Introduction to Hindu Spiritual Care

HDS 3391 Subject & Catalog Number

Description

This course explores starting points, attitudes, and specific forms of spiritual care distinctive to Hindu traditions, in light of general qualities and norms expected for ministry and spiritual care today in any tradition. Attention paid first to starting points in Hindu scripture and practice, and to classic texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Ramayana. Subsequent classes focus on cases: e.g., hospital chaplaincy and care for the dying; campus ministry; counseling of individuals facing life issues; guidance for couples preparing to marry and planning a family; responses to the suffering, death, and disruption caused by natural and social evils. Visiting lecturers, experienced in Hindu spiritual care, enrich the course throughout. Students of all backgrounds welcome, including those planning to practice spiritual care in other traditions, and those interested in multifaith spiritual care. Weekly written reflections required, and a theoretical or practical project/essay required, started midcourse and turned in at the end.