Christian Ashrams, Hindu Caves and Sacred Rivers

Christian-Hindu Monastic Dialogue in India 1950-1993

By: Mario I. Aguilar

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eBook | 1 July 2016 | Edition Number 1

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208 Pages

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22.9 x 15.2

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In late 20th-century India, Christian-Hindu dialogue was forever transformed following the opening of Shantivanam, the first Christian ashram in the country. Mario I. Aguilar brings together the histories of the five pioneers of Christian-Hindu dialogue and their involvement with the ashram, to explore what they learnt and taught about communion between the two religions, and the wide ranging consequences of their work.

The author expertly threads together the lives and friendships between these men, while uncovering the Hindu texts they used and were influenced by, and considers how far some of them became, in their personal practice, Hindu. Ultimately, this book demonstrates the impact of this history on contemporary dialogue between Christians and Hindus, and how both faiths can continue to learn and grow together.

Industry Reviews

Mario I. Aguilar's Christian Ashrams, Hindu Caves and Sacred Rivers is first of all a sensitive and well-informed reflection on the "golden age" of Christian ashrams, aptly mapping the contributions of the most famous figures, from Jules Monchanin and Francis Mahieu to Henri Le Saux and Raimon Panikkar. It is also a sensitive meditation on the underlying historical and theological significance of monastic asceticism, adaptation, and silence, as Christian spirituality is treasured, restored and renewed in Hinduism's holy space. Aguilar looks forward too, observing the changes gradually occurring in an independent modern and now too postmodern India, and thus inquires honestly into the purpose of Indian Christian monasticism for today and the future. Christian Ashrams, Hindu Caves and Sacred Rivers is a fine introduction for those unfamiliar with the history, but also a stimulating reflection to be welcomed by those who know the story well.