History of Indian Religions 

(Comparative)

"History of Indian Religions (Comparative)" is designed for undergraduate students, especially those studying religion, history, philosophy, or South Asian studies:


Course Title: History of Indian Religions (Comparative)

Course Code: REL-HIR301

Course Code (FCNS): REL 3303

Level: Upper Division Undergraduate (3000-level)

Gordon Rule: Yes (writing-intensive, if applicable)

General Education Designation: Humanities (H) / International (I)

Credits: 3

Duration: 14 Weeks


Course Description:

This course explores the historical development and comparative dimensions of the major religious traditions that emerged and evolved in the Indian subcontinent, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christianity. It focuses on origins, philosophical developments, social transformations, interactions, and contemporary relevance. Emphasis will be placed on both intra-religious diversity and inter-religious dialogue/conflict, helping students understand the pluralistic religious landscape of India.


Course Objectives:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  1. Trace the historical origins and evolution of major Indian religions.
  2. Compare central doctrines, practices, and institutions across traditions.
  3. Analyze the socio-political contexts influencing religious development.
  4. Evaluate inter-religious interactions including syncretism, conflict, and reform.
  5. Reflect on modern challenges and developments within Indian religions.


Week-by-Week Breakdown:

Week 1: Introduction to Indian Religions

  • Definitions: Religion, Dharma, Comparative Religion
  • Historical overview of the Indian subcontinent

Week 2: Vedic Religion and Early Hinduism

  • Vedas, Brahmanism, and ritual systems
  • Philosophical schools (Samkhya, Vedanta, etc.)

Week 3: Jainism: History, Philosophy, and Practice

  • Mahavira and the Tirthankaras
  • Ahimsa and Jain ethics

Week 4: Buddhism: From Siddhartha to Sangha

  • Life of the Buddha, Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path
  • Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions

Week 5: Classical Hinduism and the Epics

  • Ramayana and Mahabharata
  • Bhakti movements

Week 6: Religious Pluralism and Debate in Ancient India

  • Ashoka and religious tolerance
  • Philosophical dialogues: Carvaka, Nyaya, Mimamsa

Week 7: Rise of Islam in India

  • Arab incursions, Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire
  • Sufi traditions and interfaith engagement

Week 8: Sikhism: Emergence and Evolution

  • Guru Nanak and the Ten Gurus
  • Sikh philosophy, Khalsa, and community life

Week 9: Christianity and Other Traditions in India

  • St. Thomas Christians
  • Colonial Christianity and missionary encounters

Week 10: Inter-Religious Encounters: Syncretism and Conflict

  • Bhakti and Sufi syntheses
  • Partition, communalism, and memory

Week 11: Modern Reform Movements

  • Arya Samaj, Brahmo Samaj, Singh Sabha
  • Ambedkar and Dalit Buddhism

Week 12: Gender and Religion in India

  • Women saints, ascetics, and reformers
  • Gender roles across traditions

Week 13: Contemporary Issues and Globalization

  • Religious nationalism and secularism
  • Diaspora religions and global interfaith

Week 14: Review and Comparative Reflections

  • Thematic comparisons: salvation, ethics, ritual, authority
  • Final project presentations


Assessment Methods:

  • Participation & Discussions – 10%
  • Midterm Exam – 20%
  • Comparative Essay – 25%
  • Group Presentation – 15%
  • Final Project or Paper – 30%


Recommended Reading:

  • Radhakrishnan & Moore (eds.), A Sourcebook in Indian Philosophy
  • John Stratton Hawley, A Storm of Songs
  • Wendy Doniger, The Hindus: An Alternative History
  • Richard King, Indian Philosophy: An Introduction to Hindu and Buddhist Thought
  • Harjot Oberoi, The Construction of Religious Boundaries