Online Class: Hinduism 101 — An Introduction
-
19Lessons
-
38Exams &
Assignments -
498Students
have taken this course -
11Hours
average time -
1.1CEUs
-
Video Audit
Available
Course Description
Journey into Hinduism: Discovering the Soul of an Ancient Faith
Embark on an enlightening journey as we unravel the mysteries of Hinduism, one of the world's most ancient and profound religions. This course provides a panoramic view, inviting participants to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of beliefs, practices, and traditions that have shaped and sustained countless generations.
While Hinduism's roots run deep, its teachings are universal, transcending time and borders. You'll traverse its origins in the sacred Indus Valley, where the bedrock of the religion was laid. Through illuminating lectures, we'll delve into the intricacies of the Veda and the noble precepts of Dharma, guiding principles that form the very essence of Hindu thought.
As you advance, you'll uncover pivotal concepts like Karma, which governs the cyclical nature of life, and delve into the spiritual significance of mantras and tantras. Through captivating narratives, you'll meet an ensemble of deities, each with their unique lore, and understand the festivals that honor them, painting a vibrant tableau of celebrations that resonate deeply with millions even today.
Navigate the realms of Hindu beliefs to gain insights into profound ideologies like predestination and reincarnation, pivotal doctrines that have been instrumental in molding Hindu societies through millennia. From there, we journey into the heart of Hindu daily life, understanding the sanctity of customs, from rites of passage to dietary traditions. Dive deeper into the serene world of Yoga, a cornerstone of Hinduism, resonating with holistic well-being.
Central to our exploration will be the revered spaces of worship – temples, and the pivotal roles of Hindu priests. You'll experience the ebb and flow of rituals, ceremonies, and the joyous spectacles that are Hindu festivals.
In a tribute to the indomitable spirit of women in Hinduism, we shine a spotlight on the iconic women who have left an indelible mark on India's historical and contemporary tapestry. As we near the culmination of our journey, we'll explore how Hinduism, with its timeless wisdom, interfaces with the modern world, continually evolving yet steadfast in its core beliefs.
Concluding our course, we emphasize Hinduism's enduring quest - the pursuit of peace, harmony, and universal brotherhood. This isn't just a doctrine for Hindus, but a clarion call to humanity, urging a harmonious coexistence amongst all faiths and cultures.
So, are you ready to embark on this transcendent journey, to glimpse the soul of a religion that has shaped civilizations, inspired thinkers, and offered solace to seekers? Join us and enrich your worldview with the timeless wisdom of Hinduism.
Course Lessons
Lesson 1: What is Hinduism?
Understanding how Hinduism differs from other world religions, its history, and its basic tenants are introduced in this course.Lesson 2: Origins
In this lesson, we'll offer a brief introduction of Hinduism's history and origins.Lesson 3: Indo-Aryan Society
In this lesson, we'll briefly touched on Indo-Aryan society and how caste systems evolved.Lesson 4: Focal Points of Hinduism
In this lesson, we'll offer a very brief introduction into some of the major focal points of Hinduism from a religious perspective.Lesson 5: All About Karma
Like many different religions, the concept of living a good and moral life offer rewards in the afterlife.Lesson 6: Holy Books of Hinduism
As in other religions, Hindus rely on the writings, texts, and both written and oral traditions of the founders of Hinduism.Lesson 7: Hindu Deities
In this lesson, we'll briefly discuss and address the concept of deities in Hinduism, as well as the concept of the infinite Brahman known as Ishvara.Lesson 8: Predestination and Reincarnation
Hindus believe that a soul is born repeatedly and may be reborn in the form of a human, animal, or plant.Lesson 9. Common Hindu Traditions
Hinduism is a fluid religion and, as such, a variety of traditions that have been practiced since the origin of the Hindu way of life as a practice have also changed.Lesson 10: Hinduism and Yoga
In this lesson, we'll briefly discuss the importance of yoga, and the types of yoga practiced by Hindus around the world in their journey toward striving for more direct communication and spiritual companionship with God.Lesson 11. Mantras and Gunas
Understanding what chanting is, why certain things are chanted, and the meaning of mantras and symbols in Hinduism offers students a greater understanding of why it is done.Lesson 12: Hindu Priests and Temples
In this lesson, we'll illustrate and offer a brief introduction into the different types of temple styles, why they evolved over time, as well as a brief glimpse into the duties of a temple priest.Lesson 13: Hindu Customs
In this lesson, we'll introduce various Hindu customs, covering the lifespan of a religious follower from the pre-birth stage all the way until death, and subsequent funeral traditions and customs.Lesson 14: Hindu Festivals
In this lesson, we'll discuss a selected number of festivals that take place each year.Lesson 15: Hindu Women in Society
In this lesson, we'll discuss the reverence accorded to Hindu women in the early centuries of Indo-Aryan development, and conclude our lesson with brief profiles of women throughout India, ancient and modern.Lesson 16: Hindu Foods
In this lesson, we will discuss Hindu foods and how they are regarded in a spiritual sense, as well as how those of the Hindu faith eat on a daily basis.Lesson 17: Hinduism in the 21st Century
In this lesson nearing the end of this basic introductory course on Hinduism, we'll discuss how Hinduism is practiced in the 21st century.Lesson 18: Striving for Harmony and Peace
One of the most important aspects of Hinduism is tolerance, acceptance, and harmony.Bibliography and Online Resources
Bibliography and Online Resources
Learning Outcomes
- Define Hinduism is.
- Describe origins of Hinduism.
- Describe Indo-Aryan Society.
- Describe Focal Points of Hinduism.
- Recognize and define karma.
- Summarize Holy Books of Hinduism.
- Summarize Hindu Deities.
- Describe predestination and reincarnation.
- Describe common Hindu traditions.
- Describe Hinduism and yoga.
- Describe mantras and gunas.
- Summarize Hindu priests and temples.
- Describe Hindu customs.
- Summarize Hindu festivals.
- Describe Hindu women in society.
- Identify Hindu foods.
- Summarize Hinduism in the 21st century.
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
Additional Course Information
- Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
- Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
- Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
- View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
- Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Student Testimonials
- "Mac is an amazing instructor. He is always available and always positive comments and when I don't quite understand something, he is very patient in explaining it so that it is easily understood." -- Diana C.
- "Thanks. I had wanted to learn more about Hinduism and this course gave me the information I needed about the religion and culture. I understand karma and the different types of religious practices much better now. Great course." -- Tama V.
Related Courses
- 4 hours 0.4 CEUs Salem Witch Trials + More Info
- 8 hours 0.8 CEUs American Heroes and Villains + More Info
- 13 hours 1.3 CEUs American History Review + More Info
- 10 hours 1.0 CEUs Japanese Cultural Studies 101 + More Info
- 3 hours 0.3 CEUs Egyptian Mythology 101 + More Info
- 10 hours 1.0 CEUs Ancient Civilizations 101 + More Info
- 8 hours 0.8 CEUs Christianity 101: An Introduction + More Info