Elias' Proverbs

by Daniel Molyneux

"If you learn all the mysteries of the Cosmos, but fail to know yourself, you remain and educated fool." Elias the Teacher

A stranger appears in Antioch's Great House of Prayer, speaking words filled with power and might. Elias, an unassuming teacher, awes his every-growing audiences with eloquent wisdom. Among his teachings are proverbs to guide God's Children in their daily lives. Dealing with money and work, love and marriage, parenting and faith, Elias' sayings reveal deep insights into the Way of God. If you enjoy the Bible's "Book of Proverbs", or Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet, then you will appreciate Elias' Proverbs.

To find out more go to: https://www.amazon.com/Elias-Proverbs...

Genres: Christian, Historical Fiction, Adult Fiction

114 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 9, 2015

About the author

Daniel's books include: JUDAS SON OF SIMON, THE ANGEL OF ANTIOCH, AND ELIAS' PROVERBS.

His passion is to make historical events and spiritual truths come alive for the reader.

Molyneux has a Master's Degree from Austin Seminary, a Doctorate from Fuller Seminary, and did post-graduate work at Concordia Seminary. He also has a Bachelor's in Drama from Rocky Mountain College, and studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, in London.

To find out more go to: www.angelofa.com

Reviews

[Marta Tandori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elias is a stranger who appears in the Great Synagogue. He is able to recite Scripture by heart and then speak passionately to the assembly before mysteriously disappearing. He appears the following Sabbath and once again recites Scripture by heart before soon disappearing once again. By the following Sabbath, stories of the stranger have spread throughout Antioch and the Great Synagogue is filled to overflowing with not only worshippers but those who are curious about the stranger. The character of Elias is both compelling, yet humble, easily attracting followers in his wake. Some believe that he holds the keys to spiritual wisdom while others believe he is spouting blasphemy. The Angel of Antioch is a book that is more for a niche readership. However, it nevertheless drives home the point that what humans cannot understand, they suspect and that religion breeds not only faith but also deep-seated hate and suspicion, well exemplified by the following passage: “But most religious ritual is birthed from human superstition – spells and incantations devised to manipulate celestial forces to do the will of women and men.” The books speaks truths in simple prose; honest teachings for those readers willing to embrace it.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

`Friend, most religion is a human creation. Faith in the Mighty One is what matters most.'

California author Daniel Molyneux has earned degrees in drama (he also studied Shakespeare at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art), economics and theology. THE ANGEL OF ANTIOCH is his debut novel, though his second book ELIAS' PROVERBS is soon to be released. Daniel's writing explores the mysteries of life and death, good and evil, sickness and healing, victory and defeat, faith and unbelief, science and supernatural miracle.

In a telling introduction - Reformers vs. Religious Leaders - Daniel states, `Perpetual conflict rages between official institutional religious leaders, and itinerate outsiders who weld charismatic spiritual power but who lack organizational sanction. Israel's kings and religious leaders were called to lead God's people into deeper relationship with their Lord. Instead, institutional authorities repeatedly led the Children of Israel to worship idols, mistreat the poor and powerless, and pervert justice. Whether prophets, apostles, saints, or reformers these charismatic outsiders suddenly appear throughout Scripture and history, conveying a renewed vision of spiritual depth, justice, mercy, love and peace, calling priests, kings, politicians and all people to repentance. In the name of God they disrupt the status quo, challenging the institutional authorities who have gone astray.'

He follows this with a poignant historical setting of Antioch, capital of the Selucid Empire, two centuries before Jesus of Nazareth and the schism between Greek culture and Jewish culture, ending with `The events recorded in this book take place during Antiochus Epiphanes' reign, but before his desecration of the Jerusalem Temple - 1100 years after the Prophet Moses and 200 years before the crucifixion of Yeshua Ha'Mashiach (Jesus the Christ).'

What Daniel has achieved in this novel is a sense of what is faced by one who would speak truth to skeptics. As the story unwinds we sense the faith, persecution, courage and violence faced by prophets/teachers who challenge contemporary concepts. The synopsis states, `A mysterious stranger, Elias, appears in the Great House of Prayer speaking words filled with power and wisdom. Some believe he is an angel, others a prophet, but the religious leaders reject his words, regarding him as a dangerous fool. The emperor becomes uneasy as the Capital is thrown into turmoil because of the stranger's teachings. Journey with "The Angel of Antioch" as he speaks proverbs, parables and insights. Discover the power contained in a few simple words uttered boldly without fear, and the difference a single person can make.'

