The saffron robe: A life of Sadhu Sundar Singh

by Janet Lynch-Watson

Sadhu Sundar Singh was born in Northern India in 1889, the son of a rich Sikh landowner and farmer. The extreme anti-Christian convictions of his youth were reversed as the result of an intense religious experience at the age of sixteen. He braved first his family's anger and then the hardships of a nomadic existence to present the Gospel message in a truly Indian manner. He made many preaching trips into other countries, notably Tibet, and it was here that he was last heard of in April 1929. His saintly and austere life, the warmth and depth of his commitment to Christ had a profound influence on people of many races across the world.

157 pages, Paperback

Published June 1, 1975

Reviews

[Brandon H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The life of Sadhu Sundar Singh is one of a man who was passionately sold out for the Master and willingly suffered great hardship on behalf of Him and His gospel. I heard of this mystical, Christian evangelist and wanted to learn more about him. This book provided a glimpse into this unique character. He reminded me of other past believers who felt called to follow Christ and to live a life of simplicity and hardship similar to what Christ did. There were a few extraordinary stories in the book that will dazzle some but baffle and maybe even offend others. I didn't agree with all that the author put forth in the book but it was worth the read. I think Sundar's reoccurring message to the Western church to extricate herself from materialism and to slow down and spend more time in prayer and meditation is a message that is especially relevant today. I'd like to read more of him. I'd give this one around 3.5 stars.

[Rowan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well put together but the chronology of events was a bit dry for my taste. Definitely fascinating insights into the life of a profoundly affected individual, but if you dislike anecdotes and diary entries (I like them) I'd give this a miss.