Hinduism and Christian Theology

Hinduism and Christian Theology
Assignment Description
Based on the material from the unit, respond to the following prompts:
Drawing from Clooney, Cornille, and other materials we’ve read/listened to in the course or that you find online, what is the difference between a theology of religions and a comparative theology? Yet, how are they related?
How does a Hindu notion of discipleship inform a Christian ecclesiology that defines the church as a community of disciples? Where are the existing intersections? And, where are there novel opportunities for growth?
Then, shift your focus slightly and examine this key chapter of the  (Links to an external site.)Bhagavad Gita (Links to an external site.), part of the Hindu Epics. In this passage, we find an interchange between Arjuna, a warrior, and Krishna, an avatar of the popular and tender god Vishnu. Arjuna is torn between his love of his family, whom he desires to be with, and his duty as a warrior. He is guided by his guru, who is in the end Krishna and therefore Vishnu. His dilemma presents a conflict with regard to duty and an impending war. Krishna will teach Arjuna how to understand morality, confront death, and live authentically. Arjuna says to Krishna, we could battle and win. Thousands will die. And, for what? The throne? Why not just let it go? Krishna says, it is your Dharma. You are a warrior. It is not about your pride or your rights. It is something else.
As you are reading, keep a few things in mind. First, remember that the role of the gods Is to assist with rita, the natural order of things. Pay close attention to how Krishna as the avatar of Vishnu helps guide Arjuna in understanding his Dharma. Second, recognize that we are venturing into uncharted territory. The reading is dense and follows a cadence unlike what you might be use to. That said, give it a few reads before responding to the following questions:
What is the distinction between action and inaction (look to 4.15-4.22)? What sort of action does the Bhagavad Gita advocate? What prompts us toward action? How is this related to detachment from jiva/Maya? Explain how this fits into our concept of Dharma.
What is the importance of transcendental knowledge? Why, as the text points out around 4.30-4.36, can the most sinful of sinners reach the goal of Hinduism if they have transcendental knowledge? Compare this to what you know or can research about sin and its solution in the theology of your own tradition.