Religious terminology
A vajra is a ritual weapon symbolizing the properties of a diamond (indestructibility) and a thunderbolt (irresistible force).The vajra is a type of club with a ribbed spherical head. The ribs may meet in a ball-shaped top, or they may be separate and end in sharp points with which to stab.
3 episodes
Episodes in this category also belong to the following categories:
Charisma
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss how Weber drew on the idea of charisma in religion to explain why people follow some leaders loyally rather than dutifully, for better or worse
17 March 2022
Featuring: Tom F. Wright, Linda Woodhead, David A. Bell
Miracles
Melvyn Bragg discusses the history of miracles, the subject of fierce theological debate, intense popular piety and serious medical study.
25 September 2008
Featuring: Martin Palmer, Janet Soskice, Justin Champion
Redemption
Melvyn Bragg discusses Redemption, crucial for Judeo-Christian thought but can it retain its value in a world without God?
13 March 2003
Featuring: Richard Harries, Janet Soskice, Stephen Mulhall