HRT3M Exam Review PDF

HRT3M Exam Review Overview/Outline: Part A → Multiple Choice → 25 Marks → General overview of all course concepts Part B → Short Answers → 15 Marks → Five short answer questions Part C → Long Answers → 30 Marks → 1 Essay-style answer The Study of Religion Key Terms: Agnostic So...

HRT3M Exam Review Overview/Outline: Part A → Multiple Choice → 25 Marks → General overview of all course concepts Part B → Short Answers → 15 Marks → Five short answer questions Part C → Long Answers → 30 Marks → 1 Essay-style answer The Study of Religion Key Terms: Agnostic Someone who isn’t sure whether God exists or not Atheist Someone who does not believe in any Gods. Monism The idea that everything in the universe comes from a single basic reality or substance. Monotheism The belief that there is only one God. Pantheism The belief that everything in the universe is God, or that God and the universe are the same. Polytheism The belief in or worship of more than one god. Henotheism The belief in one main god while accepting that other gods exist. Questions: 1.​ What is the Worldview and View of God? Name and describe each of the Worldviews/Views of God. ​ A worldview is the way one perceives the world, it is the way we make sense of our objective reality. 1.​ Cosmocentric - nature is god 2.​ Theocentric - god is the centre of life 3.​ Anthropocentric - humans are the centre 4.​ Secular - present day values in centre Hinduism → Many Gods ​ Buddhism → No God ​ Judaism → One God ​ Christianity → One God ​ Islam → One God ​ Sikh → One God ​ Paganism → Many Gods ​ New Age → God is separate from the universe Deism → God outside of the universe 2.​ Interfaith dialogue ​ Interfaith dialogue is intentional and cooperative communication between individuals or groups with different religions or spiritual traditions. ​ Important because to reduce stereotypes/prejudices one may have of other people pertaining to a certain faith, and allow each other to share their beliefs and practices. 3.​ Common themes among religions (Ninian Smart Model) ​ Experiential Experience Dimension (Personal Experience) → Spiritual Moments Doctrinal Dimension (Beliefs) → Belief about God Mythical and Narrative Dimension (Stories) → Creation Stories Material/Artistic Dimension (Physical Objects) → Holy Text Ritual Dimension (Practices) → Prayer ​ Social and Institutional Dimension (Community/Organization) → Church/Leaders Ethical Dimension (Moral Code) → Moral Codes Indigenous Spirituality Key Terms: Great Spirit A powerful being that created the world → also manifests in nature since all life is interconnected by nature Shaman A spiritual leader who uses their power for the benefit of the community → such as: -​ Healing the sick -​ Making rain for farmers Physical and spiritual leader who practices medicine  Tells spiritual teachings to the community through chants Harvest Feast Every year at harvest time, Indigenous people celebrate the harvest -​ Way of recognizing the spirits (of nature) that gave them food and renewed the Earth -​ Celebrated by farmers and was adopted by non-Indigenous → “Thanksgiving” Potlatch Events that mark a significant event in a family such as birth, death or a chief taking office -​ Increase host’s standing in community and allows them to flex their wealth and power Banned by the Indian Act Powwow A dance of renewal -​ Restoring right relationships -​ Healing of all creations Traditionally an opportunity for people to gather and share in cultural celebrations -​ Dancing, feasting and sharing gifts -​ Celebrating one’s identity, heritage and language Dance occurs in a circle → blessed by a spiritual leader so space is holy -​ Dancers enter circle from east (sunrise) and move in clockwise direction – same direction as sun moves Banned by the Indian Act Sacred Pipe -​ Pipe symbolizes unity and harmony of the world -​ Person receives honour of becoming Pipe Carrier by learning cultural teachings from the Elders -​ Ritual is sign of respect and friendship, connecting to Great Spirit -​ Smoking the pipe in a ritual means to give back to the world unity, peace, and harmony -​ Pipe carrier prays that whole universe be transferred to the pipe before lighting it -​ All the pipe contains is then delivered over the fire as pipe is lit → fire is Great Spirit -​ Everything is dissolved in cosmic unity by the Great Spirit Smudging -​ Holy act that is part of many rituals -​ Sacred herbs are burned in a shell or bowl → smoke is then washed over the face, heart and whole body -​ Used to purify people and places -​ Ashes are also holy → will be returned to the Earth in an area where they will not be walked on Questions: 1.​ What is the Worldview and View of God for Indigenous Spirituality? -​ Their world view is world or nature centered → nature expresses the divine (Great Spirit) and full of sacred spirits -​ All life is interconnected due to the Great Spirit being present in nature and inhabiting all things -​ People are part of nature and must honour it → humans do not have control over nature -​ They also believe that a person must pay respect (through rituals and prayer) to the spirit of an animal/plant before taking their life -​ The Earth is understood to have sacred values → humans must care for the Earth 2.