Religion II - Page 5

Garnet FalconDance · 02-06-2002, 12:57 PM

Agree 110% with Yorick! ( ummm, wait a minute...amI supposed to agree with Yorick [img]graemlins/1ponder.gif[/img] ...) Doubt is what should give impetus to the search for knowledge and clarification.

And *never* feel hesitant to share here--we may not always agree on the finer points, but we tend to stick together.

fable · 02-06-2002, 02:35 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Yorick:
It concerns me that you don't feel you can openly question the religion you are "supposedly" part of. Christianity to me is freedom. Doubts are something I relish as they are followed by a new level of understanding. Go on a search. Or don't. What you do is your own business and you shouldn't need to feel ashamed no matter what path you take.

Complete agreement. And so very, very zen!

fable · 02-06-2002, 02:46 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Garnet FalconDance:
Re. prayer in schools: well, I really have no problem with this...AS LONG AS every student has the clear and unfettered choice to decline and the prayer does not reflect any particular doctrine. This may sound like I'm equivocating, but not really. It seems to be common concurrence that only Christians (incl. Jewish, Muslims, and Catholics) 'pray'. Not so! Nearly every (if not every) religious/spiritual belief 'prays' in some manner. I know I do and I'm sure fable does as well (to use only two examples of wicked [img]smile.gif[/img] pagans) We simply don't do so in the same words and to the same name. So if the Powers That Be (ie the govt and the schools) could figure a way to implement a plan in which all faiths could freely pray in the public school venue, I'd support it.

This is my view, too, as you might expect.

If the US could have a moment in school when each child could contemplate or pray in silence as they wish, without pressure, I think it would be great.

Unfortunately, there are extremely vocal advocates on both ends of the spectrum who do not want what seems to me an equitable solution. There are some very conservative Christian groups who want the prayer said aloud, and to their God; they believe the US is a Christian nation, and everybody who isn't is just out of luck in this case. On the other end of matters are the atheists led by people like Madaleen Murray O'Hare, who insists that any such moment, taken out of the school day, is an implied acknowledgement of a deity, and a method of forcing children by peer and teacher pressure into a belief system.

I would only add that schools represent a portion of the day, but by no means all of it. Parents who insist that by leaving out Christian worship (and note, they mean *their* Christian worship, not one which would satisfy all Christian groups) in schools automatically results in immoral, unethical hoodlum graduates deliberately overlook the enormous influence that a close, respectful and loving family can exercise over one another. Religion doesn't usually (I'm not speaking to exceptions) begin in a church, a temple, a coven, an ashram: I think the impulse is awakened and fed at home, and then nurtured from within the individual, directly with that they worship.

*\Conan/* · 02-06-2002, 05:43 PM

quote:
Originally posted by WOLFGIR:

what I get stuck upon is the religion (not your version) but Religion as it is integrated with politics and the way of life.
And how can we get people to see your view upon religion? No more then we can make my point of view I guess.

What we both can agree on seems to be the discussions. You say that your religion is also free from the rules of Jewish, Christain and Muslim beliefs. But how would they see it?

And also in you way to ponder questions is to be religious, but to others they ae exestantial without being religious.

