Books matching: religious conversion
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- #1
Save:'The Samurai' by Shusaku Endo is a historical novel set in the early 17th century, following the journey of a Japanese samurai and a Spanish missionary on a mission to establish trade agreements between Japan and Mexico. The book explores the cultural and religious clashes between the beliefs of the samurai and the missionary, as well as their personal struggles with faith and integrity. Through well-researched and moving storytelling, the author delves into themes of imperialism, religious conversion, and the personal journey to find something to believe in beyond oneself.
- #2
Save:'Girl Meets God' by Lauren F. Winner is a memoir that chronicles the author's journey from Orthodox Judaism to Christianity. Winner delves into her personal experiences of meeting God through the lenses of both religions, showcasing her struggles, doubts, and eventual conversion. The book is a blend of personal memoir, devotional book, commentary on Scripture, and a reflection on the process of conversion, all presented through the engaging and insightful writing style of the author.
Back when Mississippi was dry, Ole Miss students and any other Oxford residents who wanted a drink would drive to Memphis, just across the state line, stock up on beer and whiskey, and haul it back in... 'The End of Faith: Religion, Terror, and the Future of Reason' by Sam Harris delves into the clash between reason and religion in the modern world. Harris provides a historical tour of how religious beliefs have led to some of the worst human atrocities and warns against the encroachment of organized religion into world politics. Drawing on insights from neuroscience, philosophy, and Eastern mysticism, Harris calls for a modern foundation for ethics and spirituality that is secular and humanistic. He argues that without ending dogmatic religions and the beliefs they create, the future of reason, logic, and civilization is at risk.
Harris presents a cogent analysis of why specific dogmas are dangerous as a whole and how individualized internalization of these beliefs can be detrimental to society and world cultures. challenges readers to question their beliefs and resulting actions, urging atheists to find valuable resources in the book and believers to critically examine their faith. Harris's writing style is described as thought-provoking, original, and deeply disturbing, presenting arguments that deserve a wide audience for their importance and impact.
- #4
Save:In "The End of the Affair" by Graham Greene, the novel explores the complexities of a love triangle during World War II in London. The story delves into the themes of adultery, obsession, and struggles with religious faith, all narrated through the perspectives of the characters involved. Greene's writing style is described as insightful, concise, and introspective, capturing the angst of an affair while also delving into deeper philosophical and religious themes.
A story has no beginning or end: arbitrarily one chooses that moment of experience from which to look back or from which, to look ahead. I say ‘one chooses’ with the inaccurate pride of a professional... - #5
Save:The Dictionary of the Khazars by Milorad Pavic is a unique and intricate novel that combines historical facts with lyrical storytelling. The book is presented in the form of a lexicon, with entries arranged in alphabetical order, creating a non-linear narrative structure that allows readers to piece together the story by connecting different entries. The plot spans across different time periods and features fantastical elements, fantastical characters, and a blend of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim mythology.
The writing style of The Dictionary of the Khazars has been described as magical realism, reminiscent of authors like Gabriel Garcia Marquez and Jorge Luis Borges. The novel is composed of entries that read like a dictionary, each describing a specific element relevant to the plot. The unconventional format of the book, along with its dreamlike and strange storytelling, makes it a captivating and thought-provoking read.
'The Structure of Scientific Revolutions' by Thomas S. Kuhn is a classic book that delves into the concept of scientific revolutions, paradigm shifts, and how the structure of science evolves over time. Kuhn discusses the nature of normal science, paradigms, anomalies, crises, and responses to these crises. The book explores how scientists are trained, how beliefs are passed down through generations, and how scientific progress occurs through shifts in paradigms. Kuhn presents his own thoughts on scientific revolutions, starting from Copernicus, and challenges readers to rethink the traditional views on the progression of science.
The writing style of 'The Structure of Scientific Revolutions' is described as technical and dense by some readers, making it a challenging but thought-provoking read. Kuhn's book introduces the phrase "paradigm shift" to the world and provides insights that are applicable not only to the field of science but also to other disciplines. While some find the book incomprehensible due to its complex language and concepts, others appreciate the depth and nuance of Kuhn's analysis, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the history and philosophy of science.
Skip this introduction. Come back to it if you want to know how the book came into being half a century ago, what its impact was, and the disputes that raged around its theses. Come back if you want o...- #7
Save:'The God Delusion' by Richard Dawkins is a thought-provoking exploration of atheism and the arguments against the existence of God. Dawkins presents a compelling case for rationalism and science over religion, dissecting the flaws in religious beliefs and the impact of faith on society. Through eloquent and witty writing, Dawkins challenges readers to question their beliefs and consider the implications of a world without the need for a divine being.
The God Delusion in the hardback edition was widely described as the surprise bestseller of 2006. It was warmly received by the great majority of those who sent in their personal reviews to Amazon (mo... - #8
Save:Quo Vadis is a historical fiction novel set in Rome during the time of Emperor Nero, focusing on the love story between Roman Marcus Vinicius and Christian Lygia. The book provides a vivid depiction of the contrast between Roman corruption and emerging Christian teachings, involving a detailed narrative about the persecution of Christians during Nero's reign.
The plot revolves around Vinicius' journey of coming to terms with his love for Lygia, his conversion to Christianity, and the challenges faced by early Christians under Nero's rule. The story also delves into the historical events of the burning of Rome, the blaming and torture of Christians, and the rise of the Christian faith amidst the decadence of Roman society.
PETRONIUS woke only about midday, and as usual greatly wearied. The evening before he had been at one of Nero's feasts, which was prolonged till late at night. For some time his health had been failin... - #9
Save:Robinson Crusoe is a classic tale that follows the story of an English sailor who gets shipwrecked on a desert island for nearly three decades. The protagonist, Robinson Crusoe, struggles to survive in extraordinary circumstances, grappling with fate and the nature of God. The book delves into themes of isolation, self-sufficiency, faith, and the complexities of human nature. Through Crusoe's experiences, the novel explores the concepts of madness, sanity, and reflections on civilization while navigating the challenges of living in solitude.
The narrative of Robinson Crusoe offers a blend of adventure, survival, and introspection as the protagonist faces various trials and tribulations during his time on the island. The book provides insights into the psychological aspects of being a castaway, the importance of companionship, and the evolution of Crusoe's character as he navigates through his journey of self-discovery and resilience in the face of adversity.
I WAS BORN IN the year 1632, in the city of York, of a good family, though not of that country, my father being a foreigner of Bremen, who settled first at Hull. He got a good estate by merchandise, a... - #10
Save:The King's Name is a sequel to The King's Peace, continuing the saga of King Urdo's dream of a united kingdom in Tir Tanagiri, now threatened by treachery and internal strife. The book follows protagonist Sulien ap Gwien as she fights to protect the peace that Urdo has worked so hard to establish, facing challenges from within the kingdom as well as the fear of forced religious conversion. The novel delves into the complexities of power, loyalty, and betrayal, all set in a world where history and myth intertwine seamlessly, creating a compelling and rich narrative. Jo Walton's writing style is praised for its detail, depth, and world-building, offering readers a captivating and immersive reading experience.
(Also, see 12 recommendations for the series Tir Tanagiri )