While clearly within the realm of `religious writing' this novel is much more - it is an examination of what a man of insight and wisdom faces as he courageously questions ancient ideas and concepts. Daniel has not only researched his period well, he has carefully concentrated on the psychology of religious thought and brings a fresh life into sacred teachings. Few who read this book will fail to find deeply moving concepts for contemplation on the role of institutional religion versus open spiritual thought.

[Marta Tandori · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elias was a teacher/spiritual guide who was first introduced in the author’s book, The Angel of Antioch. Elias appeared in Antioch, an ancient city in biblical times, speaking words of wisdom and offering guidance on life and its values. Revered by many for his wisdom and considered a prophet or angel by some, religious leaders felt threatened and considered him a dangerous heretic worthy of persecution. It is Elias’ wisdom that is showcased in the book Elias’ Proverbs, a book filled with exactly that – proverbs. Proverbs are defined as short, popular sayings that effectively express some commonplace truth or useful thought. Elias’ Proverbs cover all forms of spiritual and philosophical subject matter such as Freedom and Bondage, Truth and Lies, Hypocracy, Winning Friends and Trust, to name a few. While the book itself contains a wide selection of proverbs to nourish the reader’s soul, the author, Daniel Molyneux, would have been better served to have given readers some background with respect to Elias in the form of a narrative/introduction which could have then showcased the proverbs themselves.

[Mary Moerbe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting read. I find it fascinating that the author chose to put his words into the mouth of an ancient-but-fictional character. Are proverbs from contemporary authors, or characters, less appealing? Frankly, I almost wonder if that’s so. A very interesting narrative technique! I also appreciate how it opened up the genre to include varying forms and lengths of material.

Thought-provoking and quite charming. I daresay it would appeal to both the religiously-reluctant and the religiously-rigorous, if they are open to, well, proverbs.

It’s the sort of book that leaves you with lingering thoughts.

[Ray · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lower rating because of multiple printing errors.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘When dealing with another’s wrongs, be gentle and full of love.’

California author Daniel Molyneux has earned degrees in drama (he also studied Shakespeare at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art), economics and theology doctorate from Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, California. THE ANGEL OF ANTIOCH was his debut novel; his second book ELIAS' PROVERBS is now available and serves as a mighty adjunct to the first book. Daniel's writing explores the mysteries of life and death, good and evil, sickness and healing, victory and defeat, faith and unbelief, science and supernatural miracle. In this book Daniel shares a collection of proverbs and presents them in an inordinately sensitive manner.

Daniel opens this collection by states, ‘Wisdom has diligently been sought throughout human history. From Confucius' words to the philosophers of Ancient Greece, from Siddhartha's quest for enlightenment to the revelations contained in Hebrew and Christian scriptures, the quest for wisdom has been universal. One of the magical aspects of wisdom is its inseparable link to poetry, lyric, song, proverb and parable. If all poetry, proverbs and parables were removed from the Bible, the remaining words would be an impoverished shell, largely stripped of their beauty and emotional power. It is my heartfelt prayer that the poetic proverbs contained in this book will enrich your life in some small way, becoming yet another verse in your own personal spiritual song.’

What follows are the proverbs of Elias the Teacher whom we know well from THE ANGEL OF ANTIOCH. A few can be shared here.

‘Bearers of Light - Angels dwell in glimmering Illumination, carrying Light with them wherever they go. Bright bliss surrounds the Elysian Host, no matter where they may roam. When the Light Bearers are sent to visit dark dungeons in Gehenna, glowing Illumination still shines within them, even while surrounded by Hades’ Abyss. The Flame - Friends, to be near me is to be near a flame. The fire brings light and warmth to you; but my words blaze and burn those who revere the dark, throwing them into a rage. Soon they will try to put my fire out. Finding God - In the search for their Creator, when at last the Author is found, a divine revelation is revealed - it was the Mighty One who was seeking; and the Almighty who did the finding. Human beings do not discover God; it is the Lord who seeks and saves the lost.’

While clearly within the realm of `religious writing' this book is much more - it is an examination of what a man of insight and wisdom faces as he courageously questions ancient ideas and concepts. Daniel has not only researched his period well, he has carefully concentrated on the psychology of religious thought and brings a fresh life into sacred teachings. Few who read this book will fail to find deeply moving concepts for contemplation on the role of institutional religion versus open spiritual thought.

