Rivers of Sacred Sound

Exploring the significance of sound in culture, Rivers of Sacred Sound traces influences across history, emphasizing the connection between music, gesture, and spirituality.

In Rivers of Sacred Sound, the author presents a comprehensive exploration of the role of sound in human culture over a span of approximately five thousand years. The text is organized into seven chapters, each delving into the evolution of sound, gesture, and their significance in both ancient and modern contexts. The book raises intriguing questions about the function of gesture in an aural culture, inviting readers to consider how this relationship has transformed over time. By opening various doors to these inquiries, the author sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the interplay between sound and spirituality.

The journey begins with the praise song, a fundamental expression of humanity's desire to connect with the divine through sound. The author draws on historical references from diverse cultures, illustrating how the act of praising the divine has manifested across different traditions. From the Rg-Veda's call for hymns to be accepted as offerings to the Psalms urging joyful noise unto God, the text emphasizes the universal impulse to create sound as a form of worship. This exploration extends beyond a narrow European perspective, tracing the influences that have flowed from East to West throughout history.

Ultimately, Rivers of Sacred Sound encourages readers to reflect on the significance of sound in their own lives and its continuing role in cultural and spiritual practices. By examining the historical context and evolution of sound, the book illuminates the profound connections between music, gesture, and the sacred, inviting a renewed appreciation for the power of sound in our world.