Reflection On World Religion

Table of Contents

PEARLS OF WISDOM 3

HINDUISM 3

BUDDHISM 3

TAOISM 4

CONFUCIANISM 4

CHRISTIANITY 4

JUDAISM 5

ISLAM 5

PRIMAL RELIGIONS 5

REFLECTION 6

Pearls of Wisdom

It has been an outstanding five weeks. This was the course that I've been waiting to take since I started Capella back in April of 2004. Finally after weeks of reading World Religions by Huston Smith, I have developed an understanding of some of the world's religions. I can never be an expert in this field, and I don't want to, but at least I have an idea where these religions originated and have a general concept of the beliefs behind each religion. Each of the religions we covered have one thing in common that stick out, and that is promoting peace and harmony.

Hinduism

One thing that I have learned is that Hindus do not worship cows. Hinduism has no founder or date of origin. Hindus believe in one supreme God who created the universe. He created many Gods, highly advanced spiritual beings, to be his helpers. Many Hindus are devoted followers of Shiva or Vishnu, whom they regard as the only true God, while others look inward to the divine Self, meaning meditation. Whomever they decide to worship, it all points to the same deity.

Buddhism

Buddhism was founded around 520 BC by Siddharta Gautama, who was an Indian Prince. Buddhism emphasizes practice over belief. In reality, however, Buddhism centers on correct understanding of human nature and ultimate reality. The Buddha was, after all, called the "Enlightened One." He taught that the way to eliminate suffering began with understanding the true nature of the world. In Buddhism, the purpose of life is to end suffering. The Buddha taught that humans suffer because we continually strive after things that do not give lasting happiness.

Taoism

Lao-Tze founded Taoism around 550 BC. The goal in Taoism is achieve Inner harmony, peace and longevity. The ultimate reality in Taoism is the Tao, or Way. But the Tao has no characteristics. The Tao incorporates all opposite and complementary forces, which are referred to as Yin and Yang. Yin and yang are always in perfect balance within the Tao.

Confucianism

Confucius was born in northern China about 550 BC. His philosophy didn't actually materialized until way after he had died. Confucianism is not a religion in the sense; it's more of a code of ethics. Li is the ideal standard of conduct meaning courtesy. Jen is the virtue of goodness and benevolence. Chun-Tzu is living according to the highest ethical standards. By following these three principles, one should achieve justice and harmony.

Christianity

It all started with a carpenter from Galilee. Jesus of Nazareth was born in Bethlehem. At the age of 30, Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist and had a vision in which he received the blessing of God. He taught, healed the sick and cast out demons for about 3 years. Unfortunately opposition mounted against Jesus, and he was executed by crucifixion by the Romans. Three days later he resurrected and appeared to his disciples. Catholics and Mormons are the products of his teachings.

Judaism

4.5 billion people are in a religion that was directly influenced by Judaism. Judaism is based on ancient Hebrew beliefs, the Old Testament in the Bible. It all started with Abraham, and later with Moses when he was ask by GOD to lead his people out of captivity