Religion Going Mountain High, What Religious Path will you Take?

Father John Martin, the spiritual director of Shantivanam, a Christian ashram (learning community) in southeastern India that focuses on the relationship between Christianity and the religions of India (particularly Hinduism and Buddhism) asserts that all the major religions of the world can be compared to a group of hikers climbing up different sides of a high mountain. Each hiker (and religion) takes a unique route to the top. While they are climbing the mountain, they cannot necessarily see one another. They may not even be aware that those in the other climbing parties are also ascending the mountain. They think they are alone as they make the ascent. Yet when they reach the peak, the climbers are surprised to find one another. Think back over the religions studied this semester. Then answer the following:What do you think Father Martin is saying about the different world religions?Do you agree with him? Why or why not?


Father Martin, talks about Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism he talks about all of them going up the mountainside. They are not going up together, they are going up separately. George Bernard Shaw wrote, “There is only one religion”(Shaw). They just take all different approaches. Similarities are more important than the differences in these major religions. In Hinduism Brahman is the God. Nirvana is heaven. God is a real entity. Buddhism focuses on the now, making it as good as possible. We are responsible for our own lives. We should be involved in our community to improve it. The reincarnation is a form of rebirth. Just like in the Christian religion, when we die our soul goes to heaven. We then begin a new life. Buddhism focuses on the now, making it as good as possible. We are responsible for our own lives. We should be involved in our community to improve it. The Bryn Marwr Presbyterian Church also focuses on making the community as good as possible. They welcome new immigrants to United States of America, by offering them language and computer classes. As well many different types of community and special events. Our Catholic Church St Bartholomew’s in Yonkers welcome all children of the community. They have an elementary school for the great community of Yonkers, New York. They have religious and Bible study courses at night. Every Sunday they have food drives for the poor and ill. At Christmas time, the church celebrates with the Christmas Giving Tree. This is a symbol of Jesus Christ’s love for everyone one. The parishioners bring in gifts for needy children of the community. The church also has clothing drives for families who experienced disaster, whether it has been a hurricane, earthquake or severe flood. In the Christian religion we have a lot of Budda’s, (Caring giving people in the Christian religion). Father Martin’s ideas are valid that the similarities amongst the three major religions of the world are more important than the differences.


Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB
Wed 6:15pm to 9:05pm
Fall 2007
Professor Susan De George

If Jesus Christ and Martin Luther were time-warped to the present, how do you think they would each respond to each of the major forms of contemporary Christianity (Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestantism)

JESUS CHRIST’S VIEW

Roman Catholicism

Jesus Christ is the Son of God. His journey on earth was the best thing that happened to all of mankind. He demonstrated the ultimate sacrifice with his Crucifixation on the Holy Cross, to forgive all peoples’ sins. My belief of Christ’s teachings would be similar to what he displayed, while preaching 2007 years ago. Jesus would approve of some of the modern Roman Catholicism ideas, but not all. The 7 sacraments, rituals that are practiced today would be pleasing to the Lord Jesus Christ, as would all of today’s modern community outreach programs, such as food drives, and the Giving Christmas Tree, to provide needy people with food and gifts and clothing, during the holidays. Alcoholics Anonymous Programs, blood drives, and the Catholic School System would also be greatly appreciated. The Catholic religion has great respect for the Pope, who is the highest leader of Catholics in the world. The Pope promotes peace and justice for all nations and cultures. There are many problems in this church that Jesus would certainly not approve of. There is sexual abuse in the church, far too many divorces in the Catholic Church, and the frequent practice of abortion. Jesus in the most traditional way would not want people to steal from the wealth of the church. This has been going on for centuries after his death and resurrection to heaven. Perhaps a he would demonstrate a modern-day miracle to strengthen the belief in Him and the Roman Catholic way of life.

Eastern Orthodox

Jesus would be delighted by the fact that Eastern Orthodox Church is the least changed from its eastern traditional roots, which go back to the beginning of Christianity. They have preserved the teaching and traditions of the Twelve Apostles of 2007 years ago. It still uses the original Christian calendar, which sets the dates for the significant events in Christ’s life, in chronological order. Every Holy Day in the Orthodox religion, and every Sunday of the year are dedicated to Christ’s Resurrection. The Icons of the Orthodox Church are not idols, or objects of worship. It is the people or God who are depicted in the Icon, who are adored, and emulated.

