Introduction To World Religions & Belief Systems PDF

Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY...

Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE INTRODUCTION TO WORLD RELIGIONS AND BELIEF SYSTEMS For Grade 11 and 12 HUMSS and GAS Students By: Edenthor J. Tiempo Course Description: “The course explores the main tenets and practices of major world religions: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Theravada Buddhism, Mahayana Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and Shintoism. It aims to help learners understand the historical contexts of nine religions, appreciate their uniqueness and similarities and promote mutual understanding among believers of different faiths. They are expected to demonstrate understanding and appreciation of one’s faith and that of others.” Number of Hours: 80 Exploring the Main Tenets and Practices of Major World Religions and Beliefs Systems The course on major world religions: (i) for Abrahamic Religions – Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, (ii) for Dharmic Religions – Hinduism and Buddhism: a. Theravada Buddhism, b. Mahayana Buddhism, and c. Vajrayana Buddhism, (iii) for Daoic Religions – Confucianism, Taoism (Daoism), and Shintoism, and belief systems: (i) Sikhism, (ii) Zoroastrianism, and (iii) others —aims to deepen learners' understanding of the historical contexts, unique features, and shared values of these faiths. It also promotes mutual understanding and respect among believers of different faiths and belief systems. The terms "faith" and "belief" are often used interchangeably, but they can carry nuanced differences, especially in philosophical, theological, and everyday contexts. Here’s a breakdown of the distinctions: "FAITH" VS "BELIEF" 1. Definition Belief: A belief is an acceptance that something is true or exists, often based on evidence, experience, or reasoning. Beliefs can be about anything, including facts, concepts, values, or specific claims. For example, one can believe in the existence of historical events, scientific theories, or social principles. Faith: Faith typically refers to a strong trust or confidence in something, especially in a religious or spiritual context. While faith can involve belief, it often connotes a deeper, more personal commitment and assurance, which may not require empirical evidence. Faith is often associated with a relationship with the divine or a higher power. 2. Nature Belief: Belief can be more intellectual and can change based on new information or reasoning. This can be held with varying degrees of certainty and can be more spontaneous or reflective. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 1 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Faith: Faith involves a more emotional or existential dimension. It often implies a commitment or trust that persists even in uncertainty or adversity. Faith is often seen as a choice to trust or believe in something greater. 3. Context Belief: In secular contexts, belief may relate to philosophical or scientific ideas. For instance, someone might believe in the Big Bang Theory or in democracy. Faith: In religious or spiritual contexts, faith is vital for practice and devotion. For example, many religions emphasize faith in God or the divine as essential to spiritual life. 4. Challenges and Doubts Belief: People often question or change their beliefs in light of new evidence or arguments. Doubts can lead to re-evaluation of beliefs. Faith: Faith may involve grappling with doubt but often is defined by the conviction that persists despite doubts or challenges. Many religious traditions teach that faith can coexist with uncertainty. 5. Examples Belief: A person might believe that exercise is beneficial for health based on studies and personal experience. Faith: A religious person may have faith that God has a plan for him or her, even in difficult times when he or she cannot see evidence of that plan. After all, while belief constitutes the acceptance of something as true, faith often encompasses a deeper, more trusting relationship with that truth, especially in spiritual contexts. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 2 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Kindly follow along with our discussions on Religion, Spirituality, the Philosophy of Religion, and TheologyHere’s a breakdown of the terms "Religion," "Spirituality," "Philosophy of Religion," and "Theology," including their etymological meanings, definitions, and examples: 1. Religion Etymology: The term "religion" comes from the Latin word religio, which is thought to derive from religare, meaning "to bind" or "to tie together." This implies a connection or bond between humanity and the divine, or among members of a faith community. Definition: Religion is an organized system of beliefs, practices, rituals, and symbols that relate to the sacred or divine. It often involves communal worship and adherence to a moral code as prescribed by sacred texts or religious authorities. Examples: Christianity: A monotheistic religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, focusing on salvation and eternal life through faith and practice. Islam: A monotheistic religion centered around the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as revealed in the Quran, emphasizing submission to the will of Allah. Hinduism: A polytheistic religion with a diverse range of practices and beliefs, including karma, dharma, and the cycle of rebirth. 