Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	LH Ancient Roots of Yoga and Meditation
School	Phil, Theology and Religion
Department	Theology and Religion
Module Code	09 39956
Module Lead	Marie-Helene Gorisse
Level	Honours Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 2
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-18 hours Seminar-10 hours External Visits-2 hours Guided independent study-170 hours Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description	The aim of this module is to investigate different forms of meditation and, from this, to explore the ways in which meditation seeks to modify the use of attention, and to bring about forms of long-term transformation of consciousness and body. Students following this module will be able to identify basic features of meditative practices across cultures; and they will have a grasp on the way in which meditative practices share hybrid features with other types of practice, such as ritual and devotional practices. Texts like the Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita where three paths of yoga are offered – action, devotion, and knowledge – will offer a springboard to reflect on the value of practice versus doctrine. The cross-fertilization of meditative practices and techniques in different traditions has characterized these meditative traditions for centuries. It has been argued that the development of yogic practices in South Asia has influenced Jewish Mysticism such as the Kabbalah, the Islamic tradition of Sufism, and an Eastern Orthodox Jesus prayer. More recently, these ancient meditative practices have become a global phenomenon, which has in turn influenced many types of contemporary spirituality. The module will introduce students to different techniques of meditation across this vast spectrum, from repetitive recitations and visualizations to body and breath techniques; and different receptions of these practices of transformation of the Self, including contemporary scientific and popular interest in these ancient practices. Students will explore the contexts from which different practices emerged, including philosophical and religious presuppositions, as well as pertinent social and cultural backgrounds. Finally, students will be given firsthand experience of practitioners leading meditative sessions. This module will notably draw on the spiritual practices of Jainism, one of the world's oldest religions, with roots in India from at least 2,500 years ago. Jain nuns (samani) are specialists of a form of meditation called \"preksha dhyana\" which has as its goal to achieve an integrated personal development through behavioral adaptations. At the end of the module students will be able to develop a self-reflection on their experience.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Demonstrate familiarity with the aspects and factors of the historical development of yogic and meditative practices in South Asia. Identify and compare the philosophical, ritual and organisational specificities of the different yogic traditions. Comment critically on secondary literature on the primary texts and ideas behind yogic and meditative practices, including the place of the body and the extent and means of its transformation in relevant worldviews. Articulate and evaluate the key teachings and ideas of contemporary expressions of yogic and meditative practices.
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: A 1500 word 'critical reflection' (40%) and a 2500 essay (60%). Reassessment: Resubmission of failed component.
Other
Reading List