Wolfie how about a little break down

World Religions; [*]CONFUCIANISM;
K'ung Fu Tzu was born in China in 551 BCE in the state of Lu. He lived during the Chou dynasty, an era known for its moral decline. Later in life, he wandered through many states of China, giving advice to their rulers. He gathered a small band of students during this time. The last years of his life were spent back in Lu, where he devoted himself to teaching. Central to his teaching is the concept of 'II', propriety, and order. Emphasis is on formal education and instnctive understanding of opposites.[*]TAOISM
Original ideas were probably formulated by Lao Tse in the 5th century BCE. Name means "Old Master". He is said to have lived 160 years. The Tao is the reality underlying all existence, there is nothing supernatural, no memory, no future, no past. Tao is indeferent to creation, it cannot be pleased or approached. Tao is the driving force of nature. The 'Way' teaches how to blend into the flow of nature and not to struggle against the inevitable. Understanding the harmony of the fundamental energies of the Universe can lead to gaining access to personal and social wisdom and even immortality.
Branches; Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism[*]HINDUISM;
Oldest living religion in the world. Traceable to the Indus valley c. 4000-2200 BCE. Indo-Europeans invaded N. India bringing with them Vedism which blended with local religions. Hinduism consists of a vast array of beliefs, traditions, and deities. The great majority of Hindus believe in reincarnation, that the 'divine' is present in all things and that everything is impermanent. The entire Universe is a single divine entity which is created and destroyed in cycles lasting 4,320,000 years each. Hundreds of Gods and Goddesses are worshiped as Brahman, the 'Ultimate Reality' and 'Universal Soul'
Branches; Buddhism, Janism, Sikhism, Hari Krishna, and Theosophy[*]BUDDHISM
Founded in North India by Siddhartha Guatama, the Buddha in 500 BCE. The teaching spread to Shri Lanka, Thailand, Tibet, China, and Japan. Buddist beleif is based on the Four Noble Truths;
1. All forms of life is suffering.
2. All suffering is caused by desire.
3. The cure to desire is the overcoming of desire.
4. Desire can cured by following the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path involves; Perfect Speech; Perfect Attitude; Perfect Livelihood; Perfect Effort; Perfect awarenes and Perfect absorbtion. Meditation is the key to mind cleansing and thought clarity.
Branches; Hinayana, and Mahayana[*]SHINTO
Shinto has ne real founder, no written scriptures, no body of religious law, and only a loosely-organized preisthood. It emerged in the 6th century CE from agricultural cults, nature and ancester worship and magic. Buddhism first arrived in Japan from China during the 8th century and some elements were absorbed. Shinto became the official religion in Japan from China during the 19th century. Amaterasu 'Great Sky Shiner', sun goddess, is central to Shinto beliefs. Divinity passes from her to the Emperor, to 'ritual officials' and to individual people. Yamato rulers became the official leaders. Divine origins were ascribed to the imperial family.
Branches; State, and Sect Shintos[*]ISLAM
Mohammed is the founder of Islam (570?-632). Little is known of his life. Orphaned at the age of 6, worked as a sheperd and camel driver. Married and at the age of 40 was visited in Mecca by the Angel Gabriel. He believed himself to be a prophet and began converting people to his new religion. At first he faced stiff opposition to his idea and had to move to Medina. However, eventually, through military activity and political negotiation, he became a powerful leader, establishing Islam firmly. Being a Muslim demands total surrender to Allah: " There is no God but God, and Mohammed is His prophet".
Branches; Sunni, and Shi'te Muslims[*]JUDAISM
Jewish people beleive that God made a contract with Abraham in approxemetly 1800 BCE. Abraham, Issac, and Jacob are the founders of Judaism. Jews settled in the 'Promised Land' (Palesteine), were sent into exile and dispersed but managed to retain their culture and Religious identity where ever they went. The Jews were held responsible for the death of Christ. This lead to persecution, and eventually the Holocaust in which 5 million Jews were killed. The '10 Commandments' outline behaviour of the Jews who beleive that all their rules come directly from a sense of obeying Gods will. The '6 Rights': right to life, possessions, clothing, shelter, work, and liberty.
Branches; Conservative, Humanistic, Orthodox, Reform, Mystical, and Zionism also.[*]ZOROASTRIANISM
Zoroaster, Persian prohet of the 6th century BCE. founded The religious system. Teaching the context of a universal struggle between the forces of light and darkness. Also called Mazdaism.[*]JAINISM
Founded in the 6th cntury BCE by Vardhamana Mohavia, a contemporary of Buddha. He renounced the world at the age of 30. After 12 years of fasting he gained liberation ans a sense of omniscience. He gathered disciples and became a wandering teacher gaining enlightenment at the age of 72. He is regarded as the last of the 24 "Fordmakers' or 'Great Teachers' of this priod. Jains worship by chanting and meditation before religious images. The Universe is symbolically shaped like a huge person. Humans dwell around the waist, many hells are below, many heavens above.[*]SIKHISM
Founded in the Punjab region of Northern India in the 15th century by Guru Nanak, the first of the Sikh gurus. Blended from Hindu roots and Muslim Sufi mystics. Sikhs hold to the 5 Ks: Kesh: uncut hair, symbolizes Gods will. Kanga: the comb. symbol of control over spiritual matters. Kirpan: steel dagger, symbol of determination to defend the truth. Kachi: undergarment, symbol of moral strength. Sikhs beleive that God likes good work, that Gods is without predudice of any kind, that men and women are equal before God, that one must always speak the truth, that is important to be kind to people and all other living things.
Branches; Singh Sabha and Akali. Militant Sikhs seek their own independent state with India.[*]CHRISTIANITY

Identifying as many as we can will help in OUR quest for a close definition of "Religion".

