter 9 Conversion and Coercion: The Beginnings of a Christian Empire Afterword Gains and Losses Appendix Notes Index

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Book SynopsisPrior accounts have portrayed Islamic Spain either as a paradise of enlightened tolerance, or as the site where civilisations clashed. Award-winning historian Brian A. Catlos taps a wide array of original sources to paint a more complex picture, showing how Muslims, Christians, and Jews together built a sophisticated civilisation that transformed the Western world, even as they waged relentless war against each other and amongst themselves. Religion was often the language of conflict, but seldom its cause--a lesson we would do well to learn in our own time. Kingdoms of Faith rewrites Spain's Islamic past from the ground up, evoking the cultural splendour of al-Andalus and the many forces that shaped it.Trade Review'A rich narrative account of al-Andalus . . . a reminder that Islam in Europe is set in stone - in marble and mortar - and it cannot be chiselled away.' -- Financial Times'Catlos has produced a substantial new synthesis . . . a gripping, colourful and humane account of a period that ought to be better known.' -- History Today‘Catlos imparts an intimate sense of how members of different ethnic and religious communities negotiated subtle alliances and engaged in long-lasting cultural exchanges.' -- The New Yorker‘The ambition of Brian Catlos in this excellent new account is to provide not just a thoroughly up-to-date history but one that resists the narrative tug of both Right and Left. . . . he has forged a tight synthesis of the latest research in a fresh portrait of nearly a millennium of history.’'A lively, engaging history.' -- Library Journal‘A richly layered tapestry . . . Catlos knows how to tell a story.’ -- Asian Review of Books'A brilliant narrative history of the rise and fall of Muslim Spain... a balanced, lucid, and myth-breaking account of a unique society that has too often been demonised, romanticised or simplified.' -- Matt Carr, author of Blood and Faith: The Purging of Muslim Spain, 1492–1614‘A lively … account of medieval Spain and Portugal which steers away from the usual stereotypes and gives us a new, and much more nuanced account of relations and interactions between the various communities and faith groups in the peninsula.’ -- Hugh Kennedy, Professor of Arabic and author of 'Caliphate: The History of an Idea', SOAS, University of London‘In Kingdoms of Faith, Brian A. Catlos takes us through the kaleidoscopic interplay of Muslim-Christian relations, bringing clarity to a complex narrative. His deft analysis illuminates the forces brought to bear in creating both the myth and reality of life in “Moorish” Spain.’ -- Thomas F. Glick, Emeritus Professor of History, Boston University and author of 'Islamic and Christian Spain in the Early Middle Ages'‘Spirited, probing and original, this is a key history of Muslim Spain. It’s unique perspective illuminates the vexed issue of religious, political and cultural interaction between Christians, Jews and Muslims, underlining the complexity and ambiguity of medieval Spain and revealing its vital importance to the history of modern Europe too.’ -- Elizabeth Drayson, author of 'The Moor’s Last Stand: How Seven Centuries of Muslim Rule in Spain Came to an End', University of Cambridge‘Mediterranean studies have been shaped in an informative and innovative way by Brian Catlos’s contributions in the recent decades. His incursion now into the history of a specific region and polity — that of al-Andalus (Medieval Iberia under Muslim rule) — brings to the fore the same qualities that characterize his previous work: an inquisitive and incisive mind that homes in on perceptive questions, combined with the ability to recreate past events in an appealing manner for a wide audience.’ -- Maribel Fierro, Research Professor, Institute of Languages and Cultures of the Mediterranean, CSIC, Madrid‘'Kingdoms of Faith' constitutes a fresh and original contribution to the history of al-Andalus, rooted in the author’s profound knowledge of medieval Iberian history. Brian Catlos has managed to produce a very well-written and lively narrative that provides an up-to-date synthesis of the most recent developments in this field of history.’ -- Alejandro García Sanjuán, University of Huelva

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Book SynopsisFollowing Alan Watts' acclaimed book on Zen Buddhism The Way of Zen, he tackles the Chinese philosophy of Tao. The Tao is the way of man's cooperation with the natural course of the natural world. Alan Watts takes the reader through the history of Tao and its interpretations by key thinkers such as Lao-Tzu, author of the Tao Te Ching. Watts goes on to demonstrate how the ancient and timeless Chinese wisdom of Tao promotes the idea of following a life lived according to the natural world and goes against our goal-oriented ideas by allowing time to quiet our minds and observe the world rather than imposing ourselves on it. By taking in some of the lessons of Tao, we can change our attitude to the way we live. Drawing on ancient and modern sources, Watts treats the Chinese philosophy of Tao in much the same way as he did Zen Buddhism in his classic The Way of Zen. Including an introduction to the Chinese culture that is the foundation of the Tao, this is one of Alan Watts' best-loved works.Trade ReviewWatts begins with scholarship and intellect and proceeds with art and eloquence to the frontiers of the spirit ... This is a profound and worthy work, left by a teacher to echo and re-echo. * Los Angeles Times *Profound, reflective, and enlightening. Moreover, the text supplies a sense of his ebullient spirit behind the revelation of Tao. * Boston Globe *A remarkable book because of Alan Watts's talent for communicating Eastern ways of thought ... This book is a 'must'. * Shambhala Review *Beautifully produced... classic work which examines the Chinese philosophy of Tao, with fine examples of Chinese calligraphy. -- Yoga & HealthHis writings and recorded talks still shimmer with a profound and galvanizing lucidity -- Erik Davis

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Book Synopsis'This book is brilliant, funny... spot on. It's the first time I've been able to get into A Course in Miracles.' - Dr Christiane Northrup, New York Times bestselling author of Goddesses Never Age If you've always wanted to read A Course in Miracles but feel daunted by its sheer size, you'll love this modern-day rewrite of the 365-lesson workbook. The lessons of A Course in Miracles are profound, deeply moving... and as boring to read as a legal textbook. Enter Pam Grout: #1 New York Times bestselling author of E-Squared, presenting to you ACIM, the Fun Version. In this book, you'll find: - daily lessons with titles like 'Transcending the Chatty Asshat in My Head' and 'The Ego Is Not My Amigo!' - the essential message of the original spiritual text explained in the context of everyday life - recaps to make the lessons from the Course really stick - personal stories that are both laugh-out-loud funny and deeply soul-stirring Pam's unique blend of eternal truths with pop culture and personal anecdotes makes this book a deeply relatable and, most importantly, fun text to help you on your spiritual path. It's user friendly, accessible, easy for everyone to understand - and it will change your life.

