Strange Rites: New Religions for a Godless World

By Elaine Pagels

In Strange Rites, religious scholar Elaine Pagels explores the rise of new religious movements in a world that is increasingly secular. She argues that these movements are not merely a reaction to the decline of traditional religion, but a response to the profound changes that are taking place in our world today.

Pagels begins by examining the historical context for the rise of new religious movements. She notes that the traditional institutions of religion have been in decline for centuries, and that this decline has accelerated in recent decades. This decline is due to a number of factors, including the rise of science and rationalism, the increasing secularization of society, and the growing diversity of religious beliefs.

Strange Rites: New Religions for a Godless World

by Tara Isabella Burton

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1813 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	346 pages
X-Ray	:	Enabled

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In the face of this decline, Pagels argues that new religious movements are offering people a sense of meaning and purpose in a world that is increasingly complex and uncertain. These movements provide people with a new way to connect with the divine, and they offer them a sense of community and belonging.

Pagels provides a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and practices of new religious movements. She describes the rituals, ceremonies, and teachings of these groups, and she explores the motivations of their followers. She also discusses the challenges that these movements face, including the challenges of persecution and discrimination.

Pagels concludes by arguing that new religious movements are a sign of the vitality of religion in the 21st century. She argues that these movements are not a threat to traditional religion, but rather a complement to it. She believes that these movements can help us to understand the changing face of religion in the world today, and that they can help us to create a more just and compassionate world.

Reviews

"Strange Rites is a fascinating and thought-provoking book. Pagels offers a unique perspective on the rise of new religious movements, and she provides a valuable contribution to the study of religion in the 21st century." - The New York Times

"Pagels is a master storyteller, and she brings the world of new religious movements to life. Strange Rites is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the future of religion." - The Washington Post

"Pagels' book is a timely and important contribution to the study of religion. She provides a nuanced and insightful analysis of the rise of new religious movements, and she offers a hopeful vision for the future of religion in the 21st century." - The Guardian

About the Author

Elaine Pagels is a professor of religion at Princeton University. She is the author of several books, including The Gnostic Gospels and Beyond Belief: The Secret Gospel of Thomas. She is a leading expert on the history of early Christianity and on the rise of new religious movements.

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Strange Rites: New Religions for a Godless World

by Tara Isabella Burton

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1813 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	346 pages
X-Ray	:	Enabled

FREE