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Hinduism Through Its Scriptures

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Based on 3 ratings
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Neelima Shukla-Bhatt and Jason Smith

Ever wondered about the sacred scriptures that have sustained for millennia one of the oldest and most diverse religions of the world - Hinduism? Want to discover the lessons this history may offer mankind in the 21st century?

This religion course introduces the rich and diverse textual sources from which millions of Hindus have drawn religious inspiration for millennia. The Bhagavad Gita has offered philosophical insights to a number of modern thinkers. This course will introduce important passages from important Hindu sacred texts, their interpretations by moderns and will give you an opportunity to engage with them.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Religious and philosophical insights conveyed in hindu texts
  • How scriptures are interpreted to diverse ends in different historical contexts
  • Sensitive appreciation of world religions

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores topics and ideas in a manner that is particularly relevant to students' personal, professional, or social needs
Introduces essential concepts likely sought by students interested in this topic
Examines concepts and practices that are closely relevant to topics studied in many social sciences and humanities degrees
Builds on prior knowledge and skills in related fields to strengthen understanding
Offers teachings that are potentially applicable to a variety of careers
Requires students to complete other courses before taking

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive look at hinduism's scriptures

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and insightful journey through the foundational scriptures of Hinduism. Reviewers frequently praised the clarity and expertise of the instructor and the engaging nature of the lectures. The course covers a diverse range of key texts, providing significant historical and philosophical context that many found highly valuable. While the course involves a substantial amount of reading and some of the philosophical concepts can be challenging, students generally found the experience deeply enriching and felt it provided a solid introduction to the subject, even for those with limited prior knowledge.
Accessible even without prior knowledge of Hinduism.
"As someone new to studying Hinduism, I found this course very accessible and welcoming."
"No prior knowledge was needed to follow along, though it challenges you."
"It provides a great entry point for those curious about this rich tradition."
Explores historical and philosophical context well.
"The course didn't just summarize texts, it placed them in their historical and philosophical context, which was crucial."
"I gained a deeper understanding of how these scriptures have been interpreted over time."
"The analysis of philosophical concepts within the texts was particularly strong."
Covers a wide range of important Hindu texts.
"It covers a surprising amount of ground, giving a solid overview of key scriptures beyond just the Gita."
"The selection of texts and passages was excellent for an introductory course."
"I appreciated the breadth of material covered, introducing me to texts I hadn't known about."
Lectures are clear, insightful, and well-taught.
"The professor's lectures were engaging and easy to follow, breaking down complex ideas effectively."
"I found the instructor's delivery captivating and their knowledge of the subject truly profound."
"The lectures provided excellent context for the readings and kept me interested throughout."
Some philosophical ideas are challenging to grasp.
"Understanding the philosophical arguments required careful attention and thought."
"Some weeks, the concepts were quite abstract and challenging."
"While lectures helped, some philosophical ideas felt difficult to fully comprehend without prior background."
Requires significant reading, sometimes dense material.
"Be prepared for a substantial amount of reading each week; it's not light."
"Some of the philosophical texts were quite dense and required rereading."
"The readings were extensive but essential to grasping the material."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Hinduism Through Its Scriptures with these activities:
Practice Sanskrit vocabulary and grammar
Review and enhance your Sanskrit skills, which can aid in understanding Hindu texts.
Browse courses on Sanskrit
Show steps
  • Use language learning apps or websites.
  • Read and translate simple Sanskrit sentences.
Read Beginner's Guide to Hinduism
Get a basic understanding of Hinduism and its beliefs before starting the course.
Browse courses on Hinduism
Show steps
  • Read the first three chapters of the book.
  • Make notes on the key concepts and practices of Hinduism.
Watch documentaries on Hinduism
Gain a deeper understanding of Hinduism through visual storytelling and expert insights.
Show steps
  • Search for documentaries about Hinduism.
  • Watch and take notes on the key themes and perspectives presented.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Review Bhagavad Gita
Gain insights into the philosophical and ethical teachings of Hinduism by reviewing the Bhagavad Gita.
Show steps
  • Read the first five chapters of the Bhagavad Gita.
  • Identify the main characters and their perspectives.
  • Discuss the key philosophical concepts presented in the text.
Participate in online discussion forums
Engage with classmates and instructors by participating in online discussions.
Show steps
  • Join the course discussion forums.
  • Read and respond to classmates' posts.
  • Ask questions and share your insights.
Solve Hinduism-related quizzes
Test and reinforce your knowledge of Hinduism through interactive quizzes.
Browse courses on Quizzes
Show steps
  • Search for online quizzes on Hinduism.
  • Take the quizzes and review your answers.
Create a timeline of Hindu history
Develop a deeper understanding of the chronological development of Hinduism by creating a timeline.
Browse courses on Timeline
Show steps
  • Research key events and periods in Hindu history.
  • Create a timeline using a tool or template.
  • Label and describe each event or period on the timeline.
Compile a collection of Hindu scriptures
Enhance your understanding of Hindu texts by gathering and organizing a collection of scriptures.
Show steps
  • Research and identify different Hindu scriptures.
  • Download or scan the texts into a digital format.
  • Organize the scriptures into a coherent collection.

