The Church and Its Bible

men. Also, Frost addresses parallel concerns that Hindus and Orthodox Christians share including nationalism, idolatry, and nature. Frost concludes that Orthodox and Hindu Vedantic and bhakti notions of faith share a common hope but use different ‘maps’ (p. 100). Hindu maps tend to direct them to a path of escape from suffering, while the map for Christians reveals that suffering is the necessary path. The issue of suffering, according to Frost, is the greatest divergence between Hindus and Orthodox Christians. The final section of the book, on holy men, reveals a major premise in Frost’s argument: the belief that the Holy Spirit is actively at work in the lives of some Hindus. Frost suggests that this activity of the Holy Spirit in Hindu contexts is ‘unperceived’ and could be a form of special, salvific revelation (p. 143). She argues that recognizing this is essential for meaningful dialogue to occur. The greatest strength of The Human Icon lies in its vivid and specific comparisons, providing a balanced methodology by attending to not only the traditional texts but also the popular-level devotional practices of Hindus and Orthodox Christians. Furthermore, the most distinctive feature of the book is the voice it gives to Indian Orthodox Christians, an ancient community that is often overlooked in comparative literature. One significant topic that is missing in Frost’s book is the issue of communal divisions between Hindus and Christians. How should we understand this reality theologically according to Hindus and Christians respectively? Addressing each group’s understanding of community in her initial sections on identity would make a significant contribution to a fundamental concern for both religious groups. Overall, Frost’s book is a satisfactory introduction to the comparison between Hindu traditions and Orthodox Christianity. Also, her innovative attention to Orthodox Christians in India is commendable. While some may disagree with her perspective on a hidden redemptive grace in Hinduism, religious community leaders and readers interested in South Asian religions will benefit from her clear insights into the texts, practices, and common concerns of Hindus and Orthodox Christians.