Øst-asiatiske religioner

A profound exploration of life's unpredictable journey through the lens of Taoist philosophy! In this 15,000-word memoir, Patrick Stewart, a writer and philosopher from Fort Worth, Texas, shares the intimate details of his life, seamlessly weaving together the threads of his experiences, passions, and the transformative power of Taoism.Embark on a captivating odyssey that begins with Patrick's early immersion in music and theater, his pursuit of a communication degree, and a foray into the world of technology at Apple. Witness his evolution through career changes, personal challenges, and a poignant encounter with Taoist philosophy that reshaped his worldview.As Patrick navigates the complexities of life, his narrative becomes a tapestry of resilience, self-discovery, and wisdom drawn from Taoism's timeless teachings. Unfolding over the course of decades, this memoir reflects on the intersections of career, family, spirituality, and the unexpected turns that define one's path.Delve into the heart of Patrick's reflections as he contemplates the interconnectedness of existence, finding solace and guidance in the principles of Taoism."A Beginner's Guide to Taoism" is a rich narrative that not only chronicles a personal journey but also invites readers to contemplate their own destinies. Drawing inspiration from Taoist wisdom, Patrick Stewart imparts a universal truth: life is a journey with no predetermined destination, and the beauty lies in the exploration.For those seeking a thought-provoking blend of autobiography, philosophy, and spiritual insight, This book promises a unique and compelling perspective. Join him on a reflective voyage where every word resonates with authenticity, and he invites you to ponder the profound mysteries of existence. Let the journey begin!

YOGA OG SJÆLENS MØRKE NAT HANDLER OM SJÆLENS REJSE FRA FRYGT, BEKLAGELSE OG FORVIRRING TIL HELLIG KÆRLIGHED! Baseret på Bhagavad Gitas tidløse lære viser denne nutidige vejledning til yogaens gamle visdom os, hvordan vi kan overkomme livets største udfordringer, hvordan vi følger vores formål med livet, hvordan vi engagerer vores hjerte i vores yogapraksis, og hvordan vi skriver vores livshistorie med kærlighed og medfølelse.Udtrykket “sjælens mørke nat” er benyttet siden sekstenhundredetallet og anvendes til at beskrive et tab af livsmening. I denne bog anvendes begrebet til at beskrive en personlig livskrise, som den Arjuna oplevede i Bhagavad Gita, og som næsten alle mennesker vil gennemgå i løbet af deres liv. Yoga og sjælens mørke nat giver et bud på, hvad sådan en krise i virkeligheden indebærer, hvordan den udvikler sig, hvad dens gængse kendetegn er, hvordan vi kommer helskindet igennem oplevelsen og hvordan vi kan lade os transformere af den. Ved denne tilgang fokuserer bogen specifikt på Indiens ældgamle yogalære. Denne bogs formål er at gøre Bhagavad Gitas praktiske visdomslære lettilgængelig for nutidens læsere og yogaentusiaster. Simon Haas trækker både på eksempler fra yogateksterne og nutidige eksempler fra almindelige folk, som du og jeg, der enten befinder sig, eller tidligere har været, i en eksistentiel krise. Disse eksempler taget fra almindelige nutidsmenneskers liv vil hjælpe med at danne et billede af sjælens mørke nat, samt gode, og mindre gode, måder at håndtere livets udfordringer på. OM FORFATTEREN: Simon Haas, som er født i 1975, blev interesseret i at studere gamle visdomstraditioner for mere end femogtyve år siden. Allerede som dreng begyndte han at studere de urgamle indiske sanskrittekster og boede i mange år i tempelklostre i Indien. Han gik i lære hos en ældre mester indenfor Bhakti-traditionen; en ubrudt række af lærere, der tusinder af år tilbage i tiden. Simon dimitterede med udmærkelse fra University of Cambridge. I øjeblikket fokuserer han på at gøre læren fra det gamle Indien tilgængelig for nutidige læsere og publikum. Han holder foredrag og tilbyder seminarer og workshops over hele verden om yogafilosofi og Indiens ældgamle lære.

Argues that Daoism and dandyism, linked by likeminded philosophies of "carefree wandering," deconstruct the puritanism and political correctness sought by Confucianism, Victorianism, and contemporary neoliberal culture.

Applies a method of comparative cultural hermeneutics to let the tradition speak on its own terms.

Orthodox churches in Ukraine and Russia share a common ecclesiastical tradition but differ in their views on practicing and interpreting it. To bolster their own views, different Orthodox churches emphasize different aspects of history, and >forget< others, not favorable for their interpretations. These intentional memorizing also influence on the churches' reflection of their position and role in society at large.Interpretations of ecclesiastical tradition also influence the Orthodox churches' reactions to the other churches in Ukraine. Abroad, ecclesiastical organizations, especially ecumenical bodies are also influenced by the Ukrainian Orthodoxy, and have influence on the Ukrainian and Russian Orthodoxy, when recognizing or leaving without recognition the multiplicity of the Orthodox faith in Ukraine and Russia.

