Beyond Religion: A Personal Program for Building a Spiritual Life Outside the Walls of Traditional Religion

by David N. Elkins

Let David Elkins, psychologist and former minister, show you how to find authentic, soul-nurturing spirituality outside church or temple walls. Discover your personal path to the sacred and explore new ways to bring nonreligious spirituality into your life.

Genres: Psychology, Religion, Nonfiction, Spirituality

304 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1998

Reviews

[Jason Dias · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a hell of a story.

I bet a lot of folks out there can relate. Elkins begins in a conservative faith tradition. His ideas about working in the spirit of Christ offend the church and his work towards becoming a minister are suddenly for nothing. Exiled and outcast from the church he grew up in, he had to find some new meaning and order to life.

This journey leads eventually towards psychology, psychotherapy, and existentialism.

[Heaven Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is great for those who aren't religious or have a "Cosmic Meaning" system. Great for those going through an existential crisis or have been through one. This was the "spiritual" revitalization I needed after I broke from organized religion. Reminded me of the importance of being and self-nurture. I'm grateful for art, grateful for literature, and grateful to be experiencing it now more than before.

[Carisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I've enjoyed this book, it hasn't totally kept my attention. I pick it up and read a bit more from time to time as I read through other books more related to my dissertation. Still, I recommend it to anyone who is searching for their spiritual place in life.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Impressive. An ordained minister, Elkins disclaims organized religion and focuses on the soul and spirituality without preaching what to believe. He essentially places "God" within rather than as some masterful ruler watching over us dolling out rewards and punishments. I recommend this for anyone who is turned off by the rituals and dogma of organized religion, including atheists. He provides a "program" at the latter part of the book that would help many to get in touch with and nourish their soul. Nourishment leads to self-acceptance and contentment.