Reviewed by Cherubimaris Casino for Readers' Favorite

Be Fruitful and Multiply by P. O. Isen explores the essence of worship, sacrifice, and human imperfection across religious and environmental contexts. It delves into topics such as the concept of worship without sacrifice, the Israelite understanding of body and soul, Samaritanism, salvation, global warming, human imperfection in discoveries, and religious commandments. For instance, Chapter 1 critiques "worship without sacrifice," referencing Mahatma Gandhi’s view of it as a social sin, while Chapter 5 addresses global warming, citing the United Nations Secretary-General’s call for urgent action to mitigate climate change impacts like floods and extreme weather. The text draws from diverse religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, to highlight the importance of sincere worship and ethical living, while also addressing environmental concerns through a lens of human responsibility.

P. O. Isen’s work is truly ambitious, bringing together theological, historical, and environmental principles to encourage reflection on humanity’s spiritual and ecological duties. For instance, the discussion of Gandhi’s nonviolent philosophy beautifully illustrates how selfless worship can inspire societal change, while the focus on global warming, with references to real-world climate data, underscores the urgency of environmental stewardship as an act of faith. The inclusion of diverse religious perspectives, such as the Five Pillars of Islam and Hindu puja rituals, makes it accessible and relevant to a broad audience. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in spirituality and global responsibility. The book’s strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach, effectively connecting ancient religious practices with modern challenges like climate change. Be Fruitful and Multiply offers valuable insights for readers interested in the intersection of faith, morality, and environmental stewardship, making it a compelling read.