Draws on Guo Xiang's commentary on the Zhuangzi to construct an account of freedom that is both metaphysical and political.

Nerval's book is a gripping excursion into the dark recesses of our cultural past, from the malicious spirits of the ancient civilizations to the hellish monsters of current pop culture. Join renowned scholar Stuart B. Nerval on a fascinating voyage across time and space to learn about the various and often surprising kinds of evil that have affected human consciousness since the beginning of time. Prepare for an exciting experience that will test your beliefs about demons and hell.

The Treasured Guide to Spiritual Growth and EnlightenmentThe Secret of the Golden Flower is an ancient Chinese text, passed on for centuries, in which Taoist mystics reveal the path to true enlightenment. The first written version was believed to have originated with Lü Dongbin, a legendary scholar, poet, and spiritual master. This remarkable and important work, first published in the United States in 1931, is Cary F. Baynes's elegant English translation of sinologist Richard Wilhelm's 1929 German translation of the original Taoist texts. This edition includes insightful philosophical commentary by psychologist Carl Jung which helps explain the metaphysical aspects of the text, providing valuable insights for westerners.In the text, symbols for light represented awareness, which is normally directed outward toward externals. The method of redirecting one's consciousness inward towards the self through a straightforward form of silent meditation and breathing was known as "turning the light around." Through this process of channeling energy beyond the limits of the discriminating intellect, one's psyche-indeed, one's fundamental being-can gradually open and blossom into an awakening of the mind and spirit. The result can be metaphorically pictured as a bright "golden flower" mandala, representing the rewarding end goal of a personal alchemy of inner transformation. The simple method described has been called "Zen with details." Like a practical workbook for achieving enlightenment, this clearly written meditation manual explores foundational techniques to experience elevated states of consciousness. It is nothing less than a spiritual seeker's road map to discovering the secret to peace of mind. This book is also available from Churchill & Dunn in hardcover (ISBN 1648374077).

Offers an innovative analysis of gates--as architectural components, visual images, and mental constructs--in early Chinese thought and material culture.

Discover the path to your authentic self and embrace your true identity with these insightful teachings from celebrated author and spiritual luminary Alan Watts. In this collection, Watts displays the intelligence, playfulness of thought, and simplicity of language that has made him so perennially popular as an interpreter of Eastern thought for Westerners. He draws on a variety of religious traditions and covers topics such as the challenge of seeing one’s life “just as it is,” the Taoist approach to harmonious living, the limits of language in the face of ineffable spiritual truth, and the psychological symbolism of Christian thought. Throughout, he shows how our true self is never to be found anywhere other than this very life and this very moment.

This pivot focuses on "e;the concept of edification"e; in a bid to systematically expound its connotative structure and logical evolution. It is divided into ten chapters, embracing various issues, such as human nature as the foundation of edification, the development of edification and cultivation, the evolution of edification and the resultant life based on ritual and music, the political orientation and ultimate care of edification, and the nurturing of social edification, in an effort to offer a panoramic view of the intellectual features of Confucianism, and consequently a profound reflection on the cultural consciousness of contemporary China. The book is expected to satisfy the needs for a better understanding of edification as a Confucian concept, and the conceptual features of Chinese philosophy, or rather, Confucianism.

¿shinto: the way of the gods ¿ the ancient religion of japan and its influence on society¿ is a comprehensive examination of the shinto religion and its significance in japanese society. shinto, which literally means ¿way of the gods,¿ is one of the oldest religions in the world and has a profound influence on japanese culture, history, and identity.in this book, we explore the origins of shintoism and the fundamental principles of this religion.we take a look at the various types of shinto shrines and their significance as places of worship and purification. furthermore, we examine the diverse rituals and ceremonies practiced in shinto and how they shape the spiritual lives of people in japan.another important topic is the connection between shinto and nature. in shintoism, it is believed that nature is inhabited by spirits or gods, and this concept has a strong influence on the understanding and treatment of the environment in japan. we also consider the connection between shinto and japanese mythology, as many of the gods and goddesses of shinto play a role in ancient japanese myths and legends.an additional aspect is the importance of shinto in family life. family rituals and ancestor veneration are integral parts of shinto beliefs and have a significant impact on family relationships in japan.furthermore, we shed light on the influence of shinto on japanese art. whether it is painting, architecture, theater, or music, shintoism has greatly shaped the artistic expressions of japan.additionally, we examine the political history of japan and the influence of shinto on the country¿s development. particularly during the imperial era, shintoism played a significant role as an instrument of state ideology and as a justification for imperialistic aspirations.throughout the book, we also consider the role of shinto in modern society. how has the faith changed over time, and how is it practiced in contemporary times? we take a look at the influence of shinto on various aspects of modern life, such as education, work ethics, and social norms.a fascinating topic is also the presence of shinto in popular culture. films, anime, and manga often incorporate elements of shinto, contributing to the spread and popularity of the religion. we examine some well-known examples and explore their impact on the international perception of shinto.tourism also plays a significant role in relation to shinto. many tourists from around the world visit japan to experience the impressive shinto shrines and participate in traditional ceremonies. we analyze the impact of tourism on shinto sites and the challenges they face.furthermore, we consider interreligious dialogue and how shinto interacts with other religions in japan. there is a long history of coexistence and exchange between shinto, buddhism, and other religious traditions in japan, and we delve into these relationships in more detail.lastly, we take a glimpse into the future of shinto. how will the religion evolve and withstand modern challenges and societal changes? what opportunities and potentials does shinto offer for shaping japan¿s future?¿shinto: the way of the gods ¿ the ancient religion of japan and its influence on society¿ provides a comprehensive and captivating exploration of shintoism and its influence on japanese society. it is intended for readers interested in religion, culture, history, and japanese society, offering deep insights into one of the most fascinating and influential religions in the world. immerse yourself in the world of shinto and discover its diverse facets and impact on japanese culture and identity.

