HINDU GOD, CHRISTIAN GOD: HINDU-CHRISTIAN SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY (HRST-2500)
(01/31/2022-05/20/2022)
Course Memo
This course uses the comparative technique of juxtaposing themes and concepts, utilized by Francis X. Clooney to examine Hindu-Christian systematic theology. It incorporates a dialectical approach to look at Hindu-Christian systematic theology by holding dimensions of “comparison” and “theology” in “creative tension.” As such, it will study basic Catholic/Christian doctrines while juxtaposing them against similar looking themes in the Hindu theological tradition. Students will study the Christian God against the Hindu Brahman, the Christian concept of sin against the Hindu concept of avidya/moksha, the Holy Spirit against Shakti, so on and so forth. By placing these disjunctive concepts side by side, students will sharpen their critical acumen through comparisons to note differences and/or similarities. This thematic and conceptual schema allows students to familiarize themselves with two of the world’s largest faith traditions simultaneously. The course will use a lecture & discussion format. Requirements include active class participation (camera on) via QCC (question, comment, concern) of weekly readings, two short essays, and a final 20 paper. The course is appropriate for students in MA, MDiv, MTS, STD and STL programs. Doctoral students may take the course with additional research and writing. In-person class, however Zoom exceptions can be made. [30 max enrollment]