Bukan Jalan Buntu, Melainkan Setapak Terjal

Abstract

Advancing from his criticism against two principal theological theories of religion, namely (1) cognitive-propositional theory and (2) experiential-expressive theory, George A. Lindbeck proposes his cultural-linguistic theory as an alternative theory which is deemed more adequate in comprehending plurality of religions. Regrettably, for some, Lindbecks theory is considered rather as a closure to any interreligious dialogue, as a consequence of its superfluous emphasis on the incommensurability and untranslability amongst different religions. Therefore, within this modest article, taking into account several insights from postcolonial studies, I try to venture a critical appreciation on how Lindbecks cultural-linguistic theory might contribute to the endeavour of fostering constructive, authentic, and profound interreligious dialogue. I attempt to argue that Lindbecks cultural-linguistic theory, instead of imparting a cul-de-sac to any interreligious dialogue, actually lay bare a path for the dialogue. A path which is, whilst hard and steep, viable.