Buddhist Studies Courses

Introduction to Buddhism -- Buddhism is a major spiritual force in the world today. From its roots in Asia twenty-five centuries ago, Buddhism has become one of the fastest growing religions in Europe and North America. Its compelling insights into human existence offer an ancient yet very relevant alternative to the materialism of the modern age. The objective of this course is to investigate the origins and historical development of Buddhism as well as its current trends. This course will explore Buddhism’s central, unifying principles as well as its diverse forms, from the esoteric rituals of Tantric Buddhism to the minimalist refinement of Zen. This course will also delve into Buddhism’s most important sacred writings, as well as the sacred art inspired by the Buddha and his teachings.

Buddhist Iconography -- Buddhism is the single common thread uniting the Asian world, from India to Southeast Asia, and along the Silk Road from China to Japan. To guide and inspire believers, a rich panoply of symbols and images were made beginning in India in the third century BCE. Buddhist iconography is the study of these symbols and images. This class investigates how the Buddha image transformed through time and place, and explores how Buddhist art was shaped by fundamental changes within the faith. Through our study of paintings, statuary, temple architecture and Japanese Zen gardens, we hope to gain an appreciation for the beautiful and diverse world of Buddhist art.

History of Zen Buddhism --Zen is the meditation school par excellence of Mahayana Buddhism. In the religious and intellectual history of Asia, the Zen school occupies a position of great importance. Because of its spiritual and human profundity, Zen practice and Zen enlightenment has also attracted increasing attention in the West. The objective of this course is to increase our understanding of the history, texts, and religious culture of Zen Buddhism. This will involve introducing the philosophical texts, the historical schools, and the religious practice of Zen. Since no religion develops in a void, the context and setting for the growth of Zen, especially its roots in India and China, will be a major focus of the class. The scope of the course will be historical and chronological, accommodating excursions into the related realms of Indian, Chinese, and Japanese philosophy, history, literature, and art.

Buddhist Meditation: Theory and Practice -- Zen Buddhism teaches that the goal and the means to the goal are one and the same: when you meditate, you are the Buddha. Meditation is an internal discipline that quiets the mind. Practiced by Buddhists for over 2,500 years, meditation leads to enlightenment. The objective of this course is to establish and stabilize your own practice of zazen or "sitting meditation." Ideal for the beginner, we will emphasize zazen in its most basic, practical aspects: posture, breath, and sitting in comfort. You will walk away from this course trained in an ancient and beautiful practice, that is the physical expression of enlightenment.

Buddhist Literature -- After 25 centuries a massive body of literature has emerged to support the Buddhist faith. This course opens the door to that world. Listen to tales from the Buddha’s past lives. Examine the Buddha’s own words. Deliberate early philosophical commentary on the Buddha’s Dharma. Ponder the wisdom of the Mahayana sutras. Contemplate Zen poetry. Consider also the esoteric Buddhist tantras of Tibet. Buddhism employs many genres to probe wisdom, a wisdom that in the end cannot be put into words. Hear what the world’s most quiet religion has to say for itself by exploring its texts. Please join us for a literary walk through the land of enlightenment.

History of Buddhist Thought -- Buddhism is not just a religion. It is also a philosophical tradition that delves into questions concerning the nature of human existence. The Buddha himself avoided metaphysical inquiry. He believed compassionate activity was more important than philosophical speculation. However, twenty-five centuries worth of Buddhist thinkers after the Buddha have plumbed the depths of philosophy to elucidate his teachings. This course surveys the development of Buddhist thought. Beginning with the teachings of the Buddha himself, we explore the early tenets of the realist schools of Hinayana Buddhism. Next we analyze later positions held by the idealist schools of Mahayana Buddhism. Then we examine the sutras schools of Mahayana Buddhism. Finally, we witness the great flowering of Buddhist thought in Zen philosophy.

Since no philosophy grows in a void, we place Buddhist thought in its wider context. Buddhism exists because it answers questions Hindu philosophy left unanswered. Yet, Buddhism also leaves questions for the West to ponder.

A knowledge of Buddhism is not necessary, but helpful. An interest in Buddhist philosophy is essential. In the end we hope to find answers to life’s great questions from a Buddhist perspective.

Tibetan Buddhism -- Tibetan Buddhism or “Tantric Buddhism” has been called the esoteric school of Buddhism because one must be initiated into its secret teachings. It is also known as the Vajrayana or “Diamond-Thunderbolt Vehicle” because its teachings are like diamonds -- eternal, indestructible and valuable -- and like a thunderbolt its wisdom can destroy instantly the fetters of ignorance which bind us to samsara. In this class we will explore the history and development of the Tantric Buddhist path. We will analyze the spiritual practices and colorful personalities of the four great schools of Tibetan Buddhism: Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug -- the Dalai Lama’s own sect. We will delve into the Tibetan Book of the Dead, and journey through the Tibetan understanding of re-incarnation and the afterlife. We will devote frequent excursions into the fascinating world of Tibetan Buddhist iconography, and make friends with its peaceful deities as well as its wrathful yidams. Through our study of Tibetan religious history, philosophy and spiritual practice, we will be able to increase our understanding of an intriguing spiritual path and integrate its wisdom into our own lives.

Master Class in Buddhist Studies -- For students completing the Buddhist Studies Program, this seminar demonstrates mastery over the field. Participants will pass a test proving general knowledge of Buddhist Studies, devise a specific research topic in consultation with advisor (Michael Mullooly), present the topic in class, and hand in an original document of written research results. Upon completion of the course, a Certificate in Buddhist Studies will be conferred.

A Buddhist Miscellany -- Unearth a treasury of topics left over from the Buddhist Studies Program. Each week explore a different topic from the wondrous world of Buddhism. Topics include: Buddhist-Christian Dialogue, Buddhist Psychology, Mahamudra Meditation, Great Buddhist Women, Abhidhamma Philosophy, Buddhist Poets and Asian Adventures. Michael Mullooly’s courses in the Buddhist Studies Program open the door to the manifold universe of Buddhist Studies. This course closes that door. Please matriculate in this marvelous melange of mind-boggling matters. Enroll in this incredible inkblot of intriguing issues. Chew over a chin-rubbing collection of captivating concerns — for no other reason than to add closure to (or to begin!) your study of Buddhism.

Massive Meditation Be-In -- Calling all novices, experts, dabblers, meditators, and graduates of any course in Buddhist Meditation. Please join us for a one night only meditation session. Return to the source. It’s a chance to tune in, turn on, and tune up your meditation skill. Don’t let your practice rot. It needs polish not tarnish. Revitalize this precious art we all love. Groove on the group energy. Renew old friendships. Start new ones. Be among like-minded companions. Students of inactivity, this the place where Buddhas are forged! Get out of your false self and return to your true self — at least for one evening. One requirement: Leave your ego at home. Be there or be square at our Massive Meditation Be-In.