Varities of Mystical Experience RELST-UA.240 (Same as HBRJD-UA.240), Russ-Fishbane
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 10:00am-2:00pm. Class #1544. 4pts. Online.
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam Mysticism occupies a central place in the study of religion as a lived and transcendental experience. This course examines key approaches to the study of mysticism from the lens of comparative religion, religious theory, and neuroscience. It exposes students to classic mystical texts in the monotheistic traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The class also studies the ways in which a number of medieval and modern mystics strove to merge religious traditions or to transcend them altogether. We explore both direct and indirect accounts of mystical experience in its rich variety through the medium of text, film, music, and dance.
Introduction to Judaism RELST-UA.679 (Same as HBRJD-UA.102), Jassen
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 10:00am-2:00pm. Class #1545. 4pts. Online.
Provides a general introduction to Judaism in its many ancient and modern expressions. Students are introduced both to the historical narrative of the Jewish people and the beliefs and practices of the Jewish religion. We address the questions of "what do Jews believe?" and "what do Jews do?" Ideas and motifs of Judaism to be addressed include: the Bible in Judaism, rabbinic literature, theology, Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah) and philosophy, Jewish law, Jewish nationalism, anti-Semitism, messianism, Jewish culture and identity, the synagogue, ritual and worship, life cycle, festivals and calendar.