Bread Upon The Waters: A Pilgrimage Toward Self-discovery And Spiritual Truth

by Peter Reinhart

For Peter Reinhart there is no clear line between bread making and soul making. In this engaging memoir, he traces the many paths he's traveled on his journey toward becoming a spiritual adult. Drawing upon both his humility as a seeker and his authority as an internationally known master baker, he relates the twelve stages of bread making to initiations of the soul that progressively lead one to a richer, more spiritual life. With humor and wit, he recounts his struggle to forge a link between the timeless principles of the Judeo-Christian tradition and other world religions. Ever the pilgrim, he tells movingly of his own search for an inner priesthood, a search that led him to twenty-five years of seminary training and charitable work among an eastern orthodox service order; it was here that he discovered his talent and passion for the innately spiritual craft of bread baking. Bread Upon the Waters draws upon a rich life, one devoted to caring for others and to matters of the soul above all else. And woven throughout are inventive recipes drawing upon the ritualistic tradition of the bread baker-food for the body and meditations for the spirit.

Genres: Spirituality

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 6, 2000

About the author

Peter Reinhart is a master baker, educator, and award-winning author, renowned for his deep exploration of bread and pizza. His books, including The Bread Baker’s Apprentice, American Pie: My Search for the Perfect Pizza, and Bread Revolution, have redefined the way people think about baking. With multiple James Beard Awards under his belt, he is considered one of the most influential voices in the world of bread and artisan baking.
A passionate teacher, Peter serves as a Chef on Assignment at Johnson & Wales University, where he shares his expertise with aspiring bakers. He has also worked as a consultant for major food brands, helped develop innovative baking techniques, and even delivered a TED Talk on the transformative power of bread.
His lifelong quest for the perfect pizza led him on a journey across the U.S. and Italy, documented in American Pie, and continues through Pizza Quest, a blog where he explores the art and craft of pizza-making.
Peter’s work goes beyond recipes—he delves into the history, science, and philosophy of baking, believing that bread is not just food but a metaphor for transformation and discovery. Whether you’re a home baker, a professional, or just someone who loves a good loaf, his books offer inspiration, technique, and a deep appreciation for the magic of fermentation.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm finding this book very interesting right now. I was quite intrigued by his references to religion in his whole grain book, and since I am a religious person myself, wanted to read what he had to say on the subject. While I am enjoying the book, he goes a little thick on the mystical/orthodox references, which I am unfamiliar with. However, I have been able to make some connections between his beliefs and mine and it is interesting to read about his progression spiritually and to compare it to mine.

[Hadyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read three books now that use the process of breadbaking to try and explain the process of faith. So far this one is the best. It's deeply personal while at the same time drawing upon the author's vast knowledge of theology and philosophy. While his particular brand of Christianity is not my cup of tea, Reinhart can look back over his life and share his wisdom about bread and faith in a way Preston Yancey in early adulthood and Shauna Niequist in middle adulthood cannot (the other two authors whose books share a similar structure and theme).

[Phyllis Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful spirit in this author/baker/spiritual seeker-