Book Description

Customer Reviews (83)

Tough to finish, from a long-time Dragonlance fan
First off let me state that the most recent person to give this book 5 stars "doesn't normally read" and can't spell.

I've read a lot of Dragonlance, and really a lot of fantasy in general, and I've come across a few books that were tough reads, but this one trumps them all.Here's a comment D&D fans everywhere will appreciate:This book reads like it was written from the point of view of a DM planning an adventure.Characters go here.Characters do this.This happens.That happens.What's sad is that it reads at some points like a poorly planned adventure, where scenes seem haphazardly strung together, and at times I found myself rereading pages to try to follow the trail, only to realize its really not there at all.Books should read like they're from the point of view of the characters, or perhaps at points an under-educated omnipresent being.I kept wanting to finish, as I've never stopped in the middle of a Dragonlance novel in the past.It just got harder and harder to keep going, but I did it.Underdeveloped characters, played out scenes, the list just goes on & on.I'll stick to the Weis & Hickman as far as Dragonlance is concerned in the future, and would have to recommend some George R.R. Martin, or perhaps a dabble of Terry Goodkind if you're looking to delve a bit further into fantasy.WoTC, please do the Dragonlance line some credit and filter out your authors BEFORE publishing.

Don't waste your time
The dragonlance series has been a personal favorite since the chronicles. I have read every book margaret and Tracy had to offer. Since I began the series in middle school, I have re-read them several times, each time enjoying it just as much as the last. It has been a long journey into the world of Krynn!

The fact that margaret and tracy let other authors use their world, and completely destroy it, angers me. Publicity and money must be worth more than the fans....

This book was ridiculously painful to read....A terrible plot....underdeveloped characters....and a seemingly disproportioned writing style don't just bore the reader, but if they are a dragonlance fan, angers them.

This BUTCHERS the series....if you are a fan, steer clear...if you are a first timer to the series, Stick to Margaret and Tracys' books ONLY.

If i could give it negative stars, I would.

Excellent story, mediocre characters
The bad reviews are an unfortunate result of Weis & Hickman's amazing ability to develop characters.In fact, the world of Dragonlance is a fantasy world.If you have read as many series as I have, you understand that there is a draw to this well developed world that is familiar, fun, and exciting.So all of us reviewing this have read the Chronicles and Legends.We love the characters, and all of us were blown away at how well the characters became entire worlds unto themselves.And then the other books, and stories, were so easy to be drawn into because of this.

Now comes the Fifth Age (don't worry, no spoilers).It's different, all the old characters are gone.Now we (the readers) don't feel like you're in the same world.Before, it was so easy because we saw so many characters walk through Ansalon, and learned and experienced Ansalon through their eyes.Many Dragonlancers will agree that the character development in the Chronicle/Legends were superior in quality, well above _ANY_ genre of books (and I love Steven King).The reason Dragonlance is so popular is (arguably) because of the amazing character development that Margret Weis and Tracy Hickman did.And I'm not gonna lie to you, the character development in this book and the series is NOT as good as the Chronicles/Legends.That being said,

SO WHAT.This is a series.None of the 50+ books in the Dragonlance series has been as good as Chronicles/Legends. Okay, enough about character development.Don't compare it.These books are good.They keep you on the edge, and they are fantastic stories about the history of new Krynn.If you're like me, you'll love reading what happens next the absorbing stories. The conversation is sub-par.But the interaction, the storyline is still very fun and exciting.Don't read this book expecting Chronicles/Legends.Read this book expecting the next exciting story of the Dragonlance world.

Work better left for another author
Perhaps the biggest tragedy associated with 'The Dawning of a New Age' is that there is vital 5th age information contained within its pages, but the reader must plod through Jean Rabe's drivel to get to it.An outline would be better.

It's time for Dragonlance/Wizards of the Coast to replace Jean Rabe... w/Chris Pierson?He showed potential with his Kingpriest Trilogy.I don't foresee myself ever purchasing one of her books again (and from the reviews below it seems that many longtime Dragonlance fans share this sentiment).If the Fifth Age is to take hold it definitely needs a new voice.

To anyone who gives this book 4 stars:I encourage you to read earlier Dragonlance novels (Chronicles, Legends, Elven Nations, etc) or other contemporary Dragonlance trilogies (Ergoth).That's 4 star writing.

Takes a few pages to get started
This book reminds me a lot of the first of the Dragonlance Chronicles. I didn't like it much until I got into the second book. I'm now almost done with the second book in this series and I like it a lot. 350 pages isn't enough to do it justice. I'm always a big fan of making BIG books to completely tell a story. I think with a few hundred more pages this book could have been spectacular. As it stands, I'm pleased with this book,
I liked the idea of the Dragon overlords, I liked the links that are being made to other Dragonlance stories, but felt the characters were not very fleshed out. And the action scenes were rushed. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (37)

Poor Dragonlance book.
Unpopular setting in the timeline, coupled with a writing style that seems to be emulating Weis & Hickman but failing, make this entire trilogy overall unremarkable.Only worth reading to keep up with the setting storyline.

Better than the first
Rabe gets her groove finally during this book.The first one was very clunky with very little character development.The characters become more fleshed out during this book and the plot twists are surprising.I wasn't holding out much hope after the first, but this was actually pretty good.Would have given 3.5 stars, but didn't have the option for it.

I hated it
I couldn't get past the first 150 pages of it.I just found myself lossing to much interest in the story to the point where I didn't care what happened to the characters or Krynn.You could skip this trilogy and completely understand what's going on on Krynn during the War of Souls.Rabes style of writing just isnt for me I guess.The first book of the series was good, but not really this one in my opinion.

If you have nothing better to read, then pick this up, other than that I dont think it's worth it.

Picking up steam
This book was far better than the first. A lot of important things are now happening in the dragonlance world and everything is going at a break neck pace. I was very pleased to see that the characters from the first book are being given a lot more depth. New characters are entering in from different sources. This pick has a style very simaler to the Chronicles trilogy. There is a LOT that goes on.

