In his book "Inside Out," Dr. Larry Crabb speaks of allowing the tough questions of life to truly confuse. At times, one cannot explain why certiain things happen, or why a good God would allow such pain. Steinbeck's novel "Tortilla Flat" also asks why a good God would allow the suffering that is so evident.
Endo's work in this book challenges the reader to face the reality of pain in a fallen world. The plot and characters are so entirely engrossing that I found myself anxiously turning the pages, silently hoping certain things would or wouldn't happen, silently praying that characters would remain faithful.
Phil Yancey wrote a book addressing the question, "Where is God when it hurts?" Endo has addressed that same question in this narrative in such a way that one cannot escape the horror of living in a fallen world -- especially when God seems to be silent...
It disturbs the much-sought comfort via a generic faith in God. It thwarts the communication of a belief in one God in violent "Screwtape" terms. It highlights the possibility that Truth may be universal ... or maybe not.
It can injure or heal an individual. It can lead to a greater realization of the Maker. It can validate or nullify the value of God's love. It can simply be an interesting story. Nonetheless, read it.
I would not recommend this novel to the newest of Christian converts, or to new Buddists for that matter.
As a literary work, Endo weaves irony, metaphor, symbolizism (especially corresponding the plight of Jesus Christ and Judas Iscariot to his protagonist) beyond compare. This text is masterfully crafted.
Miss it -- dear Christian or agnostic or atheist or across-the-board avid reader -- and you have missed a human, albeit supernatural, marvel approaching concepts of central spiritual meaningfulness and justification.
The "mud swamp" of Japan may be expanding. Curiously, in this generation, it may be shrinking. Adjust your posture. Think.