Hindu Love and the Practice of Catholicism

Abstract

The article titled "Hindu Love and the Practice of Catholicism" by Francis X. Clooney, S.J., explores the dynamics of religious pluralism at the turn of the 21st century. The article emphasizes that rather than broadly addressing "religions" in general, it is crucial to focus on specific encounters with diverse religious individuals, texts, and practices. Clooney proposes a nuanced Catholic response to this pluralism, drawing upon the rich and material nature of Catholic tradition. He illustrates this by suggesting an experimental "lectio divina" where a Hindu devotional song, Nammalvar's Tiruvaymoli I.7, is read alongside the biblical text of John 4. This approach aims for mutual enrichment and a deeper understanding of God's presence in both familiar and unfamiliar expressions of faith, fostering a practical and engaged Catholic response to interreligious encounters.