Spirituality and religious experience Books

Book SynopsisOn the Mystery of MusicTrade Review“A breathtaking surge of inspired (and learned) exploration, triggered by the sound of a violin playing Mozart during an evening walk in wartime - pithy, challenging, and quite fascinating, carrying us, through music, towards ‘not something, but Someone.’” Jennifer Smith. Professor at the Royal College of Music, LondonA short but rich and complex book. . . . [W]e are listening to someone who is at once a professional musician by training and a Benedictine nun. . . . A significant book, and I warmly recommend it. Christopher Francis, Latin Liturgy"A remarkable . . . deeply Christian meditation on the liberating power of music. Labat's essay engages profoundly but also humbly with the transformative power of music that, assisted by grace, opens us to the call of beauty. Indeed, Labat's essay presents a discerning account of the experience of beauty especially as achieved through listening to and performing music and a theologically well-grounded account of the Christian significance of beauty in the contemplative life." Michael C. Jordan, Editor, Logos: A Journal of Catholic Thought and Culture"This book will be of interest to serious students of the theology of music and of the role of liturgical music. We should be grateful that it is finally available in English."Anglican Theological Review

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Trade Review“A wonderful book. The introduction on its own ought to be required reading in all theological schools and for those interested in literature generally. This collection of The Sayings and Stories of the Desert Fathers and Mothers (Vol. 1) is an edition that is destined to become a classic standard. To situate his material, Tim Vivian offers a generous and reflective introduction to the desert tradition that is both scintillating in its intellectual brilliance and moving in its spiritual profundity. The scholarly translations are accompanied at every step by commentary and insight that demonstrate Vivian’s fluent mastery and his status as one of the world’s preeminent leaders in the field. It is a book that scholar and student alike will treasure.”V. Revd. Prof. John A. McGuckin, Faculty of Theology, Oxford University“The flow and precision of Tim Vivian’s translation allows for the personalities, messages, and worldview of the Sayings to resonate poignantly today. Moreover, his masterful notes reveal the complex linguistic and spiritual layers of these texts, as well as the degree to which scriptural language and imagery permeated monastic thought. Whether read for academic or spiritual purposes, one will encounter fresh insights and the distilled results of decades of research and reflection on every page of this remarkable volume.”Maged S. A. Mikhail, Professor of History, California State University, Fullerton“To understand the parabolic and paradigmatic nature of the apophthegmata (wise sayings) of the desert ammas and abbas, it is best to have a guide as gifted in the ancient languages of the sayings as Vivian, but also to enter into these stories with the contemplative framework of lectio divina, as Vivian recommends in his introduction. In the process, the hidden depths of these elders open up layers in one’s own search for the Holy One and the blessings and pitfalls of the spiritual life.”Mary Forman, OSB, Prioress, Monastery of St. Gertrude, Idaho"A consummate scholar, deft translator, and skilled wordsmith, Tim Vivian links ancient insights to contemporary spirituality and the work for justice. In this collection of sayings and stories, he offers a wealth of detail to feed the mind of any scholar and an abundance of wisdom to fill the soul of every seeker."The Rev. Gary Commins, DD“Bringing a depth of experience as a translator of early monastic texts, Tim Vivian offers not only a new, vivid translation of the Apopthegmata Patrum, but also a rare window into the process, and challenge, of translation itself. With an introduction that not only orients the reader to this complex literature but also draws our attention to its contemporary spiritual significance, and a set of tools to decode the language of the desert fathers and mothers, this two-volume work offers rich resources for lovers of the desert monastic tradition and for those encountering for the first time.”Revd. Dr. Jane Foulcher, Associate Head of School and Senior Lecturer in Theology, School of Theology, Charles Sturt University, Australia“Professor Tim Vivian has dedicated much of his academic career to bringing out the jewels of Coptic Monasticism that provided the inspirational and functional foundation for monasticism worldwide. His latest work brings the writings of the Mothers and Fathers in a model that serves both the benefit of their teachings as well as collectively the personality of those that said them. Bringing this systematic grouping from its original Greek to the English-speaking world is not only a blessing but a guide for those that seek holiness in their lives whether in the world or in seclusion away from it. The additional distinctive reflections of the author add that much value for the work. We pray that the complete collection will soon be in the hands of so many of us that waited for it for untold years.”Hany N. Takla, President. St. Shenouda the Archimandrite Coptic Society“The desert fathers and mothers are still popular today, fifteen or sixteen centuries after their deeds and words were recorded. People are inspired by these pithy sayings, and perhaps at times amused by them. But in either case, the context in which they lived and worked and prayed is vague and general, usually limited to a brief introduction to the sayings themselves. Tim Vivian’s book supplies this context and more. His introductions to each of the monks and nuns give what historical information is available, and he allows us to appreciate their individuality. He takes the time for personal reflection on the sayings of each one as a whole, rather than as separate quotes, and relates these ancient sayings to our world, brings them into our time, with wise lessons to teach us. In his notes, he gives more background, scriptural echoes and sources, and his exploration of the Greek behind the translation illuminates aspects of the sayings which would otherwise be lost in translation. This is a book which general readers will thoroughly enjoy, and scholars will appreciate. I look forward to the next volume in this series.”Fr. Lawrence Morey, OCSO"We should be grateful for this beautiful new translation of real treasures of the spiritual life that still speak to, yes convict, us."Cistercian Studies Quarterly“A wonderful book. The introduction on its own ought to be required reading in all theological schools and for those interested in literature generally. This collection of The Sayings and Stories of the Desert Fathers and Mothers (Vol. 1) is an edition that is destined to become a classic standard. To situate his material, Tim Vivian offers a generous and reflective introduction to the desert tradition that is both scintillating in its intellectual brilliance and moving in its spiritual profundity. The scholarly translations are accompanied at every step by commentary and insight that demonstrate Vivian’s fluent mastery and his status as one of the world’s preeminent leaders in the field. It is a book that scholar and student alike will treasure.”V. Revd. Prof. John A. McGuckin, Faculty of Theology, Oxford University“The flow and precision of Tim Vivian’s translation allows for the