Cultural and Theological Reflections on the Japanese Quest for Divinity
Publisher: BRILL; Brill
Published: Nov 25, 2016
Language: eng
Format: paperback
Number of pages: 212
ISBN-13: 9789004321229
Description: In 'Cultural and Theological Reflections on the Japanese Quest for Divinity', John J. Keane offers an explanation of Japanese divinity ('kami') using sociology, anthropology, linguistics, literature and history. He presents an overview of how the Japanese have sought to love and serve their 'kami' - a quest that rivals the interest that the West gives to God. The principles of interreligious dialogue are applied to the meaning of kami and a plea is made for a dialogue that respectfully accepts differences between the cultures and the theologies of Eastern and Western thought. Important cultural themes are discussed as a part of this quest, such as the emperors of Japan and the Japanese Tea Ceremony. The work also challenges the understanding of 'kami' as highlighted by Akutagawa Ryunosuke and Endo Shusaku.
Notes: Source title: Cultural and Theological Reflections on the Japanese Quest for Divinity (Theology and Mission in World Christianity)