How can we more deeply understand religious pluralism? In this study, Christopher C. Knight suggests that current explorations of religious pluralism may be supplemented by combining new thinking about divine action with the kind of 'mystical theology' that sees doctrinal statements as aids to contemplation rather than as philosophical truth claims. While Knight sees the 'perennialist' tradition of pluralistic thinking as deeply flawed, he nevertheless proposes that we can adopt a kind of neo-perennialism in which the supposed incompatibilities of different faith traditions may still be seen in the way that perennialists have usually considered them: as relating only to the exotericdimension of religious faith and practice. In this way, he suggests, the perennialist notion of esoteric ecumenism may still be valid. He cautions, nevertheless, that at a methodological level, there may be defensible reasons to hesitate before adopting a full-blown pluralism of this kind.

‘By grounding his argument in personal experience and mystical theology, Knight offers a vision of interfaith understanding that is as inspiring as it is thought-provoking. This book is a timely and important contribution to the field of religious studies, particularly to practical theology.’

Narendra Jumadil Haikal Ramadhan Source: Practical Theology

‘This is an excellent and intense book of theology, highly recommendable for scholars and for those looking for better ways to interact with science. It opens new ways and adds new arguments for the immense task we have before us: to render these two cultures less hostile and more collaborative for the good of humanity.’

Lluis Oviedo Source: Reviews in Science, Religion and Theology, International Society of Science and Religion (ISSR)