Course content

The course is a study of religions originating in South Asia, with a focus on Buddhism. The course will provide students with a basic understanding of the teachings and practices of Buddhism, and the role of this religion as a connecting factor of several Asian cultures (India, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Burma, the Silk Routes etc). Past and present perspectives are represented. Hindu religions form a second focus, the course also offers an introduction to other religions important to the region, such as Jainism, Islam, Sikhism and Christianity.

Learning outcome

According to the course curriculum, a candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome (defined as knowledge and skills)

Knowledge

The candidate has attained

• broad, basic knowledge of Buddhism and Hinduism, past and present
• basic knowledge of Jainism, Sikhism, Islam and Christianity in India
• basic knowledge of the historical, social and cultural contexts of South Asian religions
• basic knowledge on South Asian history as characterized by religious plurality and interaction

Skills

The candidate has acquired skills to

• account for and analyse (translated) sources
• account for and analyse relevant research literature
• discuss central research questions pertaining to the religions of South Asia

Learning methods and activities

The instruction consists of lectures.

In order to sit the exam students must get up to two assignments approved. For more information on the obligatory activity, see Blackboard. The obligatory activity is only given in the semester the course is taught, but is valid for this and the subsequent semester.

Compulsory assignments

• Obligatory activity

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

The required reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester.

Credit reductions