Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 76 votes)
5 stars
20(26%)
4 stars
30(39%)
3 stars
26(34%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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76 reviews
July 15,2025
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This is the best book on male initiation that I have ever come across.

Not only is it an outstanding work on spirituality and spiritual formation, but it also delves deep into the very core of masculinity and the issue of male spirituality within a religion that seems to be more tailored towards female spirituality.

The author has managed to capture the essence of what it means to be a man in a spiritual context, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities that men face.

If you are a man yourself, or if you are in a relationship with a man, or even if you simply know a man who has either embraced or shunned spirituality, then this book is an absolute must-read.

It offers valuable insights and perspectives that can help you better understand the complex interplay between masculinity and spirituality, and may even inspire you to embark on your own spiritual journey.

Don't miss out on this remarkable book that has the potential to transform your understanding of male spirituality.
July 15,2025
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Initiation is one of the most interesting ideas for the salvation of the soul of the 21st-century man.

It offers a unique path for individuals to explore and discover their inner selves.

Through initiation, one can embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

It allows for a deeper understanding of one's values, beliefs, and purpose in life.

This process can be both challenging and rewarding, as it requires individuals to face their fears and limitations.

However, the end result is often a more fulfilled and meaningful life.

Initiation can take many forms, such as spiritual retreats, workshops, or personal quests.

Regardless of the form, it provides an opportunity for individuals to break free from the constraints of modern society and connect with something greater than themselves.

In a world that is often filled with distractions and chaos, initiation offers a chance to find inner peace and clarity.

It is a powerful tool for personal growth and development, and one that should not be overlooked.

July 15,2025
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Katrai grāmatai ir savs laiks un vieta.

Šī īpaši šobrīd mani ļoti uzrunāja. Kad es klausos un lasu par mūsdienu sabiedrību, es pārdomāju tās īpatnības un to, no kurienes tās aug kājas.

Mūsdienu sabiedrība ir daudzveidīga un dinamiska. Tajā ir daudz dažādu cilvēku, kultūru un viedokļu.

Taču, lai saprastu mūsdienu sabiedrību, mums ir jāņem vērā arī tā vēsture un radinieki.

Varbūt, izpētot mūsdienu sabiedrības vēsturi, mēs varam arī saskatīties uz nākotni un izstrādāt labākas stratēģijas, lai saskaņotos ar tās mainīšanos.

Tāpēc, katrai grāmatai ir svarīga loma mūsdienu sabiedrībā, jo tā var palīdzēt mums labāk saprast tās raksturliikumus un veikt vajadzīgos pasākumus.
July 15,2025
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A Deep Book: Worth Multiple Readings

There are some books that have a profound impact on us, and they are truly deep books. These books are not just ordinary reads; they are treasures that deserve to be explored and understood on multiple levels.

When we encounter a deep book, it often challenges our thinking and broadens our perspectives. It may contain complex themes, profound insights, and rich characterizations that require careful consideration and reflection.

One of the reasons why a deep book is worth multiple readings is that each time we pick it up, we may discover something new. Our own life experiences and growth can influence our perception of the book, allowing us to see different aspects and meanings that we may have missed before.

Moreover, a deep book can provide us with a source of inspiration and wisdom. It can offer valuable lessons and perspectives that can help us navigate through life's challenges and make better decisions.

In conclusion, a deep book is a precious asset that is worth investing our time and energy into. By reading it multiple times, we can unlock its full potential and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
July 15,2025
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This article has some great elements.

Obviously, there is plenty here that is debatable. However, my own experience suggests that what he says is true. I really like that he goes over the major life lessons that everyone needs to learn in order to reach full maturity. That's precisely what makes this book good.

He talks about masculine archetypes, and in a sense, it's good that he introduces us to this topic. He communicates as if he has access to enlightened spiritual knowledge. (I say this after reading several of his other books, which I would argue are better.) As it turns out, these archetypes are from Carl Jung, and so they're not his own creative genius. I just feel that it's a little disingenuous and disappointing, but perhaps I'm not being fair.

