Pluralist Theologies

Abstract

Pluralist theologies point out ways of combining religious diversity with genuine theological parity, thereby developing an alternative to the exclusivist and inclusivist approaches dominating in the tradition. The article sketches some key features of different pluralist models (Schuon, Hick, Smith, Knitter, Haight), focussing on their interpretation of different religious truth claims and their understanding of Jesus Christ in a pluralist context. Towards the end, some of the most recent developments within the debate about religious pluralism are addressed.

“‘Othering’ with Grace and Courage”

“…As Perry Schmidt-Leukel wittily warns us, too often, the human person "see[s] one's own tradition as clear and pure water and others as just muddy and brackish -if as water at all!" 14 An authentic, constructive comparison of notes is a two-way street. On the one hand, it seeks to clarify, deepen, and challenge one's own Christian commitment and conviction in light of the teaching of the religious other.…”