Description
Course content:
The resistance and misunderstanding of Dharma in contemporary society is a result of separation of ‘values’ and living which was due to the separation of the church and state. This historical perspective and connection of Dharma with religion will be explored. The course will include the Hindu worldview of Dharma drawing from selected sections of the Vedas, Upanishads, Itihaasa, Bhagavad Gita and Dharmashastra.
Samanya Dharma (universal values common to all) and Vishesha Dharma (specific duties) in the light of the framework of pancha-mahayajna (five sacred duties) will be elaborated. Through the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita, the framework of karma, karma yoga and svadharma as a worship to Bhagavan will be unfolded. The distinction between a Dharma centred life vis-à-vis a life centred on wealth and pleasure will be drawn out leading to clarity amongst the students regarding their core values and priorities and clarity for their lives ahead. In the Hindu worldview, living the good life is a life of svadharma.
Course Learning Objectives:
In this course students will be able to:
a) Understand and apply the framework of Samanya Dharma and Vishesha Dharma to their own lives.
b) Reflect on contemporary issues (e.g. Family and Marriage, War and peace, Conservation and Climate change etc.) in the light of Dharma
c) Integrate the Hindu worldview of Dharma into their own lives and develop clarity about their svadharma
d) Embody Dharma based leadership for the change they wish to contribute to, in the world
Class Structure:
There will be a minimum of 1 contact hour with the faculty instructor every week. The classis structured in a way that promotes discussion and debate based on self-study and reflection each week. While the content being discussed in each class will be concluded within 60 minutes, the discussion time will be free format, and can continue for an additional 30 minutes maximum.
In alignment with the culture of the Hindu University of America, the interactive course is designed to be a samvaada (a meaningful dialogue) which results in jnana and yoga, a transformation paving the way for leading meaningful change in our communities. The significance of the course is on living an enriched life of svadharma in all aspects and hence emphasis will be given to assignments aiding reflection and practical application. During the course, students will be required to submit two short essays. These will be based on students’ self-reflection on what they have learnt, assimilated and applied in their lives.
Required / Elective: Elective
Area of Study: Hindu Studies Foundation
Prerequisites: Admission into program of study.
Faculty / Instructor: Swamini Brahmaprajnananda Saraswati
Start Date: January 15, 2023
End Date: March 26, 2023
Day: Every Sunday
Time: 10:00 am EST – 11:30 am EST
Quarter Offered: Winter 2023