[ 02-08-2002: Message edited by: *\Conan/* ]

Sazerac · 02-06-2002, 08:00 PM

quote:
Originally posted by *\Conan/*:
Wolfie how about a little break down
World Religions; [*]CONFUCIANISM;
K'ung Fu Tzu was born in China in 551 BCE in the state of Lu. He lived during the Chou dynasty, an era known for its moral decline. Later in life, he wandered through many states of China, giving advice to their rulers. He gathered a small band of students during this time. The last years of his life were spent back in Lu, where he devoted himself to teaching. Central to his teaching is the concept of 'II', propriety, and order. Emphasis is on formal education and instnctive understanding of opposites.[*]TAOISM[*]HINDUISM;
Oldest living religion in the world. Traceable to the Indus valley c. 4000-2200 BCE. Indo-Europeans invaded N. India bringing with them Vedism which blended with local religions. Hinduism consists of a vast array of beliefs, traditions, and deities. The great majority of Hindus believe in reincarnation, that the 'divine' is present in all things and that everything is impermanent. The entire Universe is a single divine entity which is created and destroyed in cycles lasting 4,320,000 years each. Hundreds of Gods and Goddesses are worshiped as Brahman, the 'Ultimate Reality' and 'Universal Soul'[*]BUDDHISM
Founded in North India by Siddhartha Guatama, the Buddha in 500 BCE. The teaching spread to Shri Lanka, Thailand, Tibet, China, and Japan. Buddist beleif is based on the Four Noble Truths;
1. All forms of life is suffering.
2. All suffering is caused by desire.
3. The cure to desire is the overcoming of desire.
4. Desire can cured by following the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path involves; Perfect Speech; Perfect Attitude; Perfect Livelihood; Perfect Effort; Perfect awarenes and Perfect absorbtion. Meditation is the key to mind cleansing and thought clarity.[*]SHINTO[*]ISLAM[*]JUDAISM[*]JAINISM[*]SIKHISM[*]CHRISTIANITY

I will come back later to overveiw the rest of these. Feel free to jump in here and help you guys! Identifying as many as we can will help in OUR quest for a close definition of "Religion".

[ 02-06-2002: Message edited by: *\Conan/* ]

Wow, Conan, that is an excellent beginning Taxonomy of the world's religions. It would be even more interesting to go in deeper by denomination as well.

Cheers,

K T Ong · 02-06-2002, 08:41 PM

To Wolfgir:

quote:
And how can we get people to see your view upon religion? No more thn we can make my point of view I guess.

The least you can do is try. [img]smile.gif[/img] (Shrugs shoulders.) Talk to people, express your views on the net, write books (if you're up to it), etc...

quote:
I think hehe that we are getting closer and closer to start defining what religion is and how to define it..

That's good to know!

To Black Dragon:

quote:
I've never actually told anyone this before but I really don't study any religion at all, never wanted to and still don't, I was supposively a christian, but I never go to church, don't pray, or nothing, I have no religion to beleive in, and like I said, I really don't want one, so plz don't take anything I just said offensive, its just I'm not religous.

If you haven't carefully studied any of the world's major religions and philosophies (as you've admitted), then isn't it a premature move on your part to reject all religion outright? Shouldn't you study something carefully before you can have an informed view about it?

Far be it for me to force my views upon another, but I would strongly recommend that you study the world's major religions/philosophies. Go to a library and grab a few books. I believe you might find a few things that would appeal to you. Don't commit yourself before you know your stuff. [img]smile.gif[/img]

To Sazerac:

quote:
Remember that the Good, the True, and the Beautiful isn't always the Nice, the Convenient, or the Pretty.

Can't agree more.

To Conan:

You left out one major religion in your list (it's the favorite religion of well nigh all fantasy novelists):

Zoroastrianism.

[ 02-06-2002: Message edited by: K T Ong ]

jtqbe · 02-06-2002, 08:58 PM

I'm new to this forum, though not to IW, and couldn't resist the challenge of trying to summarize Christianity in a nutshell--and to make it more fun, I'm trying to do this while getting the kids ready for bed! Here goes. . .

