Introduction

Religion and philosophy have shaped human societies for millennia, influencing cultural, moral, and ethical frameworks across the globe. This 5-day training course provides a comprehensive exploration of the world’s major religions and philosophies, offering insights into their history, key beliefs, practices, and their impact on society. By examining the diversity of religious and philosophical traditions, participants will gain a deeper understanding of global thought systems, interfaith dialogue, and the role of religion and philosophy in shaping the modern world.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will:

• Gain an understanding of the foundational principles and practices of world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism.
• Explore key philosophical traditions including Western philosophy, Eastern philosophy, and Indigenous worldviews.
• Understand the intersection between religion and philosophy and how they influence individual and collective beliefs.
• Recognize the cultural and ethical implications of religious and philosophical traditions.
• Analyze interfaith dialogue and the role of religion and philosophy in promoting global peace and understanding.
• Gain insights into the contemporary relevance of ancient religious teachings and philosophical ideas in addressing modern challenges.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

• Students and academics studying religious studies, philosophy, or cultural anthropology.
• Interfaith dialogue practitioners and those seeking to promote cross-cultural understanding.
• Cultural and religious leaders interested in expanding their knowledge of global traditions.
• Educators who teach religion, philosophy, or cultural studies.
• Professionals working in diverse global environments seeking a deeper understanding of religious and philosophical perspectives.
• Individuals interested in exploring personal belief systems and expanding their worldview.

Course Outline

Day 1: Introduction to Religion and Philosophy

Session 1: Understanding Religion and Philosophy

• Defining religion and philosophy: Key concepts and historical evolution.
• The relationship between religion, spirituality, and culture.
• Exploring how philosophy and religion intersect in shaping human thought and behavior.
• Key questions in philosophy: ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and logic.
• Hands-On: Self-Reflection Exercise: Participants explore their own spiritual or philosophical beliefs.

Session 2: The Role of Religion and Philosophy in Society

• The impact of religion and philosophy on culture, law, art, and politics.
• How religious teachings influence ethical and moral decision-making.
• The role of philosophy in shaping worldviews, from ancient Greece to the modern era.
• Hands-On: Group Discussion: The role of religion and philosophy in contemporary society.

Day 2: Major World Religions

Session 1: Christianity

• Overview of the Christian faith: History, core beliefs, practices, and denominations.
• The life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the Holy Trinity, and the significance of the Bible.
• Christian ethical teachings: love, forgiveness, and salvation.
• The role of Christianity in the West and its global spread.
• Hands-On: Christianity Case Study: Analyzing a key Christian practice (e.g., communion, baptism).

Session 2: Islam

• Overview of Islam: The life of the Prophet Muhammad, the Quran, and the five pillars of Islam.
• The significance of faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage in Islamic practice.
• The role of Sharia law and Islamic ethics.
• Interactions between Islam and global culture.
• Hands-On: Islamic Practices Exploration: Understanding the meaning of Salat and Zakat through practice and reflection.

Day 3: Eastern Religions and Philosophies

Session 1: Hinduism

• Overview of Hinduism: History, core beliefs, and practices including karma, dharma, moksha, and the Vedas.
• The concept of the self and Atman in relation to the universe (Brahman).
• Hindu deities and the Bhagavad Gita.
• The influence of Hinduism on Indian culture and its global spread.
• Hands-On: Hindu Rituals: Understanding the significance of Hindu ceremonies and meditation practices.

Session 2: Buddhism

• Overview of Buddhism: The life of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha), the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path.
• Key concepts: suffering, impermanence, and enlightenment (nirvana).
• Different branches of Buddhism: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana.
• The impact of Buddhism on East Asia and Western spirituality.
• Hands-On: Meditation Practice: Experiencing mindfulness and meditation in a Buddhist tradition.

Day 4: Judaism and Indigenous Philosophies

Session 1: Judaism

• Overview of Judaism: Core beliefs, history, and practices including the Torah, covenant, and Ten Commandments.
• Jewish views on God, Messiah, and justice.
• The role of Judaism in the development of Western religious thought.
• The significance of Passover, Yom Kippur, and Shabbat in Jewish culture.
• Hands-On: Jewish Tradition Exploration: Reflecting on the importance of Tzedakah (charity) and Shalom (peace).

Session 2: Indigenous Philosophies

• Exploring Indigenous worldviews: Spirituality, connection to nature, and community-based values.
• Core concepts of Indigenous philosophy, such as circle of life, ancestral wisdom, and respect for the environment.
• The impact of colonialism and efforts to preserve Indigenous knowledge and practices.
• Hands-On: Cultural Sharing Circle: Participants share experiences and reflections on Indigenous philosophies.

Day 5: Contemporary Issues and Interfaith Dialogue

Session 1: Interfaith Dialogue and Global Peace

• The importance of interfaith dialogue in fostering mutual respect, tolerance, and understanding.
• Challenges and benefits of dialogue between Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other faiths.
• How religions and philosophies can contribute to resolving global conflicts and promoting peace.
• Hands-On: Role-Play Exercise: Engaging in interfaith dialogue scenarios to practice mutual understanding and conflict resolution.

Session 2: The Future of Religion and Philosophy in a Globalized World

• The relevance of ancient philosophies and religious teachings in addressing modern global challenges such as climate change, human rights, and technology.
• The rise of secularism and spirituality in a globalized, interconnected world.
• The future of religious diversity and its implications for global unity and coexistence.
• Certificate of Completion Ceremony