THIRD-EYE THEOLOGY

Theology in Formation in Asian Settings Revised Edition

Choan-Seng Song

Since its original publication, C.S. Song's classic Third-Eye Theology has been regarded as a landmark work in unearthing and exemplifying the possibilities of a new kind of Asian Christian theology-one that takes its point of departure from the cultures of Asia. This new edition has been revised and updated, and includes a new preface which provides an overview of current status and trends in the search for Asian Christian theology.

Song's basic argument-that Asian folklore, mythology, and tradition func-tion in relation to Asian theology as have similar elements in Hapiru and early Israelite religion in relation to Judaism and Christianity-has become almost canonical among people interested in the question of inculturation. Song explores how theologians must acquire a "third eye": a power of perception and insight that enables them to grasp the meaning beneath the surface of things and phenomena in the search for the heart that is the entry point for theology.

This is a spiritual quest; and spirituality and theology, it is commonly argued, should walk hand-in-hand. Yet, seldom does this occur. Song shows that spirituality and theology do belong together, not by prescribing how their ideal marriage should work, but by exemplifying how they are the yin and yang of religious reflection. His is a theology of the cross that is not gloomy and preoccupied with death but which recognizes God's affirmation of human beings in the face of radical evil, the paradoxes of death, and the shattering of illusions about the self-sufficiency of the solitary human ego in a perilous cosmos.

"A refreshing and imaginative work. Through the images that are dear to the Asian souls, Dr. Song explores the central issues of Christian theology. His exegesis of the Bible is timely and ecumenical. With enthusiasm I recommend Third Eye Theology to anyone who is interested in Asia's expression of Chris-tian faith." -Kosuke Koyama, Union Theological Seminary, New York

Choan-Seng Song, a native of Taiwan, is professor of theology at the Pacific School of Theology and the author of several books, including Tell Us Our Names and Theology from the Womb of Asia.