Christianity is centered on Jesus Christ (ca. 4 BC-30 AD), and sees itself as the fulfillment of Judaism and Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic prophecy.
Central teachings of historic Christianity:

God is a Trinity: a single God yet composed of three unique and distinct persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit).
God inspired prophets and apostles to write the Bible. Christians believe that both Old and New Testaments are inspired by God.
God created all things, including humanity, perfect and without fault.
Humanity chose to disobey God and thus fell into sin, earning death for all.
Jesus Christ, truly human (the Son of God) and true God (God the Son), was born of a virgin and came to be humanity's redeemer.
Christ as Redeemer was perfect in humanity's place and sacrificed his life on a cross to pay for the sins of all.
Christ's sacrifice earned eternal life for all, and he rose from death as a guarantee of that life.
God the Holy Spirit gives faith (trust) in the message of Christ. Those who trust in Christ's perfection are declared righteous and receive heaven.
Christians are waiting for Christ to return to judge humanity. While waiting, Christians live to serve Christ and show love to others.

Ok, that's probably longer than the other definitions and it's probably incomplete, but I figured it was worth a try!

Sazerac · 02-06-2002, 09:07 PM

quote:
Originally posted by jtqbe:
I'm new to this forum, though not to IW, and couldn't resist the challenge of trying to summarize Christianity in a nutshell--and to make it more fun, I'm trying to do this while getting the kids ready for bed! Here goes. . .

Christianity is centered on Jesus Christ (ca. 4 BC-30 AD), and sees itself as the fulfillment of Judaism and Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic prophecy.
Central teachings of historic Christianity:

God is a Trinity: a single God yet composed of three unique and distinct persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit).

God inspired prophets and apostles to write the Bible. Christians believe that both Old and New Testaments are inspired by God.

God created all things, including humanity, perfect and without fault.

Humanity chose to disobey God and thus fell into sin, earning death for all.

Jesus Christ, truly human (the Son of God) and true God (God the Son), was born of a virgin and came to be humanity's redeemer.

Christ as Redeemer was perfect in humanity's place and sacrificed his life on a cross to pay for the sins of all.

Christ's sacrifice earned eternal life for all, and he rose from death as a guarantee of that life.

God the Holy Spirit gives faith (trust) in the message of Christ. Those who trust in Christ's perfection are declared righteous and receive heaven.

Christians are waiting for Christ to return to judge humanity. While waiting, Christians live to serve Christ and show love to others.

Ok, that's probably longer than the other definitions and it's probably incomplete, but I figured it was worth a try!

Dear jtqbe:

Welcome to General Discussions, and if the rest of your posts are as insightful as that, we have much to look forward to. That is a wonderful summarization of the tenets of the Christian religion.

Look forward to hearing more from you,

-Sazerac

Yorick · 02-06-2002, 09:59 PM

quote:
Originally posted by fable:

Complete agreement. And so very, very zen!

Zen! LOL. Unfortunately my worldview is the exact opposite of Buddhas.

But I'll take it as a compliment. My attitudes to doubts are something that has been a foundation for my Christian walk.

Thomas. I really admire the apostle Thomas. He wanted to base his belief on facts. Christ chided him for lack of faith - BUT HONOURED HIS SEARCH by showing him that which he need to believe: The holes in his hands and feet.

That's pretty cool.

My faith is based on what I perceive to be logic, order, facts and reason. Of course at some point a degree of faith is required - hence the word, but that is my foundation.

I'll never forget when I had my first major crisis of faith when I was an adolescant. Another Christian gave some inane advice, that was basically avoidance, or denial such a crisis existed.

Instead I took it head on - as I have done ever since. My faith just gets stronger and stronger, as my relationship with the creator deepens.

[ 02-06-2002: Message edited by: Yorick ]

Yorick · 02-06-2002, 10:11 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Garnet FalconDance:
And *never* feel hesitant to share here--we may not always agree on the finer points, but we tend to stick together.

Agreed bro... I mean Sis. [img]smile.gif[/img]

02-06-2002, 12:57 PM	#41
Garnet FalconDance Mephistopheles Join Date: August 30, 2001 Location: deep within the sylvan splendor.... Age: 60 Posts: 1,443	Agree 110% with Yorick! ( ummm, wait a minute...amI supposed to agree with Yorick [img]graemlins/1ponder.gif[/img] ...) Doubt is what should give impetus to the search for knowledge and clarification. And never feel hesitant to share here--we may not always agree on the finer points, but we tend to stick together. __________________ "Nature tells every secret once." Ralph Waldo Emerson

02-06-2002, 02:35 PM	#42
fable Quintesson Join Date: March 17, 2001 Location: Where I am. Posts: 1,089	quote: Originally posted by Yorick: It concerns me that you don't feel you can openly question the religion you are "supposedly" part of. Christianity to me is freedom. Doubts are something I relish as they are followed by a new level of understanding. Go on a search. Or don't. What you do is your own business and you shouldn't need to feel ashamed no matter what path you take. Complete agreement. And so very, very zen!