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Book SynopsisUnlock the ancient wisdom of the Tree of Life and understand the path ahead with this beautiful oracle from astrologer and Qabalah expert David Wells. Drawing on the mystic tradition of Qabalah, The Tree of Life Oracle will help you to learn more about the nature of the universe and yourself, connecting you with your soul to fulfill your purpose. The Tree of Life is central to Qabalah – a map of the universe and the psyche, the order of the creation of the cosmos, and a path to spiritual illumination, represented by 10 interconnected spheres. The Tree is rich with symbolism, and these symbols – drawn from astrology, Tarot, and ancient alchemy – are reproduced throughout the cards within the beautiful paintings of Roberta Orpwood. This deck of 44 cards – comprising 11 Sephiroth, 22 Paths, and 11 Magical Forces – harnesses the power of Qabalah to change people’s lives. An accompanying guidebook explains the meaning behind the symbols and suggests cards layouts for readings and interpretation. This mystical oracle deck is suitable for full or daily readings, as well as gently helping you to better understand the workings of the Qabalah, demystifying it and making it more accessible. The more you work with the cards, the more in tune you will be with the universe, coming to a greater understanding of the path ahead.

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Book SynopsisA standard-size edition of spiritual pioneer Phyllis Curott’s empowering interpretation of the Tarot, which blends the divine magic of nature with modern Witchcraft to awaken the witch within. The Witches' Wisdom Tarot brings you into the heart of what it means to be a Witch, a wise one who lives with reverence for the land, for life, and for the divine magic that connects us all. And you don't have to be a Witch to benefit from its wisdom. This ground-breaking Tarot speaks to seekers of any spirituality, age, race, or gender identity with culturally diverse imagery and universal wisdom. Helping you to see and create the future you long for, The Witches' Wisdom Tarot is magic in action. American Wiccan Priestess and best-selling author Phyllis Curott and British Hedgewitch and artist Danielle Barlow undertook a year-long quest involving almost 200 shamanic journeys to create this empowering new interpretation of the Tarot. It leaves behind the Devil, Hierophant, Judgment, and other patriarchal imagery and reverses the direction of the Major Arcana, offering a path to self-awareness and fulfillment that takes you into the natural world rather than away from it. The cards of the Minor Arcana share empowering teachings from the living forces of Air, Fire, Water, and Earth and reveal the wild, wise, and divine magic of nature and human nature, and the love of Mother Earth. The enchanting guidebook text includes vision-provoking Wisdom, the practical advice of Counsel, the quick insights of Essence, and techniques and spells for manifesting Magic. Also included are card spreads, including the unique Compass Rose, for both readings and spellworking, and practices to deepen engagement with the deck's wisdom and magic, and your own.Follow the guidance of this healing, inspiring, and empowering Tarot deck, and let it awaken the magic within you!This is a standard-size edition of The Witches' Wisdom Tarot (Deluxe Keepsake Edition) (ISBN: 9781788173216). The storage box contains 78 cards at the same size (5 x 3.5 in) as the deluxe edition, together with a compact guidebook.

