http://www.ucalgary.ca/numatachair/Events

Department of Religious Studies Seminar with Dr. Gregory Schopen

University of California, Los Angeles; and Brown University

“On the Fragrance of the Buddha, the Scent of Monuments, and the Odor of Images”

Only recently have students of religion begun to fully consider the role of the senses in religious practice and thought. Once alerted to the issue, however, it became clear that in the Indian Buddhist tradition the sense of smell was particularly important. Textual, archeological and art historical evidence all converge to make the point, and some of this evidence will be presented and discussed.

Monday, September 24, 2012 at 12:00 noon

Social Sciences 1339
University of Calgary
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The Numata Chair in Buddhist Studies presents

The Leslie S. Kawamura Memorial Lecture
with Dr. Gregory Schopen

University of California, Los Angeles; and Brown University

“Debt, Slavery, and Monasticism: The Limited Reach of Formal Doctrine in Buddhist and Christian Monastic Settings”

One might easily assume that monastic communities, because they were intentionally planned communities, might more fully implement the formal doctrines of their respective traditions. One might even assume that this was the reason for their founding. But historical evidence will not support such assumptions: in both Buddhist monasticisms in India, and in a variety of Christian monasticisms, important formal doctrinal positions and values were not, and apparently could not be, implemented or expressed. Examples of both will be presented.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012 7:30pm

Husky Oil Great Hall, Rozsa Centre
University of Calgary