Monday, December 17, 2007
Father John Martin
Who is Father John Martin? He is the current leader of Saccidananda Ashram religion. This religion was established 1950 by two French monks who were to study the Christian scriptures and inter grade their worship with their indigenous population of India, which was very different from the monasteries during that time.Father Martin believes that there is active and sensitive connections between Christianity and Eastern religions (particularly Hinduism), without minimizing differences between religions, and without losing its identity.He once said "Experiencing the Christian scriptures interpreted in worship and other settings at the Shantivanam is like watching your favorite film shot through a lens with slightly different focus, angle, and focal length. It's enthralling to find certain things you're used to seeing only in the background brought to the foreground, and vice-versa. And viewing familiar stories and sayings shot from "another other side of the set" provides quite a bit of food for thought".I do agree with Father martin. This is exactly what I think he meant when he told the parable of the hikers that there are many religions, all worship differently, but to the end they are all worshiping the same supreme being. We are all climbing the same religious mountain just hiking different path, with the hope of going to the same place.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Moravian
Reading the assigned chapter I find it very interesting the many different types of Christianity, how they started and even more surprising is how many different Protestant denominations they are, all base on the life of one man, Jesus Christ. What I find confusing is that they all believe the same thing, just different ways of worship. Most of the movements I have either heard of or had some form of exposure to. The Moravians I have never heard of. I choose this religion because I wanted to learn about their faith, and that they were the first to send large scale of missionary to the Caribbean Islands. They were also the first protestant missionary that would associate, and assisted slaves while teaching their doctrine. They believe in baptism, the trinity that God is one being who exists, simultaneously, three persons in one.
The Moravian was started by one Jan Hus in the late fourteenth century. This started when he objected to some of the Roman Catholic teachings. His punishment was death by been burnt at the stake by the Roman’s authority. It was 50 years later that the organization regrouped, operating under ground through out northern Europe as the Bohemian Brethren or the Brethren of unity. Of course like all other movements they had major disagreements among themselves. They went through a dramatic transformation which they clamed was a visit from the Holy Spirit telling them to learn to love each other. The foundation of their faith is spirit of harmony, good will, congeniality, and forgiveness. Today it is reported that they have the largest amount of Protestants in Tanzania. It would be interesting to attend their temple to observe how they worship.
The Moravian was started by one Jan Hus in the late fourteenth century. This started when he objected to some of the Roman Catholic teachings. His punishment was death by been burnt at the stake by the Roman’s authority. It was 50 years later that the organization regrouped, operating under ground through out northern Europe as the Bohemian Brethren or the Brethren of unity. Of course like all other movements they had major disagreements among themselves. They went through a dramatic transformation which they clamed was a visit from the Holy Spirit telling them to learn to love each other. The foundation of their faith is spirit of harmony, good will, congeniality, and forgiveness. Today it is reported that they have the largest amount of Protestants in Tanzania. It would be interesting to attend their temple to observe how they worship.
Jewish roots of the Christian story
Listening keenly as Joel Marcus was being interviewed on NPR radio it reinforced the course content that was taught in our last religious class. The relationship between Jews and Christians, the controversial surrounding Jesus’ life, his ministry leading up to his death and resurrection, including the many events that followed after his resurrection as it relates to his followers.
I have also heard many preachers preached that the Jews were responsible for his death. I believe that many of them know that his death was caused by both Jews and Gentiles, but it is most often said that it was the Jews who handed him over to the Romans, because he often disagreed with many of their teachings especially the Pharisees. The type of death by crucifixion was a Roman punishment. After the death of Jesus, Christianity which started as a sect within Judaism struggled to survive during the Roman Empire.
I was amazed to understand that during the first century of the church that the movement was entirely Jewish. It was after sixty to seventy years after the death of Jesus when the Jews started to rebel against the Romans, leading to the destruction of the temple in Jeruslem.Jews and Christians got together after been crushed by the Romans, they concluded that it was impossible to be a good Jew and a Christian at the same time. I believe this was the beginning of the conflict between Jews and Christians. I find Christianity to be very controversial. There are so many different believes as it relates to Jesus’ teachings, mainly baptism, forgiveness of one’s sin, where one would spend eternity after death, and the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit
The interview was interesting it made me more aware of the sensitivity of the Jews as it relates to the death of Jesus and who was responsible.
I have also heard many preachers preached that the Jews were responsible for his death. I believe that many of them know that his death was caused by both Jews and Gentiles, but it is most often said that it was the Jews who handed him over to the Romans, because he often disagreed with many of their teachings especially the Pharisees. The type of death by crucifixion was a Roman punishment. After the death of Jesus, Christianity which started as a sect within Judaism struggled to survive during the Roman Empire.
I was amazed to understand that during the first century of the church that the movement was entirely Jewish. It was after sixty to seventy years after the death of Jesus when the Jews started to rebel against the Romans, leading to the destruction of the temple in Jeruslem.Jews and Christians got together after been crushed by the Romans, they concluded that it was impossible to be a good Jew and a Christian at the same time. I believe this was the beginning of the conflict between Jews and Christians. I find Christianity to be very controversial. There are so many different believes as it relates to Jesus’ teachings, mainly baptism, forgiveness of one’s sin, where one would spend eternity after death, and the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit
The interview was interesting it made me more aware of the sensitivity of the Jews as it relates to the death of Jesus and who was responsible.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Judaism
Judaism is the religion of Jewish people. It is religion where they belief that God created a covenant between the Isrealites and that he revealed his laws to Moses on Mt.Sinai in the form of the Torah and the Jewish people are descendants of Isreal. The Torah is of great value to their religion as it outlines the rules which govern them. Judaism is very unique they take prayers and studying very serious and they have a lot of different holidays their holidays mainly focus on creation and redemption one of their major holiday is called the Hanukkah- This known to be the festival of lights which may fall between November and December it all depends
. It is celebrated in homes with the kindling of candles one on each day of the festival.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Westen Religion
The following link provides insight on current topics covered in class.
www.cnn.com/godswarriors
www.cnn.com/godswarriors
Friday, October 26, 2007
Confucianism
(Top from left to right: picture of confucius grave, picture of Confucius, Picture of a conservative confucianist woman, another picture of confucius.)
(Bottom from left to right: Picture of a temple, Picture of confucianism symbols.)
The Confucianism Religion is often said to be more of a system of social and ethical philosophies rather than a religion.
Confucius was a famous thinker and social philosopher of China, whose teachings have deeply influenced East Asia for centuries. His philosophy emphasized personal and governmental morality, correctness of social relationships, and justice and sincerity. This religion is one that did not attain world wide recognition but have impacted the lives of individuals in some way or another. Some of the beliefs that I practice regarding Confucianism is listening to my elders, expecting my elders to look out for my well being and I also follow the rules of government.
Some of Confucius quotes I admire and try to live by and hoping one day to achieve:
*Be not ashamed of mistakes and thus make them crimes. (Confucius)
*Everything has its beauty but not everyone sees it. (Confucius)
*It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop. (Confucius)
*Respect yourself and others will respect you. (Confucius)
*He who exercises government by means of his virtue may be compared to the northpolarstar, which keeps its place and all the stars turn towards it. (Confucius, Analects)
*Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous. (Confucius, Analects)
Visit to Hindu Temple
eg.Hindu Temple
My personal experience during my visit to the Hindu temple was enlightened. This was
my very first exposer to a Hindu temple, and of course I had plenty of questions hoping to get all the answers for myself and my class project. My friend and I started on our journey, we were fortunate to be driven by her husband, which gave me a sense of security knowing that a male figure was with us. As I mentioned earlier this was new to me.
Upon entering the compound my first admiration was the building, the architectural designs reminded me of those fairytale castles you read about in story books. The walkway to the main entrance had steps that had paintings on them. As we opened the main door there was a strong aroma of incense and the sound of male voices could be heard talking. The door to the inner temple was open we took the liberty to peek inside, of course I was unsure what to do, a bit nervous because I did not want to do any thing to offend their religion or their gods. There were about five pairs of shoes at the side of the side, we took ours off and waited.
As we waited a medium built men partially dress from waist down with painting on his mid fore head, and his right arm approached us. He wore a long bead and a string around his neck. He gave us a warm welcome; we then explained to him our reason for being there, he offered us chairs to sit which were very few, I counted about four. I was very appreciative of his offer because I was not in the frame of mind to sit on the floor especially on a rainy day like it was. Slowly I find myself less tense and my attention was drawn to the colorful paintings and statues, confirming the things I learnt in class regarding Hinduism their practices and rituals. I could not but notice the painting of Kushner dancing with the beautiful ladies, there were several alters with different statues, a total of about nine.
The statues were beautifully decorated with vibrant colors, they all had black faces both males and females. As a black woman I was curious, I could not but wonder why all the faces were black. In that very moment I reflected on my Christian faith and the paintings that are usually in the church they all had white faces. I was determine to find the answers. As we waited we were told that the clergy would be with us shortly. I was anxious to speak to him, but I was enjoying my visit by looking at the different paintings and statues. I felt like I was in an art museum. The clergy was ministering to a couple from the main alter in the middle of the temple. I noticed that the couple had something in their hands looking like a container of some sort. By this time I could actually taste and felt the numbness from the strong aroma of incense on the tip of my tongue.
The atmosphere was peaceful; they sat on the floor with their feet cross, with hands clasped in such humble position. I intensely observed their way of worship and comparing theirs with mine thinking how different. My god is supernatural cannot be seen by the natural eyes only by faith and here I was in the presence of their gods admiring them, the way they are dressed, the color of their faces, and how they are shaped. In that short moment I felt as though I was transformed into another world, it was then the main clergy approached us. He greeted us and of course me being from an English background I extended a hand shake while asking him permission to do so, which he accepted. My friend and I took turns to ask questions about his religion, the different alters and the different gods. He willingly explained as we went to each alter I noticed there were offerings of apples, banana, broken coconuts, and rice. He explained that this was a way of offering offerings to the gods. I saw this in a natural sense, that’s when I asked myself the question “how can a statue eat” that question I refrained from asking out loud fearing that I would offend his religion. There was the god of wisdom the one that they pray to during their studies. I thought I could use some knowledge while studying at Mercy. Finally there was the god of wealth and immediately I hope for some blessings of wealth for an early retirement, but as fast as these thoughts pop into my head they were out as fast because of my Christian faith. I felt as though there was a strong debate between my Christian faith and Hinduism. I quickly dismissed these thoughts and focus on the information the clergy was giving.
Upon completing our tour I asked the infamous question “why are all the faces black?” My question was answered in a simple and humble way, because we are from the southern part of India where the people have darker skin. We offered him an offering which he accepted in a humble manner. He did not verbally extend a return invitation, but his poster gave us the approval that we would be welcome to return. My experience was wonderful, I enjoyed my visit and the experience was awesome.
my very first exposer to a Hindu temple, and of course I had plenty of questions hoping to get all the answers for myself and my class project. My friend and I started on our journey, we were fortunate to be driven by her husband, which gave me a sense of security knowing that a male figure was with us. As I mentioned earlier this was new to me.
Upon entering the compound my first admiration was the building, the architectural designs reminded me of those fairytale castles you read about in story books. The walkway to the main entrance had steps that had paintings on them. As we opened the main door there was a strong aroma of incense and the sound of male voices could be heard talking. The door to the inner temple was open we took the liberty to peek inside, of course I was unsure what to do, a bit nervous because I did not want to do any thing to offend their religion or their gods. There were about five pairs of shoes at the side of the side, we took ours off and waited.
As we waited a medium built men partially dress from waist down with painting on his mid fore head, and his right arm approached us. He wore a long bead and a string around his neck. He gave us a warm welcome; we then explained to him our reason for being there, he offered us chairs to sit which were very few, I counted about four. I was very appreciative of his offer because I was not in the frame of mind to sit on the floor especially on a rainy day like it was. Slowly I find myself less tense and my attention was drawn to the colorful paintings and statues, confirming the things I learnt in class regarding Hinduism their practices and rituals. I could not but notice the painting of Kushner dancing with the beautiful ladies, there were several alters with different statues, a total of about nine.