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Book SynopsisSixty years after the defeat of the Third Reich, the complexities of Nazi ideology are still being unravelled. This enormously influential book has provided the first serious account of these ideological origins. The book demonstrates the way in which Nazism was influenced by powerful occult and millenarian sects that thrived in Germany and Austria at the turn of the century. These sects (principally the Ariosophists) promoted doctrines of popular nationalism, 'Aryan' racism and occultism to support their advocacy of German world-rule. Their ideas and symbols filtered through to nationalist-racist groups associated with the infant Nazi party, and in time exerted a strong influence on Himmler's SS. Their fantasies were played out with terrifying consequences in the Third Reich: Auschwitz, Sobibor and Treblinka are the hellish museums of the Nazi apocalypse, the roots of which lay in the millennial visions of occult sects. This bizarre and fascinating story contains lessons we cannot afford to ignore.Trade ReviewGoodrick-Clarke's now classic work triumphantly demonstrates that scrupulous scholarship and sound judgement can illuminate a crucial episode in the genesis of Nazism. The political dangers of the new century posed by the mixture of modernity with faith and esoteric mysticism make it particularly timely. -- Professor Roger Griffin, author of The Nature of FacismAn extensive survey of...theology, astrology, and 'ariosophy' (Aryan-racists-occult-theories)... An intriguing study of apocalyptic fantasies... * Times Literary Supplement *If anyone still questions the power which myth exercises over the human mind, he should read The Occult Roots of Nazism. -- Anthony Storr, Fellow, Royal College of PsychiatristsTable of ContentsAcknowledgements Illustrations Author's Preface to 2004 Edition Foreword Introduction Part 1: The Background 1. The Pan-German Vision 2. The modern German Occult Revival 1880-1910 Part 2: The Ariosophists of Vienna 3. Guido von List 4. Wotanism and Germanic Theosophy 5. The Armanenschaft 6. The Secret Heritage 7. The German Millennium 8. Jörg Lanz von Liebenfels and Theozoology 9. The Order of the New Templars Part 3: Ariosophy in Germany 10. The Germanenorden 11. Rudolf von Sebottendorff and the Thule Society 12. The Holy Runes and the Edda Society 13. Herbert Reichstein and Ariosophy 14. Karl Maria Wiligut: The Private Magus of Heinrich Himmler 15. Ariosophy and Adolf Hitler Appendix A: Genealogy of Lanz von Liebenfels Appendix B: Genealogy of the Sebottendorff Family Appendix C: The history of Ariosophy Appendix D: New Templar Verse Appendix E: The Modern Mythology of Nazi Occultism Notes and References Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisIn this frank and damning exposé of the Teresa cult, Hitchens details the nature and limits of one woman's mission to help the world's poor. He probes the source of the heroic status bestowed upon an Albanian nun whose only declared wish was to serve God. He asks whether Mother Teresa's good works answered any higher purpose than the need of the world's privileged to see someone, somewhere, doing something for the Third World. He unmasks pseudo-miracles, questions Mother Teresa's fitness to adjudicate on matters of sex and reproduction, and reports on a version of saintly ubiquity which affords genial relations with dictators, corrupt tycoons and convicted frauds. Is Mother Teresa merely an essential salve to the conscience of the rich West, or an expert PR machine for the Catholic Church? In its caustic iconoclasm and unsparing wit, The Missionary Position showcases the devastating effect of Hitchens' writing at its polemical best.Trade ReviewA dirty job but someone had to do it. By the end of this elegantly written, brilliantly argued piece of polemic, it is not looking good for Mother Teresa. * Sunday Times *Hitchens argues his case with consummate style. * New York Times *Quite possibly the most brilliant journalist of his generation * Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling cult classicgod Is Not Great is the ultimate case against religion. In a series of acute readings of the major religious texts, Christopher Hitchens demonstrates the ways in which religion is man-made, dangerously sexually repressive and distorts the very origins of the cosmos. Above all, Hitchens argues that the concept of an omniscient God has profoundly damaged humanity, and proposes that the world might be a great deal better off without 'him'. In god is Not Great Hitchens turned his formidable eloquence and rhetorical energy to the most controversial issue in the world: God and religion. The result is a devastating critique of religious faithTrade ReviewDo yourself a favor and skip the Dawkins and Harris; they're smug, turgid, and boring, with all the human feeling of a tax return. Read Hitchens instead... A tendentious delight, a caustic and even brilliant book... Thank God for Christopher Hitchens. -- Mark Warren * Esquire *Dazzling... A campaign to put this glittering anti-theist tract on the national curriculum for "religious education" should begin here. -- Johann Hari * Independent *Hitchens is a grand rhetorician, and his double-barrelled shotgun of a book is high entertainment... As with Voltaire, his scornful laughter is a powerful weapon. -- Christopher Hart * Sunday Times *The anti-religion case has never been put so well, so comprehensively or so definitively as in this razor-sharp book... Hitchens accumulates a devastating case... Outstanding. -- A.C. Grayling * Independent on Sunday *Christopher Hitchens is a master craftsman of argument... God is not Great is undoubtedly the most boisterously entertaining contribution to the [atheism] debate. -- Siobhan Murphy * Metro *God is not Great is easily the most brilliant and fascinating contemplation upon the role of religion in human society in recent times, the Das Kapital of a tolerant, if exasperated, atheism. -- Kevin Myers * Irish Independent *Table of Contents1: Putting It Mildly 2: Religion Kills 3: A Short Digression on the Pig; or, Why Heaven Hates Ham 4: A Note on Health, to Which Religion Can Be Hazardous 5: The Metaphysical Claims of Religion Are False 6: Arguments from Design 7: Revelation: The Nightmare of the "Old" Testament 8: The "New" Testament Exceeds the Evil of the "Old" One 9: The Koran Is Borrowed from Both Jewish and Christian Myths 10: The Tawdriness of the Miraculous and the Decline of Hell 11: "The Lowly Stamp of Their Origin": Religion's Corrupt Beginnings 12: A Coda: How Religions End 13: Does Religion Make People Behave Better? 14: There Is No "Eastern" Solution 15: Religion as an Original Sin 16: Is Religion Child Abuse? 17: An Objection Anticipated: The Last-Ditch "Case" Against Secularism 18: A Finer Tradition: The Resistance of the Rational 19: In Conclusion: The Need for a New Enlightenment

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Book SynopsisIn the West we tend to think of witches in terms of the witch trials, when fear, ignorance and religious fervour brought the poor to heel, and fostered suspicion of those who dared to be different, or knowledgeable, or independent of mind. Witches and wizards are often associated with pre-Christian societies, Celtic in particular, (and therefore popular in tales of fantasy), but the nature of their wisdom can be found in so many fascinating cultures across the world. Ancient societies, particularly where natural religions with many gods abound, often highlight the power of an elder, or a seer, a healer or a wise friend. Tales of wizards and witches reach across traditions as folk try to explain natural phenomena and engage with the world around them. Those who understood the properties of healing in plants, or could make a prediction of weather events to rescue crops, became worshipped as elders, as keepers of knowledge. In tribal African societies, Polynesian cultures and East Asian traditions there are tales of those with great knowledge who are often described as witches or wizards. The Baba Yaga of Eastern Europe, Bokwewa, the humpback magician of the Chippewa, Merlin and Morgana la Faye of Arthurian Legend and the fox witches of Japan are but a few of the many examples. Some work for good, others with ill-intent, but all become the focus of folkloric legend, collected here in this new book of myths and tales.

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Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. From the birth of Zeus, to Prometheus, Pandora and Helen of Troy, Odysseus and Jason and the Argonauts, the myths of the Greeks and, later, the Romans, are passionate and powerfully told. The Gods are jealous of each other's powers, subject to mighty outbursts of love and always seeking vengeance. The dark forces of the ancient world were held at bay by the resourceful and emerging civilization that formed the basis of Western culture, providing a tradition of fabulous tales that are retold here. Flame Tree Collector's Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction, authors, myths and tales without which the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best, most influential and most fascinating works into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new introduction and a Glossary of Terms.

