Who Needs God? Rethinking God in Light of Hindu and Christian Wisdom
RELIGION 1059
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
This course reflects on God — the idea, the reality, the significance — in light of Hindu and Christian scriptures, from philosophical and theological perspectives, and with reference to spiritual paths to union with God — all re-read in light of modern theological questions and doubts about the very idea of “God.” Issues include: the meaning of “God” and knowledge of God; reasons to believe (or not) in God's existence; God's relationship to the world, humans, all living beings; divine embodiment and salvation by God; theism and polytheism before and after secularism and atheism. Knowing both Hindu and Christian traditions on God clarifies each tradition, as we learn from their great similarities and great differences. And: how might studying God comparatively change our God-talk, God-practice, God-love here and now? Quiet course for noisy times. Weekly written responses, plus two 10-12 page papers.
Course Notes
Offered jointly with Harvard Divinity School as HDS 3751.
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
