Cultural Wisdom
-
217EBuddhist IconographyAnalyze Buddhist iconography and symbolism, and differentiate the characteristic visual elements associated with different Buddhist traditions.
-
216EBuddhist ArchitectureCategorize the three main types of Buddhist architecture (stupas, monasteries, temples) according to their functions; analyze how architectural elements support dharma practice and community building; and evaluate the symbolic meaning embedded in specific design features across different Buddhist cultural traditions.
-
215EAstrology in Buddhist CulturesCompare and contrast astrological systems used in Buddhist cultures (Chinese/Tibetan and Western zodiacs) with Buddhist teachings on karma and self-determination; analyze how cultural worldviews influence self-perception and understanding of reality; and evaluate the relationship between traditional astrological beliefs and core Buddhist principles such as dependent origination and personal responsibility.
-
214EBuddhist CosmologyCompare and contrast Buddhist cosmological narratives with at least two other creation stories (Abrahamic, indigenous, or scientific); analyze how different origin stories influence cultural worldviews and values; and evaluate the impact of cosmological beliefs on human behavior and environmental relationships.
-
213EComparative ReligionAnalyze Buddhism’s characteristics compared to Abrahamic, indigenous, and other world religions; evaluate different conceptual frameworks that position Buddhism as philosophy, science of mind, or religion; and synthesize understanding through respectful interfaith dialogue that identifies both unique approaches and shared human concerns across traditions.
-
212ENoble BeingsAnalyze the qualities of noble beings, evaluate which qualities to cultivate personally, and create strategies to incorporate these qualities into daily activities.
-
235EThe Power of LanguageAnalyze how language shapes cultural understanding and worldview formation; evaluate the challenges and opportunities in translating Buddhist concepts across linguistic and cultural boundaries; and implement communication strategies that demonstrate both confidence in personal understanding and humility about the limitations of language in conveying ultimate meaning.
-
232EThe Three Yanas: Vajrayana BuddhismIdentify the methodologies specific to Vajrayana Buddhism. Examine how tantric practices integrate ritual, visualization, and guru-disciple relationships, and evaluate how Vajrayana approaches to transformation relate to the foundational teachings preserved in Theravada and Mahayana traditions.
-
231EThree Yanas: Mahayana BuddhismArticulate the distinctive characteristics of Mahayana Buddhism, including the bodhisattva ideal and emphasis on universal liberation; analyze how Mahayana approaches to practice (emptiness philosophy, Pure Land practice, Zen meditation) address different paths to awakening; and evaluate the relationship between Mahayana adaptability and preservation of core Buddhist principles.