Theologians, Brahmans, philosophers, mandarins, priests, and doctors have all claimed to rule over wisdom and to hold the keys to a special entry gate to wisdom’s dwelling place. But wisdom is not an objective only for these select few. It is our universe, our world, our Mother Earth. It is a true homestead where we can settle down and be ourselves, where we can have a human relationship with things. It is the art and knowledge of life, and it has a dwelling place both in the human heart and in the entire earth.
World-renowned philosopher of religion Raimon Panikkar sees wisdom as all the above and as a source of happiness and joy-a dwelling place where people are blessed. In his book he discusses four major issues: an existential feminine approach to life and knowledge, a catholic and less fragmented anthropology, a recovery of the most ancient meaning of philosophy, and how to preserve one’s own identity without being shallow, indifferent, or exclusive. He provides a distinctive practical resource for individuals wanting to experience wisdom.
“Panikkar is recognized by his peers as one of the most insightful and creative thinkers in the area of interreligious and intercultural encounter. This collection of four of his more recent and more popularly accessible essays… will reach and inspire not only his academic colleagues but a broader spectrum of readers who are seeking to prepare a dwelling place for wisdom’ in their personal lives and in their own cultures,” —Paul F. Knitter, Professor of Theology, Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio, and author of No Other Name?