Title: The Hermeneutics of Praxis: Proposing a Method for Nepalese Contextual/Political Theology
By: Pabitra M. Bhandari
"Any system of thought that wants to keep abreast of the process of transformation and intends to take part actively in it cannot fail to consider Hermeneutic Philosophy and major participants in the debate." [1]
The Church in Nepal [2] must actively engage in the transformation of Nepalese society, grappling with social and political injustices resulting from a decade-long Maoist-government civil war and various discriminatory Hindu social practices. It should comprehend its minority position while becoming a transformative force, offering meaningful redemption for society.
Nepal presents a unique context where Christianity is situated. It is a religiously Hindu, politically Marxist, economically poor, socially and historically proud country. Any imported theology in its purest form cannot meaningfully and effectively serve in Nepal. The Church in Nepal should adhere to a theology that not only uplifts its minority position in Christ but is also communicable and meaningful for Nepalese society. Its theology should motivate and energize the Christian community to actively participate in the liberating task for society.
This research proposes that the Hermeneutics of Praxis, originally rooted in Marxism, is the most appropriate method for doing theology in Nepal. To support this claim, the research will first analyze the context of the Nepalese Church to establish its challenges and responsibilities. Secondly, it will define and explain the hermeneutics of praxis in philosophy and its role in theology. Lastly, it will argue how and where the hermeneutics of praxis can be utilized in Nepal's context.
While this research primarily takes an analytical approach concerning the Nepalese church and society, it also serves as a constructive effort to identify an appropriate theological method for the Nepalese context. The study will explore various academic researches on Nepal's politics, society, and religions, along with recent news coverage from Nepalese news outlets on the subject of Christianity and religion.
Furthermore, the research will delve into the analysis of Hermeneutics of Praxis within various philosophical schools, especially different forms of Marxism. The impact of Marxism on various contextual and liberation theologies will be examined to determine the role and effectiveness of Praxis in their theological hermeneutic.
Ultimately, the research aims to argue and make a case for the Hermeneutics of Praxis in the context of Nepal, demonstrating its effectiveness and usefulness within this unique setting.
[1] M.J. Siemek, "Marxismus Und Hermeneutische Tradition." In B. Waldenfels, J.M. Broekman, and A. Pazanin (eds), Phänomenologie and Marxismus, Vol I (Frankfurt: Suhrkamp, 1977), p. 45.
[2] The Church in Nepal refers to the entire Christian community residing in Nepal, regardless of their denominations and affiliations.