Faith Seeking Harmony of Life: The Legacy of Dharmaram Theology

Abstract

Jonas Thaliath, CMI, the visionary architect and founder of Dharmaram College and its constituent Institutions in Bengaluru, described theology as “faith seeking harmony of life” (fides quaerens harmonium vitae). Furthering the traditional definition of Anselm of Canterbury and focusing on the Indian and Oriental genius of theological perspectives, Jonas’ script on theology is groundbreaking, contextual, ecumenical, and interreligious in essence, surpassing the bounds of spacetime. Theology may be described as learning, loving, and living the art of life, striking a harmony of life in tune with Jesus Christ and His Gospel, for the salvation of the whole world. In essence, theology enables and empowers us to celebrate our life in Christ.

Scanning the theological contributions of the Pontifical Athenaeum Dharmaram Vidya Kshetram, Bengaluru, the harmony of life emerges as the major current running throughout the centuries, with its incessant spring flowing from the hilltop of Mannanam (Bethrauma) (1833) through the Sacred Heart Study House, Chethipuzha (1918), to the garden city of Bangalore (Dharmaram) (1957) and beyond. Theology reminds us of our path of faith, seeking harmony in life, the hallmark of salvation in Christ, which leads to the celebration of life in Christ.