How the Holy Books became Holy: Their Origin and Function
摘要
The following chapter describes the emergence of the so-called Holy Books—Bible, Torah, Quran, etc.—and how they became sacred. It explains how it goes from oral traditions passed down over several generations to the process of writing, canonization, and dogmatization—and thus also to the first intra-religious faith conflicts. In addition, the function of Holy Books is presented. How do they provide orientation and support and help to align life accordingly? But also: Where do they become problematic dogma and—in the worst case—an argument to torture and kill people?