Laughing Gods, Weeping Virgins analyses how laughter has been used as a symbol in myths, rituals and festivals of Western religions, and has thus been inscribed in religious discourse. The Mesopotamian Anu, the Israelite Jahweh, the Greek Dionysos, the Gnostic Christ and the late modern Jesus were all laughing gods. Through their laughter, gods prove both their superiority and their proximity to humans. In this comprehensive study, Professor Gilhus examines the relationship between corporeal human laughter and spiritual divine laughter from c`ussical antiquity, to the Christian West and the modern era. She combines the study of the history of religion with social-scientific approaches, to provide an original and pertinent exploration of a universal human phenomenon, and its significance for the development of religions.

This anthology of stories set within the Warhammer world--the realm of necromancers, sorcerers, wizards, warriors, and fearsome daemons--includes tales by noted science fiction and fantasy authors Brian Stableford (writing as Brian Craig), William King, and others. (July)

In this refreshing new take on spirituality, bestselling author Deepak Chopra uses a fictional tale of a comedian and his unlikely mentor to show us a path back to hope, joy, and even enlightenment—with a lot of laughter along the way. Meet Mickey Fellows. A successful L.A. comedian, he’s just a regular guy, with his fair share of fears, egocentricities, and addictions. After his father’s death, Mickey meets a mysterious stranger named Francisco, who changes his life forever. The two begin an ongoing discussion about the true nature of being. Reluctantly at first, Mickey accepts the stranger’s help and starts to explore his own life in an effort to answer the riddles Francisco poses. Mickey starts to look at those aspects of himself that he has hidden behind a wall of wisecracks all his life. Eventually Mickey realizes that authentic humor opens him up to the power of spirit—allowing him to finally make real connections with people. After taking the reader on a journey with Mickey, Chopra then spells out the lessons that Mickey’s story imparts to us: ten reasons to be optimistic, even in our challenging world. Chopra believes that the healthiest response to life is laughter from the heart, and even in the face of global turmoil, we can cultivate an internal sense of optimism. Rich with humor and practical advice, Why Is God Laughing? shows us without a doubt that there is always a reason to be grateful, that every possibility holds the promise of abundance, and that obstacles are simply opportunities in disguise. In the end, we really don’t need a reason to be happy. The power of happiness lies within each of us, just waiting to be unleashed. And Mickey Fellows’s journey shows us the way.

Defining humor, its expressions and uses -- Humor in the scriptures -- Joking and life's transitions -- Joking transitions and laughter of the heart in the Old Testament -- Transformative joking in the New Testament -- Understanding humor in cultures -- The churches and humor : reflections -- Laughing with God : transformation through humor.

The Laughing Mill, and Other Stories by Julian Hawthorne: Enter the world of the mysterious and the supernatural with Julian Hawthorne's collection of short stories. From tales of eerie laughter to encounters with the unexplained, these stories will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination. Key Aspects of the Book "The Laughing Mill, and Other Stories": Supernatural Intrigue: Julian Hawthorne weaves a web of paranormal events and unexplained phenomena that will leave readers enthralled and curious. Intriguing Characters: The characters in these stories navigate the thin line between reality and the supernatural, adding depth and mystery to each narrative. Gothic Atmosphere: Hawthorne's storytelling evokes a sense of Gothic horror and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Julian Hawthorne, born in 1846, was an American writer known for his contributions to the mystery and supernatural genres. His unique storytelling style and fascination with the unexplained make "The Laughing Mill, and Other Stories" a must-read for fans of the eerie and mysterious.

Hilarious autobiography of an American television star who found the answer to his boyhood dream.