Watch Sacred Texts of the World

Sacred Texts of the World from The Great Courses Signature Collection is a fascinating exploration of the world's most important and influential religious texts. Hosted by acclaimed scholar Grant Hardy, this series delves deep into the meaning, history, and cultural significance of these sacred writings.

Over the course of the series, Hardy takes viewers on a journey through time and across the globe, examining the great religious traditions of humanity and the texts that guide them. From the ancient hymns of the Rigveda to the modern scriptures of Scientology, no religion or tradition is left unexplored.

One of the most compelling aspects of this series is its deep reverence for the texts themselves. Rather than treating them as dry historical artifacts or mere curiosities, Hardy approaches each work as a living, breathing entity, full of wisdom, insight, and spiritual power. He brings to bear his own scholarly expertise as well as the insights of a wide range of experts, from archaeologists and linguists to theologians and spiritual leaders.

Throughout the series, we get to see the incredible diversity of religious texts from around the world. From the familiar stories of the Bible to the esoteric cosmology of the Kabbalah, each text offers a unique window into the human experience and the divine realm. Hardy brings these texts to life through vivid readings, insightful commentary, and engaging analysis, helping viewers to understand their meaning and significance in a new and profound way.

One of the most interesting aspects of the show is the way it explores the relationship between sacred texts and the cultures that produced them. Hardy shows how each text has been shaped by the cultural, historical, and political forces of its time, and how each has influenced the development of the societies that have embraced it. We see how, over time, the texts have been interpreted, translated, and adapted by different groups, and how they continue to shape the lives of millions of people around the world.

In addition to its comprehensive exploration of the world's religious traditions, the series also offers a wealth of information about the history of scholarship surrounding these texts. We see how scholars in different eras have approached the interpretation and translation of these works, and how their insights have shaped our understanding of the texts themselves. From the pioneering work of early Christian scholars like Origen and Augustine to the groundbreaking insights of modern scholars like Elaine Pagels and Bart Ehrman, we get a sense of the rich and complex history of religious scholarship.

Overall, Sacred Texts of the World from The Great Courses Signature Collection is a rich and rewarding exploration of some of the world's most important and influential religious texts. With its insightful commentary, engaging analysis, and deep respect for the texts themselves, this series offers viewers a window into the spiritual and intellectual riches of the world's great religious traditions. Whether you are a scholar, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who is curious about the religious heritage of humanity, this series is sure to inspire and enlighten.

Sacred Texts of the World is a series that ran for 1 seasons (34 episodes) between February 7, 2014 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection