On Religion
I was recently invited to contribute to a book which asked a number of authors to recommend a work that had some unique significance for them. At first I wasn’t keen to participate as there are so many books that have made a deep and abiding impact in my life. Choosing one from among them seemed as inappropriate as it was impossible.
However, as I thought about the offer, I remembered a time some years ago when I had been burrowing through the shelves of my local bookshop. On the day in question I happened upon a small book with an uninspiring title. The book was On Religion by John Caputo. I still recall opening it at the first chapter and beginning to read. What I discovered was absolutely beautiful.
Here was an alchemist who had found a way of blending philosophical depth with personal passion and an utterly engaging writing style to create something luminous. The result was a book that challenged my heart as much as my mind and helped me see how difficult philosophical ideas could be made intelligible without being rendered impotent.
On Religion encouraged me in my own journey toward becoming an author and provided much of the initial inspiration behind the development of ikon. With On Religion I had discovered a writer who would first become a deep influence and later a friend. If you have not read it yet you have a treat in store,
January 24th, 2010 at 8:52 pm
I picked this book up not too long ago- it’s in a stack of books to read. Having read this- it has been moved to the top of the to read pile. Really looking forwards to it now- thanks!
January 24th, 2010 at 9:08 pm
I just got this book for Christmas! I read The Weakness of God and loved it. Thanks for the recommendation.
January 24th, 2010 at 9:12 pm
Have not read this yet, but loved “what would Jesus deconstruct” and “prayers and tears.” I too am gonna bump this up to the top of the list. Thanks!
January 24th, 2010 at 9:49 pm
Excellent pick Pete. I read this book at an important time in my life. I was struck by how beautiful it was and it caused some healthy rethinking on my idea of religion and faith.
January 24th, 2010 at 10:53 pm
I will be forever grateful for your recommending this book a year ago and cannot agree more with your post.
Now get back to work. We need the next one straight away.
January 25th, 2010 at 8:29 am
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January 25th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
I was asked to select a book for that same series and chose Gulliver’s Travels – it wasn’t that book so much per se but how Jonathan Swift’s ministry has informed what I try to do. I look forward to seeing the finished product to see what selections everyone contributed.
January 25th, 2010 at 3:34 pm
I think I’ve bought more copies of this book than any other. The first time I read it I immediately thought of multiple people I just had to buy it for. As you said, it is truly a beautiful book.
January 25th, 2010 at 5:34 pm
haven’t read it…but i’m sure going to !
you’ve reached my curiosity
Thank’s for sharing!
January 26th, 2010 at 2:26 pm
Damn it – ANOTHER book I’ve got to read! Can’t possibly be as good as all yours though
(*Deep sucking noise becomes audible*)
January 26th, 2010 at 7:51 pm
Did everyone see “PJ Rollins” from Ireland had the top review of this book on the amazon page for this book all the way back in 2003?! if it makes pete take the time to log onto amazon and write a review it must be decent
January 26th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
Everything you say about John Caputo is true… I recommend his writing to philosophers, Christians, anyone seeking a way forward… I read On Religion in 2002, right after leaving seminary, despairing of any future direction… I found a very intentional writer that made a difference.