​ What are key spiritual rituals practiced by the Indigenous people? Be able to compare them. -​ Smudging -​ Sacred herbs being burnt in a shell or a bowl → smoke is then washed over the face, heart and body -​ Purifying ritual (smoke) -​ Ashes are treated with respect after ritual is done → scattered in place where they will not be walked on -​ Demonstrating respect for the Earth and nature by returning to the Earth and honouring the spirits of plants used in the smudging ritual -​ Sacred Pipe Ceremony -​ Sacred herbs being burnt in a pipe → smoke is then inhaled -​ Symbolizes unity and harmony, as well as to honour the Creator, the Earth and all living beings -​ Two parts: -​ Stone bowl is made from a material like pipestone → considered sacred and connected to Earth and represents the Earth -​ Pipe is made from wood → represents the sky because smoke rises upwards -​ Ceremony usually in peace -​ Sweat Lodge -​ Dome-shaped structures used for prayer and to cleanse the body, mind and heart -​ Represents the womb of Mother Earth  -​ Heated rocks are placed in the lodge and steam is created by sprinkling water during the ceremony -​ Sweat Lodge Keepers lead ceremonies by learning from Elders -​ Can sing, pray, talk or meditate during the ceremony -​ Vision Quest -​ Solitary spiritual experience for young people -​ Prepare a year in advance → only when parents and elders believe they are ready -​ Go without food or sleep until they encounter a spiritual helper -​ Purpose is to accept young people as adults in the community (basically coming-of-age ritual) -​ May give person insight into person’s future life role -​ Sun Dance -​ Purpose is to renew dedication to the Great Spirit -​ Four annual dances -​ 3 Stages: -​ Prepare four days before by purifying -​ Four days of fasting -​ Dancers pierce their body → tear piercings off in dance to symbolize renewal of quest of one’s spirit in life -​ Harvest Feast and Thanksgiving -​ Every year at harvest time, Indigenous people celebrate the harvest -​ Way of recognizing the spirits (of nature) that gave them food and renewed the Earth -​ Celebrated by farmers and was adopted by non-Indigenous → “Thanksgiving” -​ Powwows -​ A dance of renewal -​ Restoring right relationships -​ Healing of all creations -​ Traditionally an opportunity for people to gather and share in cultural celebrations -​ Dancing, feasting and sharing gifts -​ Celebrating one’s identity, heritage and language -​ Dance occurs in a circle → blessed by a spiritual leader so space is holy  -​ Dancers enter circle from east (sunrise) and move in clockwise direction – same direction as sun moves -​ Banned by the Indian Act -​ Potlachs -​ Events that mark a significant event in a family such as birth, death or a chief taking office -​ Increase host’s standing in community and allows them to flex their wealth and power -​ Banned by the Indian Act 3.​ What discrimination do Indigenous people face in Canada? -​ Religious discrimination → Indian Act banned any spiritual ceremonies relating to Indigenous spirituality/faiths -​ Cultural discrimination → Residential schools attempted to assimilate Indigenous children into Canadian society by taking away their culture and language -​ government-funded, church-run institutions aimed at assimilating Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture. -​ Last one closed in 1996, in Saskatchewan due to lack of funding -​ Prime Minister Stephen Harper officially apologized in Parliament on June 11, 2008, -​ Many churches offered their apologies even before Prime Minister Harper. -​ The United Church of Canada offered its first apology in 1986 and again in 1998. -​ In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI expressed his sorrow to a delegation who travelled to Rome for the deplorable treatment that took place in schools. -​ The Truth and Reconciliation Commission called on the Catholic Church to have the Pope make an apology in Canada. That call was renewed more strongly after discovery of unmarked graves across residential schools in Canada, so that true reconciliation could continue. -​ The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops made an apology in September of 2021, and pledged to work for reconciliation, including delegation to Rome. 4.​ What are the Seven Grandfather Teachings? -​ Traditionally Anishinaabe -​ Set of teachings that demonstrates how to live a “good life” -​ Each teaching relates to an animal  -​ 7 Teachings: -​ Wisdom (Beaver) -​ Love (Eagle) -​ Respect (Buffalo) -​ Bravery (Bear) -​ Honesty (Raven) -​ Humility (Wolf) -​ Truth (Turtle) -​ The Anishinaabe, Oji-Cree, Mississaugas, Algonquin, Nipissing, and Potawatomi) use the Seven Grandfather Teachings, which provide guidance for respecting others, the earth, and the animals in order to live a good life. -​ A long time ago, 7 wise and spiritual Grandfathers were concerned with the attitudes and behaviours of humanity. The 7 Grandfathers chose a human representative to pass on their teachings to humankind. This human is known as “The First Elder.” The teachings are represented on Medicine Wheels -​ Each Grandfather Teaching is represented by an animal. Animals have always been greatly respected by the Indigenous peoples. Animals taught humans “how to live close to the earth.” 5.​ What are the Indigenous Spirituality Ethics? -​ Respecting land and the nature -​ All life is connected -​ Taking but also giving back to the land -​ Respecting elders and their teachings -​ Honouring and protecting the community -​ Responsibility to future generations -​ Non-violence 6.​ Who was responsible for operating Residential Schools? -​ Canadian government and Christian churches -​ Passing of Indian Act required Indigenous families to send their children to Residential Schools, where they were attempted to be assimilated into Canadian society by stripping them of their culture and faith Hinduism Key Terms: Ahimsa -​ The principle of doing no harm -​ Because everything is a manifestation of Brahman, to attack any living thing is to attack Brahman → also attacking your own self Avatar -​ Incarnations of a deity are called avatars -​ Vishnu has appeared as a human in nine different avatars -​ Famous avatars are Rama and Krishna → heroes in epics Bhagavad-Gita -​ A sacred Hindu story about Prince Arjuna and Krishna -​ Translation is “song of the blessed one” -​ Important for many Hindu concepts, such as dharma and the yogas Deities -​ Although Hindus believe in one god, they believe that the one god manifests in different forms -​ Each deity is one of many different expressions of the divine → each deity represents a different side of Brahman -​ Many Hindus devote themselves to primarily worshipping a single deity, such as Vishnu or Shiva Diwali -​ Diwali is Hindu festival of light -​ Symbolizes victory of light over darkness/good over evil -​ 5-day celebration Holi -​ Hindu festival that celebrates spring, love and new life -​ “Festival of colours” -​ Dancing, singing and throwing powder paint -​ Celebrates eternal love of the deities Laws of Manu -​ Ancient Hindu text – one of the earliest and most important Hindu laws -​ Describes the caste system and outlines the duties and responsibilities of each caste -​ Emphasizes importance of adhering to one’s dharma -​ Describing rules on marriage and roles of family Mandir -​ A Hindu place of worship (temple) -​ Many shrines for different deities -​ Rituals are performed at the mandir where mantras are sung with traditional Indian music Puja -​ The ritual of worshipping a deity -​ Can be done at home or at a mandir  -​ Usually involves a murti → image of a deity -​ Offerings of food usually involved Ramayana -​ Story of Prince Rama and his wife Sita -​ Hindu epic Upanishad -​ Interpretations of the Vedas added at the end -​ Written in the Upanishadic period -​ Moved Hinduism forward from sacrificial practices to a more philosophical approach to religion Vedas -​ Considered the most important sacred texts in Hinduism -​ Collection of poems and hymns written in Sanskrit -​ Rig, Sama, Yajur and Atharva Vedas Questions: 1.​ Who is the founder of Hinduism? -​ No founder of Hinduism → just origins -​ One of the oldest religions in the world, thousands of years old in the Indian subcontinent -​ Originally called sanatan dharma, or the “way of life” -​ Three periods: -​ Pre-Vedic, about 2500 to 1500 BCE during the Indus River Valley Civilization -​ Vedic, around 1500 to 600 BCE, when the Vedas were written in Sanskrit -​ Upanishadic, around 600 to 200 BCE, when the upanishads were added to the Vedas 2.​ What is the Eternal Life Cycle? Use the following key terms: Samsara, Moksha, Karma, Dharma, Brahman, Atman, and Maya. -​ Samsara is the cycle of birth, death and rebirth in which one’s soul (atman) is trapped in -​ Moksha is the freedom from this cycle, in which the atman is freed from samsara and merged with Brahman and attains ultimate consciousness -​ To attain moksha, good karma is needed -​ By performing good actions and deeds and following one’s dharma (societal responsibilities), one can gain positive karma, which will determine one’s next rebirth  -​ Maya actively stops a person from seeing the “truth” and attaining consciousness → ways in which a person can get focused on their existence and become self-centered -​ By overcoming maya, one can attain moksha (along with good karma) 3.​ The Caste System -​ Traditional social hierarchy described in the Laws of Manu and the Rig Veda -​ Categorizes society into four varnas (classes) based on their roles and responsibilities -​ Over time, system became more rigid and evolved into a hereditary system 1)​ Brahmins -​ Traditionally teachers, priests and scholars -​ Responsible for religious knowledge and guiding others in spirituality 2)​ Kshatriyas -​ Traditionally warriors and rulers -​ Tasked with protecting society and maintaining law and order 3)​ Vaishyas -​ Traditionally merchants and farmers -​ Responsible for trade, agriculture and supporting the economy 4)​ Shudras -​ Traditionally labourers and servicers -​ Responsible for assisting other varnas and engaging in manual work 5)​ Dalits/Untouchables -​ Historically faced severe discrimination -​ Term of “dalit” coined by Mahatma Gandhi, means “sons of God” -​ Assigned takes deemed impure for humans, such as handling waste or dead bodies -​ Improving their social standing has been part of significant social reform in India -​ System was used by the British Empire to easily govern India → straightforward system BKVSD 4.