A World Theology: The Central Spiritual Reality of Humankind - Softcover

Reat, N. Ross

Softcover

ISBN 10: 052133747X ISBN 13: 9780521337472

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2010

Synopsis

In this book the authors, a Christian theologian and an atheistic Buddhist philosopher, examine the five major world religions--Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam--in order to demonstrate that each is a particular expression of one, common "world theology." They argue that each of these religions is centrally concerned with the same basic attempt to define the meaning and purpose of human life, and to comprehend a spiritual reality. Each is a culture-specific expression of a universal religious phenomenon, and the differing conceptualizations of the spiritual in these religions can be understood as symbolic expressions of one spiritual reality, which transcends the bounds of any one religious expression. Explaining both the symbolic differences and the essential commonalities of the major world religions, the authors argue that these religions should be considered mutually complementary rather than contradictory. This book points the way toward integrating the world's religions in a systematic manner in order to arrive at a common, world theology.

About this title

Book Description:

In this book the authors, a Christian theologian and an atheistic Buddhist philosopher, examine the five major world religions - Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam - in order to demonstrate that each is a particular expression of one, common world theology.

From Library Journal:

Reat ( Origins of Indian Psychology , Asian Humanities Pr., 1990) and Perry (history and literature of religions, Northwestern Univ.) boldly attempt to find the common spiritual reality that they believe is the grounding of major religious systems. They examine three characteristics (desirability, undeniability, and elusiveness) as they occur in five major religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam) and in atheism. Their inquiries are deepened by investigations of the spiritual, intellectual, moral, and mythological symbols of each religion. Their arguments are complex and full-bodied. Unfortunately, the language is for scholars and may be difficult for the layperson. Yet any determined reader will not regret the effort taken to read this book, which has the makings of a minor classic in its field. Recommended for theological and university libraries.
- Glenn Masuchika, Chaminade Univ. Lib., Honolulu
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 052133747X
• ISBN 13: 9780521337472
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 330