Radhakrishnan and Christianity
By Bharti D. Savan
Summary
In this study the author explores Dr. S. Radhakrishnan’s engagement with Christianity. Radhakrishnan, a scholar of comparative religion, examined Christian teachings with both appreciation and critical insight. The article begins by reviewing the history of Christianity in India, noting that Christianity has been present since the early centuries and has interacted with Indian culture in diverse ways. The author then surveys Radhakrishnan’s appraisal of Christian doctrine. Radhakrishnan admired the ethical teachings of Jesus, particularly the emphasis on love, compassion and forgiveness. He recognised the mystical dimension of Christianity in the writings of Meister Eckhart and St. Augustine and saw parallels with Indian bhakti traditions. At the same time he criticised what he perceived as exclusivist claims and institutional dogmatism. For Radhakrishnan, no single religion has a monopoly on truth; Christianity is one valid path among many and must be understood in the context of a universal search for the divine. The article discusses Radhakrishnan’s view that Christianity and Hinduism share common moral values and metaphysical insights but differ in their expressions. He argued that the Christian concept of God as personal can be reconciled with the impersonal absolute of Vedānta when both are seen as symbols pointing beyond themselves. Radhakrishnan called for a dialogue in which Christians appreciate the pluralism inherent in Indian culture while Hindus learn from Christian social ethics and missionary zeal. Finally, the author notes that Radhakrishnan saw Christianity’s presence in India as an opportunity for mutual enrichment rather than conflict. By transcending doctrinal differences and focusing on shared ethical ideals, he believed that Christianity and Hinduism could cooperate to address social problems such as poverty, education and communal harmony. The article portrays Radhakrishnan’s approach as one of respect, critical engagement and a commitment to inter‑religious understanding.
Conclusion
The article concludes that Radhakrishnan valued Christianity for its ethical and mystical insights while challenging its exclusivist tendencies. He advocated a comparative approach that recognises the legitimacy of multiple religious paths and emphasises common values. By promoting dialogue and cooperation, his perspective offers a constructive framework for inter‑religious relations in a pluralistic society.