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Book SynopsisThis beautiful presentation of a selection from the Holy Qur'an engages the reader in a moment of daily reflection. Edited for ease of comprehension, English-speaking readers will find this compilation both spiritually enriching and easy to understand. With 365 verses covering the whole year, this is a must for every home. An introduction to the Qur'an and its eternal message for humanity is included, giving the reader an insight into its origin, purpose, and style. Abdur Raheem Kidwai is professor of English at the Aligarh Muslim University in India and the well-known author of many works on the Qur'an and Islam.Trade Review"Just 1 page each day makes a difference in each of the 365 days of the year." Goodreads

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Book SynopsisThis attractive presentation of the Prophet Muhammad's teachings engages the reader in a moment of daily reflection. With 365 traditions covering the whole year, Daily Wisdom explores Islamic morals and manners in all aspects of everyday life. Beautifully presented, this ideal gift item is a must for every home. Abdur Raheem Kidwai is professor of English at the Aligarh Muslim University in India and a well-known author of many works on the Qur'an and Islam.Trade Review"It's a lovely book of compiled hadith and is formatted to be one saying per day. It shows the great man that Prophet Muhammad (saw) was. They're great daily reminders that touch all aspects of our lives, and can serve as great motivation to be a little better than yesterday." Goodreads "the book comes as a handy size with beautiful presentation making it an ideal gift for a friend/family member!"Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Daily Wisdom Index

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Book SynopsisThis inspirational collection of prayers and reminders is the perfect companion for anyone who wishes to connect to the Divine. Shaykh Omar Suleiman provides us with thirty short prayers taken from the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and the early generations, each with a short reminder to deepen the impact of the prayer in our lives. Prayers of the Pious provides spiritual gems that serve as valuable wisdom and practical advice for the soul. By reading this short work with an attentive heart, the reader can cultivate love for God and His Messenger and live life with gratitude and contentment. The author has directed that 100% of the royalties from the sale of this book be donated to Yaqeen Institute, a US based nonprofit research institute, supporting their research and activities for the global Muslim community.Trade Review"In this concise work, Sh. Omar Suleiman has collected many precious gems from the du`as of the righteous. The reader cannot help but get swept away in the spiritual earnestness that these beseechers felt. Animated by these timeless invocations, I pray that all of us can not only use these classical prayers ourselves, but be inspired to produce our own, from the depths of our hearts, so that our du`as, too, can be heard by the Almighty." Yasir QadhiTable of ContentsIntroduction 1. The Best of my Days 2. His Door is Always Open 3. A Covenant with Allah 4. The Enormity of my Sins vs. His Mercy 5. The Hand that Kills Me 6. The Highest Companionship 7. O Allah, You Know that I Love You 8. The Precious Prayer of a Mother 9. The Greed of the Soul 10. A Prayer More Powerful than the Wind 11. Don’t Punish a Tongue of Praise 12. Don’t Make an Example out of Me 13. A Station of Patience without Trial 14. My Evil vs. His Good 15. The Prayer of a Tree 16. A House on Fire 17. His Prayer Amazed the Prophet 18. A Reminder of my Illness 19. Make Me Better 20. Don’t Ask Allah for Patience 21. Death after Fajr 22. Your Perfect Light 23. My Sincerity to Your Creation 24. Your Beautiful Veil 25. Oh, Teacher of Abraham 26. Your Greatness vs. My Insignificance 27. My Love for You 28. Record Me among the Blessed 29. Beautify my Character 30. Show us Guidance and Error My Prayer Journal

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Book SynopsisIn Allah Loves… Omar Suleiman explores who and what Allah loves so that we may become one of those who are beloved to Him. The Prophet Muhammad said that one of the supplications of Prophet Dawud was, “O Allah I ask You for Your love and the love of those that love You and all of those actions that would bring me closer to being loved by you.” Looking at our actions, characteristics and beliefs, this book will help us become better people, citizens and believers that are deserving of Allah's endless, infinite and ever-lasting love. Made up of 30 short and spiritually enriching chapters, this book is a reminder that throughout our lives, the Creator's love is always there, increasing through everyday actions such as showing generosity or remaining consistent with unnoticeable good deeds.

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Book SynopsisThroughout your existence, there are angels in your presence. But it’s your actions that cause those angels to either praise you or disgrace you. Through this book, we will explore the actions that invite these blessed unseen beings to pray upon you, and carry your name and mention to the One who created us all.Table of Contents1. They’ve Got Your Back 2. Hold Your Pens 3. Fasting While Others Eat 4. Sleep Well 5. Switching Shifts 6. As You Step Out 7. The Banner Above You 8. Responding to Your Haters 9. Your Brother’s Honor 10. The Honor of Your Prophet 11. Ameen and For You A Well 12. The Best Supplication 13. Be Fair When You Judge 14. The Seeker of Knowledge 15. No Strings Attached 16. The Ultimate Healer 17. An Entourage of 70,000 18. When Your Loved Ones Are Dying 19. Have You Ever Seen An Angel in Human Form 20. A Caller from Heaven’s Gates 21. The First Rows 22. The Friday Roll Book 23. From Prayer to Prayer 24. Struggling to Recite 25. From Your Mouth to an Angel’s Heart 26. When Jibreel Descends Upon You 27. The Heavens are Creaking 28. In Your Room Praying Behind You 29. Gatherings of Remembrance 30. When Allah Loves You

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Book SynopsisWhatever our situation may be in this life, a life of struggle or comfort, our inevitable fate is the same as the life of this world is temporary. O believer, this world is not meant to be your paradise, but knowing that Paradise awaits, makes this journey so much more bearable and rewarding. Remember that every difficulty is a right, after all your struggles, all your tests, and trials know that your eternal sanctuary awaits. Jannah, that is built by your deeds and decorated by your du'as. Chalets of crystals sparkling on the horizon for a soul that gave up sin, tree trunks of green emerald and branches of gold for a simple word of remembrance. Each of your shuddering breaths, every second of discomfort you faced, and every one of your sacrifices, all have been accounted for, repaid with sights and rewards unimaginable and the company of the Most High. Build your eternal home, decorate your eternal home. Long for your eternal home...Table of Contents1. Jannah is Waiting for You2. The Moment You Enter Jannah3. Your Heavenly Welcome4. Your Home in Jannah5. How to Build Homes in Jannah6. The Fragrance of Jannah7. The Gardens of Jannah8. How to Plant Trees in Jannah9. The Four Rivers of Jannah10. Food and Drink in Jannah11. Your Clothing in Jannah12. Making a Wish in Jannah13.Your Family in Jannah14. Your Friends in Jannah

