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Refiguring the Spiritual: Beuys, Barney, Turrell, Goldsworthy (Religion, Culture, and Public Life #9)
by Mark C. TaylorMark C. Taylor provocatively claims that contemporary art has lost its way. With the art market now mirroring the art of finance, many artists create works solely for the purpose of luring investors and inspiring trade among hedge funds and private equity firms. When art is commodified, corporatized, and financialized, it loses its critical edge and is transformed into a financial instrument calculated to maximize profitable returns.Joseph Beuys, Matthew Barney, James Turrell, and Andy Goldsworthy are artists who differ in style, yet they all defy the trends that have diminished art's potential in recent decades. They understand that art is a transformative practice drawing inspiration directly and indirectly from ancient and modern, Eastern and Western forms of spirituality. For Beuys, anthroposophy, alchemy, and shamanism drive his multimedia presentations; for Barney and Goldsworthy, Celtic mythology informs their art; and for Turrell, Quakerism and Hopi myth and ritual shape his vision.Eluding traditional genres and classifications, these artists combine spiritually inspired styles and techniques with material reality, creating works that resist merging space into cyberspace in a way that overwhelms local contexts with global networks. Their art reminds us of life's irreducible materiality and humanity's inescapability of place. For them, art is more than just an object or process—it is a vehicle transforming human awareness through actions echoing religious ritual. By lingering over the extraordinary work of Beuys, Barney, Turrell, and Goldsworthy, Taylor not only creates a novel and personal encounter with their art but also opens a new understanding of overlooked spiritual dimensions in our era.
Refine and Restore: Revive Your Heart, Release Your Purpose
by Rachel C. SwansonIt's time to revive your heart, release your purpose, and have an authentic relationship with God!Women want to live boldly and bravely in their faith, but many feel weighed down by... something. They pretend to live a full life, but wonder why life as a Christian lacks luster. To fill the aches, they feast unknowingly upon consumerism, self-worship, food obsession, seeking love in all the wrong places, and grasping for anything but Jesus.Rachel shows women that in order to renew passion, purpose, and unwavering faith, they must intentionally choose to refine and restore their mind, body, and soul, acknowledging their subtle sins before Jesus.In REFINE AND RESTORE, Rachel shares the process of refining sins out of her life, which separated her from deeper intimacy with God, and restoring her heart back to the truth of who God really is. Through personal stories of confession and conviction (refining moments), readers will discover how Rachel found an authentic, vibrant relationship with God (restored wholeness)-inspiring readers to do the same.
Refined: Through the Furnace of Affliction
by Crystal HarrisFrom drugs and prison to healing and restoration, Harris invites you not only into her life, but also into her thoughts. Reading the motivations behind her actions and the steps that she took—whether for good or for bad—encourages you to reflect carefully on your life and thoughts. With each situation, Harris reveals how the Bible lovingly shows you the best way to act and think. Read Harris&’s compelling story of how God completely overhauled her life. See how God transformed her bleak circumstances and her unhealthy thinking into a renewed perspective about this world and the world to come. Walk in Harris&’s footsteps to experience the miracles that God did in her life and be encouraged to know that He can do the same for you.
Refiner's Fire
by Sylvia BambolaA thriller steeped in European culture like The Salzburg Connection, Refiner's Fire serves up serious suspense to avid fiction readers. This book's "secret underground society" is not Nazi war criminals, however-it's the persecuted Christian church. Yuri and Alexander Deyneko, separated as teens in postwar times, are reunited thirty-five years later in 1980s Bucharest. Now on separate sides of Nicolae Ceausescu's Iron Curtain, the secret life of one brother, a top army official and clandestine Christian, and the ambition of the other- now the American Ambassador to Romania-puts them on a collision course with each other. Fates hang on an issue of conscience. Great writing propels readers through the plot toward a gripping climax.
