Chapter 1: The Challenge of Spiritual Literature

Throughout my journey, I have delved into numerous spiritual texts, both for academic purposes and personal growth. Unfortunately, many of these experiences have left me feeling less than uplifted. Spiritual literature often has a tendency to be — how should I say this gently? — vexing. While the intent is to inspire, I frequently find it hard to navigate through an overwhelming sense of earnestness. I appreciate your spiritual epiphanies, truly, but I have not had similar experiences, so please, let’s tone it down a bit.

However, not all spiritual books are irksome. The ones that resonate with me are infused with humility and, at times, humor. A touch of levity, derived from the Latin term "levitatem," or "lighten," helps ease into serious topics like spirituality, creating a bridge between the author and reader, and between those who are enlightened and those who are still searching.

Here are seven spiritual books that have consistently passed the annoyance test. These are the works I return to during both joyful and challenging times, especially in moments of struggle.

Waiting for God by Simone Weil

Simone Weil, a French philosopher, defies easy categorization. Although she was born into a Jewish family, she adopted many aspects of Christian thought. Known for her deep empathy, she often neglected her own well-being. Her essays encapsulate a philosophy that is complex yet essential, urging us to practice a specific kind of attention—one that is unwavering and outwardly directed.

The essence of our attention directly influences our lives. What we choose to focus on, and how we do so, defines us. Attention, at its deepest level, equates to love. As Weil poignantly states, “Those who are unhappy have no need for anything in this world but people capable of giving them their attention.” It’s a profound truth that is often easier said than done, yet Weil articulates it beautifully in her work.

The Sabbath by Abraham Heschel

Abraham Heschel stands out as one of the most significant Jewish theologians of our time. While many of his writings, like "God in Search of Man," can be lengthy and challenging, "The Sabbath" is a concise exploration of a singular, powerful idea: the Sabbath as a “sanctuary in time.” Just as we seek solace in specific physical spaces, the Sabbath offers a respite from our hectic lives. This book rekindled my commitment to a Jewish tradition I had long overlooked.

A Year in Thoreau’s Journal by Henry David Thoreau

While many are familiar with Thoreau’s "Walden," his journals reveal his most authentic and vulnerable self. This collection showcases Thoreau in action—walking, swimming, and contemplating nature. Each activity is a means to enhance his perception.

Thoreau believed that true vision requires an intentional focus: “From the right point of view,” he writes, “every storm and every drop in it is a rainbow.” Shifting one’s perspective can profoundly alter what we see and understand.

My Bright Abyss by Christian Wiman

This collection of essays is rich in poetic quality, written by Wiman, a poet grappling with incurable cancer. He navigates the intersections of faith and suffering, questioning the role of poetry amidst despair. His reflections are poignant and deeply resonant, reminding us of the transient nature of our existence.

The Bhagavad Gita According to Gandhi by Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi, a seeker of spiritual wisdom, drew extensively from various religious texts. Yet, it was the Bhagavad Gita that he cherished most, often referring to it as “Mother Gita.” He turned to its teachings for solace during times of doubt, emphasizing the importance of dedicating oneself fully to action while remaining detached from the results.

The Perennial Philosophy by Aldous Huxley

Famed for his novel "Brave New World," Huxley was also a profound spiritual thinker. In this work, he identifies a universal thread that connects all spiritual traditions, which he terms the perennial philosophy. He seamlessly integrates insights from both Eastern and Western philosophies, presenting a rich tapestry of spiritual wisdom.

Calling by Gregg Levoy

Some books arrive at just the right moment, like Gregg Levoy’s "Callings," which resonated with me during a time of uncertainty in my life. Levoy explores how to discern our true callings and navigate through life’s distractions. His narratives of individuals who courageously followed their passions inspire readers to heed their own inner call.

Chapter 2: Insights from Video Discussions

The first video titled "Exposing the False Teaching of John and Lisa Bevere" critically examines the teachings of these prominent figures in the spiritual community, highlighting potential pitfalls and misconceptions.

The second video, "Clean House!! Get rid of Cursed and Demonic Items! Anoint Your Home!" discusses practical steps to cleanse one’s living space of negative influences, emphasizing the significance of creating a spiritually uplifting environment.