World Famous Comics: Psalms for Praying: An Invitation to Wholeness
Psalms for Praying: An Invitation to Wholeness
By: Nan C. Merrill Publisher: Continuum Average Rating: Binding: Paperback Format: Special Edition Label: Continuum Number of Items: 1 Number of Pages: 320 Publication Date: December 18, 2006
Product Description: Every commentary on the "Book of Psalms" has had to face the issue that many of these prayers commemorate and celebrate wrath and vengeance. What is needed is not ingenious exegetical rationalization of ancient texts, but the kind of transformation into a work of piety and art that is provided here. Addressed are the needs of a world seeking to counter individual and societal injustices by a global peace born of personal peace through prayer and practice. In short, here is the "Book of Psalms" recast in the light of the continuing revelation and evolution of the authentic religious spirit of the scriptures.
One of my most used devotional books Some people are uncomfortable or annoyed with using modern language in traditional scripture. For me, re-imaging gives not only a sense of presence but of perspective. Nan Merrill is a master of providing the essence of the language used originally, or perhaps used more traditionally would be correct, as she maintains a cadence and emotion of the psalms.
This is a book I use over and over in my personal spiritual practices. I highly recommend it, as well as the author.
psalms for praying Psalms for praying is a beautiful way to pray the psalms. The imagery and music of the poetry is a joy.
From the heart, to the heart This beautiful re-imaging of the Psalms speaks directly to the heart. Ms. Merrill succeeds in making each Psalm a meditation on Divine Love; the joy that comes from embracing it, and the pain that results when our interior enemy, fear, distances us from that Love, the Source of our Being. Each Psalm is recognizable, though the language is much more personal and immediate than a reader of the KJV, the NRSV or the BCP might normally experience. This book has enhanced my life and has become something I return to again and again.
Spiritually uplifting This rather loose translation of the psalms makes for a beautiful expression if you are looking for something moving, musical and prayerful. Give it a try if the Psalms are part of your spirituality and also if you don't mind venturing from the usual translations we've been used to for years.
Psalms for sunny days Psalms for sunny days, for New-age Buddhists. Wipe out those that hate me" phrases in the traditional translations of the Psalms. Get with it. Be happy.
Another Amazon reviewer wrote, "Since I bought this book, its beautiful, inclusive language and non-sexist image-names for God ....its interpretation of "enemies" as my own fears....." I am glad she found help in this book during a terrible time in her life.
But when the worst happens - and it has and will again - I need the hard edge psalms to know that a human poet, writing thousands of years ago experienced the same pain, fear, and rage that I do yet came through it.
A pleasant enough devotional - but not the whole story.
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