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Book SynopsisIslam has been one of the most powerful religious, social, and political forces in history. Over the last 1400 years, from origins in Arabia, a succession of Muslim polities and later empires expanded to control territories and peoples that ultimately stretched from southern France, to East Africa and South East Asia. Yet many of the contributions of Muslim thinkers, scientists, and theologians, not to mention rulers, statesmen and soldiers, have been occluded. This book rescues from oblivion and neglect some of these personalities and institutions while offering the reader a new narrative of this lost Islamic history. The Umayyads, Abbasids, and Ottomans feature in the story, as do Muslim Spain, the savannah kingdoms of West Africa and the Mughal Empire, along with the later European colonisation of Muslim lands and the development of modern nation-states in the Muslim world. Throughout, the impact of Islamic belief on scientific advancement, social structures, and cultural development is given due prominence, and the text is complemented by portraits of key personalities, inventions and little known historical nuggets. The history of Islam and of the world's Muslims brings together diverse peoples, geographies, and states, all interwoven into one narrative that begins with Muhammad and continues to this day.Trade Review'A great read . . . An excellent brief history of the driving force that made Islamic civilisation the greatest of its time and then the factors behind its decline.'--Imran Khan, Prime Minister of Pakistan'Presenting 1,400 years of Islamic civilisation in a comprehensive, easy to follow manner is no small feat . . . the book is valuable not only for its insights into lesser-known aspects of Islamic history, but also a general introduction to the subject.'

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Book SynopsisAcaba usted de descubrir la obra maestra literaria que responde a todas sus preguntas sobre Dios, la vida en los universos habitados, la historia y futuro de este mundo y la vida de Jesus. El libro de Urantia armoniza historia, ciencia y religion en una filosofia de vida que trae un nuevo significado y esperanza a su vida. !Si esta buscando respuestas, lea El libro de Urantia! El mundo necesita nuevas verdades espirituales, que proporcionen a la humanidad de hoy una relacion personal con Dios. A partir de la herencia religiosa del mundo, el libro describe un destino eterno para la humanidad y ensena que la fe viviente es la clave para el progreso espiritual y la supervivencia eterna. Estas ensenanzas proporcionan unas verdades tan poderosas que pueden elevar el pensamiento humano en los proximos 1000 anos. Una tercera parte de El libro de Urantia contiene la inspiradora historia de la vida de Jesus y la revelacion de sus ensenanzas originales. Esta historia inspiradora transforma el papel de Jesus, que pasa de figura principal del cristianismo a guia de los buscadores de todos los credos y condiciones sociales. Este libro es una revelacion.Table of ContentsDocumento . Titulo . Autor 000. Prologo PARTE I. El Universo Central y los SuperUniversos 001. El Padre Universal 002. La Naturaleza de Dios 003. Los Atributos de Dios 004. La Relacion de Dios con el Universo 005. La Relacion de Dios con el Individuo 006. El Hijo Eterno 007. La Relacion del Hijo Eterno con el Universo 008. El Espiritu Infinito 009. La Relacion del Espiritu Infinito con el Universo 010. La Trinidad del Paraiso 011. La Isla Eterna del Paraiso 012. El Universo de los Universos 013. Las Esferas Sagradas del Paraiso 014. El Universo Central y Divino 015. Los Siete Superuniversos 016. Los Siete Espiritus Rectores 017. Los Siete Grupos de Espiritus Supremos Consejero Divino 018. Las Personalidades Supremas Trinitarias 019. Los Seres Coordinados de Origen en la Trinidad 020. Los Hijos de Dios Paradisiacos 021. Los Hijos Creadores Paradisiacos 022. Los Hijos de Dios Trinidizados 023. Los Mensajeros Solitarios 024. Las Personalidades Mas Elevadas del Espiritu Infinito 025. Las Huestes de Mensajeros del Espacio 026. Los Espiritus Ministrantes del Universo Central 027. El Ministerio de los Supernafines Primarios 028. Los Espiritus Ministrantes de los Superuniversos 029. Los Directores del Poder Universal 030. Las Personalidades del Gran Universo 031. El Cuerpo de la Finalidad y Un Sin Nombre ni Numero PARTE II. El Universo Local 032. La Evolucion de los Universos Locales 033. La Administracion del Universo Local 034. El Espiritu Materno del Universo Local 035. Los Hijos de Dios de los Universos Locales 036. Los Portadores de Vida 037. Las Personalidades del Universo Local 038. Los Espiritus Ministrantes del Universo Local 039. Las Huestes Seraficas 040. Los Hijos de Dios Ascendentes 041. Los Aspectos Fisicos del Universo Local 042. La Energia -- La Mente y la Materia 043. Las Constelaciones 044. Los Artesanos Celestiales 045. La Administracion del Sistema Local 046. La Sede Central del Sistema Local 047. Los Siete Mundos de Estancia 048. La Vida Morontial 049. Los Mundos Habitados 050. Los Principes Planetarios 051. Los Adanes Planetarios 052. Las Epocas Planetarias de los Mortales 053. La Rebelion de Lucifer 054. Los Problemas de la Rebelion de