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| February 2006 | ||
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In his latest book, Episcopal bishop John Shelby Spong confronts the various biblical verses that have for so long been associated with the deepest social conflicts of Western history. In his ongoing battle against biblical literalism he illustrates how scripture has been used to justify everything from environmental depredations, slavery, homophobia, subjugating women, the divine right of kings, anti-Semitism, and violence against children. For example, the injunction found in Genesis 1:28 “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it,” has been cited as the vindication for overbreeding, the lack of effective birth control, deforestation, the destruction of the ozone layer, global warming, and other severe environmental and ecological problems. Even today, church leaders and politicians try to justify their positions on these issues with many of the passages that Bishop Spong feels have been completely taken out of context, mistranslated, or misunderstood. Ultimately the book that is called the “Word of God” has left a trail of bitterness, hostility and violence, and has pitted groups and nations against each other. Bishop Spong concludes by insightfully explaining a new way of understanding the Judeo-Christian story, which he likens to an “epic,” and in the process brings to light a new vision of the universal God who calls us to a life of love, peace, and inclusiveness. This book will find a welcome home with anyone who has had to confront Bible-quoting individuals or groups that interpret scripture literally. The Sins of Scripture offers hope that there is a different way to view the book that has been the cornerstone of Western civilization. —Roger Juline
In her new book Byron Katie, bestselling author of Loving What Is, applies her method of self-questioning to our relationship with others. Her premise is that we find love when we stop seeking it. She begins by exploring some basic beliefs that prevent us from feeling loved; for example, “Nothing supports me.” She then takes us through a process of self-questioning this belief and others relating to our relationships. The process involves five steps. When we feel disturbed by a situation, we begin by giving the feeling a voice. Then, in dialogue with this voice, we move through a “reality check” and finally on to the “turn around,” which is the final step of inquiring into the thought. “Is it true?” is the key question that brings us to the turn around. Katie shows us how to use this method in reference to a spouse, parents, and friends, ultimately leading to the realization that by loving our self we no longer need to seek love from others; we know we are loved. This technique of incisive self-questioning, the crux of Byron Katie’s work, involves a shift from an external focus to an internal one, empowering us to take responsibility for our life experiences. As we begin to examine our beliefs, asking in each instance, “Is it true?” we clear away old, negative beliefs and move from feeling needy to feeling whole. Katie’s book will provide readers with a vital and freeing application of the Science of Mind teaching “Change your thinking, change your life.” —Kathy Juline
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