Day of The tempest
This book is likley to satasfy you even more than the one preceding it, The Dawning of a New Age, though not as good as the book following it ,The Eve of the Malestrom. I recomend this book highly and know any of the people reading this would enjoy every word. ... Read more

Book Description
After looking at the "fashionable" religion that pervades Western society, from Hollywood to Washington, from the schoolroom to the boardroom, this guide to the New Age Movement further explores the ramifications of its appeal. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

new ageis a occult
new age is occult I Give this Book5 starGood book truth about this dangerous occult movementLike this book fantasticis very interesting to read

Good Introduction to the New Age Movement
In my humble opinion, Rhodes has written an excellent introduction to the New Age Movement and how it compares to true Christianity.

The book's contents are as follows:

1.Introduction to the New Age Movement.
2.Overview of New Age Theology, in its own words.
3.Tips for witnessing to New Agers.
4.Bibliography for further study on the movement.
5.A comparison chart showing what New Agers and the Bible say about:Continuing Revelation, God, Jesus Christ, Humanity is God, Sin, Salvation, Reincarnation, and the Second Coming.

In an age where human self-worship glorified, many people are sure to be offended by the booklet's contents.Sadly, many people refuse to believe there is something larger than themselves and that we are not divine!

For the New Ager:please honestly evaluate what you believe and how it truly contradicts Scripture.

For the Christian:this is an excellent introduction to what New Agers believe and can help you better understand how you can relate to them on spiritual matters.

Recommended!

ANOTHER CLUELESS EVANGELICAL
HERE WE GO AGAIN:
AN EDITOR WITH AN OBVIOUSLY SLANTED VIEW AND LACK OF UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT HE HIDEOUSLY TITLES"THE NEW AGE MOVEMENT"HE(RHODES)GENERALIZES, AND FAILS TO ADEQUATELY NAIL DOWN WHAT HE IS SO DESPERATELY TRYING TO DISPROVE.HIS THESIS IS SIMPLE:"MY EVANGELICAL BELIEF IN JESUS CHRIST IS RIGHT AND TRUE;AND YOUR IDEAS ABOUT THE NATURE OF GOD AND JESUS CHRIST ARE FALSE.WHY:BECAUSE THE BIBLE SAYS SO AND I HAVE A COUPLE OF BOGUS,MISREPRESENTED ARGUMENTS TO BACK MY CLAIMS!""NEW AGE"DOES NOT ACCURATELY DEPICT MUCH.RHODES SHOULD RESEARCH BETTER AND MAKE CLEAR DISTICTIONS BEFORE ATTACKING SOMEONE ELSE'S IDEAS.

The Best Christian Resource on the New Age Movement
Ron Rhodes is well-known in the Christian Community for his excellent books on Cults and the New Age Movement (NAM).The greatest thing about this book is that it consolidates the best information from Christian and non-Christian sources on NAM and provides concise and clear refutations of major New Age doctrines such as moral relativism, pantheism and reincarnation.

Non-Christians should be aware that the purpose of this book, and other books in this Zondervan series, is to refute anti-Christian beliefs and defend Christian ones.But this shouldn't intimidate those New Agers who are sure about what they believe.Even if they aren't convinced by the counter-arguments, they will find the book helpful to better understanding the NAM.Also, the bibliography is excellent.

Check out the other books in this series, especially the ones on Satanism, Witchcraft, and Astrology.All have the same concise outline format for easy reference. ... Read more

Book Description
We have all grown increasingly aware of the potential -- and documented -- dangers of the chemical toxins that surround us. The New Age Herbalist is a compendium of healthy alternatives, an indispensable guide for contemporary natural living. Created by a team of experts, it offers:

A full-color illustrated glossary of more than 200 herbs, describing their properties, active ingredients, and traditional uses around the world

A guide to using herbs for scent, for decoration, and even as chemical-free housekeeping aids

Tips on using herbs for skin care and beauty, by making natural shampoos, lotions, soaps, and cosmetics

A review of culinary herbs, with some unusual recipes that use familiar herbs in delightful new ways

An examination of the growing science of herbal healing, discussing herbal remedies -- including stress relievers -- and the scientific research that validates them

A complete herb gardening plan, with advice on choosing symbiotic herbs, designing and scheduling plantings, and preserving the harvest by freezing and drying

Fascinating, authoritative, packed with information presented in a stunning visual style, The New Age Herbalist will be the home herb user's bible for years to come.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

One of the best herbal books I've encountered
I took an herbology course online and have certification, and along the way I ordered this book. Fantastic herb pictures, general uses, how to make dedoctions, infusions, tinctures.The book had me experimenting with a number of items I was paying high prices at the health food stores, and I had excellent results.Loaned the book out, it never came back so I reordered it.Chock full of info not found in other books I read!

Herbs are Medicine
Herbs are medicine.As great as the illustrations and explanations are in this book, the authors could deal a deadly blow to those who aren't ready to be herbalists.People are taking herbs like prescriptions and need to know that vitamins are food, herbs are medicine, and a more holistic approach is necessary before delving into plants. Try reading, "Forget The Cures, Find The Cause," by Rayna Gangi before purchasing this book.

Simply outstanding. I won't even loan it out !
If you're into herbalism in the least this book is absolutely and totally essential. It has full-color photographs of most of the major herbs in both their natural and harvested (dried/powdered) states. It also lists a wealth of information on each herb from it's Latin name, common names, basic plant and chemical characteristics, homeopathic uses and quite a bit more. There are priceless reference charts in the back of the book with outstanding information about herb harvesting and cultivation in other sections. It's a bit pricey but it's full-color and WELL worth it. I NEVER loan my copy out. It's that valuable to me.

The New Age Herbalist --a necessity for studying herbs
I believe that anyone caring for themselves ought to have at least 3 books on herbal actions. For studying the herbs more broadly, one would need a number of herbals (herb books) A general book is good for an overview, or quick reference, but doesn't give enough depth on any subject. "New Age Herbalist', for me, is the best for herbal indentification because it contains actual colored photos of herbs, not tiny drawings. It has an impressive amount of color plate pages for the price.
I don't think of it as a "new age" book because it would impress a scientific mind with its listing of active chemical ingredients of each herb. The rest serves as a fine overview guide also, and has a great section on homemade bath products.
I feel a need to have a book for quick reference,several for deeper knowledge on each herb, several for identification, several for historical uses, at least one for gardening and drying, a mini quick reference for traveling.When you have a headache, you don't want to be reading about how to get rid of soil bugs. Hope this helps.