Lucifer 055. Las Esferas de Luz y Vida 056. Unidad Universal PARTE III. La Historia de Urantia 057. El Origen de Urantia 058. El Establecimiento de la Vida en Urantia 059. La Era de la Vida Marina en Urantia 060. Urantia Durante la Era Primitiva de la Vida Terrestre 061. La Era de los Mamiferos en Urantia 062. Las Razas Protohumanas del Hombre Primitivo 063. La Primera Familia Humana 064. Las Razas Evolucionarias de Color 065. La Supervision de la Evolucion 066. El Principe Planetario de Urantia 067. La Rebelion Planetaria 068. Los Albores de la Civilizacion 069. Las Instituciones Humanas Primitivas 070. La Evolucion del Gobierno Humano 071. El Desarrollo del Estado 072. El Gobierno de un Planeta Vecino 073. El Jardin del Eden 074. Adan y Eva 075. La Falta de Adan y Eva 076. El Segundo Jardin 077. Los Seres Intermedios 078. La Raza Violeta Despues de los Dias de Adan 079. La Expansion Andita en el Oriente 080. La Expansion Andita en el Occidente 081. El Desarrollo de la Civilizacion Moderna 082. La Evolucion del Matrimonio 083. La Institucion del Matrimonio 084. Matrimonio y Vida Familiar 085. Los Origenes de la Adoracion 086. La Evolucion Primitiva de la Religion 087. Los Cultos a los Fantasmas 088. Los Fetiches, los Amuletos y la Magia 089. El Pecado, el Sacrificio y la Expiacion 090. El Shamanismo -- Los Curanderos y los Sacerdotes 091. La Evolucion de la Oracion 092. La Evolucion Ulterior de la Religion 093. Maquiventa Melquisedek 094. Las Ensenanzas de Melquisedek en el Oriente 095. Las Ensenanzas de Melquisedek en el Levante 096. Yahve -- El Dios de los Hebreos 097. Evolucion del Concepto de Dios Entre los Hebreos 098. Las Ensenanzas de Melquisedek en el Occidente 099. Los Problemas Sociales de la Religion 100. La Religion en la Experiencia Humana 101. La Verdadera Naturaleza de la Religion 102. Los Cimientos de la Fe Religiosa 103. La Realidad de la Experiencia Religiosa 104. El Crecimiento del Concepto de la Trinidad 105. La Deidad y la Realidad 106. Los Niveles de la Realidad en el Universo 107. El Origen y la Naturaleza de los Ajustadores del Pensamiento 108. La Mision y el Ministerio de los Ajustadores del Pensamiento 109. La Relacion de los Ajustadores con las Criaturas del Universo 110. La Relacion de los Ajustadores con los Seres Mortales 111. El Ajustador y el Alma 112. La Sobrevivencia de la Personalidad 113. Los Guardianes Seraficos del Destino 114. El Gobierno Planetario Serafico 115. El Ser Supremo 116. El Supremo Todopoderoso 117. Dios el Supremo 118. El Supremo y el Ultimo -- El Tiempo y el Espacio 119. Los Autootorgamientos de Cristo Micael PARTE IV. La Vida y las Ensenanzas de Jesus 120. El Autootorgamiento de Micael en Urantia 121. Los Tiempos del Autootorgamiento de Micael 122. El Nacimiento y la Infancia de Jesus 123. La Infancia de Jesus 124. La Ninez Posterior de Jesus 125. Jesus en Jerusalen 126. Los Dos Anos Cruciales 127. Los Anos de la Adolescencia 128. Los Primeros Anos de la Vida Adulta de Jesus 129. La Vida Adulta de Jesus 130. En el Camino a Roma 131. Las Religiones del Mundo 132. La Estadia en Roma 133. El Regreso de Roma 134. Los Anos de Transicion 135. Juan el Bautista 136. El Bautismo y los Cuarenta Dias 137. El Tiempo de Espera en Galilea 138. La Capacitacion de los Mensajeros del Reino 139. Los Doce Apostoles 140. La Ordenacion de los Doce 141. El Comienzo de la Obra Publica 142. La Pascua en Jerusalen 143. De Paso por Samaria 144. En Gilboa y en la Decapolis 145. Cuatro Dias Memorables en Capernaum 146. La Primera Gira de Predicacion en Galilea 147. El Interludio en Jerusalen 148. La Capacitacion de los Evangelistas en Betsaida 149. La Segunda Gira de Predicacion 150. La Tercera Gira de Predicacion 151. La Estadia y la Ensenanza Junto al Mar 152. Los Acontecimientos que Condujerona la Crisis de Capernaum 153. La Crisis en Capernaum 154. Los Ultimos Dias en Capernaum 155. La Huida por la Galilea del Norte 156. La Estadia en Tiro y Sidon 157. En Cesarea de Filipo 158. El Monte de la Transfiguracion 159. La Gira por la Decapolis 160. Rodan de Alejandria 161. Las Conversaciones Ulteriores con Rodan 162. En la Fiesta de los Tabernaculos 163. La Ordenacion de los Setenta en Magadan 164. En la Fiesta de la Consagracion del Templo 165. Comienza la Mision de Perea 166. La Ultima Visita al Norte de Perea 167. La Visita a Filadelfia 168. La Resurreccion de Lazaro 169. La Ultima Ensenanza en Pella 170. El Reino del Cielo 171. Camino a Jerusalen 172. La Entrada a Jerusalen 173. El Lunes en Jerusalen 174. Martes por la Manana en el Templo 175. El Ultimo Discurso en el Templo 176. El Anochecer del Martes en el Monte de los Olivos 177. El Miercoles, Dia de Descanso 178. El Ultimo Dia en el Campamento 179. La Ultima Cena 180. El Discurso de Despedida 181. Las Advertencias y Admoniciones Finales 182. En Getsemani 183. La Traicion y el Arresto de Jesus 184. Ante el Tribunal del Sanedrin 185. El Juicio Ante Pilato 186. Poco Antes de la Crucifixion 187. La Crucifixion 188. El Periodo en la Tumba 189. La Resurreccion 190. Las Apariciones Morontiales de Jesus 191. Las Apariciones a los Apostoles y a Otros Lideres 192. Las Apariciones en Galilea 193. Las Apariciones Finales y la Ascension 194. El Advenimiento del Espiritu de la Verdad 195. Despues de Pentecostes 196. La Fe de Jesus

