Performing Religion in Public
Book Description
In a world where spirituality and public life often seem at odds, this illuminating exploration reveals how religious expression naturally flows beyond private walls into the vibrant theater of everyday existence. J. Edelman brings together diverse global perspectives that examine the dynamic ways faith communities engage with secular society through embodied practices and public witness.
Rather than treating religion as merely intellectual discourse, this thoughtful collection recognizes the deeply performative nature of spiritual life. From passionate street evangelism in American cities to sacred Hindu ceremonies conducted in public spaces, from the mystical traditions of Turkish Sufism attracting modern seekers to the dramatic retelling of sacred stories in South African communities, these varied expressions demonstrate how authentic faith refuses to be confined to designated religious spaces.
The book challenges conventional assumptions about where the sacred belongs in democratic societies. Through careful examination of historical and contemporary examples, readers discover how religious performance serves as a bridge between personal devotion and public engagement, between ancient wisdom and modern cultural conversations.
For those seeking to understand how their own spiritual journey intersects with broader social participation, this work offers valuable insights into the natural human tendency to express faith through action, ritual, and public witness. It provides a framework for appreciating the legitimate place of religious expression in pluralistic societies while respecting the complex boundaries between sacred and secular realms.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~8 hours)
📄 Length: 290 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore RELIGION
- ✓ Explore Religous aspects
- ✓ Explore Performance
- ✓ Explore Drama
- ✓ Explore Theater
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Christianity
- ✓ Explore General
