Religious Worlds of South Asia

Catalog description

Asian religious life has been the subject of western fascination, interpretation, and misinterpretation for over two millennia. This course presents an introduction to this diverse and complex religious landscape through a historical and thematic approach. We will understand how Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs, and Muslims have lived alongside each other, and how their interpretations of human purpose, divinity, death, and meaningful worship compare and contrast. We will also develop cultural literacy by studying everyday practices, such as forehead marks and head coverings, and spaces, such as temples, mosques, and gurudwaras, so we may respectfully interact with South Asian populations abroad or here in North Carolina. Satisfies Religious Studies major and minor requirement. Satisfies a requirement for the Interdisciplinary Minor in South Asian Studies. Satisfies the Philosophical & Religious Perspectives Ways of Knowing requirement. Satisfies the Cultural Diversity Graduation requirement.