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|  | The New Buddhism by James William Coleman In our multicultural society, faiths formerly seen as exotic have become attractive alternatives for many people seeking more satisfying spiritual lives. This is especially true of Buddhism, which is the focus of constant media attention--thanks at least in part to celebrity converts, major motion pictures, and the popularity of the Dalai Lama. Following this recent trend in the West, author James Coleman argues that a new and radically different form of this ancient faith is emerging. THE NEW BUDDHISM sheds new light on this recent evolution of Buddhist practice in the West. After briefly recounting the beginnings and spread of Buddhism in the East, Coleman chronicles its reinterpretation by key Western teachers in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, ranging from the British poet Sir Edwin Arnold to the Beat writer Alan Watts. Turning to the contemporary scene, he finds that Western teachers have borrowed liberally from different Buddhist traditions that never intersect in their original contexts. Men and women practice together as equals; ceremonies and rituals are simpler, more direct, and not believed to have magical effects. Moreover, the new Buddhism has made the path of meditation and spiritual awakening available to everyone, not just an elite cadre of monks. Drawing on interviews with noted teachers and lay practitioners, as well as a survey completed by members of seven North American Buddhist centers, Coleman depicts the colorful variety of new Buddhists today, from dilettantes to devoted students and the dedicated teachers who guide their spiritual progress. He also details the problems that have arisen because of some Western influences--especially with regard to gender roles, sex, and power. Exploring the appeal of this exotic faith in postmodern society and questioning its future in a global consumer culture, THE NEW BUDDHISM provides a thorough and fascinating guide to Western Buddhism today. AUTHOR: James William Coleman PUBLISHER: Oxford University Press, Incorporated FORMAT: Paperback CATEGORY: Religion & Spirituality 
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 | The Handbook of Yoruba Religious Concepts by Baba I. Karade Describes the orisha, or angelic forces that reside in the natural world, and teachings of the 16 odu. Show us how to work with divination, to use the chakras to internalize the teachings of the Yoruba, and describes how to create a sacred place of worship. AUTHOR: Baba I. Karade PUBLISHER: Red Wheel/Weiser FORMAT: Paperback CATEGORY: Religion & Spirituality 
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 | Earth, Air, Fire & Water by Scott Cunningham This is a continuation of Cunningham's wildly successful Earth Power with more rites, spells and simple rituals that can be done with a minimum of equipment. Discover the wonders of star magic; the uses of candles, ice, snow and magnets; even the fine art of using wishing wells. AUTHOR: Scott Cunningham PUBLISHER: Llewellyn Publications FORMAT: Paperback CATEGORY: Religion & Spirituality 
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 | Beyond Four Questions by Louise August, Husleah This book provides a collection of narratives, prayers, recipes, songs, and activities that can accompany a Seder celebration. AUTHOR: Louise August, Husleah PUBLISHER: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing FORMAT: Hardcover CATEGORY: Religion & Spirituality 
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 | Truth Is Stranger Than It Used to Be by Brian J. Walsh, J. Richard Middleton Here is the book for those who wonder what postmodernism is and how biblical Christians might best respond to its challenges. In this book the authors survey postmodern culture and philosophy, offering lucid explanations of such difficult theories as deconstruction. AUTHOR: Brian J. Walsh, J. Richard Middleton PUBLISHER: InterVarsity Press FORMAT: Paperback CATEGORY: Religion & Spirituality 
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 | The Virtues of an Authentic Life by Bernard Haring, Peter Heinegg A beloved theologian shares his views on the undertones of spiritual maturity. In these short and personal essays, Bernard Haring discusses the components of moral competence. Haring sees the achievement of virtue as a holistic endeavor concerned with the entire personality in the context of its human relationships. AUTHOR: Bernard Haring, Peter Heinegg PUBLISHER: Liguori Publications FORMAT: Hardcover CATEGORY: Religion & Spirituality 
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