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Studies of Religion I Preliminary Assignment Help!? (1 Viewer)

chickenmicken

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Hi BOS, just wondering if anyone could help me out with an assignment i have for Studies of Religion.

We have been given a few questions which have to create responses at home and then respond to in class. I have created responses to two of questions, any feedback would be appreciated, just any kind of guide, the criteria isn't too great. :smile: . Sorry for the longwinded answers as well :spzz:

Here are two of the questions:

"All religions are basically the same", with reference to the characteristic of religion, identify the variety of ways in Religion satisfies the search for meaning and purpose in the lives of its adherents. Approx 300 words (we have to include differences in characteristics across traditions and reference 3 traditions in how religion satisfies search for meaning.

My Response:

Religion offer a sense of consistency and purpose in the lives of believers in a world that appears to be ever changing, through characteristics of religion.The religious beliefs and practises that are offered through religious traditions like Buddhism, where adherents believe in a cycle of rebirth which can only be broken by achieving nirvana. Nirvana can be achieved by following specific rituals, ceremonies and codes of ethics which are contained within the physical world as sacred texts and writings. Thus through the characteristics of religion, religion provides a source of meaning which both fixes the lives of adherents to the 'here and now' whilst also transcending their lives, allowing them to focus on the spiritual world. Religious traditions assist adherents in feeling a part of something much greater then themselves. In ceremonial communal worship in a synagogue (Judaism) all adherents are united as one under god. Thus religions instills a sense of community and identity among believers, prompting purpose in their lives.

Although this is true for many religious traditions, characteristic of religious vary greatly across religious traditions.Beliefs varies greatly across religious traditions, however can be similar depending on where the tradition originates form – the Semitic religious christianity, judaism and islam have noticeably similar beliefs but are completely different to that of Hinduism and Buddhism. This is the same case with rituals and ceremonies however has a greater variety between religious traditions of similar religious beliefs. The beliefs which these writings are contained in can be exactly the same across some religious traditions, for example judaism and christianity, however there may be some texts added or removed, for example the new testament in order to remain relevant to adherents. Ethics contained in sacred writings and texts very similar across most religious traditions, usually being characterised by peace with neighbour and self and obedience to a higher power.

In Christianity, the belief in Jesus Christ is contained within the new testament (sacred text) which describes how christians can achieve perfect life after death (heaven). The belief in a higher power of being allows for individuals to implement a framework of meaning in their life, shaping role models/ directions which instruct people on how to be more true to themselves and how to achieve their religious goals.

Second Question: Making reference to the cartoon above (someone on the internet, searching god), discuss the ways in [which] religion contributes to the lives of both individuals and society and culture. (we have to specifically relate our answer to the cartoon)


My Response:

For many individuals and societies believing in a higher power or being is a significant aspect of their life experience and reality. Religion defines individual identity and culture for many people and quenches their search for meaning and purposes.

The framework of human society and culture relies heavily upon order and peace. This peace is found in Religious traditions. The ethical considerations *instilled as a result of religious faith is vital in keeping this peace and, have sought out by individuals in order to guide them in their moral and ethical behaviour in both personal and communal life. ‘Islam through the Qur’an “instructs adherents to live in peace and tolerance of others regardless of beliefs, race, class or values”. Religious provides adherents with a social identity, giving them a basic foundation for a moral standing ground, thus providing them with the tools to address current issues which may to to complex or controversial for them to decide by themselves. It also generally promotes healthy lifestyles categorised by peace and compassion within general society, as witnessed in the case of many christian communities which promote and assist in the social welfare throughout society. Subsequently religion is important as it supports individuals with basic ethical standpoints and promotes trust within the general community.

Religion assists individuals in forming their identity thus promoting a sense of belonging.The inherent nature of religion makes it well suited for providing this sense of community; this is best represented in practise of ritualistic communal worship in religious traditions such as christianity; where mass and the eucharist is celebrated. Thus religious traditions not only assists individuals in forming a sense of identity through their religions values, but,also promote healthy unity and tolerance between theistic and non theistic communities through the recognising of common destiny, and humanity furthering the sense of belonging and acceptance between all members of the WORLD community. Thus religion satisfies the human search for belonging and identity.
 

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