Communicating the Christian Message in the Indian Cultural Context - Essay Example

Communicating the Christian message in the Indian cultural context Before we begin dealing with the main let me start by first stating the basic assumptions in this exercise: The first assumption is that the Christian message or the gospel is that man has been separated from God because of sin and that Jesus Christ His Son paid the price for sin on the cross. Because of this, anyone who believes in Him and accepts Him as his personal Lord and Savior has reconciliation with God. The second assumption is that - going by the words and the sacrificial deeds of Christ, culminating in his death on the cross and subsequent resurrection - there is in fact no other means to gain salvation and reconciliation with God. India is a multicultural and multiethnic country with a rich heritage of history and culture. Christianity is one of many religions which thrive in that country. The people are spiritually minded. Hinduism is the religion of the majority with 82% of Indians being Hindus. 12.1% of Indians are Muslims. Those officially following Christianity form a meager 2.3% (Census of India, 2001). For a follower of Jesus (which is what we mean from now on as 'Christian') it is a command and an obligation to share the gospel with others who do not know. According to Mark chapter 16 and verse 15, Jesus has commanded us to 'go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature'. Yet in a country like India which is deeply entrenched in spirituality there are tremendous challenges to the credibility of the gospel message. We will look at the communication of this message primarily among the Hindus in India The perception of Christianity as a foreign religion Tracing history to the British rule. The popular perception in India is that Christianity was brought into the country by foreign missionaries who came along with the British East India Company in the early 1700s. The British eventually captured and ruled the country till the mid 1900s. As Wikipedia the online encyclopedia states about that time: "Imbued with an ethnocentric sense of superiority, often known as the White Man's Burden, British intellectuals, including Christian missionaries, sought to bring Western intellectual and technological innovations to Indians, ignoring the fact that the Indian Christian tradition went back to the very beginnings of first century Christian thought" (Wikipedia contributors) Hence although untrue, there is a sense that Christianity is a foreign religion. The fact that the West is predominantly Christian contributes to this perception. Money from the West that has traditionally come in for evangelistic and missionary campaigns also fuels the perception that the financial base of Christianity in India is abroad. As Astrid Lobo Gajiwala an Indian Christian activist writes, ".They just don't see Christians as Indians; they see us as an alien 'other', minions of a white, Christian world that is synonymous with spiritual and racial chauvinism (1998)." Language and attire incompatibility. It cannot be denied that western influence has permanently crept into Indian Christianity. Christian worship is conducted in many languages but English is predominant among them. The exceptions to this are the Tamil, Malayalam and Latin languages which may be more popular in the respective states (Latin is used in Orthodox churches). English has never been in the scheme of things for Hindu worship or religious literature until recently. Christian communities especially Roman Catholics and Goans have predominantly English names and western attire. The communication at home among these communities is predominantly in English. Songs and music Music used for Christian worship has its influence in the West. The songs sung in church are either hymns composed by English or American songwriters in English or contemporary songs again composed in the West in English. Churches depicted in Hindi movies usually have a church organ playing in the background. Local worship songs have begun to gain in popularity but this is a recent though healthy phenomenon. Image of spiritual leaders Christian leaders are either mainstream regular lay people formally dressed in western attire or clergy dressed in priestly attire. This is quite different from Hindu spiritual leaders which are usually dressed in saffron or more recently in flowing white Indian style clothing. Method of worship Interestingly the lively worship style of the contemporary churches is catching on in Hindu worship, with spiritual gurus encouraging clapping, dancing and using electronic instruments. The method of delivering the message or the discourse as it is usually called in India involves the speaker sitting on the stage rather than standing. Symbolism This is a very tricky area because idol worship which is the primary form of symbolism in Hindu worship is forbidden by God both in the Old and New Testaments. However there are other forms of symbolism which do not involve idol worship such as the thread ceremony of the Brahmins, the seven rounds for marriage, etc. Symbolism is important in Christianity too. Baptism, the laying on of hands and the Holy Communion are examples. The objection to conversion. Hurting of national pride Missionaries