Throughout human history and in all cultures, people have wrestled with what can be called “ultimate questions.” These are questions that probe profound mysteries of the human experience – Is there a God? If so, what is God like? How did everything in creation come to be? What is the meaning of life? What happens after death?

Religion addresses these questions quite directly. This semester course will explore how the various religious traditions of the world have attempted to provide guidance in addressing these questions.  Students will learn about the fundamental beliefs and practices of the various religious traditions, their points of view, and how each has dealt with the many questions about life, how to live life, death, and what happens after a person dies. Special emphasis will be placed on how people have lived out their religious beliefs through ritual, relationships, and community life.  Throughout the course will also examine the impact of religion on current national and world events.