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Book SynopsisIf you're suffering from pain and worry you know how hard it is to write of peace and serenity within. The message of comfort and hope that breathes through the pages of this book was forged out of adversity, and as a result has touched the hearts of millions.

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Book SynopsisText in English & Arabic. This is the first English translation of Ibn 'Arabi's Hilyat al-abdal, a short work which he wrote in the space of an hour during his Meccan period as something that would be "of assistance for those on the Path to true happiness". Beginning with an anecdote concerning one of his Andalusian companions, Ibn 'Arabi proceeds to explain the exterior qualities of the spiritually transformed (abdal). He particularly focuses on the four essential prerequisites of spiritual discipline: silence, seclusion, hunger and vigilance, describing how these appear among both aspirants and the spiritually realised. One of the most popular of his short works, the Hilyat al-abdal was much copied, and this book includes the first critical edition of the text based on the best manuscripts, including one written in Malatya during the author's lifetime. In addition, it provides a substantial introduction on the abdal saints, and a translation of Chapter 53 from the Futuhat al-makkiyya, which deals with the same subject-matter. Published in association with the Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi Society.

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Book SynopsisThe quest for happiness and fulfilment lies at the very heart of human life, but for Ibn 'Arabi there is a realm beyond our ordinary understanding of happiness, where the human stands truly fulfilled, in vision of Reality. This is a goal within the potential of every person. In this first English translation of a core chapter from the famous Meccan Illuminations (al-Futuḥat al-Makkiyya), Ibn 'Arabi comprehensively summarises all his major teachings on human perfectibility and true happiness. Using the imagery of alchemy and ascension, he gives the reader an extraordinary insight into the spiritual journey by contrasting two ways of acquiring knowledge: the rational and the mystical. With an introduction to Islamic alchemy, the Hermetic tradition and the mysterious elixir, this is an important text for anyone interested in Sufism, Islamic spirituality or alchemy.Trade ReviewThe Alchemy of Human Happiness is a major contribution to the study of Ibn ʿArabi in English. For researchers, Stephen Hirtenstein’s translation and his accompanying introduction and notes will enhance the study of the relationship between classical Sufism and the premodern sciences, a lacuna in Islamic studies. For students and their teachers, The Alchemy of Human Happiness will serve as an excellent introduction to the reinterpretation of Neoplatonism and Hermeticism within the context of Islamic and Sufi cosmologies. And for the interested reader, the lucidity of this work will make for a fulfilling learning experience. Most important, Hirtenstein’s mastery of Ibn ʿArabi’s corpus results in an invaluable translation. Cyrus Ali Zargar, Associate Professor of Religion, Augustana College; The Alchemy of Human Happiness (chapter 167 of Ibn `Arabi’s immense Meccan Illuminations) is an extraordinary 'road-map' of the process of spiritual ascension through all the levels of existence, carefully highlighting at each stage the indispensable role of the devoted practice and interiorization of the revealed guidance of the Prophet Muhammad and earlier prophetic messengers and guides. One of the most challenging chapters of the entire Futūhāt, it constantly intertwines complex allusions to the Qur’an and hadith, alchemy, medicine, Ptolemaic cosmology, embryology, and classical Sufi discussions of spiritual psychology and guidance. Yet Stephen Hirtenstein’s clear, polished English translation of this key section and his careful, essential annotation make this one of the most accessible, readable and lastingly important gateways to Ibn ʿArabi’s masterwork. James Morris, Boston College; It is always a challenge to translate Ibn `Arabi. The message that his teaching conveys is meant to be universal, but it is expressed in an idiom peculiar to the Islamic tradition, and, what is more, an idiom that draws upon the infinitely rich and subtle semantic universes of the Quranic revelation on the one hand, and the koinè of the “men of God” on the other. As a result, many attempts at translating his works tend to leave us disappointed to some degree. Not so with Stephen Hirtenstein’s English rendition of chapter 167 of the Futūhāt Makkiyya. A ceaseless reader of the Shaykh al-akbar, Stephen Hirtenstein makes comprehensible— or in other words “passes on”— to the English-speaking reader a doctrinal teaching whose understanding requires a seasoned acquaintance with the literary heritage of tasawwuf. In choosing to translate the 167th of the 560 chapters of the Futūhāt, Stephen Hirtenstein was well inspired: the theme explored in The Alchemy of Human Happiness—the spiritual journey— could not be more universal and better shared by all religions in the broadest sense: a journey at whose end the wayfarer, once they have agreed to the renunciation inherent in travelling, is led to the highest bliss there can be, a bliss granted to the one who, annihilated from their own self and all things, is immersed in the contemplation of the Eternal.Claude Addas, author of Quest for the Red SulphurTable of ContentsIntroduction; Translation Parts I and II; Appendix A: The Cycle of Creation according to Ibn 'Arabi; Appendix B: Macrocosmic and Microcosmic Correspondences; Bibliography; Index of Quranic References; Index of Futuhat Extracts; General Index; Arabic Text

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Book SynopsisAnd the Wheel turns! Yule reminds us of warmth, happiness, and a time to be thankful for all that we have. For centuries ancient healers have celebrated the restorative energy of the Yuletide festival, the traditional harsh winters reminding us of our impressive ability to weather tough storms and find support and comfort with loved ones. In Seasons of the Witch: Yule Oracle you'll discover 44 healing messages to align you with the divine wisdom of the year's darkest night and the joyful celebration associated with the winter holidays. This oracle is your path to deep reflection and tranquility and is a promise of the brighter days to come.

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Book SynopsisThe Celtic Spirit Oracle is a tool to aid spiritual growth and for the Elemental energies to be able to communicate to you and help to raise the consciousness of humanity. Now is an important time to step up and be the change that you want to see in the world. The Elemental beings, Celtic gods and goddesses represent the energies that work through this deck, and their messages at times are so subtle - like a whisper that gets lost in our noisy way of life. Some people are able to hear their messages if they slow down enough to listen. This oracle is born from artist/author Nicola McIntosh's Celtic shamanic work and her Celtic lineage. The Celts had a deep understanding of nature's cycles and the importance of working with nature and its Elemental beings, which is evident in their artwork, myths and legends. Are you ready to hear the ancient wisdom from the Otherworlds? The Elemental's remind you that everything you need is inside you, you only need to be still and listen. Magick awaits you within!

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Book SynopsisAlthough the consciousness of death is, in most cultures, very much a part of life, this is perhaps nowhere more true than in Japan, where the approach of death has given rise to a centuries-old tradition of writing jisei, or the death poem. Such a poem is often written in the very last moments of the poet's life. Hundreds of Japanese death poems, many with a commentary describing the circumstances of the poet's death, have been translated into English here, the great majority of them for the first time. Yoel Hoffmann explores the attitudes and customs surrounding death in historical and present-day Japan, and gives examples of how these have been reflected in the nation's literature in general. The development of writing jisei is then examined from the poems of longing of the early nobility and the more masculine verses of the samurai to the satirical death poems of later centuries. Zen Buddhist ideas about death are also described as a preface to the collection of Chinese death poems by Zen monks that are also included. Finally, the last section contains three hundred twenty haiku, some of which have never been assembled before, in English translation and romanized in Japanese.Trade Review Kevin Rose and Tim Ferriss discuss Japanese Death Poems on episode #670 of The Tim Ferriss Show - Listen to it here (conversation starts at 1:18:00)"There is something so otherworldly and beautiful about Japanese poetry, but especially Japanese poetry about death…poetry and prose regarding death, dreams, and memories have an extra weight and heft to them, whilst still being able to maintain an ethereal, dreamy, nostalgic, cozy warm delivery in their thematic idea exploration." —Traveling Book Nerds"A wonderful introduction to the Japanese tradition of jisei, this volume is crammed with exquisite, spontaneous verse and pithy, often hilarious, descriptions of the eccentric and committed monastics who wrote the poems."—Tricycle: The Buddhist Review