are perceived to have brought in Christianity into India with the underlying assumption that they have a superior religion. They are known to have made disrespectful comments about Hindu gods and goddesses. Hence there is a perceived disrespect to the religion of the land. There is resentment towards this attitude by many Indian thinkers and they interpret it as an issue where national pride is at stake. Ashok Chowgule who has written on Christianity in India from the Hindu hard-line point of view reacts to the Pope call to Christians to preserve their heritage and not to adopt the far eastern philosophies: "It would be appropriate to ask the Pope what moral right does he have to ask Hindus and Buddhists to set aside their own even longer spiritual heritage aside lightly and adopt Christianity." Threat to cultural heritage. The strong opposition to idol worship which is part of mainstream Christianity is interpreted as a threat to cultural heritage. M Raghu Ram writes in defense of idol worship, "Idol worship is not animism practiced by the so-called primitive peoples and cultures, as colonialist anthropology would have us believe" (1998). Conservative Christians also avoid participating in the Indian festivals like Holi (the festival of colors) or Diwali (the festival of lights). When conversion happens the new converts have a tendency to avoid participation too. This adds weight to the perceived threat to the local culture. A report on forced reconversion of Christians in Orissa India states: "The principal grouse against the minorities were cultural; that they no more adhered to the Hindu rituals, like taking Jagannath Mahaprasad (food offered to the idol of lord Jagannath - a Hindu god), visiting the temples, lighting an evening lamp/wick by the Tulasi-Chaura (Sanjabati), taking non-veg (sic) foods during mourning or 'holy' festivals, the married Christian women's refusal to wear bangles and vermilion etc." (People's Union for Civil Liberties, 2004) Bracketing with violent and coercive methods of conversion. The conversion we are talking about (as explained at the beginning of this paper) is confused with the kind of conversion that marked the crusades and the inquisitions. With Islam having a history of violent conquests and forced conversions, the very word seems to indicate violence, disrespect and coercion. The British rule in India is also associated with Christianity and hence Christianity's imperialist tag also got cemented in India. Social work done by Christian organizations is looked at with a lot of respect but also with a lot of suspicion, because the motivation is seen to be conversion. The allegation is that the gullible lower and backward classes particularly in rural areas are lured by social and financial benefits which would accrue to them if they became Christians. Chowgule writes, ".The social service activities that are part of the churches are also with an objective to convert. The activity has at best an accidental redeeming value, and becomes highly debased." Fear of communal strife. India has a history of communal strife particularly between the Hindu and Muslim communities. Therefore even liberal Hindu's (those who do not have any objection to Christianity) will oppose conversion for practical reasons fearing that conversions might trigger communal strife. A report on the 'Human Rights Watch" describes how violence against religious minorities especially Christians is on the rise in India. "Between January 1998 and February 1999, the Indian Parliament reported a total of 116 incidents of attacks on Christians across the country. Unofficial figures may be higher." (Human Rights Watch, 1999) Need for unity. In the communal undercurrent which prevails with a mutual dislike between Hindus and Muslims in certain areas, there is a high emphasis by the establishment on National unity and putting it above religious affiliation. Conversions certainly do not fit into this cause. The view that all roads lead to salvation. The all inclusive nature of Hinduism A typical Hindu does not have any objection to hearing the gospel message or any religious message so far as it does not show disrespect to his or her own current belief. In fact India prides herself on imbibing the 'good' in every religion and Hinduism itself does not have a single author or religious book but is more of a culture that has emerged out of a merging of spiritual ideas by great philosophical thinkers, poets and writers over centuries. Since logic is not a primary concern and the feel good factor is more important, even conflicting ideas can be imbibed as long as there is a feel good about it. This attitude makes it extremely difficult to drive home the exclusive message of Christianity and it is usually accepted as one among many good ideas. Ashok Chowgule explains again in his book referred earlier, "Hinduism believes in pluralism - that is there are multiple paths to salvation and one chooses the path that one thinks is valid for oneself. Hindus consider that the belief that one is in sole possession of the Truth is an impediment to enlightenment. It is even regarded as being arrogant." The politically correct position to take considering a history of communal strife With both the establishment and individuals promoting the message that God is