Hinduism Course: Exploring Texts, Philosophy, and Practices

Study Notes

Course Overview

The course provides an in-depth exploration of Hinduism, one of the world's oldest and most complex religious traditions.
It covers foundational texts, key philosophical concepts, rituals, practices, diversity of deities and sects, historical development, and contemporary issues.

Course Objectives

Understand foundational texts and teachings of Hinduism in their historical context.
Explore diverse philosophies and sects within Hinduism, including Vedanta, Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism.
Study Hindu rituals, festivals, and daily practices, understanding their significance and variations.
Analyze the role and adaptation of Hinduism in the contemporary world, including its interaction with modernity and global issues.
Develop comparative and critical thinking skills to critically analyze religious texts and practices and compare Hinduism with other religious traditions.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Hinduism

Overview of Hinduism's origins and development.
Key concepts: Dharma, Karma, Moksha, Reincarnation.

Module 2: Hindu Scriptures

Study of the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita.
Exploration of epics: Mahabharata and Ramayana.

Module 3: Hindu Philosophies and Theology

Understanding different Hindu philosophical systems.
Overview of major deities and their worship.

Module 4: Rituals, Festivals, and Daily Practices

Hindu rituals and sacraments (samskaras).
Major Hindu festivals and their meanings.

Module 5: Hindu Sects and Movements

Diversity within Hinduism: Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism.
Modern Hindu movements and teachers.

Module 6: Hinduism in Contemporary Society

Hinduism and contemporary issues.
The global spread of Hinduism and interfaith relations.

Capstone Project

Comparative analysis of a Hindu concept, practice, or text.
Components: focused study, comparative perspective, contextual analysis, and presentation.

Introduction to Hinduism

Hinduism, also known as Sanātana Dharma or the eternal tradition, is one of the oldest religions in the world.
Hinduism is a complex, pluralistic tradition with a rich tapestry of philosophical, cultural, and spiritual elements.
The Indus Valley Civilization (3300–1300 BCE) is often cited as a precursor to Hindu practices.

Description

Delve into the world of Hinduism, exploring its foundational texts, key philosophical concepts, and diverse practices. This course covers the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and epics, as well as its historical development and contemporary issues.