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Book SynopsisLearn how to create a tranquil outdoor space at home with this practical and inspiring guide!With instructive drawings and step-by-step techniques, Inside Your Japanese Garden walks you through designing and creating your very own Japanese garden. From small projects like benches and gates, to larger undertakings like bridges and mud walls, this book provides a wide variety of ways to enhance the space around your home, no matter the size. Instructions on how to work with stone, mud and bamboo—as well as a catalogue of the 94 plant varieties used in the gardens shown in the book—round out this complete guide.This book also features 19 gardens that author Sadao Yasumoro has designed and built in Japan, and some—like those at Visvim shop in Tokyo and at Yushima Tenjin in Tokyo—are open to the public. From small tsuboniwa courtyard gardens to a large backyard stroll garden with water features, stairs and walls, these real-life inspirations will help spark your own garden plan.These inspirational garden projects include: Tea Garden for an Urban Farmhouse featuring a clay wall with a split-bamboo frame and a stone base The Landslide That Became a Garden with a terraced slope, trees, bushes, long grasses and moss A Buddha's Mountain Retreat of Moss and Stone with vertical-split bamboo and brushwood fencing Paradise in an Urban Jungle with a pond, Japanese-style bridge, and stone lanterns Each garden is beautifully photographed by Hironori Tomino and many have diagrams and drawings to show the essential elements used in the planning and construction.Trade Review"Fans of garden design will want to give this a look"--Publishers Weekly"While this is presented in the form of a manual, it is clear that what is truly important is not rigorously following a series of instructions but gardening from the heart, using fundamental design principles to inform one's plan and working with the site and conditions rather than trying to force them into obedience. Stunning color photographs depict the featured gardens and highlight smaller details within them. Thoroughly indexed and with a list of plants that appear in the book, this is a useful resource as well as a source of plentiful inspiration for readers." --Booklist"A visually beautiful book to simply browse through one garden at a time […] impressively written, organized and presented. A source of inspiration, ideas, and practical instruction." --Midwest Book Review

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Book SynopsisThe Genius of Japanese Carpentry tells the story of the 1200-year-old Yakushiji monastery in Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the dedicated modern-day craftsmen who are working to restore what has been lost to the depredations of time, fire and warfare.Although the monastery's reconstruction will not be fully completed until 2030, one of the primary temples—the Picture Hall—has been wholly restored employing the same materials, tools and techniques originally used in its creation over a millennium ago. Featuring intricate, puzzle-like joinery and the integration of timber pieces to orient them in the same direction as when it was a growing tree, this book skillfully documents the stunning craftsmanship of the ancient Japanese, which is still alive today.First published more than thirty years ago, this book has become a classic. Author Azby Brown, one of the world's leading experts on Japanese architecture, chronicles the painstaking restoration of the Yakushiji monastery through: Extensive interviews with carpenters and woodworkers Original drawings based on the plans of master carpenter Tsunekazu Nishioka Detailed photographs and diagrams showing the woodworking techniques, tools and materials used This revised edition of the book contains a new foreword by Mira Locher, one of the world's leading experts on vernacular and modern Japanese architecture.An inspiring testament to the dedication of these craftsmen and their philosophy of carpentry work as a form of personal fulfillment, The Genius of Japanese Carpentry offers detailed documentation of the restoration of this historic building and a moving reminder of the unique cultural continuity found in Japan.cTrade Review"My main impression throughout reading this book has been one of head shaking and disbelief, and sheer amazement at the ingenuity of Japanese carpenters current and old. If you have any interest in carpentry, timber framing, woodworking, or even Japanese history, I highly recommend this book" —The Year of Mud blog"The Genius of Japanese Carpentry focuses on Japan's foremost carpenters who combine the timeless past and living present." —Japan Woodcraft Association"…very much heartfelt appreciation of Japanese carpentry." —Japan Forward blog

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Book SynopsisSmall hardback edition of the Gita with chapter summaries, original Sanskrit, word-for-word translation, full translation, expert commentary, 8 color pages, index, pronunciation guide, glossary, and word dictionary. Best-selling edition for scholars and learners.

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Book SynopsisThe Holy Quran with English translation and commentary by Abdullah Yusuf Ali offers original Arabic text, clear English translation, and detailed commentary for deeper understanding of Islam's holy book. Essential for scholars and students seeking clarity and insights into the Quran's complex and multi-layered verses.

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Book SynopsisCelebrate the holidays with the Wizarding World’s delightful and fantastic creatures with a magical advent calendar and book filled with more than 25 surprises in Harry Potter: Holiday Magic: The Official Advent Calendar 2023 Edition.Harry Potter: Holiday Magic: The Official Advent Calendar 2023 Edition celebrates the magic of Christmas with 25 days of exclusive surprises, keepsakes, and collectibles featuring the enchanting Wizarding World creatures you know and love. DISCOVER MORE THAN 25 HARRY POTTER SURPRISES: Discover a new creature-themed holiday surprise every day! All 25 collectible items and holiday surprises waiting behind each door will make memorable gifts and bring the fantastical beasts of Harry Potter to life for the holidays COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: With 25 days of removable collectibles themed to the Harry Potter films, count down to Christmas by opening the door to a surprise each day from December 1st through 25th THE PERFECT HARRY POTTER STOCKING STUFFER: This 25-day advent calendar will add a dash of Wizarding World magic to the holiday season for every Harry Potter fan COMPLETE YOUR HARRY POTTER CHRISTMAS COLLECTION: Pair with Harry Potter: Christmas at Hogwarts, Harry Potter: A Hogwarts Christmas Pop-Up, Harry Potter: Pop-Up Holiday Wreath, and Harry Potter: Christmas Sweater Blank Boxed Note Cards

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