RANR - rise of new religions expressions and spiritualties Flashcards
what are new religious expressions
Emerging movements in Western culture characterised by an individual, eclectic approach to spiritual exploration.
Includes loose network of seekers, teachers, healers often incorporating elements of ancient and indigenous religions e.g. Wicca, neo-paganism
A term that covers a wide range of spiritual beliefs and practices which aim to foster individual fulfilment in the form of personal happiness, health and meaning in life.
in a class by itself. Unlike most formal religions, it has no holy text, central organization, membership, formal clergy, geographic centre, dogma, creed, etc.
The term ‘new’ is somewhat of a misnomer as many of the practices are in fact centuries old!
developments within established religious traditions such as the development of Pentecostal churches in Australia or other new religious forms.
RECOGNISE THE REASONS FOR THE RISE OF NEW RELIGIOUS EXPRESSIONS AS PEOPLE
search for personal fulfilment:
eg dissatisfaction with traditional forms of religion in creating a meaningful understanding of life
RECOGNISE THE REASONS FOR THE RISE OF NEW RELIGIOUS EXPRESSIONS AS PEOPLE
Seek ethical guidelines:
eg the modern world has seen a growth in the rights of the individual to determine their lifestyle. Religious traditions based on strong rule by a group of clergy, monks, or other minority leadership can be seen by some to be out of touch with contemporary understandings.
RECOGNISE THE REASONS FOR THE RISE OF NEW RELIGIOUS EXPRESSIONS AS PEOPLE
o Seek to clarify their relationship with society
eg as concerns over issues such as the environment and the demands of work within a consumerist society grow many people are searching for new paradigms to work within and contribute to society
reasons for the rise of new religions expressions and spiritualities
less desire to be part of a traditional religious community (traditions no longer relevant) society no longer places such importance on being a member of such a group
privatisation of religious/spiritual feelings/beliefs
more emphasis on questioning and coming to your own conclusions
people exercise their right of choice
chance to escape mainstream society and a greater search for personal fulfilment
charismatic leaders are often found in new religions which makes it more appealing & interesting
neo-paganism
A polytheistic religious movement, the gods worshipped are drawn from pre-Christian religions such as Egyptian, Greek, Norse and Celtic; neo-pagans (ie: ‘new’ or ‘modern’ pagans) may focus on nature, practice magic or perform mysterious and elaborate rituals
occult
Of the supernatural or magical realm; beyond ordinary knowledge
paganism
An ancient polytheistic religion, such as that practised by the ancient Greeks, Egyptians, Romans, Norce etc
spiritualism
The belief that the dead can communicate with living people
wicca
A neo-pagan religion of ‘white witches’; Wiccans revere nature & active ecology, believe in a goddess and/or horned god, perform magic, may believe in reincarnation, & use ancient myths
druids
People who follow the religion of the ancient Celtic priests, who performed magic and predicted the future
search for personal fulfilment
Dissatisfaction with traditional forms of religion in providing a meaningful understanding of things
New understanding of the human person, women youth etc
Individualism and self determination
Companionship and community feel left out/alienated
Goal/purpose in life unachievable vs achievable goals other worldly goals eg heaven
People may take up New Age spiritualities as a way for being personally fulfilled.
There are many way to do this…..e.g. study meditation techniques or perform relaxation exercises while doing visualisations and listening to soothing music.
They also seek ways to have visions – of God, spirits, angels, people who have died or holy people such as prophets.
seeking ethical guidance
Traditional ethical responses are seen as restricted/restrictive
Modern ethical issues pose complex dilemmas sacred texts are not ‘good enough’
Changes in personal lifestyles and behaviour religion out of touch
Issue of good vs evil
Idea of ‘spiritual growth’ and taking responsibility for own actions
NRE do not have their own religious scriptures to help guide them in ethical decision, therefore New Age thinking encourages supporters to trust their inner feelings or intuition to become healthy, emotional balanced role models for their community. Wars, family breakdowns, homosexuality & rigid structures of traditional religions have led to a decline in these traditions providing ethical guidelines.
New Age guidelines are on the whole based on tolerance, universalism and environmentalism.
NRE’s place a much stronger emphasis on a person realising their own spiritual potential, taking responsibility for their own personal growth and making their own decisions.
seeking to clarify their relationship with society
New sexualities and lifestyles
Opposition to male hierarchies in religious traditions
Concern for ecological/environmental issues
Discontent with modern science and technologies
People may need a ritual that is celebratory or symbolic because of the death of a person or an animal, a move to a new home or the end of a marriage.
New Age spiritualities offer alternative rituals and celebrations that help followers feel part of society without being part of a ‘traditional’ religion.
