A World Theology: The Central Spiritual Reality of Humankind

by N. Ross Reat, Edmund F. Perry

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521331593
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	10/25/1991
Pages:	330
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.87(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; List of abbreviations; 1. The central spirituality of humankind; 2. Atheism and the central spiritual reality; 3. Hinduism and the central spiritual reality; 4. Buddhism and the central spiritual reality; 5. Judaism and the central spiritual reality; 6. Christianity and the central spiritual reality; 7. Islam and the central spiritual reality; Conclusion.

Editorial Reviews

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

Library Journal

"N. Ross Reat and Edmond F. Perry have produced a striking and original volume, which will be especially of concern to Christians and other theologians and intellectuals who wish to come to terms with the new world order. For world civilization, now emerging, demands a new deal between religions (and ideologies). They well prepare the way." Ninian Smart, University of California, Santa Barbara

"[The authors'] arguments are complex and full-bodied....the makings of a minor classic in its field." Library Journal

"This is an original, significant, and well-informed contribution to the growing literature on interreligious dialogue." Religious Studies Review

From the Publisher