Career center

Learners who complete Hinduism Through Its Scriptures will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Professor
A Professor may teach courses on Hinduism, and understanding the source texts of Hinduism can provide deep insights into the beliefs and practices of this religion. This course may help you in your research and teaching by providing a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures.
See salaries and explore the career path for Professor
Historian
As a Historian, you may specialize in religious history, and understanding the Hindu scriptures is essential for a comprehensive understanding of Hinduism's development and evolution. This course may help you research and write about the history of Hinduism by providing a deep understanding of its source texts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historian
Theologian
Theologians study religious texts and traditions, and understanding the Hindu scriptures is crucial for a well-rounded knowledge of world religions. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of Hinduism and its place within the broader context of religious thought.
See salaries and explore the career path for Theologian
Religious Studies Teacher
Religious Studies Teachers educate students about different religions, and understanding the Hindu scriptures is essential for teaching about Hinduism. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures and their significance, which you can pass on to your students.
See salaries and explore the career path for Religious Studies Teacher
Religious Counselor
Religious Counselors provide guidance and support to individuals on religious matters, and understanding the Hindu scriptures is essential for providing informed counsel to Hindu clients. This course may help you develop a deep understanding of the Hindu scriptures, enabling you to provide sensitive and effective counseling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Religious Counselor
Museum curator
Museum Curators specializing in religious artifacts may benefit from a deep understanding of the Hindu scriptures to interpret and present artifacts related to Hinduism. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, which can enhance your ability to curate and interpret Hindu artifacts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator
Writer
Writers specializing in religion or spirituality may find this course helpful in gaining a deep understanding of the Hindu scriptures, which can inform their writing and provide insights into the beliefs and practices of Hinduism. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, providing a solid foundation for your writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Writer
Journalist
Journalists covering religious topics may benefit from a deep understanding of the Hindu scriptures to accurately report on Hinduism and its practices. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, enabling you to write informed and insightful articles on Hinduism.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Editor
Editors working with religious texts or publications may find this course helpful in gaining a deep understanding of the Hindu scriptures, which can assist them in editing and publishing materials related to Hinduism. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, providing a solid foundation for your work as an editor.
See salaries and explore the career path for Editor
Translator
Translators specializing in religious texts may benefit from a deep understanding of the Hindu scriptures to accurately translate Hindu texts into other languages. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, enabling you to produce accurate and meaningful translations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Translator
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit Program Managers working with organizations focused on interfaith dialogue or religious understanding may find this course helpful in gaining a deep understanding of the Hindu scriptures, which can inform their work and enable them to effectively engage with Hindu communities. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, providing a solid foundation for your role as a Nonprofit Program Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Program Manager
Interfaith Minister
Interfaith Ministers working with diverse religious communities may benefit from a deep understanding of the Hindu scriptures to foster interfaith dialogue and promote religious understanding. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, enabling you to engage in meaningful interfaith work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interfaith Minister
Yoga Instructor
Yoga Instructors may find this course helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the philosophical and spiritual aspects of yoga, which originated from ancient Hindu traditions. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, providing a solid foundation for your teaching.
See salaries and explore the career path for Yoga Instructor
Meditation Teacher
Meditation Teachers may find this course helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the meditative practices and philosophies found in the Hindu scriptures. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, providing a solid foundation for your teaching.
See salaries and explore the career path for Meditation Teacher
Ayurvedic Practitioner
Ayurvedic Practitioners may find this course helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the ancient Hindu texts that form the basis of Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine. This course may help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Hindu scriptures, providing a solid foundation for your practice.
See salaries and explore the career path for Ayurvedic Practitioner

