Religion 107A: “Exploring World Religions”
Instructor: Dr. David C. Aune
Office: 41 Miller Hall Office phone: X5238 E-mail: daune@ashland.edu
Office hours: T-Th from 3-4PM; Wed from 1:00-3:00PM ; other times by appointment
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is an introductory exploration of basic historical developments, beliefs and practices in two Eastern religious traditions (Hinduism and Buddhism) as well as two Western religious traditions (Judaism and Islam). Other religions that developed in India (Sikhism and Jainism) and in China (Taoism) will also be studied briefly. Students will also gain indirect knowledge about Christianity in relation to these other world religious traditions. However, no previous coursework in religion is required and all thoughtful religious perspectives are welcomed.
Classes will consist of interactive lectures interspersed with frequent video presentations and occasional guest speakers. This course fulfills both the Tier I Core Requirement in Religion and the International Perspectives Requirement.
OBJECTIVES AND STUDENT OUTCOMES
The objectives of this course and outcomes expected for the students are as follows:
• To become familiar with the central teachings, practices and diversity of expression in Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism and Islam including an exposure to classic primary texts in each tradition. Students completing this course should be able to identify and convey the significance of the most important aspects of these religious traditions and demonstrate familiarity with selected scriptures in each tradition.
• To recognize the wisdom in these religious traditions and appreciate the personal and social benefits experienced by people who practice these religions. Our study of world religions will promote an awareness of and sensitivity to diverse religious practices and customs. Students completing this course should be able to answer the question, “Why would people choose to be Jewish, Muslim, Hindu or Buddhist?”
• To reflect upon one's own religious convictions and to consider how they differ from (or are similar to) the traditions studied in this course. Students completing this course should gain a clearer understanding of their own religious beliefs and practices in relation to other faith systems and worldviews.
REQUIRED READING
Living Religions fifth edition, by M. P. Fisher (“Fisher”)
Bhagavad Gita: The Song of God , trans. by Prabhavananda and Isherwood (“Gita”)
The Qur'an , trans. by Yusufali (“Qur'an”)
In addition, you are required to read the class hand-outs as noted on the syllabus. You will also be required to read occasional sections from the Bible (any contemporary translation is fine).
COURSE REQUIREMENTS AND ASSESSMENT
1. Careful reading and preparation of all required assignments . Whenever possible, do your reading in the order listed on the syllabus. Usually this means that you begin with sections of the Fisher text, gaining an overview of basic information. Then, carefully read the primary sources and/or hand-outs. Use class discussion time to clarify confusing issues or ideas.
2. Attendance and class participation (40 points). Regular attendance is mandatory. You will be expected to participate in class discussions and to generate thoughtful comments and questions about the material. Bring your texts to class (not to do so suggests lack of preparation).
Assessment of your class participation at the end of the semester will be as follows :
Grade A (37-40 points): Nearly perfect attendance (missed no more than three classes), frequent substantive comments or questions raised in class, demonstrated serious interest in the course.
Grade B (32-36 points): Regular attendance (missed more than three but less than five classes throughout the semester), occasionally raised substantive comments or questions in class, demonstrated some serious interest in the course readings and other material.
Grade C (28-31 points): Sporadic attendance (missed more than five classes) seldom raised substantive comments or questions, demonstrated little, if any, interest in the course readings.
Grade D (24-27 points): Infrequent attendance (missed more than six classes) and demonstrated very little interest in the course.
Grade F (23 points or lower): Infrequent attendance (missed more than seven classes) and demonstrated no serious interest in the course. This failing grade for class participation is usually “achieved” only by working diligently to miss class consistently. The professor reserves the right to lower your grade even further (to the point of course failure) if you miss an inordinate number of classes.
3. Four written assignments (90 points each; 360 points altogether). Throughout the semester, there will be written assignments requiring you to analyze, interpret and reflect upon the meaning and significance of selected aspects in the religious traditions that we are studying. Each assignment must be type-written, approximately 4-5 pages (1700-2000 words). Assignments must be submitted to Dr. Aune by 5PM on the day that they are due. Late assignments, for whatever reason, have 5 points deducted for every day that they are late. More information will be given about these assignments in class.
4. Two examinations: mid-term and final (100 points each; 200 points altogether). Exams will include short answer questions, identifications and essay questions to help you integrate and synthesize the material. A study guide for these exams will be provided ahead of time. Although the exams are not cumulative, you may find it helpful to make meaningful connections between the various religious traditions, especially for the final exam.
Reasonable accommodations shall be made for students with documented learning disabilities. It is the student's responsibility to contact the “Classroom Support” office and inform the instructor of his/her needs.
