Figuring the Sacred : Religion, Narrative, and Imagination

The thought of Paul Ricoeur continues its profound effect on theology, religious studies, and biblical interpretation. Introduced by Mark Wallace, the twenty-one papers collected in this volume-some familiar, many translated here for the first time-constitute the most comprehensive anthology of Ricoeur's writings in religion since 1970. The writings are thematically divided into five parts:

the study of religion

philosophers of religion

the Bible and genre

theological overtures

practical theologyRicoeur's hermeneutical orientation and his deep sensitivity to the mystery and power of religious language offer fresh insight into the transformative potential of sacred literature, including the Bible.

Donald Pellauer, leading translator of Ricoeur's work, is Professor of Philosophy, DePaul University, Chicago.

Paul Ricoeur, Emeritus Professor at the University of Chicago and the University of Paris, is a French thinker esteemed for his work in philosophy of language, psychology, religious studies, and literary theory or hermeneutics.

Mark I. Wallace is Associate Professor of Religion, Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania.