Research
We actively encourage the research interests of our students. While the faculty and areas of research expertise have changed over the years, the Department’s commitment to the open, critical, and multidisciplinary study of religion — past and present, East and West, theoretical and practical — remains passionate and strong.
Ongoing Research Projects
Canada’s Holocaust Torahs Learn More
Professor Rothenberg’s groundbreaking research systematically examines Canada’s Holocaust Torahs, focusing on how Canadian hosts display, store, use, and teach about these sacred scrolls. This study offers a unique perspective on the impact of these Torahs on Jewish religious practices, Holocaust memory, and education, as well as their ongoing relevance amidst modern antisemitism.
Scripture of the Heroic March Learn More
Professor James Benn is working on a scholarly translation (from Chinese to English) and book-length study of a scripture that is of crucial importance to the Chinese Buddhist tradition after the year 1000.
Exegetical Literature: Origins, Evolution and Contemporary Manifestations Learn More
Professor Liyakat Takim’s study will provide the first comprehensive analysis of Shi’i tafsir (exegesis) literature.
Viśākha(deva)’s Bhikṣu-vinaya-kārikā-kusuma-sraj or “Flower Garland of Verses [Summarizing] the Monastic Code for Monks” Learn More
Dr. Shayne Clarke is editing the approximately 348 extant Sanskrit verses of Kusuma-sraj or “Flower Garland”.
Merv (Bairam-Ali) Vinaya Manuscript Learn More
Dr. Shayne Clarke is re-editing and translating the thirteen folios that constitute the Vinaya section of the Merv manuscript.
Tibetan Buddhist Law in the Dunhuang Manuscripts Learn More
Dr. Shayne Clarke is preparing a catalogue of the Tibetan Dunhuang manuscripts related to Buddhist monastic law codes (Vinaya).
Research Centres
Centre for Buddhist Studies Learn More
Supporting research, teaching, and public outreach on Buddhist traditions throughout the world.