Excellent!
This was the first book I ever got on herbs almost ten years ago. It's definatly time worn. I still use it has a helpful reference, and recommend it. As others have mentioned, it has color photos and illustrations, as well as accurate information on the uses of plants and possible side effects. It also has information on how to use the plants, and general information on the human body and what plants are useful in specific instances. It's not a handy pocket size field guide, for that, I suggest a Petersons. ... Read more

Book Description

As the aging population of the United States continues to increase, age-related policies have come under intense scrutiny and have sparked heated debates. Demographic, economic, and political trends have transformed the understanding of older people's role in America's public policy. The New Politics of Old Age Policy offers a variety of perspectives on these policy issues -- particularly the relative merits of using chronological age to determine eligibility for government programs.

The chapters address theoretical approaches to age-based policy; population dynamics and how growing diversity within the older population may affect these policies; issues surrounding major age-based programs such as Social Security and Medicare; and the national, state, and local political issues associated with these policies.

Contributors: Robert Applebaum, Ph.D., Miami University; Robert H. Binstock, Ph.D., Case Western Reserve University; Alan Burnett, M.A., Area Agency on Aging, Ohio; Chenoa A. Flippen, Ph.D., Duke University; Judith G. Gonyea, Ph.D., Boston University School of Social Work; Colleen M. Grogan, Ph.D., University of Chicago; Madonna Harrington Meyer, Ph.D., Syracuse University; Pamela Herd, Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin; Martha B. Holstein, Ph.D., consultant, Chicago; Eric R. Kingson, Ph.D., Syracuse University; Marc Molea, M.H.A., Ohio Department of Aging; Marilyn Moon, Ph.D., American Institutes for Research; John Myles, Ph.D., University of Toronto; Christy M. Nishita, University of Southern California; Angela M. O'Rand, Ph.D., Duke University; Jon Pynoos, Ph.D., University of Southern California; Sarah Poff Roman, M.G.S., Miami University; Steven M. Teles, Ph.D., Brandeis University.

Book Description

Customer Reviews (25)

Aging with bravery, INSPIRING BOOK
this is a well-written, and poetic book . Marianne truly inspires us to believe that the best is yet to come.She highlights the value of aging and wisdom.something that is lacking in the American culture, but present in other cultures.I found this book captivating and charming.
Dr. JB

Just What I Needed; Just What The World Needs
I've been a student and teacher of "A Course in Miracles" for almost as long as I've been reading Marianne Williamson, and I always value how she can entwine the philosophy of spiritual psychotherapy within her writings on how to live a deeper life. Marianne continues to be deep, enriching, and her gift for putting all things in perspective, as always, comes alive in her newest book. I might have an advantage being that I've read Marianne's books since she first became a published author with 1992's "A Return To Love," and every book she has written thereafter felt like the next steps I needed to take in my own journeyto find a deeper meaning in things. Now at age 37, I've been involved in a great deal of mid-life assessment over the last year, and I've felt a miracle again knowing now that the purpose of it all has led up to reading a book about embracing our mid-life. However, I probably don't have that great of an advantage because even those who have never heard of nor read anything by Marianne Williamson could read this book and feel like it's the spiritual medicine they've been waiting for. Marianne always comes along at the right time to validate what we know to be true in our hearts and to clarify that our questions about the meaning of life feel mandatory to heal from our personal woes. Of course it's not just about finding peace in our personal lives. Once again, Marianne's worldview is relevant and insightful. I have to agree that if we as a collective don't do something to end the war, then the war will eventually end us. I also couldn't agree more at how Marianne makes sharp comparisons to the 1960's and the world situation today. Bobby Kennedy and Martin Luther King,Jr. were the great leaders of that time who didn't just dream of leading a nation to peace, but were proactive in accomplishing that dream, and as Williamson so brilliantly puts it, "The mistake of the 60's generation wasn't that we didn't have the right goal; it was that we didn't yet realize that we ourselves must be the means by which the goal is achieved." She then points out how Gandhi said, "The end is inherent in the means." How true it is. And how true that the arrival of mid-life is a new beginning if we choose to embrace it.

Easy to read book and puts positive perspective on mid life
I enjoyed reading this book. The author has been there and done it with her many life challenges and come through it all. Marianne Williamson offers a straight forward approach to what mid life can potentially be if one is willing to re frame the mid life experience. It is about getting going rather than giving up. Its about gathering up the past and investing it into the present and future. If you want a positive boost about the brighter aspects of mid life and the advantages it offers then this is well worth the read.

Spiritual Quackery
This book and Ms. Williamson's philosophy/worldview is nothing new; witness the snake in the Garden of Eden telling our ancestors that "you shall be as gods..."; isn't this exactly what Ms. Williamson is teaching?
Be careful, it's nothing more than New Age, Spiritual Quackery!

A positive book
I enjoyed the book - it's uplifting with sensible (spiritual) advice. It made me think. I recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description
On investigative visits to nursing homes across the nation, Beth Baker has witnessed profound changes. Culture change leaders are tearing up everything -- the floor plans, the flow charts, the schedules, the lousy menus, the attitudes, the rules -- and starting from scratch.They are creating extraordinary places where people live in dignity and greet the day with contentment, assisted by employees who feel valued and appreciated. Perhaps most surprising, these homes prove that a high quality of life does not have to cost more. Some of the best homes in the nation serve primarily low-income people who are on Medicaid.In this new book, Baker tell the story of a better way to live in old age. Although each home is different, they share common values:respecting individual choices; empowering staff; fostering a strong community of elders, staff, family members, and volunteers; redesigning buildings from a hospital model to a home (where pets and children are part of everyday life); and honoring people when they die.Her visits to more than two dozen facilities include those associatd with the Eden Alternative, Green House, Kendal, and the Pioneer Network. Whether these transformational homes become the norm or the domain of a lucky few is the question that faces the next generation of elders, the baby boomers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

A fantastic book
Anyone who works with our elders and is looking to begin (or continue) their journey towards person directed care needs to read this book!I found it very easy to read, yet full of good, useful and inspiring information.I am sure I will be rabbit ear-ing this book to death!!

