The Devil's Chain: The Sacred and the Profane in Monotheistic Religion

In his book "The Devil's Chain: The Sacred and the Profane in Monotheistic Religion," Jeffrey Burton Russell explores the complex relationship between the sacred and the profane in the three major monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Russell argues that these religions have a long history of demonizing and marginalizing certain aspects of human experience, such as sexuality, violence, and the pursuit of wealth, and that this has had a profound impact on Western culture.

The Sacred and the Profane

Russell begins by defining the sacred and the profane. The sacred, he says, is that which is set apart from the ordinary and is considered to be holy or divine. The profane, on the other hand, is that which is considered to be common or unclean.

In monotheistic religions, the sacred is often associated with God, while the profane is associated with the devil. This dichotomy has led to a long history of conflict and tension between the two forces.

The Devil's Chain

Russell argues that the devil is a symbol of the profane that has been used by monotheistic religions to control and suppress human behavior. The devil is often depicted as a tempter who leads people astray, and as a punisher who metes out divine retribution.

This fear of the devil has had a profound impact on Western culture. It has led to the persecution of minorities, the suppression of free thought, and the denial of human rights.

Breaking the Chain

Russell believes that it is time to break the devil's chain and to reclaim the profane. He argues that we need to recognize the value of the profane and to integrate it into our religious lives.

This does not mean that we should abandon our religious beliefs. It simply means that we should stop demonizing the profane and start to see it as a source of potential good.

Conclusion

"The Devil's Chain" is a challenging and provocative book that offers a new perspective on the relationship between the sacred and the profane. Russell's insights are sure to spark debate and discussion, and his book is a must-read for anyone interested in religion, history, or culture.

Why You Should Read This Book

"The Devil's Chain" is a well-written and engaging book that is sure to appeal to a wide range of readers. Russell's scholarship is impeccable, and he presents his arguments in a clear and concise manner.

This book is also a very timely one. In a world that is increasingly divided by religious conflict, Russell's message of tolerance and understanding is more important than ever.

If you are interested in learning more about the relationship between the sacred and the profane, or if you are simply looking for a thought-provoking read, then I highly recommend "The Devil's Chain."