4 out of 4 stars
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Before introducing this book, let me point out that this book is not a normal fantasy read; but a thought-provoking, questionable read. This book subjects us to measure and question our belief and faith towards our religion. It's exceptionally paramount the reader keep a liberal mind as this is genuinely a controversial read. Please keep in mind that people have a right to their own opinion and one must learn to respect that.
God Versus The Idea of God by Thomas Richard Harry is a prolific non-fiction read which consists of nine chapters, an epilogue and a prologue with the author’s biography; divulging the essential information candidly to clarify the reader’s doubts and questions. With more than 35 years of lay experience and exposure at the local church level, the author offers a profound reading experience through his book.“What is externally incomprehensible in the world is that it is comprehensible” (Albert Einstein)
The book addresses a wide area on the ideology of Christianity and its doctrine with the current practice conducted in the catholic church. The author talks about how the God's creation “the man” fell out of God's favor due to the man's ignorance and immaturity. Harry utilizes a pragmatic approach to discuss on how reliable the modern-day religion is. Moreover, he gives a detail difference between the Hebrew-bible and the new testament. I also got new inside information about the ancient books like the biblical book of Exodus and Genesis; the author questions their originality and reliability.
It's fascinating to see how the author uses a logical approach throughout that articulates his beliefs and views. The author interprets it into two questions:
This facilitated me to recognize the author’s style of thinking, his mind-set and how he approaches the traditional way of practice and assertive culture than acknowledging them blindly. The author gives his opinion in a straight-forward manner in which I saw myself agreeing and disagreeing with.“1. If an infinite and perfect God (by definition) exists outside of time (history) – always has, does and always will – while finite mankind exists in time (history), how can there be any intercourse or relationship, or even awareness between the two?
2. What is the purpose of God?”
It's intriguing to comprehend how the author has conducted a broad study in theology. Each chapter is very well-organized in a way that would not embody any hindrance to the reader. Each chapter address diverse topics with reason which was thought-provoking. This extensive study reminded me of a documentary file I watched by Morgan Freeman called The Story of God.
I notice the plot addresses to a precise degree on how science question the fact about God; the reality; the mind of God. I believe that Stephen Hawking demonstrated a scientific approach to this study in his books A Brief History of Time and The Grand Design. The writing used is satisfactory, and the language is user-friendly.
Towards the end, the author leaves a sound message to his reader’s about his findings and its outcome:
For this I would like to reply back by saying:“If a man does away with his traditional way of living and throws away his good customs. He had better first make certain that he has something of value to replace them.” (Thomas Richard Harry)
“Do not believe in anything (simply) because you have heard it. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. Do not believe in anything because it is spoken or rumoured by many. Do not believe anything (simply) because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders; But after observation and analysis, when you find anything that agree with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one, then accept it and live up to it.” (Lord Buddha, Ang.Nik, 3.65)
By stating the above I wish to give this book 4 out of 4 stars, it is truly fascinating that it exceeded my expectations. Above all, I appreciate the raw honesty conveyed by the author through this sophisticated read.
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God Versus The Idea of God
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