Dialogues:Anthropology and theology

The past five years have witnessed an increased interest in a dialogue between anthropology and theology, evidenced in part by a suite of edited volumes (e.g. Lauterbach & Vähäkangas 2020; Lemons 2018; Tomlinson & Mathews 2018). Analyses informed by this interdisciplinary nexus have demonstrated the utility of theological concepts for anthropological inquiry (e.g. Robbins 2020; Tomlinson 2020; Williams Green 2021). The following series of dialogues between anthropologists and theologians builds on this growing body of work, expanding it at two main points. First, while the above conversations are all focused on Christian theology, mainly as a means of engaging Christian practice, our dialogues move beyond this religion. The following conversations engage the intersection of anthropology and Islamic, Buddhist, Hindu, as well as Christian, theology.1 Second, many of these dialogues foreground particular experiences of scholars in both anthropology and theology who identify in some way with the religious traditions they study. Some of these dialogues took place between scholars who had an established relationship; others involved partners who had not previously met, but who agreed to correspond in view of a shared interest in this interdisciplinary dialogue. As a starting point, participants were given a series of questions to orient their exchanges, such as, ‘How does faith relate to knowledge in both disciplines?’ Conversations mostly took place over email and were later edited with the help of one of the journal editors, Adam Reed, and one of the members of our Editorial Board, Naomi Haynes.Publisher PDFPeer reviewe

Sensing Transcendence

Hindu ascetics and their traditions have long been of interest to westerners, beginning with the Greeks at the time of Alexander. Throughout history, they have been represented in awesome and fearsome ways. In more contemporary times, the chillum smoking sadhu (ascetic) is the most prevalent depiction, someone whose life seems consumed with and by intoxication. For the vast majority of sadhus, the reality is much different. Vows of renunciation of sensual pleasures and experiences are actually among the most important undertakings for most sadhus. These typically frame their lives and define their efforts and goals. Interestingly, sensual renunciation itself can and does provide a sort of sensual experience, although it is not normally be interpreted as such. My paper will discuss the role of vows of renunciation of sensual pleasures, why they are undertaken, what their effects are, and what role they play in the lives of most Hindu ascetics

Annual editions: World religions 03/04

223 p. ; 28 c

Dr. Ramdas Lamb Engages with the Question: What Do You Understand by the Word Compassion?

What do you understand by the word compassion? Dr. Ramdas Lamb discusses the move from attachment to love in a relationship. While at first one may be attached to a person or idea, one must move away from this, and allow for a separate growth. This is where love and compassion can bloom in a relationship. Dr. Lamb speaks directly about the idea of compassion, and how it is an act of both love and justice

Dr. Ramdas Lamb Engages with the Question: How Do You Approach the Study of Religion?

How do you approach the study of religion? Dr. Ramdas Lamb discusses the importance of making his students think critically about issues. He remarks that the most important objective of his class is to understand that religion is a reality throughout history, and that both the most beautiful and evil actions of the world have been products of religion. In his personal academic research, Lamb looks at the mistreatment of Untouchables in India. In both of these situations, Lamb sees the existence of a moral ladder that promotes non-violence

Dr. Ramdas Lamb Engages with the Question: Is There a Significant Concept that is Foundational to Your Teaching?

Is there a significant concept that is foundational to your teaching? Dr. Ramdas Lamb discusses the importance of explaining religions from both an outsider and insider perspective. He thinks it is important to explain his own personal background to his students. He then challenges them to consider the range of religions – ones that they may know because of a personal commitment – and others they have never observed, to look from both an insider and outsider perspective

Dr. Ramdas Lamb Engages with the Question: Are Moral Principles a Product of Faith in a Deity?

Are moral principles a product of faith in a deity? Dr. Ramdas Lamb discusses the existence of morals and values outside of the religious realm. For Lamb, an atheistic position does not negate the ability of a person to hold moral values. Although these values may sometimes stem from religious surroundings, it is also the existence of life and how we participate in it that develops moral and ethical reasoning