Spring 2013

LDT 4003: The Bhagavad Gita
Professor: Shukavak N. Dasa
These seminars in Hinduism are based upon an in-depth reading of the Bhagavad Gita and selected Upanishads with reference to other important and/or related passages from other Sacred Texts of Hinduism and secondary sources of note. After successful completion of this course, students will have achieved the following specific learning outcomes (SLOs):
  • Thoroughly studied the Bhagavad Gita and selected Upanishad texts
  • Achieved a general understanding of Hinduism both in terms of its theology and practice
  • Studied the three classical Vedanta interpretations as expressed by Shankara, Ramanuja and Madhva
  • Reviewed the major streams of Hindu religious practice (yoga)
  • Experienced how Hinduism is being interpreted and practiced in modern America

Fall 2012

LDT 3001/4001: Understanding the Religions of India
Professor: Deepak Shimkhada, Ph.D.
“It is one thing to study religion as a map from a distance; it is quite another to experience the religious terrain, the actual lived experience of religious communities and the first-hand knowledge that comes through diverse interactions with them. To be sure, you look at maps, but you walk through terrains.
This semester Dr. Shimkhada’s Understanding the Religions of India course offered the unique opportunity to not only observer the map but also dig into the territory. For me, witnessing worship and interacting with those from different cultures and religions has always left a profound impact. Contemplating the vast diversity of our world is a mind-boggling and humbling experience. The variety of peoples, histories, cultures, and religions are truly what make our world so rich. But, such diversity has also made our world bleed. Over the last several weeks I have been fortunate to visit several different temples directly associated with our study of Indian religions this semester. My conviction is that actual experience, interaction and participation with the “religious other” can only help advance progress in more informed, tolerant and respectful ways.”
–Andrew Davis
Claremont Lincoln University