02-06-2002, 02:46 PM	#43
fable Quintesson Join Date: March 17, 2001 Location: Where I am. Posts: 1,089	quote: Originally posted by Garnet FalconDance: Re. prayer in schools: well, I really have no problem with this...AS LONG AS every student has the clear and unfettered choice to decline and the prayer does not reflect any particular doctrine. This may sound like I'm equivocating, but not really. It seems to be common concurrence that only Christians (incl. Jewish, Muslims, and Catholics) 'pray'. Not so! Nearly every (if not every) religious/spiritual belief 'prays' in some manner. I know I do and I'm sure fable does as well (to use only two examples of wicked [img]smile.gif[/img] pagans) We simply don't do so in the same words and to the same name. So if the Powers That Be (ie the govt and the schools) could figure a way to implement a plan in which all faiths could freely pray in the public school venue, I'd support it. This is my view, too, as you might expect. If the US could have a moment in school when each child could contemplate or pray in silence as they wish, without pressure, I think it would be great. Unfortunately, there are extremely vocal advocates on both ends of the spectrum who do not want what seems to me an equitable solution. There are some very conservative Christian groups who want the prayer said aloud, and to their God; they believe the US is a Christian nation, and everybody who isn't is just out of luck in this case. On the other end of matters are the atheists led by people like Madaleen Murray O'Hare, who insists that any such moment, taken out of the school day, is an implied acknowledgement of a deity, and a method of forcing children by peer and teacher pressure into a belief system. I would only add that schools represent a portion of the day, but by no means all of it. Parents who insist that by leaving out Christian worship (and note, they mean their Christian worship, not one which would satisfy all Christian groups) in schools automatically results in immoral, unethical hoodlum graduates deliberately overlook the enormous influence that a close, respectful and loving family can exercise over one another. Religion doesn't usually (I'm not speaking to exceptions) begin in a church, a temple, a coven, an ashram: I think the impulse is awakened and fed at home, and then nurtured from within the individual, directly with that they worship.

