Distance Learning Courses

Creation Spirituality

CSP 500e/CSP 200e
Intro to Creation Spirituality (3)
Creation spirituality integrates the wisdom of western spirituality and global indigenous cultures with the emerging scientific understanding of the universe and the passionate creativity of art. It is the earliest tradition of the Hebrew Bible and was celebrated by the mystics of medieval Europe. Creation spirituality provides a solid foundation and holistic perspective from which to address the critical issues of our times, including the revitalization of religion and culture, the honoring of women's wisdom, the celebration of hope in today's youth, and the promotion of social and ecological justice. Creation spirituality is not a new religion but is concerned with developing theologies and practices within religion and culture which promote personal wholeness, planetary survival and universal interdependence.

CSP 515e/CSP 250e
Mystics in the Creation Spirituality Tradition (3)
This online course takes the student on an inner journey of ever-greater expansion of heart and spiritual experiences. It allows us to embrace life more fully and to struggle more imaginatively and creatively with the gifts of compassion, celebration and justice-making. In order to enter the realm of the Mystics one is encouraged to caste away all preconceived notions of how their writings should be read because ‘mystical experience’ lies far beyond description. Within the writings of Jalalu’ddin Rumi, Hildegard von Bingen and Meister Eckhart lives their search for the unity of the heart of all religions. We study these mystics together and experience how they unfold the creation-centered spiritual tradition.

Humanities

HUM 285e/HUM 585e
World Wisdom: Recalibrating the Mind to Serve the Emerging Spirit (3)
This course presents a series of lectures by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi that address the philosophical issues connected with the emerging shift of our cosmology. Thoughtful and provocative topics include themes of ecumenism, transpersonal sociology, spiritual eldering, philosophy and contemplative living. This course is designed to nourish the human spirit and promote critical thinking. The course is directed by Sharron Szabo who will lead the discussions and homework assignments related to the Rabbi's teachings. Sharron has assisted the Rabbi in the development of the World Wisdom lecture series at Naropa University.

World Wisdom Traditions

WWT 418e
Jewish Contemplative Practice: Based on the Teachings of Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi (noncredit only)
This course is designed to connect you with your own spirit and heart, the spirit and heart of the world and the heart of God. Using contemplative practices of the Jewish tradition, you will receive tools for deepening and strengthening your own awareness of spiritual Judaism.

WWT 420e
From Age-ing to Sage-ing: ™
The teaching of Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi (noncredit only)
In this course we explore the process of shifting our perspectives on growing older in our society from one of “age-ing” to a healthier paradigm of “sage-ing.” We explore the theory of Spiritual Eldering and its potential impact on our planet, effecting personal and social transformation, through audio/visual and written teachings by Rabbi /Dr. Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, (founder of the Spiritual Eldering Institute, author of From Age-ing to Sage-ing, and former World Wisdom Chair holder at Naropa University). In addition to these materials, we also participate in experiential exercises and online classroom discussions led by instructor, Sharron Szabo. This class offers the student a foundation in Spiritual Eldering work and will hopefully inspire each of us to integrate its rich message into our own lives, and into other related fields and professions. Required course text is From Age-ing to Sage-ing by Zalman Schachter-Shalomi.

WWT 422e
Core Texts of the Hasidic Masters: An Online Course Based on the Teachings of Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi (noncredit only)
This course offers rare insight and a good to the meaning and value of the stories and teachings of Hasidism, a unique Jewish mystical movement begun in 18th century Eastern Europe. With Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, one of the world's foremost authorities on Hasidism and Jewish mysticism as your guide, you will likely find meaning for your own life in these teachings no matter what background you hail from. Note: this course is available for noncredit only.