Atonement and Comparative Theology: The Cross in Dialogue with Other Religions

The central Christian belief in salvation through the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ remains a mystery, but engaging with other traditions can help deepen our understanding of atonement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2021
Publisher: Fordham University Press

The profound and enduring mystery of Christian salvation, rooted in the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, continues to captivate the hearts and minds of believers. Throughout the ages, it has sparked a rich tapestry of theories of atonement, each offering its unique perspective on the reconciliation between God and humanity. However, as time has marched on, these theories have faced mounting criticism for failing to align with contemporary notions of evil, sin, and justice. In response, contemporary Christian theology must embark on a daring exploration of new avenues to comprehend the profound meaning of the cross.

In the captivating book titled "Atonement and Comparative Theology," a collective of Christian theologians with profound expertise in Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Daoism, and African Religions come together to shed light on the Christian understanding of atonement. Through their thoughtful and comparative analysis, they unveil how engagement with these diverse traditions illuminates analogous structures of sin and salvation, offering a fresh perspective on the scandal of the cross as perceived by the religious other. Moreover, they re-interpret crucial aspects of the Christian understanding of atonement, broadening our horizons and enriching our theological discourse.

By engaging in this comparative exploration, these theologians demonstrate the immense potential of comparative theology to deepen and enrich Christian theological reflection. They highlight how studying other religious traditions can foster empathy, understanding, and respect, enabling us to bridge the gaps between faiths and cultivate a more inclusive and holistic perspective on salvation. Through their insightful contributions, "Atonement and Comparative Theology" serves as a valuable resource for scholars, pastors, and individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of the complex and profound nature of atonement.

Weight: 506g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780823294343