Great European planetary festival in Dresden: a serial killer sends out poison horoscopes.Police student Max, severely disturbed by combat missions in Afghanistan, and his Evi, a petty criminal bakery clerk from Upper Lusatia, go in search of clues. While she hunts poisoners in the pulsating Florence on the Elbe, he accompanies the star astrologer Scultetus as a bodyguard to the end of the world.Art Nouveau palace in Prague, Chinese pagoda on the Canary Islands, heavenly priests of the Sahara, Istanbul horoscope scholars, alpine castle with scary witch, planetary avenues on the Atlantic, Scottish druid circles, star hall in Øresund, secret studies in Warsaw, examination by granite-headed lodge brothers and odyssey through the Zittau mountains, escape and return to Dresden.Showdown on the roof of the European Central Bank in Frankfurt am Main. And on, on and on, to the city of dawn in distant India.

This book explores the use of Confucianism by the Chinese Communist Party in its assertion of political legitimacy. Confucian thought offers an enduring framework for political legitimacy in East Asian societies, including China. All states strive to acquire legitimacy, and despite once denouncing Confucianism as the remnants of feudal poison, the Party is turning towards Confucianism as part of its legitimation efforts. This suggests that the Party is suffering from an ideological void in terms of legitimacy and legitimation due to the diminishing relevance of Marxism in Chinese societal practices. The book will devise a non-liberal legitimacy framework, drawing on the ideas of Habermas and Bernard Williams, to examine the legitimacy of the Party, and use an analysis of the elite discourse to determine the nature of the Confucian turn, in a sharp polemic that will interest scholars of Chinese politics, of the role of traditional beliefs in Asian modernity, and in China's future.

"The Blue Cliff Record, a twelfth-century collection of Ch'an (Zen) koans, is a treasure of world religious literature. Like any such text, it operates at several levels: it is a remarkable example of classical Chinese literature and poetry; it is a philosophical text of profound power; and it is an active practice guide in use by Ch'an and Zen Buddhists all over the world. In this innovative rendering, renowned translator David Hinton pares the Chinese original down to its earliest and most essential version-the sangha-cases (koans) and brief poetic responses (or gathas, meaning a Buddhist "sutra-poem") compiled by the great master Snow-Chute Mountain (Hsèueh Tou, 980-1052). In doing so, he brings the reader closer to the Taoist cosmological framework that lays at the foundation of the entire Ch'an tradition-revealing a whole new understanding of this seminal text. In these one hundred classic koans, beginners will discover a strange, funny, and provocative world of quixotic exchanges and penetrating insights, and longtime koan practitioners will find themselves challenged anew by Hinton's masterful translations"--

In a world that often denies the reality of death, The Tao of Death unveils a universal truth - in understanding and embracing our mortality, we unlock a fuller, richer experience of life. Inspired by the ancient, mystical verses of Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching, which translator Stephen Mitchell describes as "one of the wonders of the world," this adaptation is a transformative journey into the heart of existence. Driven by a profound personal connection with the ebb and flow of life, hospice physician Karen Wyatt reveals the joy and wisdom that emerges from confronting our greatest fear. In Bhutan, once named the happiest place on Earth, thinking about death is a daily practice. Can contemplating the impermanence of life be the key to true happiness? Dive deep into this unique exploration of life, death, and the intertwining of their paths.Just as the ancient Tao Te Ching speaks of harmony and balance, this book calls readers to find harmony between life and death, to live with purpose, love, and a deep sense of gratitude. Whether you're seeking solace, understanding, or a renewed zest for life, The Tao of Death serves as a luminary guide. "Life is precious because it is brief and fleeting. Embrace death, and you uncover the secrets to a life of meaning and depth."This is more than just a book; it's an awakening. Dive in, and let the wisdom of ages illuminate your journey.