Encountering Diversity in Indian Biblical Studies

From pan-Indian social problems attributed to caste, class and gender inequality, to specific North Eastern tribal settings, Dalit struggles in rural Andhra Pradesh and the experience of Christian autorickshaw drivers in urban Chennai, the book explores the diverse geographical, cultural, social, economic and linguistic settings in which the Bible is encountered. The holistic and multidisciplinary approach to Biblical studies adopted broadens the field beyond textual exegesis. Encounters with the Bible are revealed in diverse chapters impacted by contexts of caste realities, the history of Indian Christianity, colonial and post-colonial frameworks and educational institutions. Full use is made of 'vernacular' texts and traditions including oral and written cultural, folk tale, literary and auto/biographical narratives in Tribal, Dalit and British colonial settings. Diversity of method is championed through including sociological analysis of Indian social realities, qualitative fieldwork techniques and a kaleidoscope of visual and sensory environments with over 30 photographs. The book celebrates and promotes diversity in Indian biblical studies, creativity and sometimes conflicting perspectives.

Encountering Diversity in Indian Biblical Studies will be of interest to students, scholars and researchers working on post-colonial biblical studies and diversity in Christianity, particularly in the Indian context.

'A fascinating concoction of articles looking at interpretations of the Bible in India, past and present, Encountering Diversity in Indian Biblical Studies is a timely look at a rich, cultural stream of biblical interpretation. A post-colonial lens is used to examine different contextual readings with national, ethnic and social identities all with roles to play. Older colonial, Protestant, Catholic, Dalit and Tribal exegetical approaches are also compared in conjunction with new anthropological, ethnographic and visual modes of enquiry. Everyday life is never far away, with the recognition of the part played by symbols and the senses in interpreting the Bible and the world around us. What other book would feature the biblical approaches of rickshaw drivers?! This is a rich and diverse reading experience, not to be missed!' - Katharine J. Dell, Professor of Old Testament Literature and Theology, Faculty of Divinity, University of Cambridge