Hindu–Christian Dual Belonging

This book explores dual belonging within Hindu-Christian contexts,addressing theological,philosophical,and cultural anthropological debates related to religious pluralism,language,and social identity. Case studies test the limits of the definition,and contributors consider whether dual belonging is unique to Christianity and Hinduism. It is a valuable resource for academics in these fields.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Dual religious belonging is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has been explored by scholars from various disciplines. This book, written by experts in a range of fields, delves into the theological, philosophical, and cultural anthropological debates surrounding religious pluralism, religious language, and social identity. It acknowledges the profound impact that interactions between Hinduism and Christianity have had on both traditions' self-understandings in South Asia and across certain Euro-American horizons.

The authors of this book seek to understand the boundaries of dual belonging and explore whether there are any distinctive aspects to this phenomenon within Christianity and Hinduism. Through a series of case studies, contributors examine the experiences of individuals who identify as belonging to both religions and assess whether there are any unique challenges or opportunities associated with dual belonging.

One of the key themes that emerges from the book is the importance of recognizing and respecting the diversity of religious experiences and perspectives. The authors argue that dual belonging can provide individuals with a rich and nuanced understanding of their faiths, allowing them to draw on the strengths and wisdom of both traditions. However, they also acknowledge that dual belonging can be challenging, particularly in contexts where religious tensions and conflicts exist.

The book also explores the role of religious language in shaping dual belonging. Religious language plays a crucial role in establishing and maintaining social identities, and the authors argue that the use of specific terms and symbols can either facilitate or hinder the development of dual belonging. For example, the use of Hindu terms such as "Hinduism" or "Brahman" by Christians can create barriers and misunderstandings, while the use of Christian terms such as "God" or "Jesus" by Hindus can be perceived as offensive or disrespectful.

Another important aspect of dual belonging is the impact on social identity. The authors argue that individuals who identify as belonging to both religions may experience a sense of marginalization or exclusion from their respective communities. However, they also note that dual belonging can provide individuals with a unique perspective on social issues and a platform for promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the emerging field of dual religious belonging. Written by experts in a range of disciplines, it provides a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the theological, philosophical, and cultural dimensions of dual belonging. The book will be of interest to academics in the fields of Hindu studies, Christian theology, Hindu-Christian comparative theology, religious pluralism, interreligious relations, the sociology and anthropology of religion, and comparative theology and philosophy. By recognizing the diversity of religious experiences and perspectives, promoting interfaith dialogue, and addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with dual belonging, this book contributes to a more inclusive and understanding society.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367696276