​ Significant events in Mahatma Gandhi’s life: How was he a social and religious revolutionary? -​ Studied law in London, where explored world religions, especially Hinduism -​ Emphasized the principle of non-violence (ahimsa), using that for massive peaceful protests  -​ Did this in South Africa to protest discrimination against Indians -​ Frequently jailed due to his participation in protests -​ Salt march in 1930 against the British salt tax -​ Worked to prevent and resolve violence between Hindus and Muslims in India → would fast every time violence occurred until it stopped -​ Rejected the caste system and believed discrimination against the untouchables were wrong 5.​ Hindu Trimurti/Tridevi/Triad (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva) -​ Brahma is the creator of the universe -​ Considered above worship → therefore not many temples dedicated to worshiping Brahma -​ Vishnu is the preserver -​ Often descends to Earth in human form as avatars to maintain order and save the world from destruction -​ Shiva is the destroyer of the universe -​ Also the redeemer → destroys the sins of his followers to lead to them to redemption -​ Destroys the universe in order for it to be reincarnated 6.​ Creator God -​ Brahman is the power that sustains the universe → manifests in everything because everything is one consciousness -​ Consciousness is everything → for Hindus, by going beyond their thoughts and feelings (overcoming maya) they will discover their true selves → called atman Buddhism Key Terms: Buddha Founder of the religion Dali Lama Believed to be reincarnation of the Buddha Dharma Day Holiday dedicated to the Buddha and his first sermon in the Deer Park at Sarnath  Dukkha The suffering in life Enlightenment Experience of true reality, an “awakening” through which one could comprehend the true nature of things Nirvana Frees us from samsara, ultimate goal for buddhists Sutra Ancient scriptures → records of oral teachings of the Buddha Tripitaka Also called the Pali Canon → means “three baskets” Vinaya, Sutta and Abhidhamma Pitakas contain the Buddha’s teachings, as well as other theories and teachings of Buddhism in general. Vesak celebrates life of Siddhartha Gautama Zen meditation branch of Mahayana, simplicity, nature, discipline Questions: 1.​ Who is Siddhartha Gautama? Describe his early life/experiences that led him to leave his family. Siddhartha Gautama, later known as the Buddha, was born into a royal family in Nepal around the 6th to 5th century BCE. Raised in luxury by his father, who sought to shield him from suffering, Siddhartha lived a sheltered life until he encountered the "four sights": an old man, a sick person, a dead body, and a wandering ascetic. These sights deeply disturbed him, making him realize that suffering, aging, and death are inevitable parts of life. Motivated by a desire to find a way to end suffering, he left his family and royal life behind in what is known as "The Great Renunciation," setting off in search of enlightenment. While not a sudden "conversion experience," these encounters initiated his spiritual quest to find a path to liberation. 2.​ The Three Jewels Buddha - Siddhartha Gautama, the founder Dharma - The Buddha’s teachings Sangha - The Buddhist community 3.​ Three Marks of Existence / Three Levels of Existence Anicca - Everything is impermanent Dukkha - Suffering in life Anatta - There is no self (or underlying human soul) 4.​ Four Noble Truths Life is full of suffering Suffering is caused by desires To remove suffering, remove desires Follow eightfold path to remove desires 5.​ Noble Eightfold Path Right ➔​ View ➔​ Intention ➔​ speech ➔​ Action ➔​ Livelihood ➔​ Effort ➔​ Concentration ➔​ Mindfulness VISALECM 6.​ Five Precepts No killing No stealing No sexual abuse No dishonesty No alcohol and drugs 7.​ How does one achieve salvation in Buddhism? -​ Understanding the Four Noble Truths -​ Following the Eightfold Path -​ Practicing meditation and mindfulness -​ Letting go of materialistic desires 8.​ The Middle Way  ​ Refers to the Buddha’s enlightened view of life and also the actions or attitudes that will create happiness for oneself and others. -​ Following the Eightfold Path -​ Avoids the extreme indulgence in pleasures, while avoiding the extreme ascetic practices (such as fasting for 40 days) -​ Middle way because it balances the needs in life and spiritual practices 9.​ The main branches of Buddhism: Mahayana, Theravada, Vajrayana, Zen Different types of sects of Buddhism Question Mahayana Theravada Vajrayana (185 000 000) (124 000 000) (20 000 000) Where is this branch of China, Japan, Tibet, Burma, cambodia, laos, Tibet, southwest china, Buddhism located? Mongolia thailand bhutan, mongolia How close is this They accepted changes that They stick to the original Stick to original teachings, branch of Buddhism to were made to the religion teachings of the buddha add some (secret teachings) the original teachings after buddha's death claiming that only they can of the Buddha? understand them What does this branch They see Siddhartha They see siddhartha as the The source of all wisdom think about Siddartha Gautama as one of many best buddha that all of us and buddhahood Gautama? buddhas should follow Who does this branch Anyone can achieve nirvana, Only monks and nuns can Monks-and perhaps some think can achieve not just monks and nuns achieve nirvana because they ‘laity’, if they become NIRVANA? live