REL 1630 - Religions of South Asia

Goals: To provide an introduction the religious traditions of South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh). To examine continuity and diversity within each tradition and among the various traditions. To explore how religious themes and values are expressed in texts, rituals, symbols, music, art and architecture.

Content: We will look at the Brahmanical, Jain, Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic and Sikh traditions. Topics will include yoga, renunciation, Hindu deities, caste and social structure, and women in Hinduism. The last part of the course will explore trends in the 19th and 20th century, during which the religious traditions of South Asia were connected with nationalism and the birth of modern India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. We will conclude by looking at the role that Hindu traditions, teachers and practices have played in modern America.

Taught: Annually

Credits: 4