02-06-2002, 05:43 PM	#44
\Conan/ Red Dragon Join Date: March 1, 2001 Location: Virginia, USA Age: 62 Posts: 1,512	quote: Originally posted by WOLFGIR: what I get stuck upon is the religion (not your version) but Religion as it is integrated with politics and the way of life. And how can we get people to see your view upon religion? No more then we can make my point of view I guess. What we both can agree on seems to be the discussions. You say that your religion is also free from the rules of Jewish, Christain and Muslim beliefs. But how would they see it? And also in you way to ponder questions is to be religious, but to others they ae exestantial without being religious. Wolfie how about a little break down World Religions; []CONFUCIANISM; K'ung Fu Tzu was born in China in 551 BCE in the state of Lu. He lived during the Chou dynasty, an era known for its moral decline. Later in life, he wandered through many states of China, giving advice to their rulers. He gathered a small band of students during this time. The last years of his life were spent back in Lu, where he devoted himself to teaching. Central to his teaching is the concept of 'II', propriety, and order. Emphasis is on formal education and instnctive understanding of opposites.[]TAOISM Original ideas were probably formulated by Lao Tse in the 5th century BCE. Name means "Old Master". He is said to have lived 160 years. The Tao is the reality underlying all existence, there is nothing supernatural, no memory, no future, no past. Tao is indeferent to creation, it cannot be pleased or approached. Tao is the driving force of nature. The 'Way' teaches how to blend into the flow of nature and not to struggle against the inevitable. Understanding the harmony of the fundamental energies of the Universe can lead to gaining access to personal and social wisdom and even immortality. Branches; Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism[]HINDUISM; Oldest living religion in the world. Traceable to the Indus valley c. 4000-2200 BCE. Indo-Europeans invaded N. India bringing with them Vedism which blended with local religions. Hinduism consists of a vast array of beliefs, traditions, and deities. The great majority of Hindus believe in reincarnation, that the 'divine' is present in all things and that everything is impermanent. The entire Universe is a single divine entity which is created and destroyed in cycles lasting 4,320,000 years each. Hundreds of Gods and Goddesses are worshiped as Brahman, the 'Ultimate Reality' and 'Universal Soul' Branches; Buddhism, Janism, Sikhism, Hari Krishna, and Theosophy[]BUDDHISM Founded in North India by Siddhartha Guatama, the Buddha in 500 BCE. The teaching spread to Shri Lanka, Thailand, Tibet, China, and Japan. Buddist beleif is based on the Four Noble Truths; 1. All forms of life is suffering. 2. All suffering is caused by desire. 3. The cure to desire is the overcoming of desire. 4. Desire can cured by following the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path involves; Perfect Speech; Perfect Attitude; Perfect Livelihood; Perfect Effort; Perfect awarenes and Perfect absorbtion. Meditation is the key to mind cleansing and thought clarity. Branches; Hinayana, and Mahayana[]SHINTO Shinto has ne real founder, no written scriptures, no body of religious law, and only a loosely-organized preisthood. It emerged in the 6th century CE from agricultural cults, nature and ancester worship and magic. Buddhism first arrived in Japan from China during the 8th century and some elements were absorbed. Shinto became the official religion in Japan from China during the 19th century. Amaterasu 'Great Sky Shiner', sun goddess, is central to Shinto beliefs. Divinity passes from her to the Emperor, to 'ritual officials' and to individual people. Yamato rulers became the official leaders. Divine origins were ascribed to the imperial family. Branches; State, and Sect Shintos[]ISLAM Mohammed is the founder of Islam (570?-632). Little is known of his life. Orphaned at the age of 6, worked as a sheperd and camel driver. Married and at the age of 40 was visited in Mecca by the Angel Gabriel. He believed himself to be a prophet and began converting people to his new religion. At first he faced stiff opposition to his idea and had to move to Medina. However, eventually, through military activity and political negotiation, he became a powerful leader, establishing Islam firmly. Being a Muslim demands total surrender to Allah: " There is no God but God, and Mohammed is His prophet". Branches; Sunni, and Shi'te Muslims[]JUDAISM Jewish people beleive that God made a contract with Abraham in approxemetly 1800 BCE. Abraham, Issac, and Jacob are the founders of Judaism. Jews settled in the 'Promised Land' (Palesteine), were sent into exile and dispersed but managed to retain their culture and Religious identity where ever they went. The Jews were held responsible for the death of Christ. This lead to persecution, and eventually the Holocaust in which 5 million Jews were killed. The '10 Commandments' outline behaviour of the Jews who beleive that all their rules come directly from a sense of obeying Gods will. The '6 Rights': right to life, possessions, clothing, shelter, work, and liberty. Branches; Conservative, Humanistic, Orthodox, Reform, Mystical, and Zionism also.[]ZOROASTRIANISM Zoroaster, Persian prohet of the 6th century BCE. founded The religious system. Teaching the context of a universal struggle between the forces of light and darkness. Also called Mazdaism.[]JAINISM Founded in the 6th cntury BCE by Vardhamana Mohavia, a contemporary of Buddha. He renounced the world at the age of 30. After 12 years of fasting he gained liberation ans a sense of omniscience. He gathered disciples and became a wandering teacher gaining enlightenment at the age of 72. He is regarded as the last of the 24 "Fordmakers' or 'Great Teachers' of this priod. Jains worship by chanting and meditation before religious images. The Universe is symbolically shaped like a huge person. Humans dwell around the waist, many hells are below, many heavens above.[]SIKHISM Founded in the Punjab region of Northern India in the 15th century by Guru Nanak, the first of the Sikh gurus. Blended from Hindu roots and Muslim Sufi mystics. Sikhs hold to the 5 Ks: Kesh: uncut hair, symbolizes Gods will. Kanga: the comb. symbol of control over spiritual matters. Kirpan: steel dagger, symbol of determination to defend the truth. Kachi: undergarment, symbol of moral strength. Sikhs beleive that God likes good work, that Gods is without predudice of any kind, that men and women are equal before God, that one must always speak the truth, that is important to be kind to people and all other living things. Branches; Singh Sabha and Akali. Militant Sikhs seek their own independent state with India.[]CHRISTIANITY Identifying as many as we can will help in OUR quest for a close definition of "Religion". [ 02-08-2002: Message edited by: \Conan/* ] __________________ \\Conan/
$\Conan/ is offline$