monastic lives monks What is this branch's Compassion - the main value Wisdom - the monk Wisdom - and, spiritual main VALUE? is to help others, The best experiences nirvana filly exploration/practice through buddhas are bodhisattvas when he or she dies. An Arhat rigorous meditation, who have achieved is when a worthy one who has wisdom and understanding enlightenment but have come reached rivana and is no are achieved back to help other people longer available to followers achieve nirvana Does this branch accept They accept prayer and They reject prayer and rituals Fully accepted prayers and rituals? rituals in their religion Concept of Deities There are many incarnations There are no incarnations The Dalai Lama - is a of buddha coming back to the reincarnation of the Buddha world to help people of compassion. Spiritual leader of Tibet Judaism Key Terms: Abraham The patriarch of the Israelites (start of the Jewish people) Anti-Semitism The practice of discrimination against Jewish people – very common in history -​ Started during Roman Empire due to spread of Christianity because of Jews’ perception of Jesus compared to those of Christians -​ In the 18th and 19th century, religious anti-Judaism became actual racial discrimination -​ The Nazis in the 1930s to 1940s Hanukkah -​ 8 days of celebration in November/December -​ Celebrating the recovery of Jerusalem and the rededication of the Second Temple -​ A menorah, a nine-branched candle representing the eight days of Hanukkah Passover -​ 7-8 days of celebration in March/April -​ Celebrating liberation from Egyptian slavery Purim -​ Holy day celebrated in February/March -​ Celebrating Queen Esther’s part in ensuring the survival of the Jewish people Rosh Hashanah -​ Jewish New Year -​ Celebrated in September/October -​ Sounding of the shofar, a ram’s horn, to herald the beginning of the new year -​ Jews celebrate by recalling how God created the heavens and Earth Talmud -​ Central text of Judaism -​ A guide on Jewish religious law and theology Torah -​ Teachings of judaism, recited at bar/bat mitzvahs and services -​ Old Testament in the Bible -​ Read on a bimah in a synagogue  -​ Stored in a torah ark Yom Kippur -​ Day of repentance -​ 10 days of Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur -​ Jews fast and seek reconciliation with God by atoning for sins against others Shabbat -​ Most sacred day for Jews -​ Begins at sunset on Friday and ends at sundown on Saturday -​ Can’t do any work on that day (supposed to spend time with family) Questions: 1.​ Who is Moses? What are the Ten Commandments? He led the jews out of Egypt and slavery. The ten commandments are moral and ethical laws said to Moses by God on top of Mount Sinai 2.​ Branches of Judaism: Reform, Conservative, Orthodox Reform: Uses new teachings/more progressive Conservative: Uses old and new teachings/semi-progressive Orthodox: Only old teachings/conservative 3.​ What is Tanakh? Explain each part. -​ Collection of Jewish scriptures, also known as the Hebrew Bible -​ Torah is composed of five books -​ Old Testament of the Bible -​ Nevi’im contains the books of the prophets -​ Historical narratives and moral teachings -​ Ketuvim contains written literature (poetry) -​ Wide range of content 4.​ What is kashrut and what are the moral reasons why Jews eat kosher foods? -​ Kashrut are Jewish dietary rules from the Torah that outline which foods Jews are and aren’t allowed to eat -​ Land animals must have split hooves and chew their cud (cows, sheep, goats)  -​ Sea creatures must have fins and scales (salmon, tuna) -​ Birds of prey and scavengers are forbidden → chicken, turkey and duck are allowed -​ Pork and shellfish are not allowed -​ Animals must be properly slaughtered in a humane and specific manner to minimize suffering -​ Blood must be fully drained from the meat -​ Belief that some foods are impure and must not interact with impure things → way to sanctify themselves and let God into their lives 5.​ What lessons can be learned from the Holocaust? Hitler blamed the great depression on the Jews and blamed many other problems on them. We must never assume anything about any religion and always be inclusive -​ Stereotyping -​ Promoting religious equity 6.​ List and describe all Jewish symbols and sacred objects -​ Star of David: Six-pointed star that is formed from two overlapping triangles -​ 7 spaces which is important → seven is important number -​ Menorah: Seven-branched candle holder representing the seven days of creation -​ Torah Scroll: The five books of Moses are inscribed onto a parchment made by a kosher animal’s skin -​ Mezuzah: Container with verse inside: “Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one”. As Jews enter synagogue, they touch the container then touch their lips to remind themselves of God -​ Shofar: Ram’s horn blown as a celebration of God’s Creation on Rosh Hashanah, used as a call to prayer on special days -​ Kippah/Yamallit: Skull cap that is embroidered and worn as respect for God → reminder that God is watching over, worn by male Orthodox Jews -​ Tallit: Prayer robe/shawl made of silk/wool with 613 tassels on the fringe for the 613 Commandments, worn during prayer and at mourning synagogue services -​ Tefillin: Leather strap with two leather boxes attached (one on heart and one on forehead) containing quotes from the Torah, worn during prayer to represent God in the mind and the heart 7.​ List and describe different Jewish life cycle rituals.  -​ Brit Milah/Bris: Circumcision performed eight days after the birth of a son, also the time when the baby is given a Hebrew name. Female version is called simchat bat -​ Marriage: Marriage contract is signed between bride and groom -​ Death: When a parent dies, a son recites the kaddish, a special prayer of sanctification in the synagogue every morning and evening for 11 months after death Christianity Key Terms: Council of Jerusalem discuss the status of Gentile believers in the church​ Council of Nicea a council of Christian bishops convened in the Bithynian city of Nicaea (now İznik, Turkey) by the Roman Emperor Constantine I, intended to address the entire body of believers. It was convened by the emperor Constantine to resolve the controversy of Arianism, where nicene creed was created​ ​ Council of Trent met to define the doctrines of the Catholic Church​ ​ Nicene Creed a statement of Christian faith, established at the First Council of Nicaea, affirming the belief in the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and the divinity of Jesus Christ, asserting key doctrines of the Church. Questions: 1.​ Describe the early years of Christianity. Who founded Christianity? Jesus founded christianity, but St Peter and St Paul were also credited with creation helping spread the faith. In the early years, many disapproved of it, and killed people for believing in it. The early years of Christianity, beginning with the life and resurrection of Jesus (c. 30 CE), saw his followers, led by apostles like Peter and Paul, spread his teachings throughout the Roman Empire. Despite facing persecution, especially under emperors like Nero and Diocletian, Christianity grew rapidly, with communities forming in key cities and the New Testament writings shaping early Christian doctrine. By the early 4th century, Christianity's influence had significantly expanded, culminating in its legalization under Emperor Constantine in 313 CE. 2.​ Provide four reasons for the Great Schism of 1054 CE. -​ Nicene Creed: The Filioque clause was added. which stated that the Holy Spirit proceeded from the Father and Son. Orthodox church rejected the addition because they said it was an unauthorized addition -​ Authority of the Pope: The Roman Catholic Church claimed that the Pope, Bishop of Rome held supreme authority over all Christians, but Eastern Orthodox Church rejected the authority, saying the Patriarch of Constantinople held the same amount of authority -​ Language Differences: Roman Catholic Church used Latin, while Eastern Orthodox Church used Greek -​ Territorial Disputes: Disagreements over control over regions like Italy and the Balkans due to Byzantine and Roman Empire clashing. 3.​ How do the Western & Eastern Church differ? -​ Different leaders: Pope (Roman Catholic Church) vs Patriarch/decentralized authority (Eastern Orthodox Church) -​ Original sin: Roman Catholic Church believes that everyone is born with sin and baptism is required for cleansing, while Eastern Orthodox Church believes that it is a tendency to sin rather than being born with sin -​ Doctrines: Eastern Orthodox Church rejects purgatory and indulgences -​ Icons vs Statues: Roman Catholic Church uses statues and other three-dimensional art in worship, Eastern Orthodox Church uses icons, two-dimensional paintings 4.​ What are the reasons for the Protestant Reformation? Who initiated these protests? -​ Corruption in the Church → selling indulgences (people like Johann Tetzel) -​ Many Christians questioned the Church’s teachings and practices – sacraments, authority of the Pope and emphasis on actions over faith -​ Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of Wittenberg Castle Church in 1517 → criticized sale of indulgences and emphasized doctrines -​ Bible and faith alone are enough, no sacraments -​ John Calvin emphasized predestination (God determines who goes to heaven and hell, no actions will ever change that) 5.​ How did the Catholic Church respond to the Protestant Reformation? -​ Catholic Reformation in 1545-1563, known as the Council of Trent -​ Affirmed Catholic doctrines while rejecting Protestant principles  -​ Standardized mass (known as Tridentine Mass) -​ Mandated better education for priests and higher moral standards amongst clergy 6.​ What differentiates Protestant Christianity from Roman Catholic Christianity? -​ Protestants believe the Bible is the ultimate authority in Christianity, not the Pope, while Catholics believe that the Pope interprets the Bible and both the Bible and the Pope hold authority -​ Protestants believe that faith in Jesus Christ alone is enough for salvation, while Catholics believe that works (your actions) are more important that your faith -​ Protestant only believe in two sacraments: baptism and the eucharist, while Catholics believe in seven sacraments -​ Protestants do not pray to Mary and the saints, only honouring her as the mother of Jesus, while saints are viewed as historical figures. 7.​ What are the four foundation stones of Christianity? -​ Faith in Jesus -​ The Bible -​ Salvation -​ Holy Trinity Islam Key Terms: Allah Islamic god​ ​ Eid Al-Fitr The three-day Feast after Ramadan ends. Often called the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast. -​ Marked by special family meals and gift-giving Eid Al-Adha The sacrifice of Ibrahim (Abraham) is commemorated. -​ He was commanded to sacrifice his son as a test of faith. Imam A Muslim leader of prayer and giver of sermons in the mosque -​ Similar to a priest  Islam An Abrahamic monotheistic religion centered on the Quran and the teachings of Muhammad, the religion's founder. Muslim People who adhere to Islam Qur’an The central religious text of Islam, believed by Muslims to be a revelation directly from God.​ Organized into 114 chapters which consist of individual verses. Ramadan The month in which Muhammad first received the divine message of Allah. Marks the beginning of the Qur’an. -​ Fasting takes place Shariah Law The ideal law of God, as interpreted by Muslim scholars over centuries, aimed toward justice, fairness, and mercy. Questions: 1.​ Who is Muhammad? When/Where is he from? What was his ‘conversion’ experience? Muhammad is a prophet who wrote the Qur’an straight from the word of Allah through the angel Gabriel. He was born is 570 CE (Five centuries after Jesus) and was born in Mecca. His conversion experience was when he was 40, he went to a mountain cave and the Angel Gabriel spoke to him and recited words of Allah. This was the first revelation and every since then sayings of Allah were spoken to Muhammad. 2.​ How and when did Muhammad receive revelations? ​ Muhammad was meditating in a cave on Mount Hira when he saw the Angel Jibril and commanded him to recite the words before him. He continued to recite the message to his people. He received the revelations in 609 CE. 3.​ What role does Abraham have in Islam? He is a leader of Islam and a patriarch of the Islamic faith. He built the Kaaba which was sent down by Allah with his son Ishmael. 4.​ Name and explain the five pillars of Islam. The First Pillar: Creed  -​ There is only one God and only Allah should be worshipped. -​ One has to say the Shahadah in front of two witnesses to be considered a Muslim The Second Pillar: Prayer -​ Salat → the ritual prayer of praise and adoration of God that are required 5 times a day. Bows on hands and knees -​ Prayer can take place anywhere as long as it is clean. -​ Du’a → private prayer throughout the day. The Third Pillar: Almsgiving -​ Sakat → asks believers to give to those in need. -​ Muslims are asked if able too, to donate to charities or a mosque. -​ Helps to share the wealth in a muslim society more fairly. The Fourth Pillar: Fasting -​ Sawm → takes place during Ramadan, the month Muhammad first received the divine message of Allah. -​ During daylight hours, expected to abstain from food, water, evil thoughts, drinking, smoking, and sex. -​ On the evening of Ramadan, people gather to break the day’s fast with a light meal and merriment. -​ Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr. The Fifth Pillar: Pilgrimage -​ Hajj → A once a lifetime trip to Kaaba in Mecca. -​ It is the largest annual pilgrimage in the world and filled with symbolic rituals that recall events from the time of Abraham and Muhammad. -​ A time for Muslims to strive to live honestly and holy to focus on Allah. -​ They wear clothing called Irham and must circle the Kaaba 7 times. Faithfulness to the Five Pillars reveals a Muslims devotion to God. 5.​ What is the difference between Sunni and Shi’ite Muslims? ​ Shitte (Shias): (Conservative) -​ Believe that Islamic leaders must be ancestors of Muhammad -​ Believe that God inspires leaders -​ Most Shias live in Iran -​ Fewer Shittes than Sunnis Sunni: (Liberal)  -​ Believe in elections for a leader (democratic) -​ Represents and makes up the majority of Muslims -​ Primarily found in the Arab world and Indonesia 6.​ What is the Islamic view of Jesus? -​ Jesus is a revered prophet who plays a special role in what has happened and what is to come. -​ To Muslims he was not the son of God. -​ They accept Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary. 7.​ How many names are there for Allah? Traditionally there are 99 names of Allah. 8.​ Describe life cycle rituals.​ Ritual Description Birth (Becoming -​ One becomes Muslim by believing that Allah is the only God and that Muslim) Muhammad is God’s last messenger/prophet. -​ When converted to Muslim, they may choose a new name. -​ It is expected if the previous name is reflective of a specific religion. -​ All babies are born Muslim -​ No initiation ritual for babies -​ Baby is washed and whispered the Adhan (Call to prayer) -​ 1 week later is the naming ceremony Marriage -​ Marriage is just a contract -​ Two families have to work together for an agreement and have a ceremony involving prayer. -​ It is expected that the agreement is faith-based and will be permanent -​ Each must give consent for marriage even if it is arranged or not -​ No age limit for marriage -​ Kids can be married if the country's law permits -​ Islam forbids the girl from living with her husband until she is mature enough for marital sexual relations. Divorce -​ Not encouraged -​ Permitted if couples exhaust all other options  -​ Qur’an explains the procedure and requirements Death -​ Not the final step for Muslims -​ Encourages the body of the deceased to be buried asap -​ Often buried on the same day of death and at the nearest location -​ The dead body is washed in preparation for meeting God -​ Body is shrouded in cloth to cover private areas -​ Body is then prayed over. -​ Only men accompany the body to the grave site -​ The body is buried without a coffin -​ If permitted by law, the head points south with the feet north and face towards Mecca -​ Plot area is raised so people dont walk over top of the grave. -​ Lot markers are very small 9.