Regardless, this book has some profound ideas, but it could be better. Maybe he could have written two separate books (one on each of those overarching ideas I mentioned). As a result, it just didn't provide as much as it potentially could have.

Also, this is of course a quite alternative attitude from the mainstream of society. So it would be extremely interesting to hear him respond to modern and postmodern ideas of gender and masculinity. More discussion on this topic is definitely needed.
July 15,2025
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The Matrix movie presents a single red pill to assist its male protagonist in awakening to reality. In contrast, Rohr provides five: 1) Life is Hard; 2) You Are Not Important; 3) Your Life is Not About You; 4) You are Not in Control; and 5) You are Going to Die.

All five of these statements have the power to jolt you awake in the morning (or at any other time of the day). While each statement is stark and blunt, there is also a certain reassurance in each truth. If you allow yourself to absorb them - truly take in their full measure - you not only cease fighting against them but also begin to embrace them.

I was brought up in a culture that excels in male initiation (and initiation in general). Therefore, much of what Rohr had to say in this regard was somewhat validating for me. It was like a much-needed boost to my perspective on my own faith tradition in these times. I particularly love Rohr's assertion that initiation is truly a search for ourselves, our true (\\"ancient soul\\") self, which is firmly rooted in each of our \\"uncluttered originality in God.\\" That phrase really made an impact on me. We (I) often do a great deal to clutter up our lives, which emphasizes the need to discover and regularly take doses of the red pills to strip away all that is not life (as Thoreau put it) and recognize what is right in front of us and within us. This is part of what makes each of Rohr's books worthy of being re-read.
July 15,2025
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Interasanti lasīt pozīciju, kas aizstāv saranžēto (arranget) laulību; brīžiem vnk interasanti redzēt saturu kristīgās literatūras formā.

Some fragments had to be read several times to understand what was meant. Forsa's criticism of the Western style and the cult of personality. As well as of religion itself and its clergy. Against the teachers who, after the religious service, polish their servant's boots and put them in a leather bag, and other things from which often comes the modern person's disbelief in religions.

Sometimes it is too abstract, but overall one can understand what the person is trying to say.

As in almost all religious literature, it calls for renouncing one's ego and understanding where one's "I" creates problems, how to live life so as not to have to sell one's soul for the price of a ring, etc.

Suffering > understanding that it relates to the whole world > seeing the common world > finding a broader goal than just satisfying one's own petty ego.

True, starting from my personal experience... This is the central starting point that remains in memory. Otherwise, it's not so bad either.

"Initiators have never easily given up privileges, status, and respect, so all this must be earned by young people. The same can be said about what is happening in the army, in sports, and in the patriarchal religions at the beginning. A man's love is ego-structured. This love is precious, but such that a man respects and honors it as long as it is not spoiled or humiliating. In the later years of life, men remember those teachers who were precious, their demanding leaders, and those who have urged them to show the best that belongs to men and to act using all their forces. In this sense, a man knows that other teachers do not take him seriously, so he does not take them seriously either. Such teachers have needed a man's love much more than a man - the teachers' love, and he knows this. A man's love loses its power by saving a man. Many women, gentle men, and our era's humanistic culture do not understand this truth. Men need some kind of deficiency and must work to earn the love of other men. If a man gets love without effort, too quickly and easily, then it has no result. It turns him into a bad manipulator, not a strong man."

This text presents various ideas and perspectives. It touches on the importance of understanding religious and cultural concepts, as well as the nature of love and respect in different contexts. The author emphasizes the need for individuals to renounce their egos and strive for a broader understanding of the world and their place in it.

However, some of the ideas may be open to interpretation or may require further exploration. For example, the statement about a man's love being ego-structured might be challenged or refined. Additionally, the connection between a man's deficiency and earning love could be further developed and supported with examples.

Overall, the text offers food for thought and invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs and experiences in relation to the topics discussed. It encourages a deeper examination of the role of religion, culture, and human relationships in our lives.

Perhaps future discussions could focus on how these ideas can be applied in practical ways to improve our understanding and interactions with others. How can we strive to renounce our egos and build more meaningful and respectful relationships? These are important questions that can help us grow and develop as individuals and as a society.

