In 'God: A Biography', Jack Miles presents a captivating exploration of the character of God as depicted in the Hebrew Bible. Rather than a theological treatise, Miles offers a literary analysis, portraying God as a complex figure who evolves throughout the narratives. Readers will discover the emotional depth and contradictions of this divine character, raising thought-provoking questions about faith, identity, and morality. Miles invites us to see God not just as an omnipotent being, but as a relatable character with a profound, multifaceted story. This innovative approach promises to challenge preconceived notions and inspire readers to reconsider their own beliefs.
By Jack Miles
Published: 1996
""God is a character in the greatest story ever told, shaped by the narratives and the interplay of human experience, as much as by divine intention.""
WINNER OF THE PULITZER PRIZE What sort of "person" is God? What is his "life story"? Is it possible to approach him not as an object of religious reverence, but as the protagonist of the world's greatest book—as a character who possesses all the depths, contradictions, and abiguities of a Hamlet? This is the task that Jack Miles—a former Jesuit trained in religious studies and Near Eastern languages—accomplishes with such brilliance and originality in God: A Biography. Using the Hebrew Bible as his text, Miles shows us a God who evolves through his relationship with man, the image who in time becomes his rival. Here is the Creator who nearly destroys his chief creation; the bloodthirsty warrior and the protector of the downtrodden; the lawless law-giver; the scourge and the penitent. Profoundly learned, stylishly written, the resulting work illuminates God and man alike and returns us to the Bible with a sense of discovery and wonder.
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Jack Miles is an acclaimed author and scholar known for his profound insights into the spiritual and moral dimensions of religious texts. His notable works include 'God: A Biography,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography in 1996, and 'Christ: A Crisis in the Life of God.' Miles' writing style is characterized by its blend of scholarly rigor and elegant prose, making complex theological concepts accessible to a wide audience. He explores themes of divinity, humanity, and the intersection of religion and literature, establishing himself as a significant voice in contemporary theology.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Richard Dawkins, Charles Simonyi Professor of the Public Understanding of Science Richard Dawkins
Scott Young is an entrepreneur, author, and learning expert, best known for his work in accelerated learning and self-education. Young gained recognition for completing MIT’s computer science curriculum in one year through self-study, an experiment he documented in his book Ultralearning. He advocates for a systematic, focused approach to learning new skills, and his work has inspired people to take on ambitious projects in fields like coding, languages, and creative arts. Young writes extensively on productivity, cognitive science, and learning techniques, sharing strategies for mastering complex subjects quickly. His approach to education has made him a prominent figure in the world of self-improvement and personal development.
View CollectionSam Harris is an American neuroscientist, philosopher, author, and host of the Making Sense podcast, where he explores topics related to science, religion, politics, and philosophy. Harris is known for his advocacy of secularism and rational thinking, and his books, including The End of Faith and Waking Up, have been best-sellers. He is also a meditation teacher, offering guidance on mindfulness and spirituality through his Waking Up app. Harris’s work often focuses on the intersection of science and ethics, and he is a prominent figure in debates about free will, consciousness, and moral philosophy.
View CollectionJason Nemer is a renowned acro yoga practitioner and co-founder of AcroYoga International, a practice that blends acrobatics, yoga, and healing arts. He has significantly contributed to the global spread of acro yoga, promoting physical and mental well-being through his innovative techniques and teachings. Jason has authored numerous instructional materials and has been featured in various publications, sharing his expertise and passion for the discipline. His workshops and retreats attract participants from around the world, fostering a diverse and supportive community. Through his work, Jason Nemer has inspired countless individuals to explore the transformative power of acro yoga.
View CollectionCaterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
View CollectionJoe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
View CollectionRay Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.
View CollectionJon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
View CollectionNassim Nicholas Taleb is a Lebanese-American author, scholar, and risk analyst, best known for his work on uncertainty, probability, and risk. His books, including The Black Swan and Antifragile, explore how rare and unpredictable events shape the world and how individuals and systems can become more resilient to shocks. Taleb’s insights on risk management have influenced fields ranging from finance to medicine, and he is known for his outspoken criticism of conventional wisdom. His ideas about randomness, decision-making, and the limitations of human knowledge have made him a leading thinker in modern economics and philosophy.
View CollectionReid Hoffman is an influential American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author, best known as the co-founder of LinkedIn, the professional networking platform that transformed online professional interactions. Hoffman has significantly impacted the business world through his investments in notable tech companies like Airbnb, Facebook, and Zynga. As an author, he has co-written several acclaimed books, including "The Start-Up of You" and "Blitzscaling," which provide strategic insights into career development and business growth. His works are celebrated for their practical advice and have become essential reading for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. Hoffman's contributions extend beyond his literary efforts, as he remains a prominent figure in Silicon Valley, shaping the future of technology and innovation.