personalities, messages, and worldview of the Sayings to resonate poignantly today. Moreover, his masterful notes reveal the complex linguistic and spiritual layers of these texts, as well as the degree to which scriptural language and imagery permeated monastic thought. Whether read for academic or spiritual purposes, one will encounter fresh insights and the distilled results of decades of research and reflection on every page of this remarkable volume.”Maged S. A. Mikhail, Professor of History, California State University, Fullerton“To understand the parabolic and paradigmatic nature of the apophthegmata (wise sayings) of the desert ammas and abbas, it is best to have a guide as gifted in the ancient languages of the sayings as Vivian, but also to enter into these stories with the contemplative framework of lectio divina, as Vivian recommends in his introduction. In the process, the hidden depths of these elders open up layers in one’s own search for the Holy One and the blessings and pitfalls of the spiritual life.”Mary Forman, OSB, Prioress, Monastery of St. Gertrude, Idaho"A consummate scholar, deft translator, and skilled wordsmith, Tim Vivian links ancient insights to contemporary spirituality and the work for justice. In this collection of sayings and stories, he offers a wealth of detail to feed the mind of any scholar and an abundance of wisdom to fill the soul of every seeker."The Rev. Gary Commins, DD“Bringing a depth of experience as a translator of early monastic texts, Tim Vivian offers not only a new, vivid translation of the Apopthegmata Patrum, but also a rare window into the process, and challenge, of translation itself. With an introduction that not only orients the reader to this complex literature but also draws our attention to its contemporary spiritual significance, and a set of tools to decode the language of the desert fathers and mothers, this two-volume work offers rich resources for lovers of the desert monastic tradition and for those encountering for the first time.”Revd. Dr. Jane Foulcher, Associate Head of School and Senior Lecturer in Theology, School of Theology, Charles Sturt University, Australia“Professor Tim Vivian has dedicated much of his academic career to bringing out the jewels of Coptic Monasticism that provided the inspirational and functional foundation for monasticism worldwide. His latest work brings the writings of the Mothers and Fathers in a model that serves both the benefit of their teachings as well as collectively the personality of those that said them. Bringing this systematic grouping from its original Greek to the English-speaking world is not only a blessing but a guide for those that seek holiness in their lives whether in the world or in seclusion away from it. The additional distinctive reflections of the author add that much value for the work. We pray that the complete collection will soon be in the hands of so many of us that waited for it for untold years.”Hany N. Takla, President. St. Shenouda the Archimandrite Coptic Society“The desert fathers and mothers are still popular today, fifteen or sixteen centuries after their deeds and words were recorded. People are inspired by these pithy sayings, and perhaps at times amused by them. But in either case, the context in which they lived and worked and prayed is vague and general, usually limited to a brief introduction to the sayings themselves. Tim Vivian’s book supplies this context and more. His introductions to each of the monks and nuns give what historical information is available, and he allows us to appreciate their individuality. He takes the time for personal reflection on the sayings of each one as a whole, rather than as separate quotes, and relates these ancient sayings to our world, brings them into our time, with wise lessons to teach us. In his notes, he gives more background, scriptural echoes and sources, and his exploration of the Greek behind the translation illuminates aspects of the sayings which would otherwise be lost in translation. This is a book which general readers will thoroughly enjoy, and scholars will appreciate. I look forward to the next volume in this series.”Fr. Lawrence Morey, OCSO"When the publication of this translation is complete it will certainly be the most comprehensive and thorough resource for encountering and appreciating this fundamental compendium of early monastic teaching."Catholic Books Review“What Vivian does here is invite the reader to take up and read the sayings. He also shows the ongoing relevance of monastic desert spirituality by pairing the teachings of the apophthegmata nicely with the contemporary spiritual teachings of Gregory Boyle (of Homeboy Industries) and the always-relevant Thomas Merton. It is clear that Vivian has not only translated the sayings but internalized their spiritual message, and he is eager to see the same transformation occur in his readers.”Greg Peters, Biola University, American Benedictine Review"This volume explores a little known source of Christian spirituality. It offers an excellent excavation of the desert mystics and those regarded as early Christian parents of monastic type spirituality."Catholic Media Association"The Introduction is a masterpiece. Church historians will appreciate the new translation, which gives an authentic flavor to the sayings and stories that are fundamentally part of the oral tradition.The Downside Review"If one wants to really dig into these stories, and make sense of them in their context—interwoven with scripture, theology, and history—Vivian’s work is absolutely essential."Englewood Review of BooksTable of ContentsContents Preface by Kathleen Norris xiii Foreword by Terrence G. Kardong, OS B xv Abbreviations xix Translator’s Reflection xxv Introduction 1 I. Prologue with Stories 1 II. The Sayings of the Desert Fathers and Mothers (Apophthegmata Patrum) 12 III. An Introduction to Some Early Monastic Themes in the Apophthegmata Patrum 19 IV. Ego & Self: the Awe-filled Rowing towards the True Self 46 V. Practices in Transformation 61The Sayings and Stories of the Desert Fathers and Mothers Prologue for the Book: About the Ascetic Practices of the Blessed Fathers 89 Chapter 1: A / Álpha / A 93 Concerning Abba Antony 93 Concerning Abba Arsenius 119 Concerning Abba Agathon 147 Concerning Abba Ammonas 161 Concerning Abba Achilla (Achilles) 168 Concerning Abba Ammoë / Ammoës 172 Concerning Abba Ammoun of Nitria 174 Concerning Abba Anoub 176 Concerning Abba Abraham 178 Concerning Abba Are 180 Concerning Abba Alonius 181 Concerning Abba Apphu 182 Concerning Abba Apollo 183 Concerning Abba Andrew 186 Concerning Abba Aïṓ 186 Concerning Abba Ammonatha 187 Chapter 2: B / Bȇta / B 189 Concerning Basil the Great 189 Concerning Abba Bessarion 190 Concerning Abba Benjamin 197 Concerning Abba Biare 198 Chapter 3: G / Gámma / Γ 199 Concerning Gregory the Theologian 199 Concerning Abba Gelasius 200 Concerning Abba Gerontius 210 Chapter 4: D / Délta / Δ 213 Concerning Abba Daniel 213 Concerning Abba Dioscorus 221 Concerning Abba Doulas 223 Chapter 5: E / Épsilon / E 225 Concerning Saint Epiphanius, Bishop of Cyprus 225 Concerning Saint Ephraim 231 Eucharistus, Who Lived in the World 233 Eulogius 235 Concerning Abba Euprepius 238 Concerning Abba Helladius 240 Concerning Abba Evagrius 241 Concerning Abba Eudaemon 246 Chapter 6: Z / Zȇta / Z 247 Concerning Abba Zenon 247 Concerning Abba Zachariah 251 Chapter 7: H / Ȇta / Ē 253 Concerning Abba Isaiah 253 Concerning Abba Elijah 256 Concerning Abba Heraclius 258 Glossary 261 Dramatis Personae 319 Selected Bibliography 323 Scripture Index 331 General Index 343

