An Altar in the World

Synopsis

In this highly acclaimed and lyrical modern classic, bestselling author Barbara Brown Taylor reveals the countless ways we can discover divine depths in the small things we do and see every day. While people will often go to extraordinary lengths in search of a 'spiritual experience', she shows that the stuff of our everyday lives is a holy ground where we can encounter God at every turn. For her, as for Jacob in the Genesis story, even barren, empty deserts can become "the house of God and the gate of heaven", places where a ladder of angels connects heaven to earth and earth to heaven. An Altar in the World reveals concrete ways to discover the sacred in such ordinary occurrences as hanging out the washing, doing the supermarket shop, feeding an animal, or losing our way. It will transform our understanding of ourselves and the world we live in, and renew our sense of wonder at the extraordinary gift of life.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Sacred in the Ordinary

* Argues that the sacred is not limited to religious spaces but found in everyday experiences.
* Example: The aroma of freshly baked bread can evoke memories of family gatherings and create a sense of warmth and connection.

Chapter 2: The Five Senses and the Sacred

* Explores how the senses can provide a pathway to the sacred.
* Example: Listening to the sound of crashing waves can induce a sense of awe and wonder at the power of nature.

Chapter 3: The Natural World as a Sacred Text

* Presents the idea that the natural world is a source of wisdom and inspiration.
* Example: Observing the life cycle of a flower can offer insights into the beauty of impermanence and the interconnectedness of all living things.

Chapter 4: The Sacred in Human Relationships

* Examines how relationships with others can provide opportunities for spiritual growth.
* Example: Caring for a loved one who is ill can foster a deep sense of compassion and empathy.

Chapter 5: The Sacred in Work and Play

* Argues that even mundane tasks can be imbued with sacredness.
* Example: Washing dishes with intention can become an act of mindfulness and gratitude for the abundance of clean water.

Chapter 6: The Sacred in Suffering

* Explores the transformative potential of suffering.
* Example: Facing a serious illness can lead to a profound reassessment of life's priorities and a deeper appreciation for the fragility of human existence.

Chapter 7: The Practice of Sacredness

* Provides practical tips and exercises for integrating sacredness into daily life.
* Example: Setting aside time for meditation or contemplation can create a space for stillness and reflection.

Chapter 8: The Role of Imagination

* Emphasizes the importance of imagination in accessing the sacred.
* Example: Visualizing a place of peace and serenity can help to create an internal sanctuary for refuge.

Chapter 9: The Sacred in the City

* Explores how urban environments can offer opportunities for connection with the sacred.
* Example: Strolling through a bustling city park can provide a sense of community and wonder at the diversity of human life.