Besides the Bible, the Koran, or similar work.... What book that you've read had most influenced your spiritual beliefs? And why?
2006-08-23 02:35:06 · 17 answers · asked by Shaman 7 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
To answer the specific question you asked (as opposed to what you seem to be getting for answers):
The Razor's Edge by W. Somerset Maugham - A really simple message. It asks us to reflect on how we lead our lives. Do we follow the masses or seek inner fulfillment? Is it right or wrong to drop out of society and follow our inner selves?
The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand - I will admit that this becomes very tedious towards the end, but the book addresses a number of universal social (obliquely spiritually related) themes: the strength of the individual, the tug between good and evil, the threat of fascism.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo - "My heart is afraid that it will have to suffer," says Santiago. "Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself," the alchemist replies. "And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams, because every second of the search is a second's encounter with God and with eternity."
Cosmicomics by Italo Calvino - Kind of cute but it talks of the evolution of the universe. The characters are mathematical formulae, primordial goop, and cellular structures. “Naturally, we were all there - where else could we have been? Nobody knew then that there could be space. Or time either: what use did we have for time, packed in there like sardines?”
Give these books a try. I also recommend that you avoid most books related to an organized religion. Those books are usually very incestuous, and lack serious critical inquiry regarding spirituality (although they may have a lot to say about religion).
2006-08-23 04:39:55 · answer #1 · answered by Moose C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, of course, the Bible and the Book of Mormon have had by far the biggest impact on my life generally...
Then there are the other 2 "standard works" of the Church, plus there are brilliant regular Church magazines like "The Ensign" and the children's "Friend" that have been excellent, and often do more for me than the more well-known major works [above]!
But other than those literal Church works, in terms of spirituality, I would say, perhaps, "Answers to Gospel Questions", by the earth's prophet of 35 years back, Joseph Fielding Smith!
"Mormon Doctrine", by the modern Apostle, Bruce R. McConkie, has also been a great blessing.
The other of more recent times is, "7 Habits of Highly Effective People", by Stephen Covey - also a member of the same faith.
2006-08-23 02:52:41 · answer #2 · answered by dr c 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Quran Because I was Christian Before and bible gave be an out look and we as Muslims must respect God word But the Quran is the Seal of Books the final chapter the Quran Mentions the bible, Torah and Correctness of it and show it up for the false hood that men have added to it. It open my eyes and I Feel very blessed to be a Muslim and The Quran Help me be a better Human being and taught the true to Worship God.
2006-08-23 02:43:46 · answer #3 · answered by Muslimah4Life 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I'm zen buddhist. The book that has most influenced me (and I kind of consider it my bible) is "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying" by Sogyal Rinpoche. It's written in a simple, down-to-earth style that gives you a great base for understanding the Buddhist traditions and beliefs. From meditation to understanding life and death, this book is a keystone of inspiration to me.
2006-08-23 02:50:33 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Psychotropic chemicals have inspired my spirituality. No books have. yet, in case you like a sturdy e book, attempt "Ain't no person's business enterprise in case you Do: The Absurdity Of Consensual Crimes In A loose Society" via Peter McWilliams. it rather is going to be required interpreting for all and sundry who holds public workplace.
2016-09-29 21:35:37 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Blessed Mary of Agreda experienced incredible graces from God and documented them in a book entitled "The Mystical City of God". I found the book absolutely lifting! I refer to it many times when I am called to speak in public about spiritual matters. It certainly changed my life.
Another book which has helped me through some tough times is "Dark Night of the Soul" by St. John of the Cross. It helps us to understand why sometimes we experience hardships and dryness in our faith.
God Bless
2006-08-23 02:50:58 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Joel Osteen Your Best Life Now ..he is a excellent speaker keeps your attention and makes very good points ..
2006-08-23 02:41:38 · answer #7 · answered by aquaris01975 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Bhagavad Gita as it is of the Hare Krishna Movement..
Because it is directly spoken by God and presented in an unaltered way ...
2006-08-23 03:19:03 · answer #8 · answered by Parsu 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Max Lucado has very wonderful christian books.
Blessings To You & Yours
2006-08-23 02:41:30 · answer #9 · answered by Pastors Wife 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The Big Book- if you kmow what I'm talking about.
2006-08-23 02:40:43 · answer #10 · answered by JenJen 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