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Book Synopsis How did the monks of the Egyptian desert fight against the demons that attacked them with tempting thoughts? How could Christians resist the thoughts of gluttony, fornication, or pride that assailed them and obstructed their contemplation of God? According to Evagrius of Pontus (345 ''399), one of the greatest spiritual directors of ancient monasticism, the monk should talk back to demons with relevant passages from the Bible. His book Talking Back (Antirrhêtikos)lists over 500 thoughts or circumstances in which the demon-fighting monk might find himself, along with the biblical passages with which the monk should respond. It became one of the most popular books among the ascetics of Late Antiquity and the Byzantine East, but until now the entire text had not been translated into English. From Talking Back we gain a better understanding of Evagrius''s eight primary demons: gluttony, fornication, love of money, sadness, anger, listlessness, vainglory, and pride. We can explore a central aspect of early monastic spirituality, and we get a glimpse of the temptations and anxieties that the first desert monks faced. David Brakke is professor and chair of the Department of Religious Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences of Indiana University. He studied ancient Christianity at Harvard Divinity School and Yale University. Brakke is the author of Athanasius and Asceticism and Demons and the Making of the Monk: Spiritual Combat in Early Christianity, and he edits the Journal of Early Christian Studies. Trade Review"This work makes available to the English readership a work that not only offers a fuller appreciation of the spirituality of Evagrius and his psychology but provides as well a more concrete understanding of the psychology and struggles of the early monks in the Egyptian desert."Cistercian Studies Quarterly"This is a very practical, dealing-with-the-issues kind of lectio divina. The monks of Evagrius' time considered this a read spiritual treasure. The same treasure is now available to us in English."American Benedictine Review"With much wisdom and thought, Evagrius of Pontus is a must read for anyone who wants to best understand ancient Christianity and learn about its roots."Midwest Book Review