All students are bound by the academic integrity policy in the most recent AU student handbook. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to plagiarism (the intentional or unintentional presentation of someone else's words or ideas as one's own without proper documentation), fabrication (the intentional falsification or invention of research, citations or other information) and cheating (an act of deception in which a student represents mastery of information that s/he has not mastered). The process for dealing with violations and the appeals process are detailed in the Student Handbook.
Extra Credit Options:
1) You may receive up to 10 “extra credit points” by attending and writing a brief (one page) report of the lecture to be given by Yolanda King on February 22 nd at 7PM in Upper Convo. To receive credit, the report must be handed in to Dr. Aune no later than Thursday, March 3.
2) You may receive up to 20 “extra credit” points by visiting and reporting about your visit to a temple, mosque, monastery or other religious site that differs substantially from your own. The site must be approved by Dr. Aune and the report must be at least two pages in length. To receive credit, the report must be handed in no later than the last day of class (April 28). More information about this site visit will be given in class.
561-600 points A
Grading: Assignment #1 90 points 540-560 points A-
Assignment #2 90 points 525-539 points B+
Assignment #3 90 points 501-524 points B
Assignment #4 90 points 480-500 points B-
Mid-term exam 100 points 465-479 points C+
Final exam 100 points 442-464 points C
Class participation 40 points 441-420 points C-
[Extra credit up to 30 points]
Total 600 points 360 or lower F
CLASS SCHEDULE
Date Topics Readings
Tues 1/11 Introduction and Overview of the Course Fisher, 16-24
(covered in class; to be read later)
• Why are there "religions"? What are "world religious traditions?"
• Which religious traditions will we study and how will we approach them?
• What interests, questions and concerns do you bring to this course?
Thurs 1/13 Phenomenological Approach to Religious Traditions Fisher, 30-43
Hinduism as the Eternal Religion (Sanatana Dharma) Fisher, 79-80
An Inclusive Definition of "Hinduism" Fisher, 125-7
Early Historical Developments in Hindu Tradition Fisher, 80-84
Tues 1/18 Hindu World View in Vedas and Upanishads Fisher, 85-87; Gita 5-17
• Concept of "Brahman" as ultimate reality and supreme deity
• Concept of "Atman" as divine presence in all living things
• Principles of Karma, Samsara and Moksha
• Purpose and function of important gods and goddesses
• Significance of rituals and sacrifices performed by the priests (brahmins)
• Castes and social duties as way of structuring community life
Thurs 1/20 Hindu World View as Developed in Classical Period
• Background and setting of the "Bhagavad-Gita" Fisher, 93-95; Gita, 19-26
• Arjuna's moral dilemma and Krishna's response Gita, 29-48
Tues 1/25 The Purpose and Practice of Spiritual Disciplines in Hindu Tradition
• Spiritual disciplines and stages of life Fisher, 95-97
• Four "yogic paths": Raja, Jnana, Karma and Bhakti Yoga Fisher, 97-102
• Yogic paths as developed in the Gita (Krishna's instruction) Gita, 49-124
Thurs 1/27 Diversity of Devotional Practices in Contemporary Hinduism
• Conclusion of the Gita Gita, 125-164
• Major theistic groups: Shaktas, Shaivites, Vaishnavites Fisher, 104-108
• Popular worship practices, celebrations and festivals Fisher, 111-116
Tues 2/1 Hindu Approaches to the Unity of Religious Truth
• Ramakrishna and Gandhi: Hinduism as the "Mother of all Religions" Fisher, 116-120
• Gandhi's views of tolerance and Truth Hand-out
Thurs 2/3 Relationship of Hinduism to other Religions of India
• Non-harm (Ahimsa) and Non-attachment (Aparigraha) in Jainism Fisher, 131-134
• Basic principles and practices of Sikhism Fisher, 412-424
Tues 2/8 [Assignment #1 is due]
Buddhism: Concepts Drawn from the Life and Teachings of Siddhartha Gautama
• Quest for meaning, the great renunciation and "Enlightenment" Fisher, 137-142
• Early Buddhist Dharma: The Four Noble Truths Fisher, 143-146
Thurs 2/10 Spiritual Progress and Ethical Guidelines for Enlightened Beings
• Conceptions of Enlightenment and Nirvana Hand-out
