A Culture of Engaging with Others

Abstract The culture of debate is innate to the Indian mind. The true purpose of debates is to seek and uncover the truth. Similarly, in medieval scholastic thought, dialogue is dialectical and guides one toward the truth, the worship of the triune God. This article highlights that Jesuit pioneers engaging in dialogue with diverse religions remain true to their faith convictions while remaining open to the faith and convictions of others, without losing the spirit of dialogue. First, it briefly outlines the essence of the culture of debate that is inherent to the Indian mind. Second, it explores how Jesuits before Vatican II experienced the dialectical tension in their approach to other religions. Third, it examines how Vatican II, through “caritas,” linked sincere dialogue with genuine openness toward other religions and enabled deeper levels of dialogue.