The author, Duncan Ferguson, draws upon his years as chaplain and professor in university settings, where seeking answers to hard and perplexing questions are the order of the day. One that continually surfaces is whether there is any evidence of divine transcendence in the natural world, in history, or in the human experience. Is there a God who might provide universal values, guidance to those seeking solutions to the overwhelming problems we face, and a measure of inner peace for troubled souls? This question is considered one of the most difficult to answer in a definitive way, and in a university setting, it is often answered by a clear no or simple neglect in that the question is not generally viewed as within the domain of the goals of the university. Dr. Ferguson believes that it is, and that it should be explored by our best minds in our universities and indeed the best minds in the world, by those with game-changing power, and by committed and compassionate seekers. It is especially not the exclusive domain of cultic preachers. He explores what might be interpreted as evidence of a divine Transcendence, looking within the natural world, human history, the history of religious thought in the great religions, and the need for divine guidance as the human family faces the critical crisis of the survival of planet Earth. Universal values, compassion, justice, and peace, often rooted in the great religious traditions, should guide us.
Duncan S. Ferguson is a retired professor, university administrator, and Presbyterian minister. His PhD is from the University of Edinburgh. He is the author of several books and articles, has traveled to over seventy countries, focused his attention on the challenging situation in Israel and Palestine, and has a continuing interest in interfaith understanding and international peace and justice.
“This fascinating book about divine presence and guidance is exceptional and unique. I was captivated by the author’s breadth of scholarship, depth of experience, and brilliance of mind.”
—Jamal Rahman, author of Spiritual Gems of Islam
“Are we alone in the world? Is there a spiritual reality behind, above, or suffusing our lives? How might religious traditions rooted in the mists of human memory shed light on the scientific and political complexities of our day? Ferguson adeptly guides us on a searching quest to answer these questions in a remarkably self-aware, relentlessly open-minded, and respectfully discerning way. The wisdom found here arises from more than sixty years of inquiry and reflection.”
—Gordon S. Mikoski, Princeton Theological Seminary
“Deeply informed by years of reading, travel, and reflection, Traces of Transcendence is a provocation in the best sense of the word. Duncan Ferguson raises questions about meaning and purpose that we all have, whether we are ‘religious’ or not, but that we often suppress or dismiss. Throughout it all, Ferguson’s claims about transcendence are humble and measured in tone yet compelling. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for Christians, non-Christians, unbelievers, and skeptics alike.”
—Mark Valeri, Washington University in St. Louis
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