The nature of religion Flashcards
Define the supernatural dimension
Supernatural DImension- an existence above and apart from the material world (beyond earth) It can’t be explained by science Greater than humankind Central to all world religions Responsible for creation Framework for human life and destiny
Supernatural dimension examples:
Christianity- God, heaven, hell
Judaism- God, heaven, sheol
Islam- Allah, Jannah (paradise), Jahannam (hell fire)
Define the concept ‘transcendent religious worldviews.
A transcendent worldview is one that embraces the ideology of a divine power beyond human capabilities and experiences
What is the difference between monotheism and polytheism?
Monotheism- belief in one God who exists beyond the human and guides humanity throughout its everyday existence
Polytheism-powers or divine being dwelling within the individual
E.g. Hinduism and Buddhism
E.g. Judaism, Christianity and Islam
What is the immanent religious worldview?
Immanent religious worldview- They hold the belief that the supernatural and divine powers dwell within the individual as a constant reality. These such worldviews are evident in most Eastern religions
Define the characteristics of religion, using examples
There are 4 characteristics of religion:
Belief and believers- key tenets, doctrines or values, underpins the religious practice E.g. Christianity- belief in the holy trinity
Sacred texts and writings- contains most important beliefs, connection between supernatural dimension E.g. Torah- Judaism, Bible- Christianity, Quran-islam
Rituals and ceremonies- practical expression, words, actions and symbols, lead to a greater understanding
E.g. Christianity- baptism and eucharist, Islam- Zakat and Salat, Hinduism-meditation
Ethics- the meaning behind moral decision making, practical application, all found and outlined in sacred texts
E.g. christianity- golden rule, buddhism- Dharma: virtue, right conduct and ethics
What is meant by dynamic religion
A dynamic religion is one characterised by energy, ambition, new ideas and practical achievements. It refreshes itself constantly.
what is meant by living religion
A living religion is one that is full of life, not dead, decaying or bereft of ideas. It is practical, real and immersed in everyday human life.
How do the characteristics of religion create a dynamic, living religion?
Believers have a sense of the sacred of something beyond the ordinary. E.gi. Eucharist- Transubstantiation
- They respond by action:participation in rituals and ceremonies e.g. Hajj (Islam)
- They formulate this response into sacred texts, stories and writings
- This response is expressed through a belief system and code of conduct e.g. The ten commandments
- This is supported by social and communal structures e.g. opening mass at school
What does religion contribute to individuals ?
Personal sense of meaning; Search for the understanding of the big questions. E.g. when someone dies, during the hsc
Ethical guidance: Reasoning behind moral decision making. Bioethics: drug research, sexual morality: homosexuality, issues of social concern: drug research
Sense of belonging: provides sense of community e.g. school assemblies (year of community)
Ritual meetings: marks important stages in human experience E.g. graduation, marriage
What does religion contribute to society?
Society and Culture: close relationship as they need each other to be expressed
E.g. Theravada Sangha in Thailand, don’t allow women to become abbesses/ a reflection of how men have been culturally conditioned to accept restriction roles for women (buddhism)
Has a conservative influence: Euthanasia, IVF, prevents society from moving away from traditional values E.g. Gay marriage is opposed due to their being no chance of procreation
Progressive influence: a sense of justice e.g. refugee debate
