{"title":"Karen Armstrong","description":"\u003cp\u003eKaren Armstrong’s works offer profound insights into the world’s major religions, exploring their origins, beliefs, and enduring impact on humanity. Her writing bridges \u003cem\u003ereligion and spirituality\u003c\/em\u003e with history and philosophy, providing thoughtful interpretations that challenge and enrich the reader’s understanding of faith traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a scholarly yet accessible style, Armstrong delves into the complexities of spirituality and the human search for meaning. Her books invite reflection on the nature of belief, the evolution of religious thought, and the cultural forces shaping our spiritual lives across time.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"the-battle-for-god","title":"The Battle for God","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReligious extremism stands as one of the most significant and challenging forces in the modern world, and understanding its roots and implications is essential. Karen Armstrong delves into this topic with \u003cem\u003eThe Battle for God\u003c\/em\u003e, offering readers a nuanced exploration of fundamentalism across different eras and religions. This book traces the evolution and clashes between conservative pre-modern perspectives, which are steeped in myth and revelation, and the progressive rational society that embraces change and modernity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eArmstrong's study is broad and profound, focusing on Protestant fundamentalism in the United States, Jewish fundamentalism from 16th century Spain and its development in Israel, and Muslim fundamentalism over the past 400 years. She uses her extensive religious scholarship to uncover the patterns of thought and belief that underpin these movements. Armstrong explains that fundamentalists view the contemporary world with horror, rejecting its claims to truth and creating a counter-culture that often opposes mainstream society.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eThe Battle for God\u003c\/em\u003e, Armstrong argues that fundamentalists are not merely relics of the past but are part of innovative, modern movements that interact with and challenge aggressive modernity. These groups often withdraw from mainstream culture, establishing their own counter-culture and fostering a state of cultural and ideological conflict. The book presents a compelling narrative that spans European and American history, detailing the rise and influence of these religious movements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis work is remarkable for its original thesis and deep understanding, offering readers a fresh perspective on the historical and contemporary impact of fundamentalism. It is a riveting history of movements and religious ideas, examining one of the most destabilising forces in the world today. \u003cem\u003eThe Battle for God\u003c\/em\u003e is both an informative and evocative text that sheds light on the complex relationship between religion and modernity, ultimately providing an extraordinary explanation of fundamentalist movements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45686644113644,"sku":"9780006383482","price":28.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780006383482.jpg?v=1725468367"},{"product_id":"sacred-nature","title":"Sacred Nature","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn urgent manifesto and a practical guide on how to rekindle our spiritual bond with nature, drawing on the wisdom of the world's religious traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this hugely powerful book, Karen Armstrong argues that it isn't enough to change our behaviour to avert environmental catastrophe; we must rekindle our spiritual bond with the natural world. From gratitude and compassion to sacrifice and non-violence, Armstrong draws themes from the world's religious traditions to offer practical steps to reconnect you with nature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSpeaking to anyone interested in our relationship with nature, worried about environmental destruction, or searching for new actions to save our planet, \u003cem\u003eSacred Nature\u003c\/em\u003e will uncover the most profound connections between humans and the natural world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45693332750572,"sku":"9781529114799","price":32.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781529114799.jpg?v=1725597959"},{"product_id":"a-history-of-god","title":"A History of God","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eA History of God\u003c\/i\u003e by Karen Armstrong offers an enlightening and comprehensive exploration of the concept of a singular divine entity that has shaped much of human religious thought for over 4,000 years. This authoritative tome delves into the multifaceted evolution of the idea of God, Yahweh, Allah, and how this notion has influenced and been influenced by the cultures in which it was venerated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eArmstrong meticulously traces the historical development of the monotheistic traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, examining how these religions have each portrayed the divine and the varying implications this has had for their followers. Her narrative extends from the earliest recorded human thoughts about God to the complex theological discourse of modern times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the critical themes of \u003ci\u003eA History of God\u003c\/i\u003e is the paradoxical nature of organised religion. While these faith systems preach the benevolence and righteousness of a singular deity, they have also been at the heart of conflict and intolerance throughout history. Armstrong does not shy away from highlighting the violent episodes and deep-seated prejudices that have often accompanied religious movements, offering a sobering reflection on the human condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith profound insight, Armstrong addresses the struggles inherent in the belief in one God. She explores theological debates, mystical traditions, and how different sects and denominations have understood and interacted with the divine. Her work emphasises the continuous quest for meaning and the eternal tension between faith and reason, unity and division.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter of this extensive and original account rejuvenates our understanding of the divine's role in human history, making \u003ci\u003eA History of God\u003c\/i\u003e both a controversial and awe-inspiring read. Armstrong's rich historical analysis confronts readers with the essential truths - and myths - that shape our understanding of the sacred in our lives. Her masterful storytelling and scholarly depth ensure that this book remains an essential read for anyone intrigued by the nature of belief and its profound impact on human civilisation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45695130042604,"sku":"9780099273677","price":34.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780099273677.jpg?v=1725621491"},{"product_id":"the-case-for-god","title":"The Case for God","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Case for God\u003c\/em\u003e by Karen Armstrong is a profound and enlightening exploration of the evolution of the concept of God and the crises that contemporary religion faces today. Armstrong, an acclaimed scholar of religion, embarks on an ambitious journey, tracing the history of faith from its earliest expressions in the Palaeolithic Age through to the present day. In doing so, she provides a deeply thoughtful and cultured counterpoint to the arguments put forth by Richard Dawkins and the New Atheists, who advocate strongly secular views.