Interview with Karima Berger: between spirituality and universal quest at the Scriptures & Spiritualities Book Fair
As part of the Scriptures & Spiritualities Book Fair, which will be held on November 17, 2024 at the town hall of the 6th arrondissement of Paris, we interviewed Karima Berger, writer and spokesperson for literature inspired by a universal spiritual quest. The show brings together authors from various traditions, all of whom explore the power of language as a space of truth and connection with the divine. This is a rare opportunity to discover voices inspired by multiple spiritual heritages, beyond the academic and sociological approaches often favored for religion.
The ambition of the show? Propose an open vision of spiritualities where knowledge and respect for others are at the heart of “living together” in our plural society. Karima Berger tells us about it by emphasizing the importance of a quest for universal meaning, present beyond religious differences, a quest which unites all those who seek the divine in themselves, in others and in the world.
What types of authors will be present at the Ecritures & Spiritualités book fair at the town hall of the 6th arrondissement on November 17, 2024?
They are men and women from different traditions who love writing, lovers of language and its spiritual power. But they all speak of the same Universal quest because writing is a moment of truth facing oneself, facing the world, and facing the divine. All these authors draw inspiration from the spiritual heritage of different traditions. Concerning contemporary Muslim literature, it is developing little by little, but it is often forgotten or neglected in favor of books – which are not in our scope – and which are more explanatory and more sociological or academic on the religion of Islam. , context requires…
What activities, apart from signings, are planned at this show for visitors of all ages?
A conference on “music in different religious and spiritual traditions”.
A space will be specifically dedicated to youth, adolescents and children which will allow them and their parents to discover the Best Off of books that awaken the spiritual dimension. stories, stories, comics, information books… And finally, for young readers also, Workshops allowing them to dialogue with each other around a PLAYSPI card game, which invites dialogue between young readers and spiritual texts. We very much hope to welcome young people and families.….
How does the Ecritures & Spiritualités fair offer an open approach to different religious and spiritual traditions?
In the search for diversity, for knowledge of the tradition of the Other. This Otherness today seems fundamental and even vital to us, for our world today where we are now multiple, diverse, and only this knowledge accompanied by respect for others will allow us to succeed in this Living together that we all always seek. Books are a powerful instrument for discovering and not being afraid of the religion of others or of one’s own religion.
How is spirituality distinct from religion, and how, despite their differences, do spiritual traditions share a common goal of universal search for meaning?
This is the heart of our association Scriptures (plural) AND Spiritualities (plural). The Scriptures contained in the Books inspiring the entire monotheistic tradition (The Torah, the Gospels, the Koran), it is the primary source which guides the search for spirituality to elevate ourselves, to honor the divine in us, in the other and in the world. There are also other Buddhist traditions for example, whose spirituality is also magnificent and which are also present, they are gathered in this same place, which brings together the universality of Creation. This show remains unique, the Koran has invited us to such sharing: “If God had wanted, he would have made you one community! but he wanted to test you with the gift of difference! Run towards each other towards good deeds and compete for benefits!” Quran 5:48. So let’s honor this verse!
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