2. Spirituality Etymology: The word "spirituality" derives from the Latin spiritualitas, which is related to spiritus, meaning "breath" or "spirit." This emphasizes the intangible and life-giving aspect of spirituality, connected to the soul or inner self. Definition: Spirituality refers to a personal, subjective experience of the sacred or transcendent. It often involves seeking meaning, purpose, and connection to something greater than oneself, which may or may not be tied to a specific religious tradition. Examples: Meditation practices: Engaging in meditation to connect with the inner self, achieve peace, or attain enlightenment, often seen in Buddhism and New Age practices. Nature worship: Finding spiritual significance and connection with the divine through nature, common in indigenous traditions and modern eco- spirituality. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 3 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Contemplative prayer: A form of prayer that focuses on quieting the mind and deepening one’s relationship with God, often practiced in Christian mysticism. 3. Philosophy of Religion Etymology: The term "philosophy" comes from the Greek philosophia, meaning "love of wisdom." Combined with "religion," it implies a disciplined inquiry into the nature and concepts of religion. Definition: The philosophy of religion is the branch of philosophy that examines the nature of religion, including its concepts, arguments, and practices. It involves critical analysis of religious beliefs, the existence of God, the nature of faith, and the problem of evil. Examples: The Problem of Evil: Philosophical debates on how to reconcile the existence of evil with an omnipotent, omnibenevolent God. Arguments for the Existence of God: Philosophical arguments such as the Cosmological Argument, Ontological Argument, and Teleological Argument. Faith and Reason: The study of the relationship between faith and reason, exploring whether religious beliefs can be justified through rational inquiry. 4. Theology Etymology: The word "theology" comes from the Greek theologia, which is a combination of theos (God) and logos (study, word, or discourse). Thus, theology means "the study or discourse about God." Definition: Theology is the systematic study of the nature of the divine, religious beliefs, and the practice of faith. It often involves interpreting sacred texts, exploring doctrines, and understanding the relationship between God and humanity. Examples: Systematic Theology: A branch of theology that seeks to articulate the coherent system of beliefs, such as the doctrines of the Trinity, salvation, and eschatology in Christianity. Biblical Theology: The study of the themes and narratives of the Bible, exploring how they reveal God's nature and plan for humanity. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 4 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Comparative Theology: The study of different religious theologies, comparing doctrines, rituals, and beliefs across various religions. These terms, though interconnected, address different aspects of belief, practice, and the understanding of the divine, each offering a unique lens through which to explore religious experience and thought. 5. Belief System Etymology: Belief: From Old English belȳfan, meaning "to hold dear, esteem, trust," which comes from Proto-Germanic ga-laubjan (to believe), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European leubh- (to care, desire, love). System: From Latin systema, meaning "an organized whole, a body of connected parts," which comes from Greek systēma, meaning "organized whole, composition." Definition: Belief System is a structured set of principles or tenets that an individual or group holds as true. These principles guide behavior, influence decisions, and shape an individual's or a group's understanding of the world. Belief systems can be religious, philosophical, cultural, or personal and often provide a framework for interpreting experiences and making sense of life's big questions. Examples: Religious Belief Systems: Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, which provide a set of doctrines about divinity, morality, and the afterlife. Philosophical Belief Systems: Stoicism, existentialism, utilitarianism, which offer perspectives on ethics, existence, and the nature of happiness. Cultural Belief Systems: Confucianism in East Asia, Ubuntu in Southern Africa, which influence societal values, community relationships, and cultural practices. Personal Belief Systems: An individual's belief in the importance of honesty, environmental sustainability, or self-improvement as guiding principles in their life. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 5 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE 6. Worldview Etymology: World: From Old English woruld, meaning "human existence, the affairs of life," derived from Proto-Germanic weraldi- (age of man). View: From Middle English veu, meaning "a sight, a seeing," which comes from Old French veu (view, perspective), ultimately from Latin videre (to see). Definition: Worldview is the overall perspective through which an individual or group interprets and interacts with the world. It encompasses beliefs about the nature of reality, human nature, morality, purpose, and the meaning of life. A worldview shapes how a person understands their place in the world, how they relate to others, and how they respond to various life circumstances. Examples: Secular Humanism: A worldview that emphasizes human reason, ethics, and justice, rejecting the supernatural and focusing on human welfare and progress. Materialism: The belief that only physical matter exists, and that all phenomena, including consciousness, can be explained through material interactions. Animism: The belief that all objects, places, and creatures possess a spiritual essence, often found in indigenous cultures around the world. Scientific Naturalism: A worldview that holds that the natural world is all that exists and that it can be understood through scientific inquiry and empirical evidence. Comparison: Belief System: A more specific set of tenets or doctrines, often within a particular area such as religion or philosophy. Worldview: A broader perspective that integrates various belief systems into a cohesive understanding of the world and life itself. In essence, a worldview can encompass multiple belief systems, acting as a broader framework that shapes how an individual or group interprets everything from day-to-day experiences to existential questions. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 6 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Understanding of Belief System, Worldview, Religion, Spirituality, Philosophy of Religion, and Theology. 1. Belief System: A belief system is a collection of ideas, values, and convictions that shape an individual's or a group's perspective on various aspects of life, such as existence, morality, and the nature of reality. It encompasses a set of interconnected beliefs that guide an individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Belief systems can be based on religious, philosophical, or spiritual foundations and may include beliefs about the supernatural, the nature of human existence, and the purpose of life. 2. Worldview: A worldview is a comprehensive framework through which an individual or a group interprets and understands their surroundings, experiences, and interactions with the world. It is a more encompassing concept than a belief system, as it includes not only specific beliefs but also the underlying assumptions, values, and attitudes that shape one's perception of reality. A worldview influences how people make decisions, interact with others, and perceive their place in the world. It is shaped by various factors such as culture, upbringing, education, and personal experiences. 3. Religion: Religion refers to an organized system of beliefs, ceremonies, and rules used to worship a supernatural power or deity or group of deities. It often provides a set of moral principles and values that guide individuals and communities in their daily lives. Religions typically involve practices such as prayer, rituals, and participation in a religious community. 4. Spirituality: Spirituality is a more personal and individual exploration of one's beliefs, values, and connection to a higher power, force, or consciousness. It often involves introspection, self-discovery, and a search for meaning and purpose in life. Spirituality can be experienced through various practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and contemplation, and it may not necessarily be tied to a specific organized religion. 5. Philosophy of Religion: Philosophy of Religion is a branch of philosophy that examines the nature of religion, its role in human life, and the existence and attributes of a divine being or beings. It involves critical thinking, reasoning, and analysis of various religious concepts, arguments, and beliefs. Philosophy of Religion often explores topics such as the problem of evil, the nature of religious experience, the meaning of prayer, and the relationship between religion and science. 6. Theology: Theology is the systematic study of religious beliefs, doctrines, and practices. It involves the interpretation and analysis of sacred texts, religious history, and the teachings of religious leaders. Theology can be divided into various branches, such as biblical theology, historical theology, and systematic theology. It is often associated with specific religious traditions, as it aims to understand and explain the beliefs and practices of a particular religion. Belief System vs. Worldview Belief System primarily focuses on specific beliefs that individuals or groups hold about various aspects of life, such as existence, morality, and the nature of reality. It is narrower in scope and revolves around a set of interconnected convictions that guide thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Worldview, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive framework that encompasses not only specific beliefs but also the underlying assumptions, values, and attitudes that shape one's perception of reality. It influences decision-making, interactions, and one's sense of place in the world. While a belief system is part of a worldview, a worldview also includes non-belief components such as attitudes and assumptions. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 7 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Religion vs. Spirituality Religion is an organized system of beliefs, practices, and rituals centered around the worship of a supernatural power or deity or group of deities. It often provides a set of moral principles and values that guide individuals and communities in their daily lives. Religions typically involve a structured community and established traditions. Spirituality, on the other hand, is a more personal and individual exploration of one's beliefs, values, and connection to a higher power, force, or consciousness. It often involves introspection, self-discovery, and a search for meaning and purpose in life. Spirituality can be experienced through various practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and contemplation, and it may not necessarily be tied to a specific organized religion. Philosophy of Religion vs. Theology Philosophy of Religion is a branch of philosophy that examines the nature of religion, its role in human life, and the existence and attributes of a divine being or beings. It involves critical thinking, reasoning, and analysis of various religious concepts, arguments, and beliefs. Philosophy of Religion often explores topics such as the problem of evil, the nature of religious experience, the meaning of prayer, and the relationship between religion and science. Theology is the systematic study of religious beliefs, doctrines, and practices. It involves the interpretation and analysis of sacred texts, religious history, and the teachings of religious leaders. Theology can be divided into various branches, such as biblical theology, historical theology, and systematic theology. It is often associated with specific religious traditions, as it aims to understand and explain the beliefs and practices of a particular religion. While Philosophy of Religion focuses on the critical examination of religious concepts, Theology is more concerned with the study and interpretation of a specific religion's teachings and practices. Differentiate between religion as humans’ way to God, theology as a study of God’s way to humans and philosophy as a reflection of humans’ lived experience of God: ✓ A belief system or worldview is a particular way of ordering the realities of one’s world; ✓ Religion is the pursuit of transformation guided by a sacred belief system; and ✓ Spirituality is one’s integrative view of life and involves a quest for the meaning and ultimate value of life as opposed to an instrumentalist or materialistic attitude to life. The elements of religion are: i. Reflects an effort to elevate their whole self to a higher dimension of existence; ii. A framework of transcendent beliefs; iii. Text or scriptures; iv. Rituals; and v. Sacred spaces – e.g., church, temple, mosque, and synagogue. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 8 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Understanding the worldview of each of the world’s major religions is critical in appreciating their rituals and practices. These worldviews are: 1. Monistic Etymology: From Greek monos, meaning "single" or "alone." Definition: Monism is the belief that all reality is fundamentally one and that all existing things can be attributed to a single substance or principle. This perspective suggests that diversity in the universe is merely an illusion or a manifestation of a single underlying reality. Examples: Advaita Vedanta: A school of Hindu philosophy that posits that the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are one and the same. Spinozism: The philosophy of Baruch Spinoza, who argued that God and nature are the same substance and that everything in existence is a part of this singular reality. 2. Polytheistic Etymology: From Greek poly- meaning "many" and theos meaning "god." Definition: Polytheism is the belief in or worship of multiple gods or deities, each with distinct personalities, powers, and responsibilities. These deities often represent different aspects of the natural world or human experience. Examples: Greek Mythology: Worship of gods like Zeus, Athena, and Apollo, each with specific domains such as the sky, wisdom, and the sun. Hinduism: Although it encompasses various philosophical schools, it includes worship of many gods like Vishnu, Shiva, and Lakshmi, each representing different aspects of the divine. 3. Monotheistic Etymology: From Greek monos meaning "single" and theos meaning "god." Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 9 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Definition: Monotheism is the belief in the existence of only one God, who is often seen as the creator, sustainer, and ruler of the universe. This God is typically considered omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent. Examples: Christianity: Belief in one God who is worshipped in the form of the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Islam: Belief in Allah as the one and only God, who is the creator and sustainer of the universe. Judaism: Belief in Yahweh as the singular, all-powerful God who established a covenant with the people of Israel. 4. Atheistic Etymology: From Greek a- meaning "without" and theos meaning "god." Definition: Atheism is the lack of belief in the existence of any gods or deities. Atheists do not adhere to theistic beliefs and often rely on scientific explanations for the origins of the universe and life. Examples: Secular Humanism: A worldview that emphasizes human reason, ethics, and justice without belief in the supernatural or deities. Buddhism: Although not inherently atheistic, certain schools of Buddhism do not focus on the worship of gods and instead emphasize the path to enlightenment through self-discipline and meditation. 5. Agnostic Etymology: From Greek a- meaning "without" and gnosis meaning "knowledge." Definition: Agnosticism is the belief that the existence or non-existence of God or the divine is unknown or unknowable. Agnostics neither affirm nor deny the existence of deities, often taking a position of skepticism or uncertainty. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 10 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Examples: Agnostic Theism: The belief that one may believe in a god or gods but acknowledges that the existence of such beings is ultimately unknowable. Agnostic Atheism: The position that one does not believe in gods but also does not claim to know for certain that gods do not exist. Related Ideas: 6. Pantheistic Etymology: From Greek pan- meaning "all" and theos meaning "god." Definition: Pantheism is the belief that the divine or God is identical with the universe and everything in it. In other words, everything collectively is God, and there is no distinction between the creator and the creation. Examples: Spinozism: Baruch Spinoza's philosophy that God is the universe and everything in it. Taoism (Daoism): While traditionally not pantheistic, some interpretations of Taoism see the Tao as an impersonal force that permeates everything. 7. Deistic Etymology: From Latin deus meaning "god." Definition: Deism is the belief in a creator God who designed and set the universe in motion but does not interfere with its operations. Deists typically reject revealed religions and believe that reason and observation of the natural world are sufficient to determine the existence of a creator. Examples: Enlightenment Deism: Belief in a distant, non-interventionist creator who established the laws of nature, as espoused by thinkers like Voltaire and Thomas Jefferson. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 11 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE 8. Henotheistic Etymology: From Greek henos meaning "one" and theos meaning "god." Definition: Henotheism is the belief in and worship of one primary god while not denying the existence or possible worship of other gods. A henotheist might worship one deity as supreme without rejecting the existence or reverence of others. Examples: Ancient Hinduism: Early Vedic religion, where one god (e.g., Indra or Agni) would be worshipped as the supreme deity in particular contexts, while other gods were acknowledged. Certain forms of Ancient Greek Religion: Where a particular god, like Zeus, might be worshipped as the supreme god in certain regions or contexts. 9. Animistic Etymology: From Latin anima meaning "soul" or "spirit." Definition: Animism is the belief that non-human entities, such as animals, plants, inanimate objects, and natural phenomena, possess a spiritual essence or consciousness. This belief is often found in indigenous and tribal religions. Examples: Shinto: The Japanese religion where kami (spirits) are believed to inhabit natural features like mountains, rivers, and trees. Indigenous African Religions: Many African tribes believe in the spiritual essence of animals, plants, and even objects, which are integral to their cultural and religious practices. These terms and concepts represent a spectrum of beliefs about the divine, the universe, and the nature of existence, reflecting the diverse ways in which humans have sought to understand and explain their world. 10. Gnostic Etymology: From Greek gnosis, meaning "knowledge," derived from gignōskein, meaning "to know." Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 12 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Definition: Gnosticism is a religious and philosophical movement that emphasizes esoteric knowledge (gnosis) as the path to spiritual enlightenment and salvation. Gnostics generally believe that the material world is created by a lesser divinity or demiurge and is often seen as flawed or corrupt. True knowledge, according to Gnosticism, involves transcending the material realm to connect with a higher, more divine reality. Examples: Sethian Gnosticism: An early Gnostic sect that believed in a complex cosmology involving multiple deities, with the highest being the true God, and the material world created by a lesser deity. Valentinian Gnosticism: Founded by Valentinus, this Gnostic tradition posited a complex system of divine emanations and sought spiritual enlightenment through secret knowledge and rituals. Nag Hammadi Library: A collection of Gnostic texts discovered in Egypt in 1945, which includes works like the Gospel of Thomas and the Gospel of Philip, offering insights into Gnostic beliefs and practices. Related Ideas: 1. Dualism Etymology: From Latin duo meaning "two" and -ism denoting a system or doctrine. Definition: Dualism is the belief in two fundamentally opposed forces or principles, often seen in the context of good and evil, spirit and matter, or light and darkness. In Gnosticism, dualism manifests as the belief in a stark contrast between the material world (often viewed negatively) and the spiritual realm (viewed positively). Examples: Manichaeism: An ancient religion founded by Mani, which combined elements of Zoroastrianism, Christianity, and Buddhism, and emphasized a cosmic struggle between light and darkness. Zoroastrianism: Dualistic in its cosmic struggle between Ahura Mazda (good) and Angra Mainyu (evil). 2. Esotericism Etymology: From Greek esoterikos, meaning "inner" or "secret," from esoteros, meaning "more within." Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 13 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Definition: Esotericism refers to teachings and practices that are intended for a select group of initiates or adepts. These teachings are often considered to be hidden or secret, revealing deeper truths only to those who are initiated or enlightened. Examples: Kabbalah: A mystical and esoteric interpretation of the Jewish tradition that explores hidden aspects of divinity and the nature of the universe. Hermeticism: A spiritual and philosophical system based on the writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, involving hidden knowledge and mystical wisdom. 3. Mysticism Etymology: From Greek mystikos, meaning "pertaining to mysteries," derived from mystēs, meaning "initiated one" or "secret." Definition: Mysticism is the pursuit of achieving direct, personal experience of the divine or ultimate reality. Mystics seek a profound, often transcendent, union with the divine, which may be understood through direct revelation or spiritual insight. Examples: Sufism: The mystical branch of Islam that seeks a direct and personal experience of God through practices like meditation, poetry, and ritual. Christian Mysticism: Includes figures like Meister Eckhart and John of the Cross, who emphasized direct encounters with God and transformative spiritual experiences. 4. Theosophy Etymology: From Greek theos meaning "god" and sophia meaning "wisdom." Definition: Theosophy is a spiritual movement that seeks to understand the nature of the divine, the universe, and human existence through esoteric and mystical teachings. It often incorporates elements from various religious and philosophical traditions. Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 14 of 15  Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION XI – DAVAO SCHOOLS DIVISION OF PANABO CITY PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BRGY. NEW VISAYAS, PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE Examples: Theosophical Society: Founded by Helena Blavatsky and Henry Steel Olcott, this society integrates teachings from Eastern religions, Western occultism, and mystical philosophies. Summary: Gnosticism focuses on the pursuit of hidden knowledge to transcend the material world and connect with a higher spiritual reality. Dualism contrasts with Gnosticism by emphasizing the struggle between two opposing forces, often good and evil. Esotericism involves teachings meant for a select few, similar to the hidden knowledge in Gnosticism. Mysticism seeks direct personal experience with the divine, resonating with the Gnostic pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Theosophy blends various religious traditions to explore divine wisdom, reflecting the Gnostic quest for deeper understanding. These concepts and movements illustrate the diverse ways in which humans have sought to understand the divine, the cosmos, and the nature of reality. The elements of spirituality are: Holistic – Fully integrated view to life Quest for meaning (including the purpose of life) Quest for the sacred (beliefs about God) Suggests a self-reflective existence Religion, according to the presentation of the OpenLearn from The Open University, will be considered as a: 1. Social Control 2. Ritual 3. Mother 4. Virus Enclosure No. 2 DepED Memorandum No. 043, s. 2020 PANABO CITY SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Brgy. New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte [email protected] #OneSchoolOneGoalPCSHSHomeofExcellence Page 15 of 15