Old Age in a New Age
I couldn't put down "Old Age in a New Age" until I finished!Beth Baker has written the best book I have read yet (for the ordinary reader who is not part of the medical, nursing institution).This difficult and challenging subject we call "long term care" is hard to understand with its many complexities.I have been reading many books over a period of time and I am amazed at the clarity with which Baker shows the problems even while weaving together the human stories.She keeps the reader engaged and gives us hope.An exceptional writer and journalist, she has provided a book that is easy to read about a difficult and complex subject. But a subject that cannot be ignored even if we want to.The probability is increasing that a nursing home will be the last home for us or our loved ones.We ignore the statistics, hoping, praying we never will reside in a nursing home.In the best sense of the word Baker's book will challenge, it can't help but do that--and hopefully get us to be part of the change we want and need--and for the sake of all future "nursing home residents" we should be grateful to Baker for providing such a signficant book. Ithink Baker's book can be a tool for change in the nursing home near you.Buy it, read it and pass it on to others so we don't find ourselves one day in a dreadful nursing home.I am going to buy this book in bulk and give it to as many people as I can get to read it...That's how significant a read I think it is!
(Rev. Dr.)Judith O'Neill

Thanks to this book, I find myself feeling hopeful
Notwithstanding my low tolerance for any movement that uses the word "transformative" I still found the book an amazing read.

The book is a readable mix of anecdotal and hard data, knowledgeably presented with compassion and humor. Baker is respectful of the residents and the professionals who care for them, without becoming sentimental or preachy. None of which would persuade me this movement has any real chance of actually transforming the hospital model of nursing homes, especially given my experience with how large systems manage to subvert even the best intended and most well-conceived attempts at reform.

What saves the whole thing, for me anyway, is the realization that Baker is addressing my self-involved generation with a message keyed to our own enlightened self-interest. Unless I want to end up as a drooling urine-soaked "slumper" parked in a wheelchair in some dim hallway near the nurse's station, I better get cracking. Perhaps I'm reading too much beneath her overt cheerfulness about the many successfully transformed homes she discovered. But she managed to scare and encourage me at the same time.

I put the book down with a profound respect for those professionals, residents, and families who are inventing something to replace the broken model. Thanks to this book, I find myself feeling hopeful that our generation will not only insist that we do better, but also that there is a model out there of what that better picture can be.

I strongly recommend this book to everyone who has ever visited a friend or family member in a nursing home, everyone who has ever had to help make such decisions for loved ones, and everyone determined to make their own final years self-reliant, stimulating, and worth living.

It's About Time
Movements occur when people push government and institutions out of the way of progress. "Old Age in a New Age" documents a movement that is currently gathering steam across the nation without marches, protests or boycotts.
It gives me a incredible amount of hope that the bleak future of long term care I envisioned is no longer certain after all.
This book is the product of a few dreamers who act, and make real change happen dispite crusty skepticism and entrenched misunderstanding of what "care" means. Heros walk among us, changing the whole world for thousands of nursing home residents.
It will take a long time for me to digest the implications of this important book.

A "Must Read" for those with elders
If you've ever had reason to visit someone in a nursing home, you know two things right away: 1. I wouldn't want to live here and, 2. It's not right to treat people this way. Beth Baker's new book describes what can be created for elders and the people who care for them. In easy to read prose, with a journalist's eye for detail, and including some well-researched statistics, Beth describes the worst and the best in nursing homes today. Best of all, she made me, the reader, want to tell the world what's being done in the best of homes and made me want to do all I can to help make this transformation.Get this book and see that better care doesn't have to cost more, staff turnover can be reduced dramatically, and residents can have much more control over their daily lives even though they are elderly. When I go to a nursing home I see myself petting my cat,listening to jazz, and lobbying for social justice - all things I enjoy now. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (134)

Highly Recommended
This is a fantastic book pack full of a lot of valuable information.KJV is God's inspired word in English and Riplinger exhaustively goes through these new versions, showing the HUGE differences between them.The New Versions are ushering in a one world Bible and one world religion.Hello antichrist.

I recommend Riplinger's DVD Transparent Translations, which is a fascinating lecture echoed off of the New Age Versions book.

Truth is spiritually discerned
Kudos to Gail for outstanding work! To any nay-sayers, read the KJV alongside any modern bible translation-especially the new testament and see what has been left out and what has been added. I only had to do this through the gospels and was absolutely convinced that the KJV is the preserved word in English. You don't even need to read Gail's work to do this! See for yourself. Compare them side by side. They cannot all be correct. You do not need to go to Divinity school to understand God's Word. God will reveal it to you, if you ask Him for it.

The simple fact is, there are two lines of texts, and there are no surviving originals. The Alexandrian line and the Antiochan line. In scripture, according to the law of first mention, Alexandria in Egypt is a school of philosophy (men's ways) and Antioch is the place where the followers of Christ were first called Christians, and the place where Paul was trained in Christian doctrine upon his conversion. The Textus Receptus is preserved from the Antiochan line and the KJV is translated word for word from the Textus Receptus.

Good Liner for the Birdcage
Is this still in print?Mine went into the garbage can 10 years ago. What misleading drivel. It's the bunk.

The KJV was also rejected initially by the Pilgrim fathers and many others
I was a KJO person for about two months; then God opened my eyes to the idiocy of thinking that Paul actually talked like Macbeth and there is such a thing as a perfect translation in English. English is a crude language, and it tends to either complicate or oversimplify the original languages. If the KJV is the preserved Word of God, where are the original autographs that prove it?

I fell prey to the idea that the NASB and NIV were devil's bibles, until I actually looked at them. While I do not recommend the NIV as a study bible, I believe it works well as an introductory bible. God is all about making the Gospel clear to people. Yes, I believe the Holy Spirit helps us understand the meaning of the God's Word, but must we think archaic language is the way God speaks today? Of course not!

If the KJV was the only way for people to hear the gospel, then God would make the best of it, and He did. However, in our current visual age, with so many people addicted to visual representations of life and not educated to become readers of good literature, what chance do we have of getting people to read the KJV? Harry Potter is very popular for two reasons: 1. It tells an interesting story (apparently), and 2. It is written in an easy to read format. Were it written in the language of the KJV bible, do you think kids would read it?

