Interpreting The Sacred Ways of Viewing Religion

by PADEN, WILLIAM

• ISBN13: 9780807077054
• ISBN10: 0807077054
• Edition: Revised
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2003-04-15
• Publisher: Beacon Press

Summary

William Paden's classic exploration in religious studies, with a new introduction In the current climate, Interpreting the Sacred provides a fresh, thorough way to consider and compare various religious belief systems. Paden puts forth the idea that our understanding of religion influences our understanding of ourselves and our world. Updated with a new introduction, this book is for anyone who wants to consider and discuss religious beliefs. "To appreciate the fascinating, forbidding landscape of current religious theory, one needs a clear map annotated by an observant guide. Interpreting the Sacred qualifies on both counts." -Christian Century William Paden is professor and chair of the department of religion at the University of Vermont.

Author Biography

William Paden is professor and chair of the department of religion at the University of Vermont.

Table of Contents

Preface	ix
Interpretive Frames	1	(14)
The Challenge: Critical Interpretations of Religion	15	(13)
As Society, So Religion	28	(20)
As the Psyche, So the Gods	48	(19)
Comparative Perspective in the Study of Religion	67	(20)
Religious Interpretations of Religion: Views from the Inside	87	(23)
The Contextuality of Interpretation	110	(15)
Plurality: Issues and Implications	125	(12)
Notes	137	(16)
Index	153