the same and we all call Him by different names and that all religions show the way to salvation, it would be politically incorrect to take the view that a particular way is the only way. Anyone publicly taking that position would be perceived as an anti social element with ideas that are not in keeping with the times. Reason takes a back seat to pragmatism. The above three areas are formidable roadblocks to the presentation of the Christian message in India. However there are ways to overcome these barriers and serious Christians in India would do well to take note. Root the message in the culture Project the origin of Christianity in India in the 1st century It is important to start by dispelling the notion that the Christian faith is from the west. Truth is that Christianity came to India long before it went to the West. Use local language for communication. While in this progressive age it is impractical to do away with English especially with even Hindu spirituality being anglicized, it is important to be vernacular. The most certain way of identifying with the multilingual Indian society is by identifying with each culture first through the language. The days are gone when India had American or Europeans bringing in the gospel. This must be done by vernacular Indians in the local popular language. To do this it is important to create literary resources in Indian languages. There are several Bibles translations in English with annotation and explanations. Hardly anything like that exists in Indian languages expect for the single translation of the Bible. Let the songs and music correspond to that which is currently popular in the media. India has a rich musical heritage with classical Indian music being a complex and highly evolved art form. But even popular music has created a unique sound for itself which is neither completely western nor completely Indian classical but has a unique and delightful mix of these and other regional influences like Sufi music, folk music etc. By 2020 the average Indian will be only 29 years old making it one of the youngest nations of the world (Chandrasekhar, 2006). This has greatly influenced popular culture. It is vital to express the Christian message using musical styles that reflect popular culture in the local language. While Christian worship music has in recent times gained a universal sound, there is still scope to root it in popular culture. Rather than western attire let the spiritual leaders adopt Indian style clothing For generations Indian Christians like to celebrate their Christmas and Easter by wearing western formal outfits. This only adds to the exclusivity. A change in this trend with Indian Christians using traditional Indian attire would go a long way in helping them identify with their countrymen from other faiths. Men can wear sherwanis or kurta pyjamas. Even for casual wear it may be more appropriate for skirts which many Roman Catholic and Goan ladies wear, to be replaced by the elegant salwar kameez or the graceful saree. For certain groups seating on the floor and the leader delivering his address while seated may be more appropriate. The style of the gathering must be sensitive to the people group being reached. Many Indians would prefer to sit on the floor while participating in a spiritual event, leaving their footwear outside the sanctuary as a mark of respect. The message could be delivered by the minister while seated as is the accepted method. A gathering of this type is called a 'satsang' and is very popular among Indians. While retaining the content of a church service or an evangelistic outreach event, there is much to gain by changing the style and making it homely to Indians. Adopt the symbolism of the local culture while avoiding idol worship. Indian cultural symbolism is a subject of much debate among conservative Christians. The bindi (dot on the forehead for women), and the mangalsutra (necklace of gold and black beads) and many similar symbolisms are shunned because they are supposed to represent Hindu goddesses or have other religious significance. But fact also is that these are very much a part of Indian culture. Can they be adopted (as indeed many Christians already have) for their cultural value while rejecting their religious symbolism I believe they can and they should be. In word and in deed take pride in Indian culture defining it broadly Revel in the diversity and the color that Indian culture has. Learn and enjoy the arts - the dances and the music. Treasure the values of family and marital sanctity and the support system that comes with it. Enjoy and perfect Indian cooking. Adopt the cultural symbols. Redefine conversion Focus on conversion of the heart rather than that of religion. Because the word conversion causes so much heartburn considering the baggage that is associated with it, it could be done way with. Rather one could go directly to the reasons why we believe a heart change is necessary - salvation (a very popular concept in India), the problem of sin, lack of peace and joylessness which are universal problems. Jesus is the solution and not Christianity. Confession and forgiveness are necessary and not baptism (although that will come later). Respect the genuine search for truth that lies behind the great religions and in the