Book Review by Fr Yesu Karunanidhi –
Author: Rev. Dr. M. John Diraviam
Title: South Indian Christendom. From Malabar Mission to Madurai Archdiocese
Publishers: Nobili Publications, Madurai
Pages 240. Price ₹150.
“If you don’t know history, then you don’t know anything. You are a leaf that doesn’t know it is part of a tree,” says Michael Crichton (an American author, screenwriter and filmmaker),
reflecting on the significance of the study of history. History, in fact, is not a compilation of data, but a presentation of lived experiences.
Rev. Dr. M. John Diraviam’s “South Indian Christendom: From Malabar Mission to Madurai Archdiocese” offers a comprehensive exploration of Christianity’s historical journey in South India. Diraviam, a multi-disciplinary (Canon Law, Marian Studies, Sacred Scripture, Tamil Literature) scholar vested in the subject, takes the reader on a voyage from the early presence of Christianity in Malabar (Kerala) to the establishment of the Madurai Archdiocese.
The book delves into the origins of Christianity in the region, with traditions pointing to St. Thomas the Apostle bringing the faith in the first century AD. Diraviam sheds light on the evolution of South Indian Christian communities, including the influence of European colonialism – Portuguese, Dutch, and British – and the establishment of the Latin Catholic Church.
A significant aspect explored is the emergence of the Madurai Archdiocese. Diraviam chronicles its development and its role in shaping the Christian landscape in South India. This provides valuable insight into the administrative structures and their impact on the faith’s spread. The portraits of various stalwarts of faith inspire the reader to imitate their saintly virtues.
One of the most captivating aspects of Diraviam’s work is his ability to contextualise the spread of Christianity within the broader historical and socio-cultural dynamics of South India. He skillfully navigates through centuries of political changes, interfaith interactions, and ecclesiastical developments to paint a vivid picture of how Christianity took root and flourished in this diverse and vibrant region.
Moreover, Diraviam’s analysis is not confined merely to the institutional aspects of Christianity. He also delves into the spiritual and theological dimensions, offering insights into the unique blend of indigenous customs and Christian beliefs that have shaped the religious identity of South Indian Christians.
“South Indian Christendom” is likely most enriching for those interested in the specifics of South Indian Christian history. Diraviam’s detailed approach offers a window into the past, encompassing historical figures, missionary activities, and the social context that influenced the faith’s development.
However, the book’s granular detail might pose a challenge for casual readers seeking a broader overview. The focus on the Madurai Archdiocese, while significant, could limit the appeal for those interested in a more pan-South Indian Christian narrative.
Overall, Diraviam’s “South Indian Christendom” is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of South Indian Christian history. It provides a meticulously researched account, enriched by the author’s expertise. Readers seeking a deeper understanding of the faith’s historical roots and the establishment of the Madurai Archdiocese will find this book a rewarding exploration.
(The author can be contacted at [email protected]; Cell. 988 477 9936. The book is available at Nobili Publications, MAVIGA, K. Pudur, Madurai 625 007, Tel. +91 452 2561300)
[Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, a priest of the Archdiocese of Madurai, a writer, translator, and inter-scriptural scholar, is a Pontifical Missionary of Mercy of Pope Francis; currently he serves as the Executive Secretary to the CCBI Commission for Bible. He can be contacted through www.yesukarunanidhi.in]
Congrats, Father Dr. Diraviam! Well-written, scholarly and academically unbiased book-review! Happy for you both! The title of the book evocates a sense of awe!
Dear Father Yesu, welcome to Indian Catholic Matters! Looking forward to many more contributions from you both in the near future!
“Only God knows the good that can come about by reading one good Catholic book.” St. John Bosco