[Israel Drazin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elias’ Proverbs
By Daniel Molyneux
This is a well-written, easy to read, book of wise poetic proverbs. Yutan is sharing the knowledge that he heard in Syria from Elias. The book contains proverbs for daily life, wealth, love and marriage, sexual intimacy, and parenting. Although different than Herman Hesse’s famed Siddhartha, Molyneux’s book of proverbs reminded me of this classic. Molyneux stresses that people should seek wisdom and not rely on clerics, no matter how pious they seem, for they frequently do not teach true wisdom.
He explains that clerics cannot help us attain eternal glory because “Many clerics stand in front of the Door of Wisdom, blocking the way for those who wish to enter.” “A rat is not made sweet and tasty by living in a honey jar. Nor can an evil person become sweet and pleasing to the Almighty by spending long hours within the house of prayer.” “Do not trust a religious person more than others.”
Religion can be helpful, but it and its adherents can be dangerous. Many clerics preach an easy to obtain life’s goal, but true religious teachers “boldly speak lessons that are hard and difficult to accept.”
Only God “can give eternal glory.” To gain this glory, we need to learn “to abstain from the world’s fleeting pleasures.” But unfortunately people are “content to be dumb.” They do not realize or even care to realize that “wealth cannot buy happiness” and what is important in life is wisdom.
The book offers good advice: “Spiritual maturity is reached when a man or woman gives more to others than they receive.” “It is better to be a loving and merciful heathen than a heartless religious judge.” “When dealing with another’s wrongs, be gentle and full of love…. The judgment pronounced on you (for your misdeeds) shall be set by the same measuring stick you used to judge others.” “An objects price is obvious to all. But its long-term cost is a secret whispered only into the ears of the wise.”
Other examples: Marriage: “There is no place for modesty in marriage.” “Insults injure more than whips.” Parenting: “Good parents work themselves out of a job.” Friendship: “Don’t lend family and friends, give money as a gift.”
In short, this is a book filled with good advice which, when followed, can lead to wisdom and a happy and satisfying life.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is important to be informed whenever you enter a conversation or debate, and for that reason, I occasionally dip into newer religious waters so that I can be fully informed when the next inevitable chat arises about religion, spirituality, and the afterlife. I don't pursue these conversations, but they seem to find me. Elias' Proverbs gave some new insight into the quality and content of a truly religious life. These creative inventions and explications are important for a comprehensive understanding of religion, both in the past and the present. Also, Elias as a character is useful to reference far beyond the pages of a religious text or a conversation with someone about church. There are wise and astute moments and lessons that can be learned here, so reading this book had the air of a religious experience at times, as I felt my eyes open and my head nod along, agreeing with the underlying wisdom and compassion inherent in these pages. I think Molyneux presented this book very well, and I would be pleased to read more of his work in the future, particularly if he can share such powerful messages about religion without beating us over the head. He helps readers find their way to enlightenment and Christ, but doesn't force them in that direction.

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Angel of Antioch, by Daniel Molyneux, was a new type of read for me. When I read the premise I knew I had to give it a try, but didn't expect it to be as good as it actually was. Molyneux's writing style simply blew me away, and this story was extremely easy to follow from start to finish. Very interesting characters, and extremely interesting plot. This novel contains all the elements that a good novel should contain and for that, I'm giving it five stars.

Elias is a stranger who shows up in the Great Synagogue. His great talent is his ability to recite the scripture from memory, and once he speaks to the assembly, he disappears. He reappears, recites the Scripture, and then disappears once more. By this point, people are extremely curious about him, trying to figure out who he may be and where he goes. Of course, some people think he's a complete fraud, but others people that he truly is a spiritual leader who should be worshiped. I found his character to be extremely intriguing, and I myself desperately wanted to find out who he really was.

Great read, would highly recommend it.

[Veritas Vincit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading religious books is not something I commonly do, but when one comes across my path that is more based on morality and proverbial wisdom, then I am more likely to flip through those pages. Upon the recommendation of a trusted reading companion, I took a chance on Elias' Proverbs, and was pleased that I did. Unlike so many other "religious books", this wasn't based on hitting readers over the head with rules and dictums; instead, this was like a transcription of a speaker series, and we had a chance to see Elias' perspective on life, love, compassion, inclusion, and the pursuit of knowledge and spirituality. This wasn't a book ordering us to Do this or Do that, else suffer the wrath of God. No, this was something that many people, Christians and otherwise, could read as a brief and easy reminder of what matters in life. Proverbs are such powerful tools because they are universal, and people are encouraged to look within themselves for meaning and points of relativity. I enjoyed Molyneux's underlying writing stye as well, and wouldn't hesitate to read another of his books in the future.