Hinduism and Buddhism

Catalog description

This course offers an in-depth exploration of Hinduism and Buddhism. What are their historical origins and how have they developed over time? How are they lived out in everyday life? Most importantly, what wisdom do they offer, and how might this wisdom become part of our lives? We will examine these traditions through their sacred texts (e.g., Bhagavad Gita, Lotus Sutra), major figures (e.g., classical figures such as Krishna and the Buddha and contemporaries like Gandhi and the Dalai Lama), forms of prayer and meditation (e.g., yoga, mindfulness, lovingkindness), and by engaging in conversation with local Pittsburgh communities. While there will be historical and cultural background, the primary focus will be theological, attending to how these traditions conceive of: ultimate reality; the human condition; liberation from suffering and human happiness; the global ecological crisis; and interreligious dialogue and peace. Lecture.