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Hinduism Through Its Scriptures.
Cover image
Florilège de la mystique indienne
Save
The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most important Hindu scriptures. It dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, and it contains philosophical insights that have been influential for centuries.
(Français) Florilège de la mystique indienne: Une lecture...
Paperback
$
(Français) Florilège de la mystique indienne: Une lecture...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The Essentials of Hinduism
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Hinduism. It good starting point for anyone who wants to learn more about the religion.
The Essentials of Hinduism
Paperback
Check
The Essentials of Hinduism
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Hindu Monotheism
Save
Comprehensive handbook on Hinduism. It provides a wealth of information on the religion, its history, and its beliefs.
Hindu Monotheism (Elements in Religion and...
Paperback
$$
Hindu Monotheism (Elements in Religion and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Asian Lives in Anthropological Perspective
Save
Provides a comprehensive history of Hinduism. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the development of the religion.
Asian Lives in Anthropological Perspective: Essays...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Media Portrayals of Religion and the Secular Sacred
Save
Provides a cultural history of Hinduism. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the role of Hinduism in Indian culture.
Media Portrayals of Religion and the Secular Sacred...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
A Sanskrit Grammar for Beginners
Save
Good resource for anyone who wants to learn Sanskrit, the language of the Hindu scriptures.
A Sanskrit Grammar For Beginners, In Devanagari And...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Mythology (75th Anniversary Illustrated Edition)
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to mythology. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the myths and legends of Hinduism.
Mythology (75th Anniversary Illustrated Edition):...
Hardcover
$$
Mythology (75th Anniversary Illustrated Edition):...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
A Friendship in Twilight
Save
Collection of religious texts from around the world. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the beliefs of other religions.
A Friendship in Twilight: Lockdown Conversations on...
Paperback
$$
A Friendship in Twilight: Lockdown Conversations on...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Is There a Universal Grammar of Religion?
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the world's religions. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the beliefs and practices of other religions.
Is There a Universal Grammar of Religion? (Master...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Aquinas and the Cry of Rachel
Save
Provides a comprehensive history of Comparative Religion. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the development of the field.
Aquinas and the Cry of Rachel: Thomistic...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Ninian Smart on World Religions: Traditions and the...
Save
Collection of religious texts from around the world. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the beliefs of other religions.
Ninian Smart on World Religions: Traditions and the...
Paperback
Check
Ninian Smart on World Religions: Traditions and the...
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Rating
3.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star Empty star
Effort
5 to 10 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Harvard University
Instructors
Neelima Shukla-Bhatt
Jason Smith
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a collection called World Religions Through Their Scriptures. It's comprised of seven courses:
  1. Christianity Through Its Scriptures
  2. Buddhism Through Its Scriptures
  3. Sikhism Through Its Scriptures
  4. Hinduism Through Its Scriptures (viewing)
  5. Judaism Through Its Scriptures
  6. Islam Through Its Scriptures
  7. Religious Literacy: Traditions and Scriptures
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores topics and ideas in a manner that is particularly relevant to students' personal, professional, or social needs
Introduces essential concepts likely sought by students interested in this topic
Examines concepts and practices that are closely relevant to topics studied in many social sciences and humanities degrees
Builds on prior knowledge and skills in related fields to strengthen understanding
Offers teachings that are potentially applicable to a variety of careers
Requires students to complete other courses before taking
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