View CollectionNat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
View CollectionDaniel Petre is a distinguished Australian entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist known for his impactful contributions to the business and literary worlds. He co-founded the venture capital firm AirTree Ventures, which has significantly influenced the technology startup ecosystem in Australia. Petre has authored several influential books on technology and leadership, including "The Clever Country?" and "Father Time," which explore themes of innovation and work-life balance. His writing often reflects his deep commitment to shaping a forward-thinking, inclusive society. Beyond his literary and business endeavors, Petre is also recognized for his substantial philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
View CollectionDan Savage is an American author, media pundit, and LGBT activist, best known for his sex advice column Savage Love and his podcast Savage Lovecast. Savage has been a prominent voice in discussions around sexuality, relationships, and LGBTQ+ rights, often using humor and frankness to tackle difficult subjects. He co-founded the "It Gets Better" project, an anti-bullying initiative aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Savage is known for challenging conventional wisdom around monogamy, marriage, and sex, making him a controversial but respected figure in the world of advice and advocacy. His work has had a significant impact on public discourse around sex and relationships.
View CollectionJames Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
View CollectionStanislav Grof is a pioneering psychiatrist and researcher in the field of transpersonal psychology. Born in 1931, he is renowned for his extensive work on the therapeutic potential of non-ordinary states of consciousness, particularly through the use of LSD and holotropic breathwork. Grof's seminal book, "The Holotropic Mind," co-authored with Hal Zina Bennett, has had a profound impact on the understanding of human consciousness and spiritual experiences. He has authored over 20 books and numerous scientific papers, significantly contributing to the literature on psychology and psychotherapy. Grof is also one of the founders of the International Transpersonal Association, promoting the integration of spiritual dimensions with psychological practice.
View CollectionPeter Thiel is a renowned entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author best known for co-founding PayPal and Palantir Technologies. He played a pivotal role in the early growth of Facebook as its first outside investor. Thiel's literary contributions include his influential book "Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future," which offers insights into innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of technology. A prominent figure in Silicon Valley, he has significantly impacted the tech industry's landscape through his investments and thought leadership. Thiel's work continues to inspire entrepreneurs and innovators around the world.
View CollectionRuby Granger is a British author and YouTube personality renowned for her productivity and study tips, which have inspired a global audience. Her debut book, "Erimentha Parker's To Do List," received acclaim for its motivational and empowering themes targeted at young readers. In addition to writing, Ruby has built a substantial following on her YouTube channel, where she shares insights on academic success, personal growth, and mental well-being. She is also a co-founder of the company Pumpkin Productivity, which offers stationery and tools designed to enhance productivity. Ruby's work continues to impact and uplift students and young professionals worldwide, emphasizing discipline, optimism, and self-improvement.
View CollectionBrian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.
View CollectionJordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.
View CollectionChristopher Hitchens (1949-2011) was a prolific British-American author, journalist, and literary critic known for his sharp wit and unapologetic criticism of religion and political figures. He penned numerous books, including the best-selling "God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything," which cemented his reputation as a leading public intellectual and outspoken atheist. Hitchens contributed regularly to prominent publications such as Vanity Fair, The Nation, and The Atlantic, showcasing his wide-ranging knowledge and incisive commentary. He was also lauded for his powerful oratory skills, engaging in countless debates and lectures worldwide. His memoir, "Hitch-22," offers an introspective look into his life, further solidifying his legacy as a formidable voice in contemporary literature and thought.
View CollectionBrian Greene is an American theoretical physicist and author, best known for his work on string theory and popularizing science through his books and media appearances. Greene’s books, including The Elegant Universe and The Fabric of the Cosmos, have helped bring complex concepts in physics to a general audience. He is also the co-founder of the World Science Festival, which promotes public engagement with scientific topics. Greene’s research and ability to communicate scientific ideas have made him one of the most influential figures in theoretical physics. His work continues to inspire curiosity about the universe and our understanding of it.
View CollectionFrank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.
View CollectionAllen Gannett is an acclaimed author and entrepreneur, best known for his influential book, "The Creative Curve," which explores the science behind creativity and innovation. As the founder of TrackMaven, a marketing analytics company, Gannett has significantly impacted the fields of data-driven marketing and business intelligence. His insights on creativity have been featured in major publications like Forbes and Fast Company. Gannett is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at conferences worldwide. With his work, he bridges the gap between creativity and data, offering valuable guidance for both individuals and organizations.
View CollectionAdam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection“"God is a character in the greatest story ever told, shaped by the narratives and the interplay of human experience, as much as by divine intention."”
God: A Biography
By Jack Miles
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.