Sacred Sound: Experiencing Music in World Religions

by Guy L. Beck (Editor)

This innovative book explores religion through music, the only art form named after a divinity and one of the most universally recognized forms of human experience. Music has been documented from prehistory to the present age in virtually all known cultures. For many, it is a vehicle for spiritual growth and community empowerment, whether it’s understood as a gift of the gods or simply a practice for achieving mental states conducive to enlightenment. Traditionally, when religious scholars talk about music, it’s as a kind of aesthetic supplement to the important spiritual content of a religion, analogous to stained-glass windows or temple paintings. In contrast, Sacred Experiencing Music in World Religions acknowledges the critical role of musical activity in religious life. Music, including chant and vocal utterance, is not incidental in religious practice but a sacred treasure that is central to the growth and sustenance of religions throughout the world. Musical sound is sacred in most religions because it embodies the divine and can be shared by all participants, enduring among diverse communities of people despite theological differences. Covering six of the major world religions―Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism―forty selections of music and chant can be accessed on the publisher's website. Contributors are respected scholars in religious studies and musicology and provide insight from both disciplines. The first book of its kind, Sacred Sound is a milestone in the growing cross-disciplinary study of religion and music. Audio files available at

Genres: Music, Nonfiction, Religion

232 pages, Paperback

First published July 14, 2006

Reviews

[Sonic Catharsis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very thorough examination of the influence of music throughout the ages. While the book gives a thorough look at the Major Religions, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and even Sikkism, I feel the story of many Native Cultures are missing from this compendium.

This book is recommended for everyone who is a seeker of truth. Most of my copy is highlighted and earmarked as it provides an excellent examination of the influence music played in the World's Major Religions and thereby History.

Recommended for seekers and those interested in music history, music healing, music and spirituality. This book helped me connect the dots in understanding why music prohibition practices were common throughout the ages, as the rich and powerful sought to keep this powerful secret concealed, sound heals and sound helps us connect with Spirit.

[Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book in preparation for a college class I teach on Music & World Religions. Very informative and interesting for the student of world religions. What's more, it comes with a CD of sacred music from all around the world -- very helpful in the study!

[Christopher Hurtado]

Sacred Sound: Experiencing Music in World Religions by Guy L. Beck (2006)

[Annemarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really quite a fascinating read!