The statues were beautifully decorated with vibrant colors, they all had black faces both males and females. As a black woman I was curious, I could not but wonder why all the faces were black. In that very moment I reflected on my Christian faith and the paintings that are usually in the church they all had white faces. I was determine to find the answers. As we waited we were told that the clergy would be with us shortly. I was anxious to speak to him, but I was enjoying my visit by looking at the different paintings and statues. I felt like I was in an art museum. The clergy was ministering to a couple from the main alter in the middle of the temple. I noticed that the couple had something in their hands looking like a container of some sort. By this time I could actually taste and felt the numbness from the strong aroma of incense on the tip of my tongue.
The atmosphere was peaceful; they sat on the floor with their feet cross, with hands clasped in such humble position. I intensely observed their way of worship and comparing theirs with mine thinking how different. My god is supernatural cannot be seen by the natural eyes only by faith and here I was in the presence of their gods admiring them, the way they are dressed, the color of their faces, and how they are shaped. In that short moment I felt as though I was transformed into another world, it was then the main clergy approached us. He greeted us and of course me being from an English background I extended a hand shake while asking him permission to do so, which he accepted. My friend and I took turns to ask questions about his religion, the different alters and the different gods. He willingly explained as we went to each alter I noticed there were offerings of apples, banana, broken coconuts, and rice. He explained that this was a way of offering offerings to the gods. I saw this in a natural sense, that’s when I asked myself the question “how can a statue eat” that question I refrained from asking out loud fearing that I would offend his religion. There was the god of wisdom the one that they pray to during their studies. I thought I could use some knowledge while studying at Mercy. Finally there was the god of wealth and immediately I hope for some blessings of wealth for an early retirement, but as fast as these thoughts pop into my head they were out as fast because of my Christian faith. I felt as though there was a strong debate between my Christian faith and Hinduism. I quickly dismissed these thoughts and focus on the information the clergy was giving.
Upon completing our tour I asked the infamous question “why are all the faces black?” My question was answered in a simple and humble way, because we are from the southern part of India where the people have darker skin. We offered him an offering which he accepted in a humble manner. He did not verbally extend a return invitation, but his poster gave us the approval that we would be welcome to return. My experience was wonderful, I enjoyed my visit and the experience was awesome.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Shrine
*I have a cross in my shrine because it means a lot to me, as a Christian the cross represents the washing away of my sins. Jesus was crucified on the cross for my sins. His blood was shed to redeem me. It helps me to remember God’s love towards human kind, it is also a daily reminder of my forgiveness so that I can forgive others.
*The candle represent energy, purity, it is a pathway to my success and a guiding light to follow as I live my life on this Earth. “ Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path”.
*The bible represents the blue print for my Christian religion. It guides me on how to live as a Christian, the words of the bible is also comforting in times of despair, it is a manual for my life with direction and instruction which I read and follow daily.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Dalai Lama
Watching the interview with the Dalai Lama was extremely enlightening, before this class if I was asked who is the Dalai Lama? my answer would be a monk.I found the Dalai Lama to be an extraordinary man bursting with energy for life,great sense of humor, humble, he said "I am no one special" he is forgiving, embracing all religion. His answer to the question regarding the fighting between the Jews and the Palestinian was "There is too much anger,emotion, negative emotion in religion.
I will forever remember some of his quotes, my favorites are, "quality is more important than quantity,the power of gun can't prevail peace is more powerful, the power of truth must come through openness,destruction of your neighbour, enemy, eventually will be destruction of yourself, destroying your enemy is old fashion and outdated.These are quotes are powerful if fallowed, there would be no war, Tibet has been fortunate to have had such a spiritual and temporal leader.
I will forever remember some of his quotes, my favorites are, "quality is more important than quantity,the power of gun can't prevail peace is more powerful, the power of truth must come through openness,destruction of your neighbour, enemy, eventually will be destruction of yourself, destroying your enemy is old fashion and outdated.These are quotes are powerful if fallowed, there would be no war, Tibet has been fortunate to have had such a spiritual and temporal leader.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Sikhism
The Sikhism has similar believes as Hinduism,Islamic Buddhism and Jainism.Sikhism tried to reformed certain elements of Hinduism.Nanak the founder of the Sikhism religion had some qualities like the other religious leaders, Gandhi and Buddha. Total devotion, giving up of material things, when Nanak received the vision he went throughout India preaching unity of Islam and Hinduism. He even wore clothing of both religion trying to organized both religion knowing that these two religions were always hostile and violent to each other.Sikhism rejected several elements of Hinduism, regarding people as the primary creation and are free to kill and eat meat. Totally different belief of Jainism, who will not kill anything. Sikhism also agrees with Islam, that there is one God.karma is recognized. People continue to acquire karma and live again and again until they are free.Ceremonial and rituals of Hinduism and Islam are rejected.Buddhism also believes in karma and rebirth. Their teaching is that god has power, but people should find their enlightenment then appeal to the gods for help and support, and that there is no soul.Jainism believes in coronation, people live, die and born again.All living beings owe their present form of life to their karma.
The poems of Kabir reflects the teachings of Sikhism. I believe that the Kabir was relating to Hindus and Muslims and the way they despise each other, yet they preach love. "Mohammed's son pores over words, and point out this and that, but if his chest is not soaked dark with love, then what?The teaching of Sikhism reflects the poem. without inner love everything else that is done is useless. "then what"
The poems of Kabir reflects the teachings of Sikhism. I believe that the Kabir was relating to Hindus and Muslims and the way they despise each other, yet they preach love. "Mohammed's son pores over words, and point out this and that, but if his chest is not soaked dark with love, then what?The teaching of Sikhism reflects the poem. without inner love everything else that is done is useless. "then what"
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Observing my community as it pertain to religion, it is predominantly Christian.I have noticed that Christianity is practice in a less restrictive way, moving away from most of those strict rules, like issues on marriage, divorce, and attire. Considering themselves very liberal, calling themselves Reform Christian.
This week my compassion was focus on the medical community, how decisions are made regarding life, death, and removal of life support. A patient I had to care for was removed from all life support system except morphine for comfort. This was the wish of this patient prior to admission,except that this information was presented to the hospital long after the patient was placed on a ventilator and was ween. Ten days after no food or water, here I was caring for this patient. I felt like I had taken on myself the burden of suffering for this patient, watching the journey of the final days of ones life in such manner. This was far from Hinduism regarding the final stage of life giving oneself totally to meditation and devotion. I felt that this was misery at it's worse,and of course my feelings could be influence by my strong Christian believes.I thought of karma,moksha, atman, and reincarnation and wonder how is this patient handling all this.
The things that I find that affect and trouble most community including mine is the desire to receive,most people focus on commercial things, competition to win, and the world of cell phone, electronic has totally consume our community. People are unaware of their surroundings. There is no time for spiritual devotion, the admiration for nature, like the changing of the leaves how colorful and beautiful. The desire for things (tanha) is of the highest priority which most times caused misery (dukkha).
This week my compassion was focus on the medical community, how decisions are made regarding life, death, and removal of life support. A patient I had to care for was removed from all life support system except morphine for comfort. This was the wish of this patient prior to admission,except that this information was presented to the hospital long after the patient was placed on a ventilator and was ween. Ten days after no food or water, here I was caring for this patient. I felt like I had taken on myself the burden of suffering for this patient, watching the journey of the final days of ones life in such manner. This was far from Hinduism regarding the final stage of life giving oneself totally to meditation and devotion. I felt that this was misery at it's worse,and of course my feelings could be influence by my strong Christian believes.I thought of karma,moksha, atman, and reincarnation and wonder how is this patient handling all this.
The things that I find that affect and trouble most community including mine is the desire to receive,most people focus on commercial things, competition to win, and the world of cell phone, electronic has totally consume our community. People are unaware of their surroundings. There is no time for spiritual devotion, the admiration for nature, like the changing of the leaves how colorful and beautiful. The desire for things (tanha) is of the highest priority which most times caused misery (dukkha).
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Bedwardism
Religion; a belief in the supernatural power regarding a creator.It's Study has enable me to embrace varies cultures,and choice of religions.This course has open my eyes to other religions,and to be less prejudice towards their practices, Bedwardism other wise known as The Jamaica Native Baptist Free Church. Budwardism is a religious denomination of very distinguishing features.
The origin of the cause of Bedwardism is unknown.It is believed that it was founded by H.E.S. Woods also known as Shakespeare. An American who migrated to Jamaica W.I. in 1876 where he lived in a cave in the wilderness of Spanish Town. In 1888 he went to Augustown preaching and prophecing, there he established the religion in 1889. They believed in Trinity. The three persons in the God-head which is indivisible ,Father, Son, Holy Ghost,. There believes are that Judaism was succeeded by Christianity, and Christianity is succeeded by Bedwardism.
Fasting is considered a sacrifice and is frequently practice two to three times weekly, there is also a vow ceremony which is the first formal step from the world into the church.A common thread which links all religion is the quest for spiritual connection with the supernatural and Bedwardism is no different.
The origin of the cause of Bedwardism is unknown.It is believed that it was founded by H.E.S. Woods also known as Shakespeare. An American who migrated to Jamaica W.I. in 1876 where he lived in a cave in the wilderness of Spanish Town. In 1888 he went to Augustown preaching and prophecing, there he established the religion in 1889. They believed in Trinity. The three persons in the God-head which is indivisible ,Father, Son, Holy Ghost,. There believes are that Judaism was succeeded by Christianity, and Christianity is succeeded by Bedwardism.
Fasting is considered a sacrifice and is frequently practice two to three times weekly, there is also a vow ceremony which is the first formal step from the world into the church.A common thread which links all religion is the quest for spiritual connection with the supernatural and Bedwardism is no different.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Mohandas Gandhi
Mohandas Gandhi was, and is still believed to be one of the most peaceful human being that has ever walked the earth. Watching the movie in class on how he lived, left me with mixed emotions. I had feelings of sadness, and anger, because of the way he was treated, yet a part of me felt eternally grateful, knowing that he choose such humble and nonviolent method to get his point across. His peaceful and nonviolent demonstrations has been admired by the world, including many religions .It was the key ingredient that brought changes to India.Years later I can truly say we have benefited from his extraordinary example as the great Civil Right leader Martin Luther King fallowed his example, marched peacefully for freedom in America.
Gandhi was opposed to the caste system which was once considered to be a part of Hinduism. He believed that all human were created equally, and all should be treated with dignity. He practiced Hinduism through devotion, diet and fasting. He was always in a humble poster (namaste) both hands claps in a prayer like fashion with head bowed. This is a symbol of a humble greeting from the heart.
I believe that the part of Hinduism that he emphasized was moksha, liberation from birth, death and rebirth.He practiced unselfishness and was total devoted to his belief's as he understood what a good Hindu should be.He also emphasized karma not by words, but by his actions, refusing to physically fight back. It is said that when he was kicked he asked his abuser did your feet hurt? Because he believed that whatever wrong was done to him would be return by karma. There were times that he confessed that he did not consider himself a good Hindu, because of the killings and the brutality that the people suffered because of his protest.
Base on what I have learn about Hinduism, he would not be considered a good Hindu because he was defiant of some of Hinduism beliefs and practices.Gandhi did not gain world recognition by practicing Hinduism, he is admired because of his nonviolent demonstrations.Yet he died at the hands of one of his own people. One of the very thing he fought against ended his life.
Gandhi was opposed to the caste system which was once considered to be a part of Hinduism. He believed that all human were created equally, and all should be treated with dignity. He practiced Hinduism through devotion, diet and fasting. He was always in a humble poster (namaste) both hands claps in a prayer like fashion with head bowed. This is a symbol of a humble greeting from the heart.
I believe that the part of Hinduism that he emphasized was moksha, liberation from birth, death and rebirth.He practiced unselfishness and was total devoted to his belief's as he understood what a good Hindu should be.He also emphasized karma not by words, but by his actions, refusing to physically fight back. It is said that when he was kicked he asked his abuser did your feet hurt? Because he believed that whatever wrong was done to him would be return by karma. There were times that he confessed that he did not consider himself a good Hindu, because of the killings and the brutality that the people suffered because of his protest.
Base on what I have learn about Hinduism, he would not be considered a good Hindu because he was defiant of some of Hinduism beliefs and practices.Gandhi did not gain world recognition by practicing Hinduism, he is admired because of his nonviolent demonstrations.Yet he died at the hands of one of his own people. One of the very thing he fought against ended his life.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Yoga and Hinduism
Yoga is a primary practice of the Hinduism faith and a way to adopt different peoples needs. Through yoga, many people find answers to cope with life's daily challenges and to accept the caste they were born to. There are four forms of yoga and each one has a different focus, for example; one form focuses on the path to overcome hardship, freedom from the shackles of their deeds and actions, while purifying the mind by removing impurities; training the mind and body.
The Bhakti form of yoga best fits my personal life, because it focuses on worship, and evokes emotions connecting to the creator of the universe.
The Bhakti form of yoga best fits my personal life, because it focuses on worship, and evokes emotions connecting to the creator of the universe.
Cardinal tenet of Hinduism
Hinduism conceive itself as adopting to different people's needs by developing what is called a caste system, base on vocations.They believe in stations of life, that people are different and everyone belongs to a caste.Whatever caste you were born to dictates your life, including where you live, what you eat, and who you choose as your mate. There are different types of caste including a group known as outcast, other wise known as the untouchable. They believe that because of their karma of previous life they were place into such caste.Therefore they
humbly accepted their caste hoping to have a better caste in their next life.
humbly accepted their caste hoping to have a better caste in their next life.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Jehovah's Witnesses
Religion is one of the most controversial topics. I found all religions to be very interesting, but the Jehovah's Witness (J.W) religion was the one that interested me the most; their members demonstrate discipline and persistence by going house to house knocking on doors trying to introduce their religion to others. Even when insultedat tines they politely leave, but only to return another day.
The J.W religion was started by a 18 year old man by the name of Charles Taza Russel from Pennsylvania. He was unaccepted of the teaching of eternal hell (the punishment after death by fire) and the telling of Christ. He started this religion giving bible classes teachings that God is a simple person, not a trinity. He also taught that Michael the Archangle was God's first creation and through him the universe including earth, Adam and Eve was created in 42,000 years. Their headquarters is located in Brooklyn, New York. Some of their beliefs are that they are the only earthly true channel of God's truth. They also believe that Jesus was born through Michael the Archangle and when Jesus died he was not crucified on a cross but it was on a tortured stake and that he would then return in 1914 ,and is now reigning in heaven. Heaven is a special place where only a special group of 144,000 J W; those who are born again,giving them immortal life,meaning they do not have resurrected bodies. The others have everlasting life. and will reside after death forever on Paradise earth.
Jehovah Witnesses do not celebrate Xmas or birthdays. They will not accept blood transfusions even in life threatening situations. They are not allowed to vote, salute the flag, sing the national anthem or even join the military. To become a member of this religious group one has to study the religion for at least 6 months, attend weekly meetings and have an extended interview by the Elders. To leave this organization you would be treated as an outcast and you would be shunned by the J W community. This however is a common practice of most religions.
The J.W religion was started by a 18 year old man by the name of Charles Taza Russel from Pennsylvania. He was unaccepted of the teaching of eternal hell (the punishment after death by fire) and the telling of Christ. He started this religion giving bible classes teachings that God is a simple person, not a trinity. He also taught that Michael the Archangle was God's first creation and through him the universe including earth, Adam and Eve was created in 42,000 years. Their headquarters is located in Brooklyn, New York. Some of their beliefs are that they are the only earthly true channel of God's truth. They also believe that Jesus was born through Michael the Archangle and when Jesus died he was not crucified on a cross but it was on a tortured stake and that he would then return in 1914 ,and is now reigning in heaven. Heaven is a special place where only a special group of 144,000 J W; those who are born again,giving them immortal life,meaning they do not have resurrected bodies. The others have everlasting life. and will reside after death forever on Paradise earth.