All one is asking is that folks use the good sense God gave them and decide what makes sense. If the new versions do not change doctrine or challenge the beliefs taught over the past 1900 years, but induce people to read them because they use contemporary language, then what's the problem? Similar to any prejudice, the antipathy to the newer translations is resistance to change. It took almost 100 years before the KJV was universlly accepted, for the same reason. The Pilgrim fathers brought the Geneva Bible with them (oh..and drank beer all the way over) from the old country.

When a bible, such as the NASB, makes the meaning clearer and more relevant using current wordage, how can that be bad? To think that God would allow His Word to be corrupted on the mass scale supposed by this book's author is to infer that God is allowing it to be corrupted. That makes God a co-conspirator, doesn't it? Doesn't accusing these translations of heresy (which is unfounded) help to breed doubt in the inerrancy of God's Word rather than, as the author infers, the translations themselves?

Even the King James translators (who were not as Godly as one would think based on the reverence shown them by KJO's) state that a plurality of translation is a GOOD thing! I love the King James rendition for it's beauty and it's majesty. But, that is also the result of the translator's original intent to make it an oral presentation rather than a version to be read by the general public. I am intelligent enough to understand the King James Version's language, but at times find the sentence construction awkward in the sense that it doesn't make sense. That's when I appreciate the clarity of the newer versions. I also prefer the literal translations (NASB,ESV) for the same reason: clarity and alternate readings that sometimes illuminate what is obviously wrongly understood by the KJV translators based on the way they interpreted the original Hebrew or Greek.

A very quick example is here:
I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire.
(Daniel 7:9 KJV)

compared to:
As I looked, thrones were placed, and the Ancient of days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames; its wheels were burning fire.
(Daniel 7:9 ESV)

Which makes more sense? The KJV translators were not inspired by God...the original authors of the Hebrew and Greek were. Jesus and the Apostles quoted from the Septuagint(a Greek translation of the OT also called LXX) which renders the exact same thoughts differently, not word for word, or in the exact same sentence structure.

When Jesus said "It is written 'Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.'" (Matthew 4:7 KJV) why didn't he say it exactly as it is rendered in the books of Moses: "Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah." (Deuteronomy 6:16 KJV)

How about "Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve." (Matthew 4:10 KJV), which refers to "Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name."(Deuteronomy 10:20 KJV)

None of these are an exact match, but the point is made isn't it? Ditto for the newer translations. In short, don't let emotions and tradition overwhelm your common sense and faith in God. This book is simply a circular argument without the original manuscripts.

Important information when choosing a Bible
This book is long overdue.It is a difficult read, as there is much research here.Ms. Riplinger has outdone herself with comprehensive first line data collection, and captures the dangers surrounding the issue well.

I find it interesting that one of the reviewers cites that after reading this book, he was convicted to stand by his KJV... that is, until he attended divinity school, and all that changed.Ahhh, the corrupted and liberal academia is the best way to turn a Bible believer into a believer of man's wisdom (ie philosophy).Divinty schools are the worst, because they have to teach the watered down, non-denominational relativism that will keep all the various faiths happy and enrolling in their schools.

As long as there are people with Bibles, the debate over the KJV will likely never end.Has anyone ever considered why the opposition is so great?Perhaps because "the opposition" is just as God warned us in the Bible... that Satan, whom God calls the Prince of this world, is disguised as a minister of righteousness and has been allowed to corrupt His word, just as God warned us he would.But also remember God promised to preserve His word too.So which is it?Well, since God is no liar, both are true... there are both corrupted and uncorrupted texts out there and it is up to you to make a discerning choice.Taking a stance that ALL Bibles are truth is actually anti-Biblical!

The truth is, one only has to hold a newer translation side by side with a KJV to see the problems for yourself... missing verses, incorrect name references, changed meanings, and errors which leave me with little confidence in those texts.The list of problems is actually quite long.

Non KJV readers may not like the old words or language, but truthfully this is what makes it a wonderful study tool.Much like the reason doctors use Latin... it hasn't changed and therefore less open to mistakes in interpretation, and harder to change (ie corrupt) without being noticed.I don't find it difficult to study at all.In fact, once I adjusted to the very few languange barriers (thee, thou, comest and goest) I find it to be easier, due to its consistent use of the same words throughout, plus it has a certain poetic flow that lends itself to memorization and understanding.If a translation says "let there be light," but later calls light "glow" and then later calls light "brightness" etc, then word referencing becomes hard, but in the KJV a word can be refenced back to its first use in the scriptures themselves.If a different word is used, like day instead of light, then I knew the meaning is also different in this context.Awesome!I never need a Bible dictionary and rarely need other books to study my Bible... I let the Bible be the teacher and not a lot of supplemental texts that could introduce error.Occasionally a concordance or quality reference like Bullinger's Figures of Speech Used in the Bible: Explained and Illustrated come in handy.

So what is all this angst and fervour against KJV supporters anyway? I undertand people say the KJV is "too hard" to read, but why get all upset that other people don't think its too hard, or better, they think its a superior study tool?Perhaps KJV opposers don't want to admit that God is right...

I found Ms. Riplinger's book to be thought provoking and well researched.The fact that it is controversial makes it all the more interesing to read!One should always know both sides to an issue before making a definate decision... especially when it comes to God!

Give it a read... even if you don't agree, you might learn something.

... Read more

Book Description
Len Sweet talks about Planting New Churches in a Postmodern Age as that "one-stop, one-shop wonder that makes obsolete all the alternatives."

In this book, Ed Stetzer lays out a case for missional church planting and then describes the process to plant healthy new churches. He combines the theological and the practical in one book. The book looks at cultures and how to reach persons in those cultures through the tools within the cultures themselves. It also provides a new look at emerging trends in churches reaching postmoderns. Then, it provides step by step instructions about how to plant churches in today's world.

Sections include "Basics of Church Planting," which explores the biblical and theological basis for planting, "Church Planting Nuts and Bolts" which provides those essential practical tools, and "Understanding Cultures and Models," which provides fresh insights into reaching unchurched people.

Solid experience (from Stetzer and dozens of examples), Biblical roots, and fresh insights into the postmodern world make this a must read for the church planting hoping to make an impact. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Planting New Churches
Ed Stetzer has written a vade mecum for church planters and for congregations considering planting a new mission. Not only does he provide theological basis for church planting, but he gives excellent nuts and bolts advice. Not everyone will agree with all of his advice, but following it, will greatly increase the chances of success for a new mission plant.

