Hindu Perspective
Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest religions, has had a flowing history with the Bible. Hindus were unknowingly exposed to Jewish and Christian scriptures for thousands of years, as the Bible was translated and spread across the world. The Bible is often seen as a source of authority, especially among specific sects of Hinduism.
Ganga Prasad Saxena, an Indian Christian theologian, explains that the Bible, with its stories of death, mercy and a higher power has become an intrinsic part of Hinduism, even though the religion itself stands on its own.
The Upanishads and the Vedas, two of Hinduism’s most important scriptures, reference the Bible but in a different way than it is understood now. For instance, in the Mahabharata, an ancient Hindu epic poem, a concept similar to the Judeo-Christian covenant is presented as a legal contract between man and God.
There is evidence that the Bible was known to Hindu scholars as far back as the third century BCE. The Bible contains references to the Hindu philosophies of karma, rebirth and the Soul. Hindu texts show that the biblical God and Jewish teachers were held in high regard, and even the concept of God and sin in the Christian sense had been made familiar and accepted by Hindu scholars.
Notwithstanding, many Hindu’s have a different take on the Bible. While some Hindu schools and sects have adopted the Bible’s ethics and doctrines while ignoring the theistic and metaphysical aspects, the majority hold the popular notion that it is nothing more than a compilation of stories written by people from a certain cultural milieu.
Critics of the Bible point out that it has caused division and conflict among different religions, rather than providing a path for unification. Even today, doctrines from various religions clash as followers attempt to reconcile the differences in their beliefs.
Biblical Perspective
The Bible does not mention Hinduism by name, but it does make explicit references to the beliefs and practices of non-Christians. The New Testament speaks clearly of new converts and the need to remain faithful despite the presence of people who follow different religions. In the Old Testament, the Bible refers to pagans and idolaters, as well as mystic practices practiced by the heathen.
The Bible also speaks of divine knowledge and teachings as gifts to humankind, thus representing a universal tradition. Matthew 5:43-44 calls on believers to “love your enemies and pray for those who misuse you,” advising them not to discriminate or show hatred towards those of other faiths or denominations. This suggests a lack of exclusivity and instead encourages believers to extend their love to all.
In addition, Jesus and the prophets of the Bible offer teachings of compassion, social justice and righteousness as paths to salvation, which are applicable across all religions. Acts 15:7-11 affirms this, as it speaks of the equality of all believers regardless of race, caste or creed.
Interpretations of Scriptures
The biblical scriptures are open to the interpretation of believers, and not all interpretations are equal in their validity. For example, some Hindus may interpret the Bible in different ways than Christians. In this way, scriptural interpretation is a complex ecosystem of literature, culture and belief systems that is constantly changing.
Some Hindus have seen the Bible as being too restrictive, while others have found its principles to be in consonance with the beliefs of Hinduism. Recent interpretations among some Hindus have reflected a moral philosophy, a theology of love and social justice. Professor S. Radhakrishnan, one of the most prominent Hindu scholars of the 20th century, saw the Bible as a path through which to find an understanding and compassionate approach to life.
Still, there are many major disparities between the Bible and Hinduism. For instance, the Bible speaks of God being outside of humankind, whereas Hindus believe that God is present within all humans. Many Hindus disregard beliefs such as the fact that Jesus is the son of God as being outside of the scope of their beliefs and practice.
Community Impact
There is evidence to support that knowledge about the Bible and its teachings has had a positive impact on their lives of members of the Hindu community. Christian missionaries have impacted relationships between Hindus, often leading to more mutual respect and understanding among different faiths. In some cases, Hindus who have studied the Bible have adopted some of its ethics and moral principles while simultaneously continuing to follow their own religious customs and traditions.
In many cities and villages, Hindus have adopted Christian beliefs and practices, whilst still taking an active part in Hindu festivals and sacred celebrations. Churchgoers and Hindus have often shared common principles, such as the importance of family life, and the need to live with integrity and compassion.
New studies have been conducted by scholars and theologians in order to understand how the Bible has been assimilated into the Hindu culture. There have been a number of testimonies of how education and knowledge about the Bible has had an empowering impact on Hindus and their ability to stand up for their own rights as citizens of their communities.
Modern Dialogue
In recent years, there has been an increased level of dialogue between Hindus and Christians. Many Hindus are turning to the Bible for spiritual guidance, whilst Christians are taking a more open and nuanced stance towards Hinduism. This has resulted in an increase in interfaith dialogue, with believers from different faiths engaging in meaningful conversations about shared beliefs and practices.
Pope Francis has been at the forefront of this interfaith movement, calling for mutual respect and harmony among all religions. In 2019, the world’s largest Hindu organization, the Mata Amritanandamayi Math, released a statement calling for Christians and Hindus to come together in unity. This is a clear indication of how mutual understanding has grown between these two faiths.
The topics of conversion and proselytization remain controversial and contentious, with both Hindus and Christians being cautious of conversations which appear to be aimed at convincing the other. However, the overall attitude among believers of both religions is one of respectful dialogue, and shared spiritual guidance.
Religious Interaction
The intersection of religion remains a contentious issue, and both Hindus and Christians need to tread carefully when engaging in conversation on the subject. Since both religions touch upon spiritual matters, it is important that believers involved in interfaith dialogue refrain from imposing their beliefs upon one another.
Educational initiatives, such as interfaith dialogue workshops and events have been instrumental in bringing Hindus and Christians closer together. Such events provide a safe space for members of different faiths to come together, learn and dialogue on various topics related to faith.
Many Hindus and Christians are learning to respect one another, and the differences in their faiths. It is a sign of a more tolerant and inclusive society, which is more accepting of each other’s cultures, beliefs and philosophies.
Conclusion
The Bible has slowly become part of Hinduism and its traditions. Hindu scholars are constantly drawing inspiration from its stories and teachings, as well as its reflective qualities on the relationship between sin, justice, mercy and a higher power.
It is clear that both Hindus and Christians need to keep their conversations respectful. Interfaith dialogue workshops are a great way to promote understanding between the two religious communities, who have much to learn from each other’s beliefs and spiritual practices.