02-06-2002, 08:00 PM	#45
Sazerac Ironworks Moderator Join Date: January 7, 2001 Location: Monroe, LA Age: 60 Posts: 7,387	quote: Originally posted by \Conan/: Wolfie how about a little break down World Religions; []CONFUCIANISM; K'ung Fu Tzu was born in China in 551 BCE in the state of Lu. He lived during the Chou dynasty, an era known for its moral decline. Later in life, he wandered through many states of China, giving advice to their rulers. He gathered a small band of students during this time. The last years of his life were spent back in Lu, where he devoted himself to teaching. Central to his teaching is the concept of 'II', propriety, and order. Emphasis is on formal education and instnctive understanding of opposites.[]TAOISM[]HINDUISM; Oldest living religion in the world. Traceable to the Indus valley c. 4000-2200 BCE. Indo-Europeans invaded N. India bringing with them Vedism which blended with local religions. Hinduism consists of a vast array of beliefs, traditions, and deities. The great majority of Hindus believe in reincarnation, that the 'divine' is present in all things and that everything is impermanent. The entire Universe is a single divine entity which is created and destroyed in cycles lasting 4,320,000 years each. Hundreds of Gods and Goddesses are worshiped as Brahman, the 'Ultimate Reality' and 'Universal Soul'[]BUDDHISM Founded in North India by Siddhartha Guatama, the Buddha in 500 BCE. The teaching spread to Shri Lanka, Thailand, Tibet, China, and Japan. Buddist beleif is based on the Four Noble Truths; 1. All forms of life is suffering. 2. All suffering is caused by desire. 3. The cure to desire is the overcoming of desire. 4. Desire can cured by following the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path involves; Perfect Speech; Perfect Attitude; Perfect Livelihood; Perfect Effort; Perfect awarenes and Perfect absorbtion. Meditation is the key to mind cleansing and thought clarity.[]SHINTO[]ISLAM[]JUDAISM[]JAINISM[]SIKHISM[]CHRISTIANITY I will come back later to overveiw the rest of these. Feel free to jump in here and help you guys! Identifying as many as we can will help in OUR quest for a close definition of "Religion". [ 02-06-2002: Message edited by: \Conan/ ] Wow, Conan, that is an excellent beginning Taxonomy of the world's religions. It would be even more interesting to go in deeper by denomination as well. Cheers, __________________ "And all my days are trances, and all my nightly dreams, Are where thy grey eye glances, and where thy footstep gleams, In what ethereal dances, by what eternal streams..."

02-06-2002, 08:41 PM	#46
K T Ong Symbol of Cyric Join Date: January 27, 2002 Location: Plateau of Singapore Age: 60 Posts: 1,230	To Wolfgir: quote: And how can we get people to see your view upon religion? No more thn we can make my point of view I guess. The least you can do is try. [img]smile.gif[/img] (Shrugs shoulders.) Talk to people, express your views on the net, write books (if you're up to it), etc... quote: I think hehe that we are getting closer and closer to start defining what religion is and how to define it.. That's good to know! To Black Dragon: quote: I've never actually told anyone this before but I really don't study any religion at all, never wanted to and still don't, I was supposively a christian, but I never go to church, don't pray, or nothing, I have no religion to beleive in, and like I said, I really don't want one, so plz don't take anything I just said offensive, its just I'm not religous. If you haven't carefully studied any of the world's major religions and philosophies (as you've admitted), then isn't it a premature move on your part to reject all religion outright? Shouldn't you study something carefully before you can have an informed view about it? Far be it for me to force my views upon another, but I would strongly recommend that you study the world's major religions/philosophies. Go to a library and grab a few books. I believe you might find a few things that would appeal to you. Don't commit yourself before you know your stuff. [img]smile.gif[/img] To Sazerac: quote: Remember that the Good, the True, and the Beautiful isn't always the Nice, the Convenient, or the Pretty. Can't agree more. To Conan: You left out one major religion in your list (it's the favorite religion of well nigh all fantasy novelists): Zoroastrianism. [ 02-06-2002: Message edited by: K T Ong ] __________________ <br />Look! Everyone\'s admiring me! <img border=\"0\" title=\"\" alt=\"[Big Grin]\" src=\"biggrin.gif\" />