Deserves the hype.
I needed to read the best book I could find on planting churches in this postmodern world we live in. Somewhere a reviewer of this book said that it was the best book he read in his church growth class out of thousands of pages read.

I believe it.

As a pastor about to relocate a church, I will be using this book as my practical textbook. I've already started using it with my parishioners.
Not to be overly critical, but there are a lot of church growth books today and most of them are good, but some are harder than others to apply to the "real world." I believe that Stetzer speaks from experience and he leaves few stones of experience unturned for the curious to explore and learn from.

After I finish a couple of others books I'm working on, I've got to obtain Stetzer's latest book.

This book is a home run.

Very good introduction to church planting
Planting New Churches in a Postmodern Age is a comprehensive guide for starting new churches regardless of the approach and/or philosophy of ministry. Stetzer includes a good description of different approaches of starting churches as well as different types (ethic, house church, etc.) of churches that maybe planted. Additionally, he discusses the basic steps or procedures that every planter must consider when planting a church, such things as the name of the church, focus group, development of a core group, evangelism, small groups, and selection of a meeting place.

List strengths of book.
There is must to commend with the book. First, as mentioned above the book is very comprehensive. If a planter had a chance to read only a few books on church planting, this would certainly be one that should be included. Second, Stetzer supports the need and importance of church planting from both a strong biblical and historical perspective. Third, the book gives an excellent description of emerging postmodern generations and how churches need to think differently to reach those generations. This I believe is the strength of Stetzer's book and makes so timely. He discusses what it means to me incarnational in ministry and service and the importance of reaching postmoderns. Lastly, the book is highly practical. Stetzer gives many hands on types of examples and practical advice, from his own personal experiences that a new planter could make easily apply.

List weaknesses of book.
I find little to be critical of with this book. Most of the book, especially the section on basic steps in church planting, can certainly be found in other resources; however Stetzer does a nice job of bringing it all together in this volume.

Purty Good
The book is purty good...i had to use it for one of my college classes. SO besides being a textbook, the content is really helpful

Buy the new edition titled "Planting Missional Churches"
Though this is a great book in its own right, Stetzer has published an updated edition under a new title, "Planting Missional Churches." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

a learning experience
Hi,
I think the one thing people should try to remember is that the best thing you can do in life is take people where they stand(for who they are).Life is a journey;first and formost,an experience in learning.reading everyones reviews(for and against the book)I can feel the distress from"new agers" and the feelings of vindication from the "non-believers".
I think the best thing any of us can do(objectively)is appreciate another persons opinion in it's entirety(without judgement)and learn from anothers perspective.Reading something foreign from your own personal beliefs is always wonderful,because we are all here to learn/evolve,and we all have something to give to the world of ourselves.Even "new agers" need to remember that.After all,we are all seeking our way in the world;and we are all seeking to connect.Remember what's important.

When Woo-Woo Isn't Wonderful
The one thing about New Age is that it plays the blame game. Just listen carefully and you will see reductionist thinking to control the Universe. Sorry ... no one is that powerful. This is an old book but a worthy read before you dabble.

There is such a thing as magic and the world of spirit has positive and negative entities. Unless you were born like Edgar Cayce with psychic ability and profound healing talents, stay away from this stuff. Not only is it dangerous like a Pandora's box but it will tamper with your spiritual foundation. Metaphysics is NOT New Age. New Age is a culture of hodge-podge spirituality without the accountability.

The core motivation in people who are seeking New Age is often a need to control. They want to learn magic and all sorts of psychic arts so they can manipulate events. The tragedy is that spiritual bondage may happen. There are many spirit-based tools out there but the key, like many things, is discernment.

"More to be pitied than censored"
"More to be pitied than censored."This book really isn't about the battle between New Age philosophy ( it is not a religion) and Christianity.This book is about the struggle of one man to find some security in his life.Mr Baer describes perfectly the underlying problems in his childhood that caused the drug addictions in his early adulthood and ultimately his extreme adherence to the various belief systems he chose to follow.Somewhat detached parents, unresponsive and unsupportive authority figures and most importantly constant upheaval, are a prescription for insecurity.I can't think of anything (short of physical abuse) which will cause a child more problems than constantly moving him from one location to another.Yes, it does teach them to learn to get along with people they don't know but it deprives them of stability and continuity.The person Mr. Baer became is a perfect example of someone raised in that enviroment.He spent his short life searching for something stable, something with continuity, something to fill the "void" and eventually found it in Christianity.Extremism is common in these situations.He reminded me of the little silver ball in a pinball game.Bouncing from one idea to the next desperately trying to find the balm he needed to soothe the pain.

Unfortunately, Christianity often fills that void by taking away thoughtfulness and analyses."Just believe in the Lord and all will be well with you".When the doubts begin to creep back in, that is Satan tempting you.When you do something that is a manifestation of that still underlying insecurity, it is because Satan momentarily overpowered you.I am confident that had Mr. Baer lived for several more years, he would have discovered that nothing deep inside him had changed.Perhaps, we would have ended by reading some other book by him declaring that Christianity had seduced him and that Judaism was really the answer.Because the real truth is: He neveraddressed the fundamental issue to begin with.His deep and crippling insecurity.
I feel for him.

BTW:In one part of the book, Mr. Baer says that Napoleon Hill's book "Think and Grow Rich" was based on a Council of 33 imaginary figures that Mr. Hill fabricated.This is patently untrue.Anyone who has even a passing knowledge of that book knows that the philanthropist (and Christian) Andrew Carnegie commissioned that book by paying Napoleon Hill's expenses for 20 years to allow him to interview more than 500 great men from all walks of life with the purpose of discovering why they were successful. What were their "secrets of success"?Only in one small part of the book is the "imaginary council" mentioned and it was purely a creation of the author Napoleon Hill.Hill studied in detail the lives of 13 men whom he admired. Through his studies, he got to know them so well that he could, when presented with a problem in his own life, think to himself(for example) "What would Benjamin Franklin do in this circumstance?".One has to believe that there are many, many people who do this sort of thinking everyday.
It's not quite as odd when you know that, is it?