Refiner's Fire
by Mark HelprinAn Israeli soldier&’s life flashes before his eyes in this epic tale: &“As if The Odyssey had been updated and rewritten by Dylan Thomas&” (The Listener, UK).In 1947, Marshall Pearl is orphaned at birth aboard an immigrant ship off the coast of Palestine. Brought to America, he grows up a child of the Hudson Valley, determined to see the world in all its beauty and ferocity. His epic journey takes him from Jamaica to Harvard; from Great Plains slaughterhouses to the Mexican desert; and from the sea to the Alps. Marshall is eventually drawn to Israel to confront the circumstance of his birth in a crucible of war, magic, suffering, and grace.We first meet Marshall among the mortally wounded Israeli soldiers who are being transferred to Haifa during the Yom Kippur War. From there we follow Marshall—along with his memories and dreams—as he reconstructs his life, galvanizing strength through all that he has learned, suffered, and hoped.&“Superb...A first-rate odyssey, full of insight and humor and hard-earned truths&”—San Francisco Chronicle
Refining Gold: Stages in Buddhist Contemplative Practice (Core Teachings of Dalai Lama #8)
by The Dalai LamaOne of the latest additions to the Core Teachings of the Dalai Lama series, Refining Gold explains, in clear and direct language, foundational instructions for attaining enlightenment.One of the most central set of teachings of the succession of Dalai Lamas since the fifteenth century is the Lam Rim, or Stages of the Path, teachings—in particular those written by the great Tsongkhapa. These teachings are a guide, from start to finish, on how to engage in the transformational Buddhist practices that lead to enlightenment. In this illuminating work, His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama discusses a short but powerful text by his predecessor, the Third Dalai Lama Sonam Gyatso, who penned a famous commentary on the Lam Rim entitled Essence of Refined Gold. The Dalai Lama speaks directly to the reader—offering spiritual guidance, personal reflections, and scriptural commentary. His sincere approach and lucid style make Refining Gold one of the most accessible introductions to Tibetan Buddhism ever published. This book was previously published under the title The Path to Enlightenment.
Reflecting God
by Wes Tracy Gary Cockerill Donald Demaray Steve HarperBegin the journey toward intimacy with God with this new study celebrating the holy optimism of grace and love. Reflecting God combines the best biblical scholarship of the Wesleyan-Holiness denominations with the opportunity for inner reflection.
Reflecting on Faith Schools: A Contemporary Project and Practice in a Multi-Cultural Society (Spirituality in Education)
by Helen JohnsonProfound changes in society, government policy and the political landscape, as well as cataclysmic events such as 9/11, have greatly altered perceptions of faith schools and their existence now causes more controversy than ever. Taking a reflective practice approach, this study by people working within faith schools and colleges explores the new hot issues surrounding the subject in a sophisticated way. Looking at the supposed secularisation of the West, the nature of the multi-cultural and multi-faith society, the role of women, the spiritual development of children and most of all, the form that the tolerance of religious diversity should take in liberal societies, this book encourages readers to re-examine their assumptions and to consider faith schools as a part of the future of the English schooling system, within a multi-cultural society.This book was previously published as a special issue of The International Journal of Children's Spirituality.
Reflection
by Andrew NeidermanIn this suspense novel by the bestselling author of The Devil&’s Advocate, a Catskills realtor&’s life begins to unravel after discovering her doppelganger. Cynthia Palmer Warner is worried her imagination is running away with her. Her husband, Stephen, and brother, Jason, are working long hours to grow the Palmer family business, and Jason&’s misogynistic attitude seems to be wearing off on Stephen. Stephen is antagonizing his wife more and more and Cynthia can&’t stand it. But when she finds old news clippings about Karla Hoffman, things get worse. Karla was the same age, had the same face and the same odd marital dilemma. The trouble is, Karla was murdered by her brother fifty years ago, and Cynthia can&’t help but wonder if she&’ll meet the same fate . . . &“An expert weaver of suspense.&” —Fresh Fiction
Reflections: Notes On My Journey
by Cathy DalySince committing my life to Christ, I have, occasionally, become a secretary for the Holy Spirit. This collection comes out of that relationship and the various conversations we have shared at the highs, lows, and in-betweens of that walk.