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Book SynopsisA new edition of a treasured contemplative classic. The author takes readers on a journey based on biblical themes and urges them to seek a personal inner hermitage in which to seek and to reach God. 'Not everyone, obviously, can and should live as a monk or hermit. But no Christian can do without an inner hermitage in which to meet his God.'

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Book Synopsis`Give me a word, Father', visitors to early desert monks asked. The responses of these pioneer ascetics were remembered and in the fourth century written down in Coptic, Syriac, Greek, and later Latin. Their Sayings were collected and read by generations of Christians as life-giving words that would help readers along the path to salvation.Trade Review. . . the only English translation of the most complete version of the Apophthegmata Patrum, a compilation of sayings from the desert monks of Egypt, Syria, and Palestine in the fourth to sixth century, likely to be widely read and enjoyed for their own sake.ChoiceA delightful insight into the lives of ascetics who left all to follow Christ . . . a very readable translation of an important collection of sayings.Sisters Today. . . should be on the shelf of every library concentrating in spirituality.Abba

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Book SynopsisSpiritual Friendship is today the best known and perhaps most influential of the 13 surviving works of Aelred, abbot of the English Cistercian abbey of Rievaulx from 1147-1167. This fresh new translation allows the intellectual and Christian insight of this great teacher and writer to speak clearly to today's seekers of love, wisdom, and truth.Trade ReviewThis new edition provides an especially good introduction, extensive bibliography of sources, translations and secondary studies and a crisp, new translation.Bonnie Thurston, Cistercian Studies QuarterlyThis small text provides much to glean, ponder, and in which to delight.American Benedictine Review

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Book Synopsisn this sequel to the bestselling Meditations on the Signs of the Zodiac, Beredene Jocelyn sheds valuable new light on the cosmic meaning of existence by charting life''s passages in concert with planetary laws. With compassion, authority, and a deep knowledge of spiritual science, the author explores in clear detail such subjects as life''s year-by-year unfolding through the stages of child development and adult life, as well as thanatology (the science of death and dying) and the process of passing through the journey from death to rebirth.Beredene Jocelyn presents a far-reaching, holistic perspective on the place of human beings in the universal order-a major effort that recalls the immense achievement in the spiritual research of Rudolf Steiner.Citizens of the Cosmos meets the growing urgent need for spiritual wisdom and individual responsibility. It will appeal not only to general readers, regardless of occupation or life status, but will be especially relevant for all those interested in spiritual values and our human place in the cosmos.

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Book SynopsisOverwhelming evidence reveals contemporary Christianity roots in Pentecost! The world is taking notice and realizing that the fastest-growing segment in Christianity has an undeniable history with a pattern and a rich, deep foundation dating back to the New Testament. Explore overwhelming evidence that reveals how the gifts of the Holy Spirit not only have existed in the centuries since the early apostles, but have also survived the Middle Ages, the politicized church of Europe, and have experienced a spectacular revival this century. Learn invaluable lessons from the experiences of courageous men and women who sought God and saw His power in their generation. The reader of this volume will gain a greater appreciation for the work of the Holy Spirit in history and will experience a sharpened sense to discern what God is doing in the church today. 2000 Years of Charismatic Christianity offers convincing evidence that the modern Pentecostal and Charismatic movements are rooted in

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