Bridging Faiths for Peace: A Comparative Study of Krishna Consciousness and Christian Theology in Promoting Interreligious Harmony in Nigeria

This study explores the potential of interfaith dialogue and synergy between Christian theology and Hindu Krishna Consciousness to foster peace in Nigeria, a country characterized by deep religious diversity and ongoing interreligious tensions. Using a comparative theological approach and guided by Interfaith Dialogue Theory, the research investigates shared spiritual and ethical values that can support peacebuilding across religious boundaries. The methodology involves critical analysis of existing literature and credible internet sources to examine the core teachings of both traditions. Despite their theological differences particularly regarding the nature of God and the means of salvation both traditions strongly affirm divine love, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of spiritual realization. The study identifies meaningful points of convergence that can serve as foundations for interreligious understanding and collaboration in Nigeria. These include shared moral values, emphasis on compassion, and a commitment to community upliftment. By engaging an Eastern Dharmic and a Western Abrahamic tradition, this research addresses a significant gap in Nigerian interfaith discourse. Furthermore, the explicit focus on Christian theology (a dominant Western Abrahamic tradition) and Hindu Krishna Consciousness (an Eastern Dharmic tradition) addresses a notable gap in existing interfaith literature concerning Nigeria, which often prioritizes Abrahamic faiths. This choice challenges prevailing academic paradigms by exploring convergences and divergences between distinct religious families, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and globally representative understanding of interfaith peacebuilding. It suggests that valuable insights for conflict resolution can be found by examining a broader spectrum of spiritual traditions, moving beyond an Abrahamic-centric lens.