Battle For God by Karen Armstrong

The Battle for God is a book that examines the rise of fundamentalism in the three major monotheistic faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Karen Armstrong explores how each movement has developed its unique way of combating the assaults of modernity.

She argues that fundamentalism is a reaction to the secularism of modern life, a frightened response to the ‘God-shaped hole’ which Sartre talked about, or Nietzsche’s ‘God is dead’.

Armstrong characterizes fundamentalism as one of these new ways of being religious that have emerged in every major faith tradition. Focusing on Protestant fundamentalism in the United States, Jewish fundamentalism in Israel, and Muslim fundamentalism in Egypt and Iran, she examines the ways in which these movements, while not monolithic, have each sprung from a dread of modernity — often in response to assault (sometimes unwitting, sometimes intentional) by the mainstream society.

The central theme of the book is that fundamentalism is essentially the result of confusing one kind of truth with another. Armstrong sees fundamentalist groups as complex, innovative, and modern — rather than as throwbacks to the past — but contends that they have failed in religious terms.

Maintaining that fundamentalism often exists in symbiotic relationship with an aggressive modernity, each impelling the other on to greater excess, she suggests compassion as a way to defuse what is now an intensifying conflict.

What I Liked

I really like all of Karen Armstrong’s books. She’s detailed, nuanced, and embraces the complexity inherent in religion. She writes fascinating books.

What I Did Not Like

All of Armstrong’s books can get a bit academic in parts.

Battle For God by Karen Armstrong

$21.66

In Battle for God, Karen Armstrong takes a close look at the rise of fundamentalism in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. She argues that these movements are reactions to modern secular life, stemming from a fear of losing religious significance. Armstrong portrays fundamentalism as a complex and modern response to societal pressures rather than a simple throwback to the past, though she believes they ultimately fall short in terms of true spirituality. I appreciate her detailed and nuanced approach, but I do find some sections a bit too academic for my taste. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read.

Pros:

• Karen Armstrong provides a detailed and nuanced exploration of fundamentalism.
• The book embraces the complexity inherent in religion.
• Armstrong's writing is captivating and engaging.

Cons:

• Some parts of the book can be a bit academic.

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03/15/2025 10:58 pm GMT