• Buddha's wisdom for his followers
Tues 2/15 Historical Developments leading to Theravada Buddhism ("Way of the Elders" )
• Spread of Buddhism and distinctives of the Theravada tradition Fisher, 149-157
• Theravada teachings about the monastic life Hand-out
Thurs 2/17 Developments leading to Mahayana Buddhism (the "Great Vehicle")
• Shared characteristics in the various Mahayana traditions Fisher, 163-167
• Ideal of the "Bodhisattva" as Savior and moral exemplar
Distinct Mahayana Traditions: Tibetan Buddhism (“Vajrayana”)
• Unique characteristics of Tibetan Buddhism Fisher, 167-170
• Significance of the Dalai Lama Fisher, 171
Tues 2/22 Distinct Mahayana Traditions: Zen Buddhism
• Zen as a form of Buddhism and a way of life Fisher, 170-174; hand-out
• Practicing Zen: stability, concentration and clarity Fisher, 180-181
[Reminder: extra credit given for attending and reporting on evening lecture by Yolanda King]
Thurs 2/24 Distinct Mahayana Traditions: Pure Land (“Shin”) Buddhism
• "Pure Land" sect: calling upon the Amida Buddha Fisher, 174-176; hand-out
Tues 3/1 [Assignment #2 is due]
Modern Developments and Contemporary Issues in Buddhism Fisher, 178-185
Thurs 3/3 Mid-term examination
Tues 3/15 Judaism: Definitions and Historical Developments
• Problems of misrepresentation in the study of Judaism
• Historical framework as depicted in the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible) Fisher, 230-243
• Readings from Hebrew Bible: Genesis 1-3, 17; Exodus 3, 19-20; Deuteronomy 6
Thurs 3/17 Developments in the Religion of Ancient Israel and Rabbinic (Formative) Judaism
• Developments leading to Rabbinic Judaism Fisher, 244-248
• Concept of the "dual Torah" and authority of tradition Fisher, 248-251
• Selections from Mishnah (“Sayings of the Fathers”) Hand-out
Tues 3/22 Further Aspects of Formative (Rabbinic) Judaism Hand-out
Basic Jewish Teachings about God, Humanity and Society Fisher, 264-268
Thurs 3/24 Developments leading to Modern and Contemporary Judaism
• Growth and Persecution in the Middle Ages and Modern Europe Fisher, 252-255
Overcoming the Enduring Problems of Anti-Semitism and Religious Intolerance
• The Holocaust and its aftermath for Jews and Christians Fisher, 258-261
• Zionism and the contemporary state of Israel Fisher, 261-263
Tues 3/29 Unity and Diversity in Contemporary Jewish Practice
• Sanctification of life through daily, weekly and yearly observances Fisher, 268-277
• Three movements: Orthodox, Conservative and Reform Fisher, 277-280
Thurs 3/31 Further Discussion of Contemporary Jewish Practice
Contemporary Issues and the Future of Judaism Fisher, 280-284
Tues 4/5 [ Assignment #3 is due]
Islam: Life of Muhammad and Early Developments in Islam
• Muhammad and formation of Muslim community Fisher, 359-367
• Islam as a return to authentic worship of the one true god ("Allah")
Thurs 4/7 Muhammad's Reception of Divine Revelation (the Qur'an)
• Background to the Qur'an as divine revelation Fisher, 367-369
• Surah 1 (“The Opening”); Surah 96 (“The Clot”) Qur'an, pp. 1, 417
Central Teachings of the Qur'an
• Articles of faith about God and humanity Fisher, 369-375
• Surah 2 (“The Heifer”) Qur'an, pp. 1-29
Tues 4/12 Shari'ah (Divine Law) regarding Piety and Conduct in Society
• Overview of Shari'ah and the Five Pillars Fisher, 381-38
• Surah 4 (“Women”) and Surah 5 (“The Table Spread”) Qur'an, pp. 46-76
Thurs 4/14 Concept of Jihad as Struggle against Evil Fisher, 388-390
• Greater (Inner) and Lesser (Outer) Jihad in Surah 22 (“Hajj”) Qur'an, pp. 213-219
Early Islam in Relation to Judaism and Christianity
• Surah 17 (“Israelites”) and Surah 19 (“Mary”) Qur'an, pp. 176-84; 192-98
Tues 4/19 Distinct movements in Islam: Sunnis, Shi'ites and Sufis Fisher, 375-381
Hand-out
Thurs 4/21 Further Insights about Sufism (Islamic Mysticism)
• Surah 50 (“Qaf”) and Surahs 113 and 114 Qur'an, pp. 346-349; 423
Tues 4/26 Historical Developments in Islam Fisher, 390-398
Islam in the United States and Contemporary Issues
• Expressions of Islam in the United States Fisher, 398-400
• Racial aspects of the "Nation of Islam" Hand-out
Thurs 4/28 [Assignment #4 is due]
The Future of Islam
• Resurgence of Islamic law and its implications Fisher, 400-408
• Current and future challenges Fisher, 408-409
Final exam: Tuesday, May 3 at 8AM