REL 365 - Smells and Bells: The Sensual Dimension of Religions

This course is devoted to acquiring both “book knowledge” and experiential knowledge about the meaning of the sensual dimension of religion. Thus we will study the religious use of smell in rabbinic Judaism, sight in Hindu devotion, taste in medieval Christian and Jewish piety, sound in Muslim music and Qur’an recitation, and touch across different religious traditions. And we will also engage in performance related activities both inside and outside of class to gain “experiential knowledge” about what goes into a ritual.

Prerequisites
At least one Religion or Neuroscience course preferred although not required

Credits 4

Compass Attributes
Global Honors, Humanities