Theology of Divine Intimacy in Hinduism

Catalog description

Taught by GTU. This HYBRID seminar focuses on Hindu devotional (bhakti) theological school centered on the works of medieval Krishna Bhakti theologians, such as Rupa Gosvamin, Sanatana Gosvamin, Jiva Gosvamin, Krishnadasa Kaviraja Gosvamin, Visvanatha Cakravartin, and others. We will also examine contemporary critical scholarship on Krishna Bhakti theology, by such authors as Tony Stuart, Ravi Gupta, Barbara Holdrege, Kenneth Valpey, and others. Additionally, readings of primary source materials, such as the Bhagavata Pura?a, Gitagovinda, Brahma Sa?hita, select Upanishads, and the Vedanta Sutra. Furthermore, a deep exploration of Rupa Gosvamin's contribution to Indian aesthetics, rasa theory and the psychology of emotions, and the significance of the divine feminine will be explored. The goal of this course is to carefully map the complex and nuanced theology of this school in order to appreciate its unique contributions to Krishna Bhakti theology.