Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2024 - HUM 204 B100

Great Religious Texts (3)

Class Number: 4764

Delivery Method: Blended

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Location: TBA

  • Prerequisites:

    HUM 130 (HUM 230 prior to 2007) is recommended.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A study of some of the key works which have had a formative influence on major religious traditions. Primary texts will be selected to illustrate core elements in the religious understanding of human life and its relationship to the sacred. Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will explore the power of writing, and particularly the importance of texts in the world’s major religious traditions. We will begin with an exploration of the origin of the written word, the development of sacred cannons, and then discuss the range of critical and interpretive frameworks used to understand the origin and meaning of sacred texts. We will then move into a consideration of primary texts from ancient religion, Abrahamic traditions, Dharmic traditions and several North American new religious movements. Students will be encouraged to consider the role of writing in their own lives and interpret and compare several of the texts covered in this course.

Grading

NOTES:

This is a closed class, and only used for directed reading purposes this term.

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.