Description
The Ecoreligion of the Sacred
Book Summary
In an era marked by ecological crisis and environmental disasters, "The Ecoreligion of the Sacred" offers a profound reflection on the genesis and essence of the religious. Dr. Octavi Piulats argues that the roots of industrial societies' disconnection from Nature reside not only in the economic growth model but also in the semi-unconscious values inherited from Western religions. This essay proposes a journey through the history of religions—from prehistoric animism to Christian monotheism—to restore the concept of "the Sacred" and redefine our relationship with the natural environment.
What is it about?
The book explores the connection between monotheism and the neglect of the natural world, arguing that certain religious structures have contributed to an anthropocentric vision that disparages the intrinsic value of Nature. Through an overview of prehistoric animism, Egyptian henotheism, Hellenic polytheism, and Christian monotheism, the author analyzes how each tradition has shaped our perception of the sacred. The work not only critiques the Western model but also proposes a new "ecoreligion" that integrates spirituality with an ecological ethic, seeking to restore a sense of reverence toward the natural world as a basis for sustainable coexistence.
Main themes
- Relationship between religion and the ecological crisis in the industrial age.
- Critique of monotheism as a factor in the disconnection from Nature.
- Comparative history of religions: animism, henotheism, polytheism, and monotheism.
- Reconstruction of the concept of "the Sacred" as a spiritual and ecological foundation.
- Proposal for an integrative spirituality that harmonizes faith and ecology.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at readers interested in the intersection of spirituality, ecology, and philosophy of religion. It is especially relevant for those seeking to understand the cultural roots of the environmental crisis, as well as for professionals and students of environmental science, theology, anthropology, or cultural studies. It is also a valuable read for anyone wishing to explore new perspectives on the relationship between human beings and Nature from a critical and proactive approach.
What this book contributes
- A critical and original vision of how Western religions have influenced the ecological crisis.
- A rigorous historical analysis of the main spiritual traditions from animism to Christianity.
- A practical proposal to restore respect for the Sacred in the context of sustainability.
- Conceptual tools to rethink spirituality as an ally in environmental defense.
Technical specifications
- Author: Dr. Octavi Piulats
- Publisher: Mandala Ediciones
- Language: Spanish
- Topic: Mind, body and spirit: meditation and visualization
- Collection: Spirituality
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: June 2022
- Number of pages: 200
- Weight: 328 g
Editorial review
This essay is distinguished by its interdisciplinary approach, combining theology, history, and ecology to offer a necessary reflection in the current context of climate emergency. Dr. Octavi Piulats' work does not only diagnose the spiritual roots of the crisis, but also proposes a path to reconciliation between human beings and Nature. Its academic yet accessible tone makes it a stimulating read for a wide audience, from specialists to curious readers seeking to understand how spirituality can be part of the environmental solution.