Crash Course on Hinduism for United Theological College Delegation at Murugan Temple
The Hindu Council of Australia (HCA), in collaboration with the Sydney Murugan Temple, Mays Hill, hosted a significant interfaith educational program on 10 July 2025 for a group of 35 Christian theology students, faculty members, and pastors from the United Theological College (Uniting Church). The delegation was led by Professor Sathianathan Clarke, Chair of World Christianity at the United Theological College, Charles Sturt University, North Parramatta Campus, and included participants from Australia, the United States, South Korea, China, Russia, Kenya, and Canada.
The initiative aimed to provide an authentic understanding of Sanatana Dharma and Hindu spiritual practices, moving beyond the often superficial or misrepresented views of Hinduism prevalent in Western theological discourse.
Reflecting on the event, Professor Sathianathan Clarke (United Theological College, Charles Sturt University) remarked:
“In most Western contexts, Hinduism is both misunderstood and misrepresented. Too often, it is filtered through Christian theological interpretations that carry their preconceptions. This interreligious opportunity allowed Christian leaders to step away from those filters, to experience gracious hospitality, and to learn directly from Hindu scholar-practitioners who live and embody Sanatana Dharma.”
The program commenced with a traditional South Indian vegetarian lunch, graciously prepared by Shri Kananaathan and temple volunteers, followed by a warm welcome from Shri Senthilkuamaran Thurunavukarasan (Director of Education, Murugan Temple) and another senior temple leader. They shared detailed insights into the history of the Murugan Temple, its Tamil Saivite traditions, ritualistic practices, special festivals, and educational activities.
The educational session featured four talks and a guided temple tour:
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Shri Sree Kumaran spoke on the early history of Hinduism, the Saivite tradition of worshipping Lord Murugan (Kartikeya), and the symbolism of diverse deities and rituals, which collectively express the Oneness of the Absolute Brahman.
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Dr Ashit Mohan Maitra (Hindu Chaplain, Sydney University) presented the philosophical foundations of Sanatana Dharma, discussing the Absolute Existence – Om Hrīm Ritam – the Brahman, Creation, and the Eternal Laws of existence. He highlighted that universality is central to the Hindu worldview, with spiritual realisation accessible through any of the four recognised pathways—Work (Karma Yoga), Worship (Bhakti Yoga), Psychic Control (Raja Yoga), or Discrimination between the Real and the transient (Jnana Yoga).
The event concluded with a guided temple tour, where participants learned about the deities, rituals, and theological significance of temple worship.
For most attendees, this was their first experience inside a Hindu temple, leaving a deep impression. One theology student shared:
“I came here with very little knowledge of Hinduism, and what I had learned earlier was mostly academic and from a Christian perspective. Today was different – it felt like we were invited into a living tradition. The hospitality, the openness, and the philosophical depth we encountered have changed how I will approach conversations about Hinduism in the future.”
Professor Sathianathan Clarke echoed this sentiment, emphasising how such direct interactions can foster mutual respect and genuine interreligious dialogue.
The HCA thanks Professor Sathianathan Clarke for leading this initiative and acknowledges the Sydney Murugan Temple’s generous hospitality. Such programs reaffirm HCA’s commitment to building bridges of understanding, respect, and cooperation among Australia’s diverse faith communities.