scriptures. All men have need of a relationship with God. This is often described as a God shaped vacuum that exists in the spirit of each human being. Religions and Holy books are all a manifestation of this hunger. Nowhere is this hunger more apparent than in India with her heritage of philosophers and saints. These are not fools and neither are they insincere in their search. As the apostle Paul explains in Ephesians chapter 3 and verse 5, it's just that 'the mystery has now been revealed' and it's time to tell India that her search has been fruitful. Jesus is the fulfillment of their search not an alien idea. Present the claims of Christ about Himself rather than the claims of Christians. Rather than trying to defend ourselves and our motives behind conversion it would be more productive to present the claims of Christ Himself. Once the claims of Christ are examined honestly it is very difficult to ignore Him and there is no other food for thought required for true seekers. Jesus claimed to be the exclusive 'way, the truth and the life' (John 14:6). Let the listeners decide whether they want to believe Him or not. Attack sin instead of idol worship. Instead of criticizing other gods, pray in the Name of Jesus. There is no need to criticize others for their practices and beliefs. They would much appreciate an attitude where there is acceptance irrespective of differences. There are very few who would reject an offer for prayer - even if the prayer is in the name of Jesus. The gospel does not need to be offensive. It is after all the good news. Let love and acceptance be the rule instead of exclusivity. Once they accept Jesus into their hearts and experience His truth in their everyday lives, they themselves will be confronted with the futility of idols. They can choose for themselves. Spit out any sense of superiority as Christians. Indian Christians must take on the servant attitude of Christ. Remember we are beggars who found a treasure and we are trying to share it with others. If we really believe the position of Christianity that salvation is not earned but is a 'free gift' as stated in Romans chapter 6 and verse 23 - we no longer can claim credit for our faith. Rather, a relationship with God will make us humble and that humility must be seen even in our evangelism. Dissociate from all methods of external conversion Once the focus is on the conversion of the heart, religious affiliation becomes unimportant. Thus using financial or other methods to lure converts would only invoke the wrath of God rather than His favor. Express disapproval - publicly if necessary - for those groups which promote merely external conversion in return for favors. Let our lives do the talking. Our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read. These are the greatest evidences and attraction towards Christ. As can be seen throughout this paper the focus is on Indian Christians changing themselves rather than implementing a strategy of conversion. The world renowned Indian thinker and philosopher Gandhi famously said "I like your Christ but I don't like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ". He also said, "If all Christians acted like Christ, the whole world would be Christian" (Said What...quote me on it!). That is worth taking seriously. If Indian Christians love their country enough, if they are humble, if they respect others and if they are focused on becoming Christ like, many will turn to Christ without anyone saying a word to convince them. Works Cited Census of India 2001 2004 Data on Religion: Proportion and growth rate of population by religious communities- India: 1961-2001. Electronic document, http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/statement.pdf, accessed April 4, 2006 Chandrasekhar, C.P. 2006 Does demography favor India Frontline, Volume 23 - Issue 01, Electronic document, http://www.flonnet.com/fl2301/stories/20060127004010500.htm, accessed Mar 21, 2006 Chowgule, Ashok. Christianity in India, The Hindutva perspective. Electronic document, http://www.hvk.org/Publications/cihp/ch3.html, accessed March 25, 2006 Eph 3:5, KJV Gajiwala, Astrid Lobo 1998 Martyrdom-The call for the new millennium, The Examiner, July 18. Quoted in Chowgule, Ashok. Christianity in India, The Hindutva perspective. Electronic document, http://www.hvk.org/Publications/cihp/ch3.html, accessed March 25, 2006 Human Rights Watch, 1999 Electronic document, http://www.hrw.org/reports/1999/indiachr/christians8-01.htm, accessed 31 Mar 2006 Mk 16:15, King James Version People's Union for Civil Liberties. 2004 Christian villagers tonsured and forcibly converted to Hinduism. Electronic document, http://www.pucl.org/Topics/Religion-communalism/2004/kilipal.htm, accessed April 1, 2006 Ram, M Raghu. 1998 The God of Big Things. Electronic document, http://www.lifepositive.com/Spirit/world-religions/hinduism/tirupati.asp, accessed April 1, 2006. Rom 6:23, KJV Said What...Quote me on it! Quotes by Mahatma Gandhi. Electronic document, http://www.saidwhat.co.uk/printquote.phpid=1022, accessed April 3, 2006 Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia 2006 Company rule in India. Electronic document, http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.phptitle=Company_rule_in_India&oldid=45256397, accessed March 31, 2006 Read More