Wish I Could Give it 6 Stars !!
This is truly an insider's account. It's one thing to read a book on the New Age movement by a Christian researcher, and there are many such books. But this is from a man who literally lived it, before coming to Christ. Fascinating stuff. Randall Baer tells us how he got sucked in, his highs and lows while in the movement, and how he was finally able to get out from it.The creepy, demonic nature of the New Age movement practically jumps out at you from off the pages. Verywell written.

New Agers will hate this book. But this book is especially good ifyou have a loved one who is in the movement, or if you are trying to witness to someone who is involved in the movement.This is a good way of understanding the New Age culture and its seductive ways of pulling people in, and keeping them in.

Life changing!!!!
I was a new ager -fully dedicated and ultra enthusiastic, so was my sister. This book was the ultimate eye opener because the author spoke of things that I was being taught, things that I enjoyed -I could relate to everything and ultimately his conclusions led me to ask God if what the author said was true -my whole life was changed after that and I will NEVER regret it.
I realized that what we want to believe is not the same as what is true.Now I know there is no such thing as "your own personal truth" as if truth changes depending on what you want to believe.There is truth and there are lies.The New Age is compelling and interesting when you don't have a clue but when you find the real truth, it doesn't change -neither does God.The Bible warns against New Age practices specifically but some choose not to believe it, to their extreme detriment.
My sister refused to read the book when I first gave it to her and begged her to read it. She thought it had closed my mind and leaving the New Age did not suit her at the time.One day she read it and has never been the same. She dumped her spirit guide that same day and asked God to help her. He did. She hadn't realized how she was living in fear until the fear was lifted from her along with her spirit guide who was nothing but a deceiver from hell in a nice coating.If you wonder what might be wrong about the New Age -read this book! ... Read more

Book Description
"With Kinseyesque diligence [Moffatt] catalogues the sexual habits and fantasies of his students. . . . His book vibrates with quirky authenticity." --New York Times Book Review"Useful for understanding the student experience . . . throughout the United States. . . . Beautifully written, carefully researched . . . a classic."--John Thelin, Educational Studies"Michael Moffatt is a multitalented, multidisciplinary scholar . . . who writes without a trace of gobbledygook. He deserves a wide following." --Rupert Wilkinson, Journal of American Studies"One of the most thoughtfully crafted case studies of undergraduate culture . . . ever written . . . a book every professor should read." --Paul J. Baker, AcademeComing of Age is about college as students really know it and--often--love it. To write this remarkable account, Michael Moffatt did what anthropologists usually do in more distant cultures: he lived among the natives. His findings are sometimes disturbing, potentially controversial, but somehow very believable. Coming of Age is a vivid slice of life of what Moffatt saw and heard in the dorms of a typical state university, Rutgers, in the 1980s. It is full of student voices: naive and worldy-wise, vulgar and polite, cynical, humorous, and sometimes even idealistic. But it is also about American culture more generally: individualism, friendship, community, bureaucracy, diversity, race, sex, gender, intellect, work, and play. As an example of an ethnography written about an anthropologist's own culture, this book is an uncommon one. As a new and revealing perspective on the much-studied American college student, it is unique. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

An Incredible Book
Most books on "college kids" are nothing but anti-youth statistical messes.Moffat's generous phenomenological approach to the subject and refusal to make any broad generalizations make this book a truly amazing document.His analysis of "friendliness" as the dominant trope in American society, demonstrated in the micro-society of the dorm, is superb, as are his eye-opening conclusions about the trends that govern undergraduate sexuality.

An Anthropological Study of University Students
The author is a faculty member in the Anthropology department at Rutgers University who decided to do a study of the students in traditional immersion fashion.To do this, he joined the incoming freshman class as an older student returning to school and lived in the dorm.The resulting book is a fascinating read, particularly for someone who was actually entering college around the same time as Moffatt's study.Moffatt covers the group dynamics, the forming and shifting of groups, and many of the aspects of college life.

I couldn't put it down!
One of the few college texts I actually READ. Required for a freshman anthropology class (this is almost 8 years ago now), I was thrilled by every word in this book...Easy to read, interesting, entertaining...Imistakenly loaned it to someone who never gave it back and have regrettedit ever since.A must read for anyone interested in a look at collegeculture through the eyes of someone doing it again, 20 years aftergraduation. ... Read more

Product Description
This book uses scientific facts, supported theories, the laws of physics and deductive reasoning to actually prove many of our dearest spiritual concepts.Strong evidence is offered supporting the existence of the soul, a wonderful Hereafter, and a pretty smart God!Other subjects include Angels, Ghosts, Miracles, Quantum Physics, the Purpose of Life, Creating Our Own Reality, and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

It really does make sense of life and life after death
Thanks to this book, I'm now happier and feeling more secure than I've ever been.Taylor proved to me beyond any doubt that I have a soul and I will exist forever.And he did it in a simple, fun to read way.What was once only faith for me is now a solid belief.I gave it to my logical-thinking husband and he loved it too.If everyone would read this book, our chaotic world would become Utopia.

A great new way of looking at things!
This book is great!I have read it twice already and am on my way to a third time.I have found that if you open your mind to the concepts presented in this piece of work, your life tends to take on a new light.You see things differently.You start to feel very comfortable in knowing that you have complete control of your life, and that you are EXACTLY who you are supposed to be.

I would recommend this book to anyone, whether they are seeking answers or not.It's a great book! ... Read more

Book Description
New Spirits: Americans in the Gilded Age, 1865-1905 provides a fascinating look at one of the most crucial chapters in U.S. history. Rejecting the stereotype of a "Gilded Age" dominated by "robber barons," author Rebecca Edwards invites us to look more closely at the period when the United States became a modern industrial nation and asserted its place as a leader on the world stage. Employing a concise, engaging narrative, Edwards recounts the contradictions of the era, including stories of tragedy and injustice alongside tales of humor, endurance, and triumph. She offers a balanced perspective that considers a number of different viewpoints, including those of native-born Anglos, Native Americans, African Americans, and an array of Asian, Mexican, and European immigrants. Beginning with Emancipation and ending with the first deployment of U.S. troops overseas, New Spirits traces the roots of today's diverse and conflicted nation. Organized around major themes, the text consists of three parts. Opening with the legacies of the Civil War, Part I focuses on the era's political and economic transformations. Part II explores upheavals in family life, scientific thought, and religious faith. Part III follows the depression of the 1890s and its aftermath. The book reveals a world of hopeful immigrants and striving professionals; generations in conflict with one another; a new West and South; and religious, political, intellectual, and sexual experimentation. Offering a fresh, sweeping narrative, New Spirits is ideal for readers seeking an introduction to this critical epoch, and for undergraduate and graduate courses on the Gilded Age, the Progressive Era, and 20th-century U.S. history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Back to the Future:The Gilded Age Returns?
Edward's book is a very nice total history of the time period, with particularly interesting examinations of the culture.Edwards effectively tears down the notion of a sudden birth of a Progressive Era and looks at its roots in the "Gilded Age."She, in a very thoughtful way, breaks down some of the simple victomology that tends to encompass study of the period and instead examines the more complex interrelations of class, race and gender in this formative period in US History.She implicitly argues that much of the late nineteenth century is very akin (i.e. recognizable) to the late 20th with its pro-big business and aggressive and racist foreign policy.The book is simply smashing.