02-06-2002, 08:58 PM	#47
jtqbe Elite Waterdeep Guard Join Date: November 21, 2001 Location: Michigan Posts: 29	I'm new to this forum, though not to IW, and couldn't resist the challenge of trying to summarize Christianity in a nutshell--and to make it more fun, I'm trying to do this while getting the kids ready for bed! Here goes. . . Christianity is centered on Jesus Christ (ca. 4 BC-30 AD), and sees itself as the fulfillment of Judaism and Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic prophecy. Central teachings of historic Christianity: God is a Trinity: a single God yet composed of three unique and distinct persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit). God inspired prophets and apostles to write the Bible. Christians believe that both Old and New Testaments are inspired by God. God created all things, including humanity, perfect and without fault. Humanity chose to disobey God and thus fell into sin, earning death for all. Jesus Christ, truly human (the Son of God) and true God (God the Son), was born of a virgin and came to be humanity's redeemer. Christ as Redeemer was perfect in humanity's place and sacrificed his life on a cross to pay for the sins of all. Christ's sacrifice earned eternal life for all, and he rose from death as a guarantee of that life. God the Holy Spirit gives faith (trust) in the message of Christ. Those who trust in Christ's perfection are declared righteous and receive heaven. Christians are waiting for Christ to return to judge humanity. While waiting, Christians live to serve Christ and show love to others. Ok, that's probably longer than the other definitions and it's probably incomplete, but I figured it was worth a try!

02-06-2002, 09:07 PM	#48
Sazerac Ironworks Moderator Join Date: January 7, 2001 Location: Monroe, LA Age: 60 Posts: 7,387	quote: Originally posted by jtqbe: I'm new to this forum, though not to IW, and couldn't resist the challenge of trying to summarize Christianity in a nutshell--and to make it more fun, I'm trying to do this while getting the kids ready for bed! Here goes. . . Christianity is centered on Jesus Christ (ca. 4 BC-30 AD), and sees itself as the fulfillment of Judaism and Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic prophecy. Central teachings of historic Christianity: God is a Trinity: a single God yet composed of three unique and distinct persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit). God inspired prophets and apostles to write the Bible. Christians believe that both Old and New Testaments are inspired by God. God created all things, including humanity, perfect and without fault. Humanity chose to disobey God and thus fell into sin, earning death for all. Jesus Christ, truly human (the Son of God) and true God (God the Son), was born of a virgin and came to be humanity's redeemer. Christ as Redeemer was perfect in humanity's place and sacrificed his life on a cross to pay for the sins of all. Christ's sacrifice earned eternal life for all, and he rose from death as a guarantee of that life. God the Holy Spirit gives faith (trust) in the message of Christ. Those who trust in Christ's perfection are declared righteous and receive heaven. Christians are waiting for Christ to return to judge humanity. While waiting, Christians live to serve Christ and show love to others. Ok, that's probably longer than the other definitions and it's probably incomplete, but I figured it was worth a try! Dear jtqbe: Welcome to General Discussions, and if the rest of your posts are as insightful as that, we have much to look forward to. That is a wonderful summarization of the tenets of the Christian religion. Look forward to hearing more from you, -Sazerac __________________ "And all my days are trances, and all my nightly dreams, Are where thy grey eye glances, and where thy footstep gleams, In what ethereal dances, by what eternal streams..."

02-06-2002, 09:59 PM	#49
Yorick Very Mad Bird Join Date: January 7, 2001 Location: Breukelen (over the river from New Amsterdam) Age: 52 Posts: 9,246	quote: Originally posted by fable: Complete agreement. And so very, very zen! Zen! LOL. Unfortunately my worldview is the exact opposite of Buddhas. But I'll take it as a compliment. My attitudes to doubts are something that has been a foundation for my Christian walk. Thomas. I really admire the apostle Thomas. He wanted to base his belief on facts. Christ chided him for lack of faith - BUT HONOURED HIS SEARCH by showing him that which he need to believe: The holes in his hands and feet. That's pretty cool. My faith is based on what I perceive to be logic, order, facts and reason. Of course at some point a degree of faith is required - hence the word, but that is my foundation. I'll never forget when I had my first major crisis of faith when I was an adolescant. Another Christian gave some inane advice, that was basically avoidance, or denial such a crisis existed. Instead I took it head on - as I have done ever since. My faith just gets stronger and stronger, as my relationship with the creator deepens. [ 02-06-2002: Message edited by: Yorick ] __________________ http://www.hughwilson.com

02-06-2002, 10:11 PM	#50
Yorick Very Mad Bird Join Date: January 7, 2001 Location: Breukelen (over the river from New Amsterdam) Age: 52 Posts: 9,246	quote: Originally posted by Garnet FalconDance: *And never* feel hesitant to share here--we may not always agree on the finer points, but we tend to stick together.** Agreed bro... I mean Sis. [img]smile.gif[/img] __________________ http://www.hughwilson.com

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