A History of God

Oct 22, 2024 5:16 AM

Author:Karen Armstrong

A History of God

The idea of a single devine being - God, Yahweh, Allah - has existed for over 4,000 years. But the history of God is also the history of human struggle. While Judaism, Islam and Christianity proclaim the goodness of God, organised religion has too often been the catalyst for violence and ineradicable prejudice.

In this fascinating, extensive and original account of the evolution of belief, Karen Armstrong examines Western society's unerring fidelity to this idea of One God and the many conflicting convictions it engenders. A controversial, extraordinary story of worship and war, A History of God confronts the most fundamental fact - or fiction - of our lives.

Reviews

This is the most fascinating and learned survey of the biggest wild-goose chase in history - the quest for God. Karen Armstrong is a genius

—— A.N. Wilson

A splendidly readable book...the stage is set for the question: has God a future?

—— Sister Wendy Beckett , Sunday Times

We are all watching a daily fight between the darkness and light. What we want, but may never get, is assurance that the light will prevail. Armstrong is too tough a thinker to offer us comfort there

—— Anthony Burgess , Observer

Armstrong shows a reverent curiosity and a generosity of spirit, refreshing the understanding of what one knows and providing a clear introduction to the unfamiliar

—— Rt Revd Robert Runcie , Daily Telegraph

Witty, informative and contemplative: Ms Armstrong can simplify complex ideas, but she is never simplistic

—— New York Times Book Review

Only those who think they know it all will fail to be fascinated by Armstrong's search for God

—— Economist

Highly readable, and ought to be read

—— Anthony Burgess , Observer

Armstrong's book has great merits. An ex-nun, this formidably intelligent woman knows enough about both Judaism and Islam to be appreciated by Jewish and Muslim scholars... Whenever she deals with Christian mysticims, agnosticism and heterodoxy, Armstrong offers valuable insights

—— The Times

An enormously intellectually challenging book. A fascinating way of approaching the subject

—— Rabbi Julia Neuberger

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