Hibbert Lectures 1879 Lectures On The Origin And Growth Of Religion As Illustrated By The Re... Book

I found a super-psychedelic 60’s edition of this book and thought I’d give it a shot. I didn’t know much about Helen Keller when I picked it up, but her experience of course is fascinating and she is probably the most widely known disabled person from history. So, being into disability theory I decided to read it sooner than later.

First off this is much more of a philosophy book than an autobiography. Through most of the book she defends the theories of Swedish scientist and theologian, Emanuel Swedenborg. She references all kinds of philosophies ranging from Empedocles to the Code of Hammurabi. It’s been awhile since I’ve been on a theology/philosophy kick so some of the tangents were rather mind-numbing. She also defends her various views of Bible interpretation and the nature of God.

I don’t agree with her on 95% of her points regarding spirituality, but her arguments are interesting and deserve thought. She is very strong willed in her opinions and how she got to them is something that I think deserves more recognition than people give her credit for. I was amazed at her scope of knowledge, but what I appreciated most was her strong perspective. I think too many put her in the hallmark card inspiration category and don’t give her much credit past learning the word “water.” But it’s clear that she was extremely in tune with the world and people in it, more so than people today who have the use of all their senses.

So, no, this isn’t an inspirational autobiography, but it does dig very deep into her strong prerogative of her spiritual sense and her unshaken relationship with Christianity and God. Well worth the read though you’ll be brushing up on loads of history to follow through some of the points.