Title
Heaven and Hell: A History of the Afterlife,Used
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A New York Times bestselling historian of early Christianity takes on two of the most gripping questions of human existence: where did the ideas of heaven and hell come from, and why do they endure?What happens when we die? A recent Pew Research poll showed that 72% of Americans believe in a literal heaven, 58% in a literal hell. Most people who hold these beliefs are Christian and assume they are the ageold teachings of the Bible. But eternal rewards and punishments are found nowhere in the Old Testament and are not what Jesus or his disciples taught.So where did the ideas come from?In clear and compelling terms, Bart Ehrman recounts the long history of the afterlife, ranging from The Epic of Gilgamesh up to the writings of Augustine, focusing especially on the teachings of Jesus and his early followers. He discusses ancient guided tours of heaven and hell, in which a living person observes the sublime blessings of heaven for those who are saved and the horrifying torments of hell for the damned. Some of these accounts take the form of near death experiences, the oldest on record, with intriguing similarities to those reported today.One of Ehrmans startling conclusions is that there never was a single Greek, Jewish, or Christian understanding of the afterlife, but numerous competing views. Moreover, these views did not come from nowhere; they were intimately connected with the social, cultural, and historical worlds out of which they emerged. Only later, in the early Christian centuries, did they develop into the notions of eternal bliss or damnation widely accepted today.As a historian, Ehrman obviously cannot provide a definitive answer to the question of what happens after death. In Heaven and Hell, he does the next best thing: by helping us reflect on where our ideas of the afterlife come from, he assures us that even if there may be something to hope for when we die, there is certainly nothing to fear.
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- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: This book has three hundred and fifty-two pages. It provides an in-depth exploration of the history of afterlife concepts.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The book is a hardcover edition. This binding type is durable and suitable for long-term reading.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six inches in length, one inch in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. These dimensions make it a convenient size for reading.
- Q: How do I read this book? A: You simply open the book and begin reading. It's suitable for anyone interested in the historical context of afterlife beliefs.
- Q: Is this book appropriate for younger audiences? A: This book is targeted primarily at adults and older teens. It discusses complex themes related to the afterlife that may not be suitable for younger children.
- Q: What is the reading level of this book? A: The reading level is suitable for adults and mature teens. It engages with historical and theological concepts that require critical thinking.
- Q: How should I care for this hardcover book? A: Keep it in a dry place and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. This will help preserve the binding and pages over time.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can gently wipe the cover with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the book.
- Q: Is there a recommended way to store this book? A: Store it upright on a bookshelf, similar to other hardcover books. This helps prevent warping and damage.
- Q: How does this book compare to other books on the same topic? A: This book offers a unique historical perspective, unlike many others that focus solely on religious teachings. It's ideal for readers seeking a comprehensive understanding.
- Q: Is this book suitable for someone new to the topic of afterlife? A: Yes, this book is accessible for newcomers. It provides clear explanations and context about the origins of afterlife beliefs.
- Q: Are there similar books I should consider? A: Books by authors like Karen Armstrong or N.T. Wright also explore similar themes in religious history and afterlife concepts.
- Q: What if I receive a damaged copy of the book? A: If you receive a damaged copy, you should contact the retailer for a return or exchange. Most retailers offer a straightforward return policy.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: Books typically do not come with a warranty. However, check with the retailer for their specific return and exchange policies.
- Q: What should I do if I have questions about the book's content? A: You can consult reviews or discussions online, or read additional literature by the author to deepen your understanding.