Signals of Transcendence - by Os Guinness (Paperback)

About the Book

Making sense of our human existence can be difficult, but we may experience particular moments that prompt us to search for something deeper. Os Guinness tells stories of people who experienced these "signals of transcendence" and followed them to find new meaning and purpose in life--and the same can be true for us.

Book Synopsis

There must be something more to life.

The modern world is a place of great distraction, and it can be difficult to make sense of our human existence. But at some point in our lives, we may experience particular moments that prompt us to search for something deeper. Sociologist Peter Berger described these hints and clues as "signals of transcendence" that awaken us to unseen realities.

In Signals of Transendence Os Guinness

• Tells stories of people who experienced signals of transcendence and followed them to find new meaning and purpose in life,
• Explores the experiences of notable figures such as Leo Tolstoy and C. S. Lewis as well as lesser-known individuals who experienced a variety of promptings that signaled to them that life could not continue as they had thought, and
• Shows how we can experience the same kinds of moments of transcendence if only we open our eyes to recognize the signals.

Through unsatisfied longings or disillusionments that yet yielded glimpses of beauty or joy, these moments drew people toward epiphanies of transformation. And the same can be true for us, should we have the courage to follow the signals wherever they may lead.

Listen for the signals. And discover what more awaits those with ears to hear.

Review Quotes

"A tremendous little book, crackling with challenge, insight, and truth. Essential reading for anyone brave enough to open their mind and think."

Norman Stone, director of the original Shadowlands

"In his usual erudite clarity, Os Guinness illuminates the dark paths of history's chaos, traumas, and violence with Signals of Transcendence. This book is a gold mine of wisdom, a gift for generations to come. For all of us meandering as border-stalking artists, drowning in the undertows of cultural currents that wash away our confidence in institutions of faith, classical learning, and worldly systems, Guinness is a pedagogical North Star that guides to enlarge our imaginations and to give courage for that journey. I found myself gripped with every page of this book, called into the minute particulars of every word, in order to behold, to begin to mend the fragments of broken fissures in our time."

Makoto Fujimura, artist and author of Art+Faith: A Theology of Making

About the Author

Os Guinness (DPhil, Oxford) is the author or editor of more than thirty-five books, including The Dust of Death, The Call, Fool's Talk, Carpe Diem Redeemed, The Magna Carta of Humanity, Last Call for Liberty, Impossible People, Unspeakable, and Time for Truth. He is the founder of the Trinity Forum, a prominent social critic, and a frequent speaker who has addressed audiences worldwide. Guinness has a lifelong passion to make sense of our extraordinary modern world and stand between the worlds of scholarship and ordinary life, helping each to understand the other--particularly when advanced modern life touches on the profound issues of faith. A passionate advocate of freedom of religion and conscience for people of all faiths and none, he was the lead drafter for both the Williamsburg Charter and the Global Charter of Conscience. He lives with his wife, Jenny, in the Washington, DC, area.