Forgotten age
Dr. Edwards newest book is a smash for history buffs. The book attacks the Gilded age with a fresh thematic style that avoids the stuffy typical academic style. She does a great job covering the social issues and doesn't get bogged down in the militarism of the period either. She does a super job exposing the racism and crushing ambivalence of unrestrained capitalism of the age and still has room for a chapter on the sexual mores of the era.

There was one draw back though, in avoiding the academic style she decided not to use footnotes which hampers us graduate students from following in her foot prints. For example what student would fail to be motivated to read a first hand source that contains this information, "and one infamous book instructed married couples to schedule sexual intercourse once every three years, between the hours of 11 A.M. and noon.The author even made recommendations on what to eat that day for breakfast" Now how will a dutiful student ever know what that fortifying morning repast should consist of without a footnote to the primary source?

I liked how Dr. Edwards ended her book. Edwards ends her work with an epilogue that ties the whole book back to her philosophical guide, Walt Whitman, in the guise of a guided tour of the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair.She mixes the optimism characteristic of Americans with the depredations characteristic of unchecked capitalists.She ends on a haunting note that actually stirs the heart of a historian to wonder what comes next. And so we grad students move out to discover that answer...

A Lover of the Gilded Age
Dr. Edwards's new book is superior in all respects. Her account is interesting, lucid, and fun. I learned many new things about this critical period in our history from her fine narriative that relies on recent scholarship. Nothing dusty or drab here at all. As a history teacher, I highly recommend her book to professionals, teachers, and students. This is a winner and should not be passed up. We must hope that she continues to research and to write on this period. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

An Amazing Story of Deliverance from Darkness
Dr. Sandra Clifton, a formerly well known TV psychic shares her spiritual journey in her new book "From New Age to New Life." She writes from her own experiences and clearly shows the deception, nature, and thought behind New Age practices.She also offers practical insights for sensitive ways to dialogue and pray for those entangled in New Age beliefs.

Sandra tells her story, relating the seeds of the gospel being planted by her grandfather, and the importance of Christian heritage in her spiritual journey.Devastated by a failed marriage, Sandra, alone in Los Angeles sought counseling from a professional therapist.One session opened the door to participating in lab experimentation in mind power or psychic abilities, ESP, talk shows, and a TV contract.

As Sandra delved deeper into the darkness of the occult and New Age phenomena she continued to find success, became recognized as a popular speaker at conference and conventions on the power and control that comes through using the power of the mind.On one occasion she had a Damascus Road experience as the Lord made known His claim on her life. This experience was followed by a lonely, hard, and important training program for Sandra and her husband Terry.

The book is designed to provide pastors and teachers with a deeper understanding, to provide all believers an evangelistic tool, specifically for addressing the needs of those ensnared in the occult/New Age movement.

I personally appreciated the various emphases within each chapter which provided me with opportunities for "Reflection," to consider "What Can Be Done," and to apply suggested prayer strategies. The final chapter accentuates the importance of intercessory prayer and provides suggested prayers for family members, spouses, friends, and other special needs.

The book provides material for the lay person in ministering to loved ones, friends, and associates involved in the occult/New Age. It provides help for pastors for counseling those with New Age and occult backgrounds. There is material within the book designed with questions for the church leader to use in study groups relating to postmodern relativism, occult and New Age. The book can be used by seminary students wanting to be equipped to minister to the needs of those influenced by New Age teaching.

Dr. Sandra Clifton writes with clarity as she calls the reader to action through a loving, listening outreach.Her writing is Biblical, informational and inspirational. "From New Age to New Life" is an important and timely book.



... Read more

Book Description
This is the first wide-ranging and accessible introduction to the fascinating subject of the New Age movement. ... Read more

Book Description
15 piano solo arrangements from this popular Narada recording artist. Titles include: Any Color but Blue * Appalachian Sunrise * At Sunrise * Blue Ridge Part 2 * Clouds * Flight of the Seagull * A Gift of the Sea * Good Question * The Green Room * A Heart in the Clouds * Ocala * Rain on the Pond * So Close * Steps in the Sand * Still Pond. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

This book works
Hypnosis is simple, natural, and effective. Unfortunately, many people who pick up this book may find the simplistic nature of the hypnotic theory and induction techniques off-putting, but as a certified hypnotist in training and a practitioner of the scripts included here-in, I could advise anyone reading this review to buy this book with complete confidence that it indeedWORKS. This book adequately describes how to perform extremely powerful inductions on your clients *including eye-fixation, hand-clasp, and progressive relaxation inductions* and also goes a step further by describing the mechanisms behind effective inductions *described as the Hypnotic Laws.* I have noticed however that the hypnotic scripts are written direct-authoritatively which may render them ineffective for emotional suggestible types, but I've found it quite simple to revise the scripts to fit any personality type. For more information on suggestibility types and robust hypnotic theories of the mind I'd recommend "Professional Hypnotism Manual" by John Kappas. However, a deep understanding of hypnosis is NOT required to reap it's benefits on a personal level. This book has more than enough information to successfully master self-hypnosis *which requires no changes to the script whatsoever*. For people out there who haven't been getting tangible results using the self-hypnosis techniques of this book, keep in mind that it takes some time to get used to self-inducing a deep trance state. Hallucination's of angels or higher-dimensional beings, or any positive o