Terms Flashcards
Epistemology
The study of what is real, or the study of how we know things.
Existentialism
Belief that you can only make decisions for yourself as you are completely unique and separate from others. Radical beliefs are that nothing perceived is real.
Materialism
Belief that only what you can perceive (sense) is real.
Dharma
Hindu belief regarding ‘proper duty,’ what one is supposed to/should do based on their position in life. A code of living emphasizing good conduct and morality, fulfilled by observance of law and promotes good karma. Ethical duty based on the divine order of reality.
Symbols
Shapes, pictures, or other imagery holding significance within a religion. Often representative of certain events or ceremonies. Christian symbols include the cross and the ichthys (fish).
The Essenes
Jewish sect during the time of Jesus. Believed a new kingdom was coming and the world would be reformed. Denied the Resurrection of Jesus. Wrote the Dead Sea scrolls.
Rite
A religious or other solemn ceremony or ritual. In Christianity refers to sacred ceremonies, such as anointing the sick, which may or may not be a sacrament. Two sacramental examples of rites are baptism and receiving the Eucharist.
Karma
A Hindu belief regarding the consequence of one’s behavior and dictates the nature of one’s reincarnation. Good behavior = good karma = advance in the chain of reincarnation, vise versa for poor behavior. “Action” or “deeds;” the reflection of them
Exodus
Mass departure of people. In Christianity the departure of the Israelites from Egypt. The second book of the Bible
Reciprocity
Exchanging things for mutual benefit. Mutual exchange. Giving and receiving the same in return. In Christianity “do unto others as you would have them do unto you”
Buddha
Founder of the Buddhist religion. Full name Gautama Buddha. Considered an extraordinary person but not a god. Established the ‘middle way’ “The string that produces a tuneful sound is not too tight and not too loose.”
Synoptic Gospels
Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Called such as they include the same stories in similar order an wording.
Covenant
An agreement between two or more people. In the Bible an agreement between God and a person or people. 5 key covenants entail God’s promise to humanity. The Ark of the Covenant houses the Ten Commandments.
Holy Orders
The sacrament by which men are ordained as priests or deacons.
Diaspora
A scattered population whose origin lies in a separate geographic locale. Historically refers to the dispersion of Jews from Israel and Judea.