Reflections
by Hilary GoodmanIn Reflections, Hilary Goodman opens the doors to her heart and invites readers on a poignant journey of grief and spiritual resilience. Initially conceived as a therapeutic outlet after the loss of her mother, the book reflects the struggle to navigate the shadows that death casts. Even when faced with the subsequent passing of her father, the enduring strength of the author’s faith emerged unscathed, blossoming with newfound depth. Seamlessly blending personal reflections with universal themes, this book offers solace and encouragement to those looking for hope during life’s darkest moments. Within its pages lie heartfelt poems, prayers, psalms, hymns, thoughts and talks to read, and reflect on. Reflections reminds readers that they are never alone in their struggles, and that there is always a guiding light to turn to.
Reflections: A Story of Hope, Healing, Facing Fears, and Finding Purpose
by Brian Hobbs Fia HobbsReflections takes readers on an honest journey through dealing with fears, coming to term with illness, facing death, and acceptance.Reflections is a gripping story written from two perspectives: Brian Hobbs, a songwriter with a terminal cancer diagnosis with months to live, and Fia Hobbs, his caregiving wife as well as his therapist. They share with readers their journey through hope, despair, and finally to peace and acceptance. During Brian’s illness, he wrote down his thoughts and feelings in a blog that became a huge inspiration for people to let go of their own fears and to find purpose in their own lives. Reflections is a continuation of Brian’s blog and helps to inspire readers to make them realize what matters in life as they follow his last months.
Reflections by Rosa Parks: The Quiet Strength and Faith of a Woman Who Changed a Nation
by Rosa Parks Gregory J. ReedOn December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to move to the back of a city bus in Montgomery, Alabama. She was not trying to start a movement. She was simply tired of the social injustice. Yet, her simple act of courage started a chain of events that forever shaped the landscape of American race relations.Now, decades after her quiet defiance inspired the modern civil rights movement, Mrs. Parks&’s own words tell of her courageous life, her passion for freedom and equality, and her strong faith. Reflections by Rosa Parks celebrates the principles and convictions that guided her through a remarkable life. It is a printed record of her legacy—her lasting message to a world still struggling to live in harmony.Including historic and beautiful pictures, this collection of Rosa Parks&’s reflections includes topics like dealing with fear, facing injustice, developing character and determination, faith in God, and her hope for the future.&“I want to be remembered as a person who stood up to injustice,&” writes Rosa Parks, &“who wanted a better world for young people.&” With Mrs. Parks&’s words of wisdom, humility, and compassion, this book will inspire people of all races to carry on her great legacy.
Reflections for the Grieving Soul: Meditations and Scripture for Finding Hope After Loss
by Mike NappaAs you mourn the loss of a loved one, this collection of intimate personal reflections, Scripture, and heartfelt prayers from a fellow griever offers comfort and hope in the days, months, and beyond as you navigate life after loss.The funeral comes and goes, and you're forced to deal with the chasm your loved one left behind. But grief doesn't operate on a predictable timeline. You may find yourself somewhere you didn't expect—drowning, kicking, or screaming—long after your loss. You may feel unable to talk to others—or to God.In Reflections for the Grieving Soul, widower and author Mike Nappa comes alongside you in your saddest hour, offering support and empathy. He gives you words of Scripture to meditate on at whatever pace you need, personal reflections from his own grief after losing his beloved wife, Amy, and accessible prayers for when you don&’t know how or what to pray. This honest and moving collection offers:Comfort as you seek God in your griefUnderstanding about the regret, fear, and anger you may feelPowerful Bible verses to meet you in your loss and painHonest prayers to help you cry out to God Whether you've lost someone you love or know someone who is grieving, this comforting book is a balm for weary souls and a source of peace in the most difficult times.
Reflections From a Mother's Heart
by Jack CountrymanWhat better gift isthere than for Mom to share her life's story, straight from the heart?Childrenyoung or grown will truly love receiving this treasure for a lifetime as theyread stories about their mother's life experiences. Reflections from a Mother's Heart is a beautiful place to recordspecial memories that includes guided questions prompting thoughts about familyhistory, childhood highlights, lighthearted incidents, cherished traditions,and spiritual lessons learned. The completed journal provides a priceless,beloved gift that will be cherished for generation after generation.
