Indian Religious Philosophy and Christianity: Sila, Samadhi and Prajna

Book Details:

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Author: Dr. Chandrakant Kumar

• Language: English

• Pages: 544

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 23 cm x 15 cm

• Weight: 700 gm

• Edition: 2015

• ISBN: 9788170309451

About the Book:

This insightful work by Dr. Chandrakant Kumar explores the essential principles of Code of Conduct, Meditation, and Insight across various religious systems, with a focus on creating a common platform for dialogue between these diverse traditions. Drawing primarily from Buddhist teachings, the book examines these principles, which are foundational to understanding religious life, and how they are interpreted differently in various systems such as Buddhism, Jainism, Yoga, Vedanta, and Christianity.

Dr. Kumar offers a comparative study of these concepts as seen through the lens of each religion, aiming to highlight their commonalities and differences. The book begins with an introduction to Sila (Code of Conduct), Samadhi (Meditation), and Prajna (Insight or Wisdom) as fundamental elements of Buddhist philosophy and shows how similar ideas are reflected in other systems, even if under different terms or with slight variations in meaning. For instance, the concept of "Sila" in Buddhism, which refers to ethical conduct, finds its equivalent in the Yamas and Niyamas of Yoga and the moral teachings of other traditions.

Dr. Kumar’s approach is methodical, delving into the philosophical roots of each term, providing historical context, and discussing their practical applications in spiritual practices. The chapters are meticulously organized, focusing on each aspect—Sila, Samadhi, and Prajna—in relation to the different religious systems. The final chapter compares and synthesizes these views, illustrating the unique contributions of each tradition to the broader conversation on religious and spiritual life.

The book seeks to promote better understanding and harmony among different faiths by emphasizing the shared values of ethics, meditation, and wisdom, while also acknowledging the unique paths to liberation proposed by each religion. It also calls for the celebration of diversity in spiritual practice and encourages an open, respectful dialogue between different religious communities.

About the Author:

Dr. Chandrakant Kumar is a Diocesan priest with a deep academic background in philosophy, theology, and inter-religious dialogue. He has earned his Ph.D. from the University of Pune and has been involved in teaching, education, and peace-building efforts for over twelve years. As the Director of Maitri Bhavan, an Inter-Religious Dialogue Centre, he continues to work towards promoting mutual understanding and cooperation among different religious traditions.

Dr. Kumar’s extensive study of religious philosophy, combined with his experiences in inter-religious dialogue, informs the thorough and nuanced approach he takes in this book, offering a bridge for connecting the philosophical traditions of India with Christian teachings. This work is an invaluable resource for those interested in comparative religion, philosophy, and the pursuit of a more harmonious world.