Summary:
The book intertwines personal memoir with the exploration of religious history, as the author reflects on her own experiences of loss and the search for meaning, while also delving into the significance of religious texts and traditions. It examines the role of religion in human life, drawing from the author's expertise in Gnostic gospels and early Christianity to understand how faith can offer solace and insight amidst life's challenges.
Key points:
1. Elaine Pagels combines her personal losses with her study of religion, examining how grief led her to question faith and why people seek religion during hard times.
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