Reflections from Pope Francis
by Susan Stark Daniel J. PiersonA journal-style book containing inspirational messages from Pope Francis--Time magazine's Person of the Year for 2013 Only a little over a year into his papacy, Pope Francis is being hailed by the news media, Christians, and non-Christians alike as a refreshing figure in the Vatican. His humility, piousness, and forward-thinking ideas have been celebrated around the world.Reflections from Pope Francis features brief excerpts for reflection from Pope Francis's homilies, speeches, and addresses--along with invitation to prayer, writing, and action in a unique "journal style" book with space on each page for the reader to write down their own reflections on the powerful messages contained within each page. Complete with a focusing statement and scripture passages that introduce and summarize the theme of that page's reflection, these excerpts highlight important themes for humanity--such as care for the poor, mercy, forgiveness, and brotherhood.
Reflections of a Wondering Jew
by Morris CohenMuch as he considered himself a philosopher, Morris Raphael Cohen was also immersed in the machinery of social life. From his first years of "engagement" as a volunteer teacher in Thomas Davidson's school for working-class people, to his last as professor of philosophy at New York's City College and at the University of Chicago, he constantly sought to understand the underlying assumptions of human behavior.The studies Cohen gathered together for Reflections of a Wondering Jew are an indication of representative achievements of his life. He was deeply involved in the experience of the American Jewish community, and much of his work here consists of an inquiry into and analysis of specifically Jewish affairs. Some of his most valuable contributions to American thought and maturity are those that were never included in standard philosophical efforts. His work and scholarship provide foundations for the field of human problems and the history of ideas. These lectures illuminated the way forward in so many of our crisis years.There is a certain tragedy to the fact that for many decades Morris Raphael Cohen had hoped to organize and put into systematic form his literary reflections on Jewish problems and American liberalism. Towards the end of his life, he faced the realization that many of his intended writings would never reach fruition. Though this volume may not be quite what Cohen intended, it is a product of a mature giant in American intellectual history.
Reflections of Amma
by Amanda J. LuciaGlobally known as Amma, meaning "Mother," Mata Amritanandamayi has developed a massive transnational humanitarian organization based in hugs. She is familiar to millions as the "hugging saint," a moniker that derives from her elaborate darshan programs wherein nearly every day ten thousand people are embraced by the guru one at a time, events that routinely last ten to twenty hours without any rest for her. Although she was born in 1953 as a low-caste girl in a South Indian fishing village, today millions revere her as guru and goddess, a living embodiment of the divine on earth. Reflections of Amma focuses on communities of Amma's devotees in the United States, showing how they endeavor to mirror their guru's behaviors and transform themselves to emulate the ethos of the movement. This study argues that "inheritors" and "adopters" of Hindu traditions differently interpret Hindu goddesses, Amma, and her relation to feminism and women's empowerment because of their inherited religious, cultural, and political dispositions. In this insightful ethnographic analysis, Amanda J. Lucia discovers how the politics of American multiculturalism reifies these cultural differences in "de facto congregations," despite the fact that Amma's embrace attempts to erase communal boundaries in favor of global unity.
Reflections of God's Holy Land
by Eva Marie EversonDiscover the origin of the Word of God, and the Land of His Heartbeat in Reflections of God's Holy Land: A Personal Journey Through Israel. This unique armchair tour of Israel includes four-color photographs, related scriptures, historical and archaeological information about each area, and a description of what it looks and feels like to be there today. Providing more than a coffee table book of slick photographs, authors Everson and Feinberg-Vamosh (one Christian, one Jewish) enlighten readers with a deeper understanding of the land of Israel-the land that holds not only God's story but the story of His people. Features include: Beautiful photographs with cross-referenced scriptures of 40 significant biblical locations Historical and archaeological comment and present-day perspective Endorsements:"You've always wanted to go to the Holy Land, and this book will only deepen that longing. If for any reason you can't go, Reflections of God's Holy Land is the next best thing. You'll feel as if you've been there. Don't miss this." -Jerry B. Jenkins, Novelist"If you've been to Israel, this book will feel like a return trip. I highly recommend you settle in with a cup of something and experience the beauty and inspiration of these pages! I love it!!" -Marilyn Meberg, Women of Faith® Speaker & Author
Reflections of Tasawwuf: Essays, Poems, and Narrative on Sufi Themes
by Charles UptonSufism is the practice of remaining aware of the real presence of God in every circumstance, until Certainly is reached. The dizzying complexity of Sufi metaphysics, the passionate beauty of Sufi poetry, and the profound Sufi science of spiritual psychology, are all based on this. The Sufi Path is the process of spiritual transformation, ultimately resulting (God willing) in self-transcendence, produced by the Certainly of God's presence. In traditional Muslim society, many different moral, intellectual, and spiritual functions were performed by those 'estates' responsible for maintaining them. Parents, imams, and 'grammar school' teachers transmitted the fundamental ritual and moral principles of Islamic society. The madrasas took care of such traditional sciences as Qur'anic exegesis and the study of prophetic ahadith. The schools of fiqh maintained and applied the shari'ah. The mutakallimiin developed and taught kalam, Islamic 'scholastic theology'. The falasifa or philosophers carried on an intellectual tradition largely inherited from the Greeks. The ishraqiyyun developed a mystical theosophy based on direct spiritual insight. Physicians employed systems of healing derived in part from metaphysics. Poets often transmitted sophisticated spiritual lore; many other traditional craftsmen did the same. The mathematicians, astronomers, and other scientists sought to uncover the Signs of God in numbers, in geometrical shapes, and in the heavens. And the alchemists worked on the reconstitution of the original human form (al-fitra) in psycho-physical terms. So when a seeker applied for admittance to a Sufi tariqa, he likely knew his Goal. The lower rungs of the ladder taken care of; consequently the aspirant to Sufi initiation could be more or less certain that he was seeking God alone In modern 'semi-Muslim' societies, however, things are not so clear. And as for those Sufi tariqas that have emigrated to the West, and the individuals who seek admittance to them, the situation is even more ambiguous. The traditional supports for a collective worldview that places God first and sees His hand in everything are no longer readily available, and no one whose worldview is basically secular can follow the Sufi path as the great Sufis of the past once did. In the secular West especially, Sufi tariqas lack the exoteric religious culture in relation to which they could be truly esoteric; without the Zahir, one might say, there can be no Batin. Therefore This book is not so much a text on Sufism itself as an attempt--woefully inadequate--to indicate certain elements of the original context that allowed Sufism to be what it is
Reflections of the Christ Mind
by Paul FerrimiFor Paul Ferrini, there was a time when the very thought of Jesus left him cold. Instead of embodying the truth of Jesus' teaching, Christianity seemed to harbor the fearful thoughts and actions of people who were more committed to self-interest than to unconditional love. So when Ferrini felt Jesus' voice inside him saying, "I want you to acknowledge me," he resisted. In time, however, he came to realize that it was not Jesus he was rejecting but the untruths that had become attached to Christian teaching. Responding to the inner voice did not mean merely acknowledging Jesus as some great teacher who lived in the past, but also meant that he was opening himself up to a living presence within his own awareness. Once Ferrini reached this reconciliation, powerful words of spiritual truth began to flow through him. Reflections of the Christ Mind presents the most important teachings the author has received through his spiritual awakening. Here at last is a gospel devoted solely to Jesus' teachings of love, healing, and forgiveness. The teacher readers meet in these pages is both compassionate and open-minded-he is the Jesus Christians know in their hearts. Repudiating religious hypocrisy, intolerance, and spiritual pride, Ferrini rejects the dogmatic position of the Church, offering instead words of hope and healing that form the new gospel for today.From the Hardcover edition.
Reflections on a Mountain Lake: Teachings on Practical Buddhism
by Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo&“Tenzin Palmo is one of the most genuine and accomplished of western practitioners. Her voice is simple and pure, wise and true.&” —Jack Kornfield, author of Path with a HeartThis sparkling collection of Dharma teachings by Tenzin Palmo addresses issues of common concern to Buddhist practitioners from all traditions. Personable, witty, and insightful, Tenzin Palmo presents an inspiring and no-nonsense view of Buddhist practice.
