World Religions

Define these words

CultPolytheismMonotheismProphetMessiahSectReincarnation

five characteristics world religions seem to share:1. a belief in some kind of deity or supreme being

• (ex. God or Jehovah)2. a code of conduct for individuals and groups of people

• (ex. prohibition against murder)3. religious rituals or ceremonies

• (ex. baptism or marriage)4. a doctrine of salvation

• (ex. being forgiven for sins)5. a sacred text of stories of a holy book

• (ex. Bible or Quran)

Comparing World Religions

Hinduism

India 900 Million worldwide 3rd largest combination of local beliefs and customs with immigrating ideas

Polytheistic supreme spirit – Brahmanutilizes many forms – different gods.

Main 3 • Brahma – Creator• Vishnu – Preserver• Siva – Destroyer

Hinduism

Reincarnation – rebirth of soul progressing Enlightenment - GoalKarma – actions in this life affects position in nextVarna – cast or class each individual Dharma – Religious rules to be followed in each class

Hinduism

Cross between philosophy and religion

Approx. 360 Mil worldwide

Started – India around 500BCE

by Siddharta Gautama

Indian Prince

The Four Noble TruthsThe Four Noble Truths1Life is SufferingLife is Suffering2All suffering is caused by ignorance of All suffering is caused by ignorance of the nature of reality.the nature of reality.3Suffering can be ended by overcoming Suffering can be ended by overcoming ignorance and attachment.ignorance and attachment.4The path to the suppressionThe path to the suppression of suffering is the of suffering is the Noble Eightfold PathNoble Eightfold Path

Enlightenment = Nirvana

May be attained in 1 lifetime

Main way to achieve is through meditation