Great World Religions: Buddhism

Course Overview

Get an overview of the history and practice of a highly influential religion in this concise and accurate course taught by an award-winning professor.

Course Description

Buddhism challenges some of the most important Western ideas about God, human life, and self. This 12-lecture series illustrates why Buddhism is a dynamic and adaptable religion that has transformed civilizations across Asia and is now an integral part of Western culture.

With Professor Eckel, you’ll study the life of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and explore central teachings such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. You will also learn about the traditions of various schools of Buddhism—including Theravada, Mahayana, and Zen—and how they have evolved over time. The course provides insights into key concepts such as nirvana, bodhisattva, and the cultural practices that shape Buddhism today.

Video Lectures

1. Buddhism as a World Religion (32 min)
   Overview of Buddhism’s growth and influence worldwide.
2. The Life of the Buddha (31 min)
   The journey of Siddhartha Gautama and his spiritual awakening.
3. “All is Suffering” (30 min)
   The Buddha’s assessment of life and its challenges.
4. The Path to Nirvana (31 min)
   Understanding the Buddha’s teachings on suffering and liberation.
5. The Buddhist Community (31 min)
   The founding of the Buddhist Samgha and its traditions.
6. Mahayana Buddhism-the Bodhisattva Ideal (30 min)
   Introduction to the concept of the bodhisattva in Mahayana tradition.
7. Celestial Buddhas and Bodhisattvas (31 min)
   A look at the pantheon of heavenly beings in Buddhism.
8. Emptiness (31 min)
   Delving into the concept of Emptiness in Mahayana philosophy.
9. Theravada Buddhism in Southeast Asia (31 min)
   The development and characteristics of Theravada Buddhism.
10. Buddhism in Tibet (31 min)
    The evolution of Tibetan Buddhism and its key figures.
11. Buddhism in China (31 min)
    The influence and adaptation of Buddhism in Chinese culture.
12. Buddhism in Japan (31 min)
    The historical arrival of Buddhism in Japan and its major schools.