Protestantism

The Holy Scriptures of the Presbyterian hymns and the faith in Jesus Christ would make Jesus feel proud and respected. I think that Jesus would approve and seek an increase in the amount of Holy Sacraments practiced on a regular basis. The Lord’s Supper might be served on a daily basis, not just on infrequent Sunday mornings. The Communion represents the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.

JESUS CHRIST

MARTIN LUTHER’S VIEW

Roman Catholicism

Martin Luther had no respect for the Pope in his lifetime, but if he were alive today he would probably think differently. While he would certainly not believe that he Pope is infallible, the Popes of today are not treated like Kings of the past. The Holy Father now listens and respects all cultures, races, and religions of the world. Luther would approve of the Faith in Jesus Christ our Savior. Martin believed in “Strong Faith”. The Catholics believed in greater detail. Saints, popes, bishops, while still respected, are really only human beings who can make mistakes, or use poor judgment. Luther recognized this in his own lifetime! He would still want the Catholic Church to emphasize the Scriptures in the Bible. He would be very happy with the hymns being sung at Mass, at each religious service, or sacrament. We now have Adult Bible Study in our Catholic Church! The Catholic religion is now nearing the acceptance of married clergy. Martin Luther, would most likely speed up the process with his teachings and philosophy.

Eastern Orthodox

Jesus is the focus, which would make Mr. Martin Luther also very pleased. The Icons of the Orthodox Church are not idols, or objects of worship. It is the people or God that are depicted in the Icon, who are adored. He would be very happy with the hymns and formal use of music in this church. Luther would approve of the translation of the Bible in the church, into the native languages of the countries of the Eastern World. He would also approve of the married clergy of the Orthodox Faith.

Protestantism

The Holy Scriptures of the Presbyterian hymns and the faith in Jesus Christ would make Jesus feel proud and respected. This would also please Martin Luther. Luther would also approve of the use of native language in the prayer services, of each country, which practices Protestantism.

MARTIN LUTHER

Chris Thoma

Relg109DFB

Wednesday 6:15 to 9:05PM

Professor Susan De George

Fall 2007

Jesus Christ and His Miracles

Jesus Christ (king or Messiah) was born 2007 years ago. Modern civilization marks his birth by dividing time B.C. (before Christ) and A.D. (Anno Domini/ year of our Lord). For his first thirty years, Jesus lived a traditional life, working as a carpenter. During this time, all of Israel was under Caesar's Roman dictatorship, including Bethlehem, where Jesus was born, and Nazareth, where he was raised. In his thirties, Jesus began his public teaching and display of recorded miracles. There were many miracles that Jesus Christ had performed while teaching and ministering. Turning water into wine (John 2:1-11). A lame man is healed (John 5:1-6). Calming the storm on the sea of Galilee (Mark 4:35-41). Many demons are cast out of a man (Mark 5:1-20). Jairus's daughter is raised from the dead (Mark 5:21-43). Feeding 5,000 people with a few loaves & fishes (Mark 6:35-44). Walking on water (Mark 6:45-52). Lararus is raised from the dead (John 11:1-45). A blind man receives his sight (Mark 10:46-52). A miraculous catch of fish for the disciples (John 21:1-14). Jesus demonstrated amazing power for healing, nature, and raising people form the dead. Many witnesses observed the strength, heart, and will of Jesus Christ. Many non-believers of Christ became instant believers. All of these amazing miracles performed by Jesus Christ inspired the Christian faith to move forward and get stronger for the world of Christian followers. As a result of these miraculous events, the number of his followers increased dramatically. Jesus claimed to be God, which was a violation of the Jewish law. The religious leaders told the Roman government to execute Jesus Christ. In many trials, the Romans found that he was not guilty of breaking any Roman law. Also, the Jewish leaders recognized that Jesus followed the Jewish law perfectly, despite, Jesus' claim to be God. Religious leaders, using the argument of political disfavor, influenced the Roman governor to authorize an execution. Jesus was brutally tortured and then hung by his hands, which were nailed to a horizontal wooden beam cross. As much as 500 witnesses saw Jesus Christ return from the dead, three days later. Over the next 40 days Jesus journeyed in both the southern and northern parts of Israel. To many observers, this was proof that Jesus' claims to be God were real. Jesus returned to Jerusalem, the city where he was recently executed, and according to witnesses, he left the earth alive by rising up into the sky. Jesus Christ performed and demonstrated extraordinary events in the course of his journey on earth. Today Christianity is the largest religion in the world, due to the belief in the God Almighty Jesus Christ. The Story of Jesus Christ is the greatest story ever told. I am a proud Christian follower of Jesus Christ and a believer of his powerful miracles.





Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB
Fall 2007
6:15 to 9:05 P.M.
Professor Susan De George

Jesus Christ and His Miracles

Christianity in America

During the week write a Religion Topic of your choosing? Due Nov 13th

During the week on channel 13, Sesame Street was featuring a segment on the Jewish religion, and culture. They were teaching the youngsters how to make Jewish bread. It is called Holly Bread. The Jewish/Hebrew spelling is “Challah” bread. It is made of raised dough and the loaf of the bread has a spiral shape to it. The bread is twisted and braided before it is bake in the oven. The braids represent the memories of past memories that woven into our everyday lives of the Jewish Culture. It served with honey on holidays to wish for a sweet upcoming year. It is passed on to one generation to the next. The Rabbi often blesses it. This type of food is very important to the Jewish culture. It is similar to their Holy Communion served at their homes during suppertime. The bread is covered with a prayer cloth before it is served, and a prayer of thanksgiving is praised to God. The Jewish religion is an interesting world religion. Please post any comments?

Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB
6:15 to 9:05pm
Fall 2007
Professor Susan De George

The Religion of Judaism Due Nov 13th

Religious practices differ among Jews, but they all believe in the one Superior Being called “God”. He works through historical events, and he works through the Jewish people as his agents. Another word for God in the Jewish religion is “El”. Male babies are circumcised from the ancient times to today. They observe the Sabbath, as a day of worship, because God rested on the 7th day when he created the world. He talks about the Exodus, from Egypt and its slavery. These events and characters have become the heart of the Jewish religion. God basically freed the slaves of Egypt. He also revealed to his leaders the laws of the Jewish religion. These are written in the Hebrew Bible, and the Exodus is celebrated in various Jewish holidays such as Hanukkah, Yom Kippur, and Passover. God gave the 10 commandments to “Moses”, which they follow as we do, in the Christian religion. Jewish people of the world, worship in a Synagogue or a Temple. Passover is a Jewish holiday celebrated in the spring, which remembers the freeing of the Israelis from Egyptian slavery. Orthodox Judaism is the largest group within the Jewish religion. They want to preserve the original Jewish culture and religion. These types of Jews want kosher food laws to remain strict. Also they want a strict observance of the Sabbath, their Holy Day. Men and women are separated, and they must cover their heads. Hebrew is always used during services. Conservative Judaism has a greater concern for the scientific study of the Bible. Hebrew is not used as much. They tend to worship on Saturday morning. Men are still required to cover their heads during service, and they try to live by the Bible and Talmud, regarding their food and religious services. Reform Judaism is the continuation of the development of the Jewish religion. The Talmud has no authority for the modern day Jew, and they seek no Messiah and no homeland, except for the land of their birth. They use less Hebrew in their worship. Their synaquouges are called temples. Kosher food laws are not as strict. Music was introduced into their religious services, through choirs and organ music. The Jewish religion of the world is a strict, filled with many old customs and traditions.
Please post any comments?

Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB
6:15 to 9:05pm
Fall 2007
Professor Susan De George

During the week, Write a Religion Topic of Your Choosing. Due Nov 6th

Thoughts On “Elie Weisel”

This story about “Elie Weisel” is a very sad story. His was a survivor of the “Concentration Camps” in World War II. Despite his entire family being executed in the death camps, he would later inspire the world with his remarkable determination of strength, will, and courage. As I can see, he became a well renowned writer of the 20th Century. His stories have touched all people and admirers who have read his literature. This man is the perfect example, of one who never gives up his faith in life. No matter what devastating circumstances he may have emcountered due to discrimination and hate, “Elie Weisel” has become a modern day “hero” for the oppressed people of the world. He has helped to educate people of all races, colors, and cultures. Maybe, “Elie Weisel” can write a letter to help the monks who are being beaten and killed in Myanmar, formally know as “Burma”. I am sure that with his great reputation, it should help the monks in Myanmar achieve the religious freedom that they truly deserve! His positive feedback will greatly influence the government and the country of Burma to listen to what he has to say. He might organize and march in some type of peaceful demonstration, for the monks. The story of “Elie Weisel” has touched the entire world we all live in. Please post any comments?

http://www.achievement.org/autodoc/page/wie0pro-1

Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB
6:15P.M to 9:05 P.M
Fall 2007Professor Susan De George

Dr. Rev. Thomas A. Hughart Leader of The Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church In Yonkers, New York

Question to ask clergyperson: Of the religious tradition, regarding the traditions beliefs, ethics, and ritual practices and how they are related to one another?

Dr. Rev, Thomas A. Hughart was ordained 51 years. I spoke with him following the services being held at the Presbyterian Church In Yonkers, New York on Sunday October 21, 2007. We spoke about beliefs, rituals, ethics, and the Presbyterian Community in Yonkers, New York.

Beliefs

What does the Congregation emphasize?“Diversity, which is celebrated. In the church 17 different countries from South America, Europe, and Asia etc are honored” (Hughart).

What does Presbyterian mean? “Is a Greek word (power of the church) which is vested in (Elders church session) all the Power is in the “Church Scriptures” (Hughart).

Over time, what has changed Presbyterian Religion’s major beliefs, issues, Church? “Interpretations of Scriptures used as a “Metaphor” for understanding our life of events” (Hughart).

Rituals

How has your worship practice changed over the years?“Inclusive of Hymns, from Latin America, and Africa. Rock Contemporary music was used in Church (Bruce CockBurn CD) Projections were used in Church (Modern Technology)” (Hughart).

My religion is Catholic Vs. Presbyterian religion? “In communion Catholics are given every mass, only once a month in the Presbyterian religion. They serve grape juice, not wine. The Rev Thomas Hughart will visit hospitals and bless people who are ill and serve them Communion. “The Lords Prayer” is said “debts and debtors”(Hughart).

Ethics

Big issues denomination? “Do not ordain Gay and Lesbians” (Hughart).

What is the Role of Women? “Its is very important, they can serve in all positive positions in the church as an Elder or Minister”. Yes, “women can become a minister or a Reverend” (Hughart).

What are your Community Affairs? “Nest for Korean, Indian congregation fellowship, Orthodox Church of India, Senior Citizens Group, Recovery Group for Mental Illness in Yonkers, New York, Alcoholic Anonymous in Yonkers, New York”(Hughart).


How would your church help immigrants? “We welcome them, with English as second language Spanish as a second language, and computer classes that are free” (Hughart).

How would you help with the War In Iraq? “Opposing the war in Iraq. The Presbyterian Church does not believe Israel controls God’s Foreign Policy” (Hughart).

Community

Do you work with other Churches? “Good Shepard Jointly on Walnut Street, in Yonkers, New York” (Hughart). “The Good South Presbyterian Church on Radford Street, in Yonkers, New York” (Hughart).

Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB
6:15 to 9:05 p.m
Professor Susan De Georoge
Fall 2007

THE BRYN MAWR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH GOING FORWARD-GROWING STRONGER

I was raised Catholic while I was growing up in New York. The Presbyterian Religion always fascinated me. I wondered what the differences were between the two religions.My research began with The Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. This Neighborhood Landmark Church originally was across the street on Lockwood Avenue, Yonkers, New York. They moved the church 50 years ago in 1957 to Buckingham Road. The Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church was built in the year of 1911. The present day leader of this church is Dr. Rev, Thomas A. Hughart. The Parish Associate is Rev. Win Peacock. The Organist/Choir Director is Mrs. Judith Skoog. The emphasis of this church is “Going forward-Getting Stronger”. Pastor Tom’s attire was a black rope with green trim. His left arm had three red stripes. The interior of the church is beautiful. The stained glass windows are multicolored Art Deco glass with the image of “Jesus Christ” facing the congregation. Beautiful red velvet cushions were on the oak benches. There were a small gathering of people of different races and cultures, all sharing the same Presbyterian belief. The ceremony began with organ music that began the worship at the Presbyterian Church on October 21, 2007 Sunday at 10:00 a.m. The books of Presbyterian religion are the Presbyterian Hymnal and the Bible. These books were used for the celebration of the “Scriptures” as interpreted by the Presbyterian religion. The choir lady brought a dog into the church and sang in the choir. This religion does not require the congregation to kneel in church like in the Catholic Church. “The Lord’s Prayer” was somewhat different from the Catholic version of “Lords Prayer”. Communion is served every other week, unless if it is Lent. The title of the sermon was “Finding God In The Gaps”. There was also an event after service; “Blessing The Animals”. The congregants could bring their pets to be blessed by Pastor Thomas Hughart. There was prayer for the dead, and sick people. The minister spoke of the “Gift of Gratitude”, “God with your spirit bless this offering for peace and justice in your world”. Many beautiful Presbyterian Hymns were sung in Church. “For the Beauty of the Earth”, Let Us with a Gladsome Mind”, and “Christ of the Upward Way” were the melodies of the choir. The morning offering had two ladies come with an offering plate to collect donations. The donations were collected in a circular pan that was gold in color. Scriptures as interpreted by the Presbyterian Religion are strictly held by the faithful as to what you are taught, and what you believe. Everything in the Scriptures is God’s Word, all of which is useful for teaching, and helping people, and correcting them, by showing them how to live. Scriptures train God’s servants to do all kinds of good deeds. Preach God’s message do it willingly, even if is not the popular thing to do, we must correct people and point out their sins”. Also cheer them up, and when you instruct them always be patient. “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3.16 Presbyterian Hymnal).

THE TITLE OF THE SERMON: “FINDING GOD IN THE CAPS”
“Time of the children”

Rev Thomas Hughart was addressing the “Time of the children”. “He was speaking of people who are under 40 years old, and he considered them still as children” (Hughart). He also considered those who are over forty years old; still have a child living in all of them”(Hughart). Rev Hughart said “that this morning he needs the help of “Bruce Cockburn”, to help him with “Time Of The Children”. (Hughart). “We all need to be educated, that is, that is what you came for”(Hughart). He is also encouraging the audience to listen to this song. Written by “Bruce Cockburn” he is a Christian Rock Star, and recorded a number of different albums. One of his songs is called “Message of the main Sermon”. He will sing the song in contemporary terms. The title of the Song is: “Lovers in a Dangerous Time” and the verse is really like a text for the sermon. The verse is “Keep kicking until the Sunlight bleeds in” and “Keep kicking at the Darkness until the sunlight bleeds in” The Rev Thomas Hugart played the CD in church. All observers were in disbelief, including myself, that Rock Contemporary music was being played in a Presbyterian church. Thomas Hughart “said, “ou all must felt like you were in a wrong church”, “and, “you all must have felt you were in the wrong building”! (Hughart). “But you are in the right place”! (Hughart). Emphasis of the song was, “Keep at the darkness until the sunshine bleeds through”. I got the message; it was a beautiful song being sung by the Rock Star. It was very moving, and totally unexpected. It would inspire a lot of young churchgoers to come to the Presbyterian Church in Yonkers, New York. The meaning of this song was meant to encourage all of us to work through the trials and errors we make in our lifetime. Our God in our church will help us get through these difficult times. The Presbyterian Church is truly “Going Forward”, and “Growing Stronger”.

Bruce Cockburn

“PERSISTENT WIDOW” (From The Bible)

The Persistent Widow is about, praying and never quitting. They talk about a corrupt judge who had no religious faith. There was a widow, whose need for justice. She kept her battle going on with the corrupt judge. Eventually the judge would be influenced by her strength, faith, and wisdom. This story was used to strengthen the audience who were attending the service on Sunday October 21, 2007. This story was retold by Rev Thomas Hughart to help the congregation with problems in their own personal life.

THE MEANING OF PERSISTENCE

2007, happens to be 200th anniversary of the abolition of slave trading in the British Empire. The man responsible for this was William Golderforth a young man member of the Parliament, in Great Britain. He cared less about social issues and justice. Robert Parsons was a friend of his, and influenced him, to devote his life the abolition of Slave trade. For the next twenty years of his life, Golderforth was lobbying and talking to people in the British Parliament. Eventually, he got enough support from the British government to end their enrollment in Slave trading. William Golderforth was an example of “PERSISTENCE”. For him god is the one who comes to us when we feel that God is in the absence, of our lives. Calling in god to fill up the gaps. God in the gap. He will come down and intervene and reinforce us. Prayer is more than just intellectual exercise, and exhibition of faith. It is the total commitment by you. Jesus said, prayer should be in your heart, and mind. God is filling in the gaps. “We can all bring greater justice to the world”. “There is a complexity of the moral issues of world, only the Bible can help us understand and figure out what to do” (Hughart).