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eArmstrong delves into how the meanings of words such as 'belief', 'faith', and 'mystery' have dramatically transformed over millennia. She illustrates how both atheists and theists today engage in discourse about God and reason in ways that would have been inconceivable to our ancestors. This shift has led to widespread confusion about the nature of religious truth and has contributed to the growing number of people who want nothing to do with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith an engaging narrative, Armstrong examines the ancient practices of faith and how they provided meaning and comfort to human societies. She argues that many modern misunderstandings arise from reading ancient scriptures and traditions through the lens of contemporary rationalism. Instead, she proposes a return to a more nuanced and metaphorical approach to religion, one that acknowledges the profound mystery at its core.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn addressing the future of God, Armstrong asks whether and how we can construct a form of faith that addresses the needs of our troubled and dangerously polarised world. As she navigates this question, she suggests ways to develop a more compassionate and understanding approach to the divine, one that can bridge the deep divides that currently plague our global society.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Case for God\u003c\/em\u003e is an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of faith, history, and contemporary thought. Through her deeply researched and eloquently written narrative, Karen Armstrong offers a vision of faith that is both rooted in our shared human past and capable of addressing the complexities of the modern world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House Distribution","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45695676055788,"sku":"9780099524038","price":39.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780099524038.jpg?v=1725638244"},{"product_id":"islam","title":"Islam","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKaren Armstrong's \u003cem\u003eIslam\u003c\/em\u003e offers a riveting exploration of one of the world's most prominent yet often misunderstood religions. Through her elegant prose and profound insights, Armstrong delves into the historical and cultural evolution of Islam, meticulously tracing its roots from the ancient traditions of Judaism and Christianity. Her narrative introduces us to the life and character of Muhammad, whom she portrays not only as a religious leader but also as a visionary who played a critical role in establishing a new spiritual and cultural paradigm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn the public mind, Islam is often perceived as a religion of extremes—it's the world's fastest-growing faith, and more than three-quarters of the world's refugees are Muslims. Furthermore, it has produced diverse forms of governance, from the authoritarian monarchies in Saudi Arabia to the ultra-republicanism in Iran. Whether we are reading about civil war in Algeria or Afghanistan, the soul-searching struggles in Turkey, or political turmoil in Pakistan or Malaysia, the Islamic context is deeply entwined in these scenarios.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eArmstrong’s \u003cem\u003eIslam\u003c\/em\u003e goes beyond these contemporary issues, offering readers a nuanced understanding of the religion’s rich legacy. For much of its history, Islam has been a force for enlightenment, advocating for liberties, especially for women, and promoting the flourishing of arts and sciences. Armstrong demonstrates that this progressive heritage is often overlooked today as the faith grapples with the economic and political weaknesses of many of its followers and the relentless forces of modernity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not just a history but also a narrative that encapsulates the spirit and cultural achievements of Islamic civilisation. Armstrong sheds light on how Islamic scholars preserved and expanded upon the knowledge of ancient civilisations, from mathematics to medicine, and how these contributions laid the foundations for the Renaissance in Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThrough \u003cem\u003eIslam\u003c\/em\u003e, Armstrong invites readers to gain a deeper appreciation of a religion that has significantly shaped our world. It serves as a timely reminder that, despite modern challenges, the core principles of Islam—justice, compassion, and the pursuit of knowledge—remain relevant and powerful. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the complexities and enduring resilience of one of the world’s major religions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette New Zealand Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45712248635628,"sku":"9781842125830","price":31.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781842125830.jpg?v=1725982863"},{"product_id":"the-great-transformation-by-karen-armstrong-9781843540564","title":"The Great Transformation","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe centuries between 800 and 300 BC saw an explosion of new religious concepts. Their emergence is second only to man's harnessing of fire in fundamentally transforming our understanding of what it is to be human.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBut why did Socrates, Buddha, Confucius, Jeremiah, Lao Tzu and others all emerge in this five-hundred-year span? And why do they have such similar ideas about humanity?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eThe Great Transformation\u003c\/em\u003e, Karen Armstrong examines this phenomenal period and the connections between this disparate group of philosophers, mystics and theologians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46850082308332,"sku":"9781843540564","price":39.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/10218883482844.jpg?v=1759078949"},{"product_id":"lives-buddha-by-karen-armstrong-9780753813409","title":"Lives: Buddha","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuddhism is a faith that commands over 100 million followers throughout the world. Buddha revolutionised the religious ideas of his time to advocate a new way of living. All that is known about him comes from a collection of ancient writings that fuse history, biography, and myth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKaren Armstrong distils from these the key events of Buddha's life: his birth as Siddhatta Gotama in the fifth century BC and his abandonment of his wife and son; his attainment of enlightenment under the Banyan tree; his political influence; the divisions among his followers; and his serene death. Armstrong also introduces the key tenets of Buddhism.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn our own age of secular anxiety, she shows that it has profound lessons to teach about selflessness and the simple life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette Aotearoa New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47596770984172,"sku":"9780753813409","price":31.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780753813409-lives-buddha.jpg?v=1777941695"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.pro\/collections\/karen-armstrong.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}