In conclusion, the text provides a valuable starting point for further exploration and discussion. It challenges us to think critically about our beliefs and behaviors and to consider how we can make positive changes in our lives. By engaging with these ideas, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
July 15,2025
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3.5 stars, I really enjoyed reading this.

There is an abundance of things to think about, and the five promises are truly interesting for all of us.

However, I couldn't help but wonder how we can effectively get this important message into the hands of men.

Moreover, how do we provide the necessary support to men so that they can take care of each other and lead each other?

These are crucial questions that need to be addressed.

Perhaps we could explore different strategies such as educational campaigns, community outreach programs, or even mentorship initiatives.

By doing so, we can raise awareness among men and encourage them to embrace these values and take action.

It is essential that we work together to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for men to thrive and grow.

Only then can we truly make a positive impact and bring about the change that we desire.
July 15,2025
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Richard Rohr, both literally and metaphorically, has the voice of an audio book reader that allows him to say hard things gently.

He has the remarkable ability to challenge the areas where the reader has not yet grown up. What's more, he can do this in a way that is both invigorating and encouraging.

Another factor that makes his approach to getting across the five things men need to learn as part of their initiation so effective is his capacity to span centuries. This is evident not only in his chosen language but also in the illustrations he employs.

The reader would not anticipate a Franciscan father who quotes Thomas Aquinas to then reference something from the latest American sitcom just a few minutes later.

As he challenges the reader to be a contemporary in their own time while also maintaining a perspective for the ages, he does the same as a writer. This unique combination of qualities makes Richard Rohr's work truly engaging and impactful.

His ability to bridge different eras and present difficult concepts in a palatable way sets him apart and makes his teachings accessible to a wide range of audiences.

Whether through his audio books or written works, Richard Rohr continues to inspire and challenge readers to embark on a journey of growth and self-discovery.

His words have the power to resonate with people from all walks of life and encourage them to become the best versions of themselves.

July 15,2025
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The book presents a remarkable cross-cultural exploration of male initiation and the rights-of-passage that young boys experience as they transition into men.

It strikingly reflects a crucial need that exists within our society. In today's world, the traditional rights of passage that men had to work hard to earn have unfortunately been substituted with material possessions that can be easily purchased.

However, as an evangelical Christian, I found myself discontented with the author's occasional jabs at my faith. He seemed to attempt to pigeonhole my beliefs into a simplistic and easily defeated straw-man construct, which I felt was rather unfair.

Nonetheless, aside from this one aspect, the book was overall a quite decent read. It offered valuable insights and perspectives on an important topic, despite the minor drawback related to the author's treatment of my particular religious beliefs.

July 15,2025
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One can only begin to imagine the dearth of spiritual growth not only in the west but also in one's own individual life.

Rohr's argument for spiritual initiation is one that is underpinned by profound knowledge and wisdom, having observed numerous religions and traditions. Although at times it was somewhat challenging to keep up with his thought processes, which seemed to jump around (and I read the German translation), this book is truly filled with precious gems of wisdom.

It has left me with a longing to withdraw into the wilderness for a couple of weeks or perhaps even take a time machine and live among the earlier Christian monks, simply soaking up all their wisdom, liturgy, and focus.

This book has truly opened my eyes to the importance of spiritual growth and the need to seek out such wisdom and knowledge in our modern lives.
July 15,2025
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“Very good on male spirituality from Christian viewpoint” is a concise and interesting statement. It implies that there is something of great value and significance being discussed regarding male spirituality within the context of the Christian faith. This could potentially cover a wide range of aspects such as the role of men in the church, their relationship with God, and how they navigate the challenges of modern life while maintaining their spiritual growth.

Perhaps it refers to a particular book, sermon, or teaching that offers unique insights and perspectives on male spirituality. It might explore the characteristics and qualities that are considered important for men to develop in their spiritual journey, such as strength, courage, and integrity.

From a Christian viewpoint, male spirituality is not just about personal growth but also about fulfilling one's purpose and使命 in life. It is about living in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ and being a positive influence in the world. This statement invites further exploration and study into the rich and complex topic of male spirituality within the Christian tradition.

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