The history and philosophy of the mysterious Cathar religion and its lost treasure• Demonstrates that Catharism is not simply a heretical Christian cult as it is often portrayed• Examines the evidence for the existence of a lost Cathar treasure and its possible connection to the Holy GrailOn March 16; 1244; over 200 Cathars were captured in their fortress stronghold of Montségur and were burned alive by troops of the Inquisition. While some Cathar enclaves survived into the next century; this was the death blow to a religion that had been a powerful symbol of Occitain sovereignty against the designs of the French monarchy and the papacy. History has recorded that four high-ranking Cathar perfecti carried a great treasure out of Montségur the night before its fall; a fact that led rebel Huguenots of the 17th century and members of Hitler’s S.S. to believe that an enormous treasure or weapon of awesome spiritual power lay hidden somewhere nearby the ruins of the former Cathar stronghold. Seeking to untangle the true from the false; Celtic and medieval scholar Jean Markale meticulously searches through the obscure history of the Cathars; tracing their roots back to the ancient Zoroastrian religion of Persia. He examines what earned the Cathars--who practiced vegetarianism; non-violence; and tolerance--the ruthless persecution of both the Church and the state. He explores their doctrine; their place in medieval Occitain culture; and their secret pact with the Knights Templar. Most important; he uses all available documentation to reveal the nature of the treasure the Cathars spirited away from their fortress at Montségur the night before its surrender to French troops.
#223100 in Books 1985-02-01Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 5 10.16 x 5.98 x 7.15l; 7.82 #File Name: 08910733102262 pages
Review
90 of 91 people found the following review helpful. Christianity for the whole spectrum of lifeBy A CustomerFrancis Schaeffer stands out as one of the most influential evangelicals of the twentieth century. This collection of his writings is invaluable because it not only contains the philosophical writings that made him a hero to disillusioned youth looking for answers; but also contains the practical spiritual writings of Francis Schaeffer the Presbyterian pastor. Schaeffer's philosophy; well laid out in "The God Who Is There"; focuses on the assumptions and presuppositions of various world views. With a sort of sanctified Socratic method; he argues that when one follows particular world views to their logical conclusions; all will ultimately fall apart; all except Christianity. His theological writings insist that the key to all truth is that God is not only there; but that He has communicated to mankind in human language; hence the Old and New Testaments are not only essential to theology and doctrine; but to all human understanding. His later writings follow his own presuppositions to their logical conclusions as he examines current culture; politics and in particular; the abortion/infanticide/euthanasia issues. This collection is organized by topics; including philosophy; spirituality; Western Culture; the church and his view of the Bible as the source of truth. Schaeffer is tough on modern culture at times; and often tough on the twentieth century church. But he is always reasonable and compassionate. Although at times criticised for generalizing and oversimplifying; he seemed to have a finger on the pulse of the times. Some of his statements from more than a decade ago appear prophetic in retrospect. His writings are still fresh; relevant and deserve a wider audience.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Most economical way to obtain all of Schaeffer's work except his last.By Lynn BaberThere are few writers with a real vision of the state of human affairs in our time. Schaeffer traces religious and secular history in science; music; arts and literature; and shows us where our path left the one God would have us walk. Schaeffer discusses the most difficult subjects like abortion and infanticide in the past and present.Humanism is the religion of the 21st century. Humanism elevates mankind to godlike status. Humans have no power to save themselves or the earth. I challenge anyone to read Schaeffer and not discover new facts and dynamics about the deathspiral of Christianity's relevance in the world.Frances Schaeffer does not offer pablum to the masses and pulls no punches allowing us to feel better about ourselves apart from Jesus Christ. God is there and makes Himself known. Schaeffer is a great tour guide on a literary pilgrimage of faith.Five volume set. Very readable type and of good quality for paperbacks. If you're a serious student of society; history; or the absolute truth of God - add this set to your book shelf.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Only buy if your interested in critical thinkingBy Dodd CummingsDeep thinker. Finished my first of the five volume set. Dr. Schaeffer will stretch you but ultimately build your faith in Christianity generally and Jesus Christ specifically.Dr. Schaeffer will help you realize that Christianity is not just "A Choice" but it is the ONLY choice.
