Review by nanaclem -- Roadmap to the End of Days
-
nanaclem
- Posts: 6
- Joined: 20 Apr 2018, 06:14
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 4
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-nanaclem.html
- Latest Review: Strong Heart by Charlie Sheldon
Review by nanaclem -- Roadmap to the End of Days
[Following is a volunteer review of "Roadmap to the End of Days" by Daniel Friedmann.]
4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
Understanding the Bible and other holy texts in relation to human history is a challenging enterprise. Daniel Friedmann, in his third book of religious interpretation, tackles a truly daunting question: Do our holy texts offer solid clues as to when the world as we know it may come to an end? Roadmap to the End of Days contends that through study of scripture and history it is indeed possible to recognize events that will preclude the end of human history and the exact time frame in which our end of days will most likely occur.
This is not a book trying to persuade the reader to a point of view. Rather it is a summation of textual evidence. Friedmann’s research is meticulous, every point supported by detailed reference. In addition to actual quotes from the Torah and Bible there are tables which offer historical timelines of events both past and current, as well as extensive endnotes and a thorough glossary. Each and every idea is backed by clear citation.
You do not need to be a biblical scholar, however, to understand this work. Though Roadmap is nonfiction based on detailed research, ideas are clearly and concisely explained. Enormous concepts such as man’s cosmic purpose and God’s intentions towards mankind are set forth in accessible language, the author's logic building step by step to understandable conclusion.
Most exciting is how relevant this text is to modern history. Friedmann provides a list of social factors, conditions that are sadly recognizable. He explains how Amalek interferes with man’s ability to get closer to God, but leaves it to the reader to interpret who Amalek might be in modern society. Friedmann also furthers the idea of personal responsibility, explaining through Biblical excerpts how the reader might elect a closer relationship with the Divine, which in turn moves mankind closer towards the Messianic Era, when our world becomes an actual dwelling place of God.
Friedmann does not pretend to have all the answers. He predicts that there will be a war between Gog and Magog but is very clear that the future will determine the identity of these two oppositional figures. He also acknowledges the importance of free will, and that the future is changeable through human decision. He aptly likens history to a path in a glass maze, the Bible a blueprint for all possible paths.
The rhythm of history delineated in Roadmap is fascinating. The cycle of human behavior set forth in preparatory periods followed by critical times is eye-opening, mathematical evidence and conclusions striking. Is our pattern of disruption and disaster preceding new growth evidence that there is indeed a Divine Plan?
Roadmap to the End of Days attempts to “decipher the plan of human history”. The reader may decide if the author has been fully successful. Whether you hope that mankind will mature, society evolving into a Utopian existence where our souls are triumphant, or if your beliefs essentially differ, this work of Daniel Friedmann is definitely worth reading. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars.
******
Roadmap to the End of Days
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like nanaclem's review? Post a comment saying so!
4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
Understanding the Bible and other holy texts in relation to human history is a challenging enterprise. Daniel Friedmann, in his third book of religious interpretation, tackles a truly daunting question: Do our holy texts offer solid clues as to when the world as we know it may come to an end? Roadmap to the End of Days contends that through study of scripture and history it is indeed possible to recognize events that will preclude the end of human history and the exact time frame in which our end of days will most likely occur.
This is not a book trying to persuade the reader to a point of view. Rather it is a summation of textual evidence. Friedmann’s research is meticulous, every point supported by detailed reference. In addition to actual quotes from the Torah and Bible there are tables which offer historical timelines of events both past and current, as well as extensive endnotes and a thorough glossary. Each and every idea is backed by clear citation.
You do not need to be a biblical scholar, however, to understand this work. Though Roadmap is nonfiction based on detailed research, ideas are clearly and concisely explained. Enormous concepts such as man’s cosmic purpose and God’s intentions towards mankind are set forth in accessible language, the author's logic building step by step to understandable conclusion.
Most exciting is how relevant this text is to modern history. Friedmann provides a list of social factors, conditions that are sadly recognizable. He explains how Amalek interferes with man’s ability to get closer to God, but leaves it to the reader to interpret who Amalek might be in modern society. Friedmann also furthers the idea of personal responsibility, explaining through Biblical excerpts how the reader might elect a closer relationship with the Divine, which in turn moves mankind closer towards the Messianic Era, when our world becomes an actual dwelling place of God.
Friedmann does not pretend to have all the answers. He predicts that there will be a war between Gog and Magog but is very clear that the future will determine the identity of these two oppositional figures. He also acknowledges the importance of free will, and that the future is changeable through human decision. He aptly likens history to a path in a glass maze, the Bible a blueprint for all possible paths.
The rhythm of history delineated in Roadmap is fascinating. The cycle of human behavior set forth in preparatory periods followed by critical times is eye-opening, mathematical evidence and conclusions striking. Is our pattern of disruption and disaster preceding new growth evidence that there is indeed a Divine Plan?
Roadmap to the End of Days attempts to “decipher the plan of human history”. The reader may decide if the author has been fully successful. Whether you hope that mankind will mature, society evolving into a Utopian existence where our souls are triumphant, or if your beliefs essentially differ, this work of Daniel Friedmann is definitely worth reading. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars.
******
Roadmap to the End of Days
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like nanaclem's review? Post a comment saying so!
Latest Review: Strong Heart by Charlie Sheldon
