Course Name

Philosophy 22 Asian Philosophy

Boddhidharma
The Indian Prince became the first patriarch of Zen after bringing Buddhism to China in 526 CE (AD). According to legend, he meditated in front of his cave for nine years, allowing the sun to burn his shape into the rock which is still a tourist attraction near the Shaolin temple.

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Last Update: 10/09/09

Welcome to philosophy 22

Syllabus and Reading List
Pics
Thich Nhat Hanh selections
Paper topics
Sample Test Questions
Daily Dharmas

This course will explore the intersecting areas of philosophy and religion in the Eastern cultures of India, China, and Japan, highlighting Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. In this class, you will be exposed to a variety of elements reflecting the traditions of these systems, including music, film, and art.

Siva Mahadev

The great yogi, Shiva, symbol of inner awakening, and Lord of destruction, is seated in meditative pose, overseeing the development of the universe. From his matted hair springs the sacred Ganges, which, far from being just a mere river, is thought of by Hindus as a precious maternal source of life, and is worshipped as a supremely divine place.

Some of the holy wanderers, or sadhus, who follow Shiva, assume a similar appearance by covering themselves in ashes, taking a vow of renunciation, and growing their hair into dreadlocks.

My top 3 recommendations for novels about Chinese culture:

Pearl Buck, The Good Earth.

Lu Chi Fa, Double Luck.

Lisa See, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan.

Links:

For those interested in exploring more info and or reading original writings related to this class, I have found the following websites useful:

Award winning comprehensive site on Hinduism: http://www.hinduism.co.za/

Hindu scriptures translated into English: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/

Mahayana Buddhist sutras translated into English: http://www4.bayarea.net/~mtlee/

Resources and info for anyone interested in Buddhism and meditation: www.meditateinla.org

Resources and info for the homosexual community interested in Buddhism and meditation: www.queerdharma.org