Lead, Kindly Light: Gandhi on Christianity - Paperback

by Robert Ellsberg (Editor)

*Advance Praise and Reviews* "A fascinating exploration of Gandhi's engagement with the Christian faith, illuminating the intersections of faith, ethics, and nonviolence. Ellsberg's scholarship makes this essential reading for students of religion and history alike."-- America Magazine

Previously published as "Gandhi on Christianity," this book has been revised and reissued under the title "Lead, Kindly Light."

Widely regarded as one of the great moral prophets of the twentieth century, Gandhi conducted an ongoing dialogue with Christian believers and missionaries throughout his life. As a faithful Hindu, he was unwilling to accept Christian dogma. In Jesus, however, he recognized and revered one of history's great prophets of nonviolence. His criticism of contemporary Christianity was the failure of most Christians to embody the radical and revolutionary faith and action of Christ.

In addition to Gandhi's writings, this volume includes responses from Christian scholars and students of Gandhi highlighting his contributions to interreligious dialogue (Diana Eck), Christian self-understanding and practice (James Douglass and Ignatius Jesudasan, SJ), self-critical reform of Christian mission (Bob McCahill, MM), and reflections on the influence of his favorite hymn, Lead, Kindly Light (William Emilsen).

Author Biography

Robert Ellsberg is publisher of Orbis Books. He is the author of many books on saints and holy lives, including Modern Spiritual Masters and A Living Gospel: Reading Gods Story in Holy Lives (both Orbis).