Posted on July 16, 2010

Theme One: Founding Principles

This set of courses will provide students with a general overview of the founding principals of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism. Our goal is for students to grasp the fundamental beliefs of each tradition, to accurately distinguish both the shared and divergent beliefs, and to recognize how these shape the perspectives and contemplative practices of Buddhists, Christians, Muslims, and Jews. We will compare and contrast the metaphysical presuppositions of these traditions as a foundation for future courses on how these beliefs impact transformative spiritual practice and ethical service in the world.

Classes will explore answers provided by each tradition to the following questions:

-What is the nature and purpose of the universe?

-What is the nature of the ultimate reality or God?

-What is the nature and purpose of a human being?

-How can human beings achieve their ultimate potential?

-What is the nature and purpose of suffering and evil, virtue and happiness?

Semester One Course Offerings:

Survey of InterSpiritual Metaphysics

Electives:
Buddhist Metaphysics
Christian Metaphysics
Hindu Metaphysics
Islamic Sufi Metaphysics
Jewish Metaphysics

Practicums:
Buddhist Meditation
Christian Contemplative Practices
Hindu Meditation and Yoga
Islamic Sufi Contemplative Practices
Jewish Contemplative Practices