Francis X. Clooney, a Jesuit Professor of Theology at Boston College, believes that opening our hearts as wide as the world is part of the challenge of living in a time of burgeoning global spirituality. Hindu wisdom can nourish those of any faith, expanding our horizons and deepening our spiritual practice of devotion. Of course, we must be willing to let go of our rigid ideas of self, God, and others.
Clooney's assessment of Hindu creation myths presents the discovery of self as an ongoing process of death and renewal. Noting that Buddhism and Hinduism have interacted for centuries in India, he discusses the Buddha's insights into peace and liberation. A chapter on Krishna covers the importance of seeing God while an encounter with Shiva calls us to dwell in mystery. The cult of the great Goddess emphasizes the presence of the Mother of the Universe in everything.
Clooney concludes his study of Hindu wisdom with commentary on the great Indian leader Mohandas Gandhi and Bengali writer and social activist Mahasweta Devi. They emphasize the spiritual importance of doing the truth and living the nonviolent life of social concern.