Evolution is an Example Used By Pastor Tom

God caused the process of evolution, and encourages us to move forward. Rev. Hughart said, “that there is scientific evidence that the universe was created, by a variety of animals, and plants, and that God is in the Gap” (Hughart).

Point of View By Rev. Thomas A. Hughart

Congress’s recommendation that Turkey be condemned, for the genocide of one million and half Armenians. The Leader of the Church called this a dilemma. Against genocide if we condemn Turkey, then we loose their support in the fight against Iraq, which is a threat to Israel. “This is the kind of complex world we live in”(Hughart). Rev. Hughart job is to sort out such dilemmas. He will help you to raise your awareness for some of these issues. Pastor Tom is against the war in the genocide in Turkey. However we have to handle Turkey carefully, because she gives us military support.

BLESSING THE ANIMALS

There was a service “Blessing The Animals” from 11:30am to 11:45 am on October 21, 2007 Sunday. People in the neighborhood and members of the Congregation owned the majority of the dogs that were blessed outside of the Presbyterian Church. Pastor Tom blessed these beautiful animals, with their beloved masters. The breed of the pets included poodles, beagles, and various dogs. God loves all creatures great and small.
































































Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB
6:15 to 9:05 P.M.
Professor Susan De George
Fall 2007

MY PERSONAL KAMIDANA

DOG

My Akita who happens to be a Japanese breed is named Jade Ono. Like Jade, she brings us good luck, and strong faith.

TREE

The trees provides us with oxygen, shade, protection from the wind, and cold winters.

ROSEARY BEADS

They are a symbol of the Catholic religion. We pray to Mary our Blessed Mother.

CRUCIFIX

Represents Jesus Christ’s “Ultimate Sacrifice” for all Christians, who believed in him.

FLOWERS (chrysanthemums)

Represent Joy, peace, vitality, and happiness. In Japan, they celebrate the Kiku festival using these beautiful chrysanthemums.

FAMILY

My family is the strength of my life. They give me love, affection, and education.

My Kamidana would be place on the mantle of our home. The fireplace is focal point to a family’s home. When company comes they gather in that sacred area. I can admire and show more gratitude for all these important objects, and people in my life. Shinto religion would respect the sacred objects of other religions, such as the Catholic Rosary Beads, and Crucifix that are found on my Kamidana (Holy Sacred Shelf). The tree and chrysanthemums are sacred symbols of nature. The Shinto religion would look at them as if they were gods. My dog would also be worshiped as a sacred gift from a god.


Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB
Wednesday 6:15pm to 9:05pm
Professor Susan De George
Fall 2007

Monks Make Appeal for Peace

Burmese monks and supporters walk and marched through Rockland County on October 22, 2007. The marcher’s focus is on the violence that is going on in Myanmar, which is formerly known as Burma. Protesters that said “Free Burma”, as sweet aromas rose from candlesticks, wore many posters. The peace walk, was lead by Jun Yasuda, a Buddhist monk. This peaceful march in protest it being done as a request to ask the U.N Security Council to take action on this matter. Hopefully, the U.N and the world will end military violence in Myanmar. Buddhist monk and leaders, who are already in prison for working for democracy, are afraid of being executed to death. “The group has between 25 and 50 walkers everyday”(The Journal News 22 Oct 2007). They also ask if we write letters to the U.N Security Council and the leaders of our government. Perhaps we can write letters or march peacefully in the support of these gentle people of Burma. The entire world is watching as this continues to go on. Please post any comments.

http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007710220351

Discussion of the Ideas of Lao-Tzu and Confucius and The Dali Lama

Tao-tzu said to live simply. Live like nature, don’t be jealous of others. Help nature flourish for the years to come. We intend to address the internal way of the universe. All that has, does, and will exist. All things in existence must be of the external way. Don’t overly use your credit card. Don’t buy more than you need in you everyday life. The philosopher Confucius said wise sayings in China to help people learn about nature, the world, and human behavior. He helped give advice to the government of China and the emperor by teaching them lessons on how the emperor should rule China successfully. Both philosophers combined will help us live a peaceful and simple life. We will live more like god’s creatures. In today’s modern world we have the Dali Lama in Tibet. He is a spiritual leader of his country and mentor to the world. He recently received the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor. He spoke on behalf of his country of Tibet, to Congress, and the world. He is a pacifist who is encouraging the U.S to help fight for the people of Myanmar to achieve freedom and democracy. He wants us to promote harmony and human rights and justice. He does not want to get involved with the big state government of China. The Dali Lama appears to be inspired by Confucius when he lectures to the people of the world against big government. But he does not want the government to restrict the people’s basic rights. His attire is a symbol of his stoic nature, and love of the simpler things in life. The world should respect these religious leaders and their philosophers. The world will become a much better place to live in.

