Violence and Peace: A New Book by My Colleague

Dr Solomon Rajah, my colleague who teaches Pastoral Theology and World Religions, has just published his new book, Violence and Peace: Some Asian Religious Thoughts and A Christian Perspective (Petaling Jaya: Council of Churches of Malaysia, 2007).

According to Solomon, this book is "an attempt to present a study on the problem of violence and peace within the Christian traditions, noting non-violence and peace as God's means of communicating the biblical faith within the realities of war, terrorism and violence in the world. It will also introduce helpful information of some Asian thoughts on violence and their peace imperatives."

Solomon's book is timely in view of the rise of violence of the present age of sectarian violence. What is particularly welcome in this book is Solomon's interaction with peace imperatives in some of the religious traditions in the Asian context including Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Tribal religions. He also exhorts readers to follow the example of Jesus in embracing reconciliation, justice and peace.

Well written, informative and thought provoking, Solomon's book is highly recommended for pastors, Christians, and all those who are committed in pursuing non-violence in a violent world.

Solomon's previous publications include Folk Hinduism (Manila: ATESEA, 2000) and Symbols and the Church (Petaling Jaya: Council of Churches in Malaysia, 2005).