Reflections on an Ageless Wisdom
by Joy Mills Edward AbdillModern Theosophy expresses the ancient wisdom tradition found in all religions. When H. P. Blavatsky, founder of the Theosophical Society in 1875, told English journalist A. P. Sinnett she had gained her paranormal knowledge from more evolved beings called the Mahatmas, Sinnett asked to communicate with them himself. The result was a remarkable correspondence carried on from 1880 to 1885 with Mahatmas Khoot Hoomi and Morya. Recorded in The Mahatma Letters to A. P. Sinnett, the answers of these Teachers form an essential part of Theosophical literature. At the time, the Letters stormed the bastions of racial and religious prejudice, and they continue to fascinate those seeking to probe the mysteries of the universe and the nature of consciousness. Here is the most comprehensive, magisterial discussion of The Mahatma Letters since they were first published in 1924. Eminent Theosophist Joy Mills bases her commentary on Vincente Hao Chin's 1999 edition of the Letters, helpfully arranged chronologically to enable following the exposition as it originally unfolded. Mills quotes Sinnett in emphasizing that the Mahatmas' purpose was not to put the world into possession of occult knowledge but to train those who proved qualified . . . so that they might ascend the path of spiritual progress. Her focus, then, is on not only knowledge of the magnificent Occult Science but more significantly the ethical and moral values we must embrace to be of service to the world. She offers her reflections on over 140 letters in the hope that they may prove useful to fellow-students on the journey toward the spiritual heights. May these letters call you as they have continued to call me to keep on exploring, for truly there is no other way to go!
Reflections on an Ageless Wisdom
by Joy Mills Edward AbdillModern Theosophy expresses the ancient wisdom tradition found in all religions. When H. P. Blavatsky, founder of the Theosophical Society in 1875, told English journalist A. P. Sinnett she had gained her paranormal knowledge from more evolved beings called the Mahatmas, Sinnett asked to communicate with them himself. The result was a remarkable correspondence carried on from 1880 to 1885 with Mahatmas Khoot Hoomi and Morya. Recorded in The Mahatma Letters to A. P. Sinnett, the answers of these Teachers form an essential part of Theosophical literature. At the time, the Letters stormed the bastions of racial and religious prejudice, and they continue to fascinate those seeking to probe the mysteries of the universe and the nature of consciousness. Here is the most comprehensive, magisterial discussion of The Mahatma Letters since they were first published in 1924. Eminent Theosophist Joy Mills bases her commentary on Vincente Hao Chin's 1999 edition of the Letters, helpfully arranged chronologically to enable following the exposition as it originally unfolded. Mills quotes Sinnett in emphasizing that the Mahatmas' purpose was not to put the world into possession of occult knowledge but to train those who proved qualified . . . so that they might ascend the path of spiritual progress. Her focus, then, is on not only knowledge of the magnificent Occult Science but more significantly the ethical and moral values we must embrace to be of service to the world. She offers her reflections on over 140 letters in the hope that they may prove useful to fellow-students on the journey toward the spiritual heights. May these letters call you as they have continued to call me to keep on exploring, for truly there is no other way to go!
Reflections On Anti-Semitism
by Ivan Segre Eric Hazan Alain BadiouSince the inception of the 'War on Terror', Israel has become increasingly important to Western imperial strategy and ever more aggressive in its policies towards the Palestinians. A key ideological weapon in this development is the cynical and unjustified accusation of 'anti-Semitism' to silence protest and dissent. For historical reasons, this tactic has been deployed most forcefully in France, and in the first of the two essays in this book French writers Alain Badiou and Eric Hazan demolish the 'anti-Semitism is everywhere' claim used to bludgeon critics of the Israeli state and those who stand in solidarity with the banlieue youth. In 'The Philo-Semitic Reaction', Ivan Segré undertakes a meticulous deconstruction of a rampant reactionary trend that identifies Jewish interests with the 'democratic' West. Segré's aim is to uphold a universalist position and to defend Jewish tradition from Zionist ideological distortion.From the Trade Paperback edition.