Connections between diverse practices, scriptural themes and philosophical-doctrinal developments. Readings from primary sources in translation and secondary sources. Graduate students are encouraged to reflect upon ways their study of Buddhism comes into conversation with their other work in theology or religious studies. The focus is on the reading of primary texts, though attention is paid to theories of scripture and canon and to earlier comparative studies. No pre-requisites, but familiarity with at least one of the traditions is helpful.
Emphasis is on student participation and a very close reading of texts.
Texts chosen by professor and students at the beginning of each semester. Limited to 12 students, preference given to students with background in the study of India. This term we focus on the Kargyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, reknowned for its yogic adepts and scholars. We explore historical-cultural developments, then religious themes in texts by ancient and contemporary scholars and yogis. Special attention to the ways tantrism informs each genre.