The Lost Art of Scripture by Karen Armstrong
- John Scoble
- Feb 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 19
Book Review
I will be eternally grateful to our colleague Brigid Limerick for loaning me this book,“The Lost Art of Scripture - Rescuing the Sacred Texts” by Karen Armstrong. A world renowned religious writer, Armstrong outlines the development of scriptural texts in China, India, Israel and Europe over 3 millennia.
Some of her themes are:
· Scripture is not static; it is built and added to over time
· Scripture was developed and used in early traditions as part of ceremonies that also involved song, dance, chanting and other right-brained activities.
· Scripture is not history. Authors used symbolism, allegories, poetry and other literary techniques to convey meaning. Scripture is therefore open to multiple interpretations, depending upon the cultural, political and social circumstances of the individual reader.
· In the West, recent centuries have downplayed the mythical (right-brained) in favour of the rational (left-brained), diminishing the value of Scripture.
· There has also been the emergence of fundamentalism based on individual pieces of Scripture, read literally and taken out of context. War and terrorism are often justified on this basis.
To be honest, the book was a hard slog, particularly as I was unfamiliar with many of the terms used in the Chinese, Indian and Jewish traditions. Nevertheless, it reinforced my view that the religious traditions have far more in common than they have differences.
The book also led me to researching Karen Armstrong and discovering the Charter for Compassion, a four paragraph aspirational statement written by Armstrong in 2009 and signed by millions of people, including the Dalai llama and Desmond Tutu.
It can be found at https://charterforcompassion.org/
FAQs: The Lost Art of Scripture by Karen Armstrong
How does Armstrong describe scripture’s development over time?
Armstrong shows that scripture did not arrive fully formed. Over three millennia, texts from China, India, Israel and later Europe were built, added to, revised and preserved in rites of community. Early scripture was woven into ceremonies involving song, dance and chanting - creative practices that helped communities embody sacred meaning. (Source: Book Review, The Lost Art of Scripture by Karen Armstrong; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)
Why does Armstrong say scripture is not history but symbolic literature?
She argues that many religious texts use allegory, poetry, myth and symbolism to convey deeper truths. Scripture is not simply a record of past events. Its meaning shifts depending on cultural, political and social contexts. This approach emphasises that understanding scripture often requires imagination, empathy and awareness of symbolic language. (Source: Armstrong; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)
What dangers come from reading scripture literally without context?
Armstrong warns that literalism - treating individual passages as rigid fact - can lead to misuse, conflict or even justification for harm. When people remove historical, literary or cultural context, scripture becomes a weapon rather than a guide. Wars, exclusion or intolerance are often defended by literal readings divorced from context. (Source: Armstrong; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)
How has modern religion shifted away from the right-brained aspects of scripture?
According to Armstrong, Western religious tradition has placed increasing value on rational, analytical interpretation and has downplayed aesthetics, ritual, imagination and myth. This favors left-brain thinking over right-brain creativity. The shift tends to privilege doctrine at the expense of expressive and communal spiritual practices. (Source: Armstrong; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)
How can readers recover the sacred richness of scripture in their spiritual lives?
Readers can restore richness by embracing scripture as art and ritual not simply doctrine. Practices might include engaging with scripture through meditation, imagining scenes as though in poetry, exploring narrative, chanting or singing passages, and reading with others from different traditions. When scripture is allowed to breathe through story and symbol, it opens windows of insight rather than closing with judgment. (Source: A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)
At St Lucia Spirituality we believe the journey is richer when it’s shared. If you’re seeking a place to explore questions, practice mindfulness, or simply belong to an inclusive spiritual community, we invite you to join us. From online discussion groups and meditation gatherings to our growing library of resources, there’s space here for every seeker. Step into the conversation, connect with others, and discover how community can nurture your spiritual growth.
About the Author - John Scoble
John's journey began in the heart of a traditional Roman Catholic family in Sydney, where he was raised with steadfast faith and reverence. Now residing in the serene surroundings of St Lucia, Brisbane, alongside his beloved wife, John finds solace and inspiration in the tranquil rhythms of life. With four adult children and a cherished grandchild also calling Brisbane home, John's family is his anchor, providing love, support, and a sense of belonging.
While spirituality has always been a cornerstone of his life, it was three transformative events in 2012, including a sacred pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, that ignited a profound shift in John's spiritual trajectory. Embracing retirement as an opportunity for deeper exploration, John immersed himself in extensive reading and soulful reflection.
Over the course of a decade, this journey of self-discovery has led John to reevaluate and transcend many of his traditional beliefs, embracing instead the timeless wisdom and cosmic perspective inherent in Christianity. Influenced by luminaries such as St. Francis of Assisi, St. Teresa of Avila, and Richard Rohr, John's spiritual evolution has been marked by a deepening resonance with the essential truths of his faith and a profound connection to the divine unfolding within and around him.
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