​ Explain the significance of Halal and Haram. Provide examples. ​ Halal is the food that is permitted by Islamic law. -​ Milk and eggs -​ Fish with scales -​ All vegetables ​ Haram is the food that is prohibited by Islamic law. -​ Alcohol -​ Pork Short/Long Answer 1.​ Why is it important to have interfaith dialogue? Why do Christian Churches stress the importance of Ecumenism? -​ It is important to have interfaith dialogue because interfaith dialogue promotes cooperation between different faiths, as well as allowing people to understand other religions and how they can resolve conflicts. Christian Churches stress the importance of Ecumenism because of the amount of denominations of the Christian faith there are. By holding Ecumenical Councils, different Christian denominations can work together to affirm doctrines of the Church, also because Jesus said there be one Church. 2.​ For each of the World Religions studied throughout this course, describe each religion’s ‘view of God’ and ‘worldview.’ -​ Hinduism views God as one and everything, but also believes in many deities as different aspects of that one God. Therefore, their religion has elements of both pantheism, polytheism and henotheism (worshipping one deity). Their worldview is that the world is something to “escape” from, in the form of moksha from samsara -> therefore is theocentric. -​ Buddhism does not believe in a “God”, instead believes in a higher state in which there is no dukkha (suffering). Therefore, their religion is monistic as well as atheist. -​ Islam believes in a single God, therefore is monotheistic and also theocentric. -​ Indigenous spirituality revolves around the idea of nature and God being one, therefore is cosmocentric as well as monotheistic. -​ Judaism is monotheistic, much like Christianity. They both view God as the source of life, so both are theocentric. 3.​ Name and explain how sectarianism (i.e. divisions within the religion) exists within each of the major world religions studied this semester. What are the common themes among the religions? Is it politics or doctrine that causes these divisions? -​ Christianity -​ Catholicism, Lutheranism, and Protestantism, etc -​ Dispute over theology -​ Authority conflict (Regarding the Pope’s role) -​ Historical events -​ Islam -​ Sunni, Shia, etc -​ Leadership dispute after the death of Muhammad -​ Differences in religious practices -​ Judaism -​ Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, etc -​ Variations in adherence to Jewish law -​ Diverging views on tradition and scripture -​ Hinduism -​ Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, etc  -​ Worship of different deities -​ Cultural differences -​ Buddhism -​ Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana, etc -​ Differences in scripture, practices, and interpretations of Buddha’s teachings -​ Cultural differences of each Buddhist region (China, Tibet, etc) -​ Politics causes these divisions 4.​ Apply themes such as good and evil, repentance, sacrifice, unity and harmony, thanksgiving, faith, hope, and love. Demonstrate how some festivals share the above themes. -​ Christianity -​ Christmas -​ Faith (Belief in the birth of Jesus) -​ Hope (Coming of Christ) -​ Love -​ Islam -​ Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) -​ Thanksgiving -​ Repentance -​ Unity and Harmony -​ Judaism -​ Passover -​ Faith -​ Thanksgiivng -​ Good and Evil -​ Hinduism -​ Diwali -​ Good and Evil -​ Hope -​ Unity and Harmony -​ Buddhism -​ Vesak -​ Faith  -​ Repentance -​ Unity and Harmony -​ Indigenous -​ Inti Raymi -​ Thanksgiving -​ Faith -​ Unity and Harmony 5.​ A simpler way of comparing world religions is by examining each religion’s view of God (the ultimate reality) and its view of the afterlife and salvation (the ultimate goal). How are the Eastern religions distinct from the Western religions in this regard? -​ 6.​ The Western religions are referred to as the “monotheistic” religions. At the same time, eastern religions are seen as polytheist—is this accurate? Can the term “monotheistic”' apply to the religions of Hinduism and Buddhism? Why or why not? -​ 7.​ Each religion studied this semester has a set of values (i.e. Ten Commandments, Noble Eightfold Path, etc.) that are emphasized. Compare and contrast each set of values. What is the purpose of these values? -​ 8.​ “A religious leader is a person whose experience of the sacred transforms the people and the society around them.” -​ 9.​ Clearly explain how this statement applies to any three or more of the religious leaders we studied (e.g. Muhammad, Jesus, Siddhartha Gautama, Dalai Lama or Mahatma Gandhi). You must make 10 valid points. -​ 10.​ Explore themes such as selflessness, wisdom, fortitude, humility, community, sacrifice, and temperance in all of the religions studied this semester. -​