Chris Thoma

Relg109DFB

Wednesday 6:15 to 9:05 pm

Fall 2007

Professor Susan De George

Ideas of Tao and Wu Wei to your own life.

Tao is literally, the way, or the way of nature. Tao means the path or the way. It is a universal principle that underlies everything from the creation of galaxies to interaction of human beings. Teachings of Tao are vast and beyond human logic. If you would like to understand Tao, reasoning alone will not suffice. You must also apply intuition. Don’t get too much involved with the knowledge. Do not work very hard. Do not boast about yourself. Life is to be lived very simply. Wealth is not to be aspired to. Fancy Cars, homes, should not be our top priority, that kind of thing. Do not be envious of someone else’s academic achievement. You should be interested into the day-to-day basis of everyday life. They did not have much interest into gods or life after death. The tallest tree will be cut down first. The lumberjack sees it first. This religious faith encourages you to bind with nature and its natural environment. Wu Wei is Taoist principle of non-aggression and pacifism. Pacifism means to join the antiwar protest. Help the Buddhism monks. You can join the Peace Corps. Work against domestic violence in America. Work against road rage in our country we live in. Vote for an anti-war presidential candidate. Refuse to pay income tax against as protes towards Iraq War. Wu Wei is defined as knowing when to act, and not to act. Wu is not to have. Wei may be to do, act, serve as, govern. Wu Wei is without action. To achieve a state of perfect equilibrium, or alignment with the Tao and, result is to obtain an irresistible form of soft and invisible. The animals live in harmony. Peaceful coexistence with the other animals, and the other beings on the planet is what we should care about most. We should live simpler lives. Use solar energy in our homes. Don’t rely on modern technology, such as air conditioning, and electricity, too often. This could save our natural resources. Too much development in our towns and communities could lead to a global catastrophe. Global warming is on the rise throughout the entire the earth. I am willing to carryout these tasks on a day-to-day basis. I feel by doing so, it will strengthen my soul, and compassion for people, and wildlife.

Chris Thoma

Relg109DFB

Wednesday 6:15 to 9:05pm

Fall 2007

Professor Susan De George

Some Big Questions Regarding Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism

HINDUISM

BUDDHISM





JAINISM

SIKHISM

God is called Brahman the Ultimate Reality in Hinduism. Central to Hinduism are the concepts of reicarnation, the caste system, merging with Brahman or the Ultimate Reality finding morality, and reaching Nirvana. Nirvana is the peaceful escape from the cycle of reincarnation. Buddhism is regarded as a religion without an Absolute Creator God who created the universe. Absolute Creator God is absent in most forms of Buddhism, vneration and worship of Gautama Buddha and other Buddhas do play a role in both Theravada and Mahayanna Buddhism. When speaking of the Jainism perspective, God does not create, nor does he favor those who praise him, for what would make God imperfect. God simply inspires, and that is what Jain worship is for. The fundamental belief of Sikhism is that God exists, not merely as an idea or concept, but as a real enity, indescribable yet knowable and perceivable to anyone who is prepared to dedicate the time and energy to become perceptive to his or her persona. Buddhism focuses on the now, making it as good as possible. We are responsible for our own lives. We should be involved in our community to improve it. Jainism broke away form Hinduism. Jainism soul is considered life it is eternal. Thus souls are held in matter, which comes from Karma, which are the past's actions of our life's, so the soul is never free, and it lives endless lives. The world existed forever and ever it was never created. They don't rely on gods. It is an urban religion. They feel if you do good work on earth your soul will be released. They don't really speak of a heaven. Sikhism is a very simple religion. They have no priests. The people are the ministers. Indra is the god of the thunderbolt, rain, cluds, and the ruler of heaven. Nirvana is literally blowing out of the end cousciousness. Releases to the cycle of rebirth. It lets you extingusih yourself. Sansara is dying and being reborn 1000 different lifetimes. Does your personal religion relate to anyone of these types of religions? Please post any comments.

Chris Thoma
Relg109DFB

Wednesday 6:15 to 9:05p.m

Professor Susan De George

Fall 2007