Jehovah Witnesses do not celebrate Xmas or birthdays. They will not accept blood transfusions even in life threatening situations. They are not allowed to vote, salute the flag, sing the national anthem or even join the military. To become a member of this religious group one has to study the religion for at least 6 months, attend weekly meetings and have an extended interview by the Elders. To leave this organization you would be treated as an outcast and you would be shunned by the J W community. This however is a common practice of most religions.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Religions Originating in India
I found the assigned reading to be fascinating and enlighting. I was unaware that Hinduism is considered to be the oldest of all religions, and perhaps it could be the foundation of most other religions. More surprising to me is the revelation that Hinduism began with the migration of the Aryan people into India. My views on religion has certainly broaden. My belief is that religions were born out of some form of oppression, caused by either environmental or self imposed ritual.
It's amazing to read about the customs and practices that people perform in an effort to offer worship. I'm also amazed by the objects and symbols that civilizations select to call their gods. It's ironic that religion, while intended to create a vehicle, by which one could have peace of mind, and harmony, often times triggers conflicts, confusion, disharmony or even wars. A prime example can be found with the Muslims and the Hindus faith who have always had some kind of tension between them.
It's amazing to read about the customs and practices that people perform in an effort to offer worship. I'm also amazed by the objects and symbols that civilizations select to call their gods. It's ironic that religion, while intended to create a vehicle, by which one could have peace of mind, and harmony, often times triggers conflicts, confusion, disharmony or even wars. A prime example can be found with the Muslims and the Hindus faith who have always had some kind of tension between them.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
assignment
The assignment clearly define some of the religious believes and practices by different groups. Native Americans and Africans have similar religious practices.Worshiping objects that they consider scared.Music and dance have always been an important part of religion of every faith.Rites of passage is also an important part of religion of every culture.
Today religious practices have changed in so many ways. No longer are human sacrifices offered, and the use of peyote is illegal,but every religion continues to practice in it's own unusual way of worship.
Today religious practices have changed in so many ways. No longer are human sacrifices offered, and the use of peyote is illegal,but every religion continues to practice in it's own unusual way of worship.
Belief-O-Matic Quiz
Doing the Belief-O-Matic Survey, I was very surprised that my results showed that my beliefs relected the beliefs of an Orthodox Quaker. I actually did not know what Orthodox Quakers believed before I read about them on the website. I'm surprised we both have similar beliefs. I was able to learn about other religions as well through this quiz. The reason I believe these questions are important is because there are so many unanswered questions regarding religious and nonreligious beliefs in this world today.
My Results:
1.
Orthodox Quaker (100%)
2.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (90%)
3.
Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (83%)
4.
Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (81%)
5.
Jehovah's Witness (72%)
6.
Liberal Quakers (72%)
7.
Eastern Orthodox (72%)
8.
Roman Catholic (72%)
9.
Sikhism (72%)
10.
Unitarian Universalism (70%)
11.
Seventh Day Adventist (69%)
12.
Hinduism (66%)
13.
Orthodox Judaism (66%)
14.
Neo-Pagan (61%)
15.
Islam (56%)
16.
Reform Judaism (56%)
17.
New Age (55%)
18.
Mahayana Buddhism (54%)
19.
Bahá'í Faith (49%)
20.
Jainism (48%)
21.
Theravada Buddhism (46%)
22.
Taoism (43%)
23.
Secular Humanism (42%)
24.
Scientology (35%)
25.
Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (33%)
26.
New Thought (27%)
27.
Nontheist (21%)
My Results:
1.
Orthodox Quaker (100%)
2.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (90%)
3.
Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (83%)
4.
Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (81%)
5.
Jehovah's Witness (72%)
6.
Liberal Quakers (72%)
7.
Eastern Orthodox (72%)
8.
Roman Catholic (72%)
9.
Sikhism (72%)
10.
Unitarian Universalism (70%)
11.
Seventh Day Adventist (69%)
12.
Hinduism (66%)
13.
Orthodox Judaism (66%)
14.
Neo-Pagan (61%)
15.
Islam (56%)
16.
Reform Judaism (56%)
17.
New Age (55%)
18.
Mahayana Buddhism (54%)
19.
Bahá'í Faith (49%)
20.
Jainism (48%)
21.
Theravada Buddhism (46%)
22.
Taoism (43%)
23.
Secular Humanism (42%)
24.
Scientology (35%)
25.
Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (33%)
26.
New Thought (27%)
27.
Nontheist (21%)
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