Books on Hinduism By Christians
Engaging Hinduism - Rethinking Christian Apologetics in India by Christopher Poshin David
Engaging Hinduism presents an apologetic system that is historical, Biblical and philosophically aware. It is a ground-breaking work in the field of Reformed thought in connection with Eastern thought and a stellar resource for theologians, pastors and believers to gain insight on how to winsomely and uncompromisingly engage Hinduism with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Questioning Evangelism, by Randy Newman
The author, a Campus Crusade staff member, questions our typical approach to non Christians, do we really know what questions they are asking? Do we know how to effectively use questions in our evangelism? Not written with Hindus in mind, but its principles are very pertinent.
The Spirit of Hinduism, by David Burnett
A Christian look at Hinduism in the context of Indian history. An excellent combination of being detailed and yet readable for the novice. Bibliography, including websites,and “interfaith” discussion questions with every chapter. One of the few Christian-authored books I wouldn’t be embarrassed to let a Hindu read.
The Lotus and the Cross, by Ravi Zacharias
Jesus dialogs with Buddha. Fascinating, readable storyline woven into a comparison between what Jesus offers and what Buddha offers. Buddhism and Hindism overlap philosophically to a great extent.
Missionary Conspiracy: Letters to a Post-Modern Hindu, by Vishal Mangalwadi
An effective rebuttal to Arun Shourie’s book “Missionaries in India” (see below), scholarly and philosophical .Avoids fighting fire with fire as a Christian should.
Understanding the Coconut Generation, by Dr. Sam George
The author, an Indian Christian living in US, examines cultural and generational challenges for the South Asian Americans born in America, as opposed to their parents, who immigrated from abroad. The American-born generation tends to be more culturally like the mainstream culture, while still appearing to be Asian on the surface. Thus the “brown-on-the-outside, white-on-the-inside” analogy of the coconut.
Sharing your Faith with a Hindu, by Madasamy Thirumalai
One of the few books on popular Hindu evangelism you may find in your neighborhood Christian bookstore. Not always well organized and lacking in smooth transitions, the book nevertheless tackles a neglected topic. But the testimony of the author as a former Hindu is powerful.
A Reasoned Look at Asian Religions, by David L. Johnson
Truly fair and thorough in evaluating the gist and bases of five Asian religions. The author shows why it is reasonable to evaluate and not just accept conflicting philosophies in the name of tolerance.
The Christ of the Indian Road, by E. Stanley Jones
A missionary of the Student Volunteer Movement, Jones presented Christ to high society Indians at the turn of the century, and gained quite a listening audience through his daring question and answer lecture format.
Living Water and Indian Bowl: An Analysis of Christian Failings in Communicating Christ to Hindus, with Suggestions Toward Improvements, by Dayan and Bharati
For the more advanced evangelist, this book presents radical but compelling ideas on how to encourage Hindus to become "Khristbhaktas" (Christ devotees) rather than merely westernized Christians in India.
A Way of Life: Introducing Hinduism, by Ram Gidoomal and Robin Thomson
Hinduism is as difficult to pin down as a wave upon the sand, but these authors do an admirable job. Sometimes appears to bend over backward not to offend Hindus, but eventually comes to a reflection and the clear superiority of Christ.
Lions, Princesses, Gurus: Reaching Your Sikh Neighbour, by Ram Gidoomal and Margaret Wardell
A winsome introduction to the Sikh religion of your turbaned neighbor, written for a British audience. Best feature is the "Things to do" section at the end of every chapter, to get you out of your armchair and into the Sikh marketplace.
The Confusion Called Conversion, by Ebe Sunder Raj
Deals with why Christians must proclaim their beliefs, a heated debate in India; intricately connected with the whole issue of caste.
Books by Hindus
Missionaries in India, by Arun Shourie
A must read for those who want to know what Hindus think of Christianity. This book will make you hopping mad because of its distortions and prejudices but it will also fill you with a desire to refute the lies with the truth.
The Story of My Experiments with Truth, by Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi is no longer alive but remains a powerful symbol in India. His struggles with Christianity are a major part of this striking autobiography, and his problems echo those of many Hindus today. Essential reading for Christians who want to understand
Hinduism and India’s struggle for independence.
Christ the Yogi: A Hindu Reflection on the Gospel of John, by Ravi Ravindra
This work represents a common Hindu understanding of “Christ” as an ideal concept which Jesus the man fulfills. Conveniently ignores or explains away anything in the Gospel which might portray Jesus as the unique Son of God.
Culture Shock: India, by Gitanjali Kolanad
A lighthearted, fair, practical guide to Indian culture, especially for those who will live in or visit that country. Written by an Indian married to a European who understands both sides.