Mindfulness in the Bible and the Far East

Catalog description

This course introduces students to a comparative study of biblical religion and Zen Buddhism, revolving around the themes of mindfulness and the human condition. We will particularly focus on a distinct quality of awareness that each of the foundational texts is designed to cultivate in its readers. Although historically unrelated, this course will show the two religious traditions share features and concerns that prove fruitful for a trans-cultural dialogue. The questions we will explore include: According to each tradition, what are some of the essential cognitive qualities that constitute an optimal mode of being human? How does each tradition understand some of the major pitfalls in achieving such quality of consciousness? What relevance, if any, does this inquiry have to our general life in modern societies? No prior knowledge of biblical studies, Judaism, Hebrew, or Buddhism is required. This course fulfills the Spirituality requirement, or can count as a Bible elective.