audiobook Putting God Second: How to Save Religion from Itself by Donniel Hartman in History

Review

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Excellent book that reminds the reader of the common humanity of man and the need for respect and consideration.By Bruce WolfVery insightful look at religious priorities. Donniel Hartman writes of the importance of recognizing that we must be aware of others in our world and that they have worth. We cannot be lost in overdedication to God. We are all part of the human race; with worthiness and abilities; as well as the need for respect. In this current age of increasing tribalism; his advice is very well placed. This book is well organized and should be read by all who are concerned with humanity. It would be especially worthwhile for our politicians and extreme fundamentalists of all persuasions.15 of 17 people found the following review helpful. Compelling; Refreshing and UpliftingBy DS“Putting God Second” is one of the most refreshing; enlightening and affirming books that I have read. As a provocative guide to contemporary religion’s challenges and as a celebration of its aspirations; this is a compelling and uplifting exploration of faith. Each chapter takes the reader on a biblical adventure; offering an exciting investigation of core religious principles and contradictions. The careful rendering of biblical context to create a moral and ethical critique of religion’s aspirations and limitations is artfully done. Ultimately; the book proves to be energizing in its analysis and offers a meaningful prescription for spiritual renewal. Written with a clear love for Bible and God; Rabbi Hartman provides a fascinating view on what man has done to God and what God has done to man. Boldly confronting inherent inconsistencies in religious practice and principle; Hartman speaks clearly to the struggle facing religious leaders legitimately seeking to reconcile contemporary moral imperatives within the complex tapestry of traditional faith and fidelity. As Hartman writes; “it is precisely those who pursue the most intense and consuming intimacy with God who can so often become; as a result of this very form of devotion; less able to hear God’s voice”. Using Judaism as a lens on monotheism; Hartman examines how faith guides us towards “good” but also inadvertently blinds us; at times; to doing good.Still; Hartman goes further by empowering readers to interpret and to own their religious narrative; seeing the practice of faith as a principled responsibility. By focusing on the credible origins of the cognitive dissonance that many “good” people find in mainstream religion; Hartman validates the struggle many have had with traditional faith. “Putting God Second” provides a compelling explanation and context for that dissonance; and thereby invites those feeling left outside to come back in and to “take ownership of the consequences of their ideologies”. As Hartman effectively argues; “unless we are willing to put God second; we make it impossible for God to fulfill the role in our lives that; according to religion itself; God most yearns to fulfill.” Given monotheism is rich in tradition; durable in foundation; and serves so many so well; it also requires insight from those who love it and long to improve it. Rabbi Hartman’s book is a thorough investigation and invitation to return to the core principles of religion and a call to the “faithful” to re-engage religion with strength; clarity; and humility.Rabbi Hartman also takes a bold leap in challenging conventional religious authority “from the inside” as as a respected Jewish scholar; author and speaker. He explains that he is driven by the internal cultural war being fought over the moral soul of Judaism; “not merely being waged between competing chapters and verses” but rather “because it defines the essence of ethical responsibility….to save religion from itself”.In the process; Rabbi Hartman takes us on a compelling journey and makes a profound impact.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Wonderful book; no matter what your faithBy J. C. BeadlesEveryone of all religious faiths should read Rabbi Hartman's profound and very readable book. He basically deals with why religious people often don't live up to the tenents of their faith. I'm not going to try to summarize the author's thoughts; but they remind you of Lincoln's quote that "it's not whether God is on our side; but whether we are on God's side." Rabbi Hartman's discusses why even religious people fail ethically in real life; starting with Biblical times and running through Israel's wars and the terrorism of the 21st Century. He gives the reader thoughts on how we all can do better ethically. Not to be missed.