Religious Background

Blessing E · Post by **Blessing E** » 05 May 2022, 04:03

Most self-help books I've come across stems from a spiritual belief. I believe this isn't bad as it even enthrals religious people even more. Regardless, a nonreligious person can still sit through reading it.

Sarah Sonbol · Post by **Sarah Sonbol** » 05 May 2022, 06:46

I'm a Muslim and the quotes from the Bible didn't put me off. However, one of my main issues with the book is that it grants the true self ( the Maestro) immeasurable abilities, transforming it into a god rather than a human.

Post by **Rob White** » 05 May 2022, 10:09

The interesting thing about any religion is that all religions are a philosophy about how human beings and the world came to be. They are all a consequence of a wonderful inquiry so that life is more than just a fight/flight/freeze experience in the face of opposition. And all religions do a wonderful job of helping all of us recognize that we are far more than just a member of the animal kingdom. My next book will include quotes from several religion, so no one feels left out

Thank you for your honesty, Rob

Cheryl Erickson · Post by **Cheryl Erickson** » 05 May 2022, 14:51

I believe that this book would be helpful to any open-minded person. This is not a religious book where the author is only speaking to the Christian community. It seems like the book could truly make a difference for people of all religions and beliefs.

Favour Yahaya · Post by **Favour Yahaya** » 05 May 2022, 15:57

I don't think that the scriptural reference in the book, affect the non Christan, the book is for both Christan and non Christan.

Oluwatosin Balogun · Post by **Oluwatosin Balogun** » 05 May 2022, 20:08

This book is all-embracing of all religions despite the scriptural quotes and this is one of the reasons I love it.

Post by **Vivian Stones** » 05 May 2022, 20:18

I would aay it can go both ways. In my opinion, using texts from religious backgrounds may help lend credibility and a sense of superiority to the books teaching. While excessive dependence on it may drive away some group of people.

Elenimo Chembe · Post by **Elenimo Chembe** » 06 May 2022, 06:50

I think self-help books should stay away from using the bible as their basis not only because people averse to religious ideas may find them unprofitable but even orthodoxy Christians may find this heretical and therefore not find it profitable either.

Andrada Madalina · Post by **Andrada Madalina** » 06 May 2022, 09:15

I do not think that the reading experience of a Muslim or a Hindu could be influenced by other religious references as long as he has his unique self-introspection and the Bible texts are relevant for a better understanding of the concepts presented by the author. This book does not manipulate religious beliefs in any way.

Black Jewel · Post by **Black Jewel** » 06 May 2022, 11:21

For me, even with this book, use of scripture is a large turn off. I want to read something original, not quotes taken from the good book used as filler and disguised as something new and helpful instruction on how to help get your life together... I have the Bible at hand and can read from it at my choosing and draw my own conclusions from it. So no, I don't like the use of scripture in self help books, and wish more authors would stop using this hack to sell books.

Post by **Rob White** » 06 May 2022, 15:15

Again I say, thank you - all of you - for being willing to share your points of view. I learn a lot about myself and the world when I listen to you. Your opinions are a gift to the expansion of my consciousness. These forums are truly demonstrations of human beings being human. So many diverse perspectives. Thank you

Rob

F N Chamomile · Post by **F N Chamomile** » 06 May 2022, 15:40

I understand that the book is not meant to be religious, but it is not hard to see the particular target audience of the author. For me, while the verses might be relevant to the context, they may not be relatable to people from outside of the religious background. Even if the author does not overuse the Biblical references, some readers may not feel comfortable with them.

Dent Odhiambo · Post by **Dent Odhiambo** » 07 May 2022, 10:05

People tend to have different beliefs, views, and opinions. I think that at the end of the day as long as the book is guiding one towards a positive destination then having excerpts from the Bible shouldn't be an issue since it's offering guidance.

EternalD · Post by **EternalD** » 07 May 2022, 14:13

It depends on the person. I, as a Christian, would have no problem reading parts of the Quran. But obviously, self-help books don't necessarily need to use "sacred texts." For instance, Dale Carnegie wrote several "secular" masterpieces.

Brenda Creech · Post by **Brenda Creech** » 07 May 2022, 16:11

I don't believe the book is more in line with Christians. I believe anyone will enjoy reading this self-help book regardless of their religion. I think Rob did an excellent job is remaining neutral in that respect.