How Sikhism Relates to The Religion of Hinduism  

The religion of Sikhism can closely relate to the religion of Hinduism in two defined ways. Much like in Sikhism, Hindus believe in the universal principle of karma, and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Also known as Samsara in Hinduism. As distinguished in Hinduism, karma refers to how our good or bad actions can influence or interpret a positive or negative future. “As noted in the explanation of reincarnation, this goal includes being released from the cycle of life, death, and rebirth,” (Carroll, pg. 9 Hinduism). In the hopes of being released from Samsara, and to achieve Moksha or salvation and enter Brahman “the eternal and uncreated reality,” (Rodman ICollege Hinduism). In Sikhism, they believe in these same concepts but with a higher outlook on the oneness with God. “The quality of each particular life depends on the law of Karma. Karma sets the quality of a life according to how well or badly a person behaved in their previous life. The only way out of this cycle, which all faiths regard as painful, is to achieve a total knowledge of and union with God,” (Rodman ICollege). In both religions they also believe in achieving a spiritual liberation. Mukti referring to Sikhism and Moksha in Hinduism, they inevitably mean the same thing. In Sikhism, they attain Mukti through the prevalent process of spiritual rejuvenation. “Through spiritual effort, a person can regenerate themselves and live a life of truth, compassion, patience, contentment, and service to God and others, and they can achieve Mukti in this life and in the afterlife,” (Carroll, pg. 156). As it is in Hinduism, Hindus aim to achieve Moksha (a spiritual liberation) to be released from Samsara and be one with Brahman, as Sikhs aim to achieve Mukti (a spiritual liberation) by living life accordingly to God’s will. 

How Sikhism Differs from Hinduism 

Sikhism can differentiate from Hinduism through its course of a brought upon founder. In the religion of Sikhism, the founder of the religion is named Guru Nanak, also commonly noted beside the nine other gurus. Born in from a Hindu family in 1469 in Talwandi, Punjab, at the age of 30, he experienced a revelation from God’s presence while doing his daily devotionals in a river. “Nanak claimed that he had been taken up into the presence of God, who revealed to him as the “True Name.” He was given nectar to drink and was commissioned to spread the message of the one God,” (Carroll, pg. 149). In the religion of Hinduism, it can differ from Sikhism because it DOES NOT have an embodied founder. Instead, The religion was born from overlapping beliefs of Indian religious groups. “It began as a confluence of the religious practices of the ancient Indus River Valley civilization and those of Indo-European people called the Aryans, who came into northern India during the 2nd century BCE. Eventually over centuries, the beliefs, practices, texts, and rituals that emerged from this confluence became known as Hinduism,” (Carroll, pg. 6 Hinduism).  

  What is a Guru? Who were the Nine Gurus? Why are they Significant to Sikhism?

    Just as the word ‘Sikh’ means learner, so ‘Guru’ means teacher.

First, a guru is a personal leader known to Sikh’s, also in the contexts as being a teacher. Gurus are known to build a personal relationship with their students as he or she, the guru, is there to help direct or build one’s spiritual wellbeing. “Students learn directly from their gurus, sitting at their feet, or in a small groups or audiences. Gurus have some form of a personal relationship with their students. In short, their students are simply anonymous people in the crowd; gurus know their students personally to some extent and are thus, able to give them somewhat customized spiritual guidance, alongside their general teachings,” (Carroll, pg. 150). The Nine Gurus, alongside Guru Nanak, are known as the most important people in Sikhism. Each of the Nine Gurus had significate achievements that can contribute to the development of Sikhism. “The sacred text of Sikhism contains several thousand hymns, poems, and other writings from the first five gurus, including Nanak,” (Carroll, pg. 151). 

THE NINE OTHER GURUS

Guru Angad Dev                                                                                           

Guru Amar Das 

Guru Ram Das

Guru Arjan Dev

Guru Har Gobind 

Guru Har Rai

Guru Har Krishan

Guru Tegh Bahadar

 Guru Gobind Singh

In Sikhism, it is explained that the guru is the remover of all darkness, or evil spirits. These teachers are signified as enlightened souls established to remove all ignorance that ails one’s life. I am satisfied with this answer because it shows how those who are Sikh or a part of the Khalsa’s, use these teachings from the gurus, and implement them in their lives as living in gods will truly, as the nine gurus were appointed successors of Guru Nanak. And to many Sikhs, the nine gurus’ attributes are included in many of their lives as a devotion of living life purely, it’s a way and a form of living that was established by the ten gurus. “Sikhs believe that all ten human Gurus embodied the same spirit of Guruship and that their different styles were appropriate to the differing circumstances in which they lived. Their compositions, together with Guru Nanak’s, became the basis of the Guru Granth Sahib. While their spiritual emphasis seamlessly continued Guru Nanak’s, each made a distinctive contribution to Sikh community life, (Rodman ICollege).

The case of the Kirpan, More Than Just Faith 

In the case of the UNC student, I believe he was treated unfairly by all means. The incident happened under the conditions of law enforcement and the University of North Carolina of not knowing what the Kirpan is. Instead of it just being a knife or sword, it’s purely significate to Sikh faith. Regarding the school and its representatives, I believe they did right by acknowledging the incident and apologizing, but there can be more done than said in just a statement. In hopes of them taking grasp of this situation, I encourage the university to implement educational resources for not only staff who don’t know much about the religion, but students also. By educating others this can apprehend incidents like these from ever happening again, and it can establish an environment that others of different religions can trust and be comfortable to represent themselves for who they are. 

“There’s this difficult dichotomy of wanting to feel accepted and being in this diverse space and feeling like you can’t practice your religion and be fully who you are,” (USA Today). 

The Five K’s of The Khalsa 

After reading and learning about the religion or Sikhism, I found it really compelling on how those who identify as Sikh or Sikh American use physical objects to show their ethical and spiritual submission to the Guru. Without being said, after taking a deeper look into the situation of the young Sikh student being bullied for wearing his turban, and the Sikh gentleman being detained for wearing his Kirpan at the University of North Carolina, it came to my interest to elaborate on the Kirpan and its recognition under the Five K’s, or also known as the Five K’s of the Khalsa. Those who are and are not part of the Khalsa community wear or always have these items on them. These items stand as physical symbols that signify one’s devotion to the Guru. “The Five K’s are the markers of Sikh identity, and they consist of: uncut hair, a short sword or knife, a steel wristband, a wooden comb, and shorts worn as an undergarment. The observance of the Five K’s was originally the mark of the Khalsa. However, many Sikhs keep these distinctive emblems of Sikh identity without having been initiated into the Khalsa. The Five K’s continually remind Sikhs of the ethical and spiritual implications of aligning one’s life with truth,” (Rodman ICollege). The Five K’s can be identified as the following: 

Kesh (Clean Uncut hair)- In the five K’s, men and women are obligated not cut their hair amongst the Khalsa community upon initiation. “Refraining from cutting one’s hair is part of the process of ascetic renunciation of regular, everyday householder life. One stops paying attention to physical appearances and gives all of one’s energies to spiritual effort,” (Carroll, pg.152). Sikhs who have very long hair tie their hair up neatly and wrap them up in turbans. “Sikhs are forbidden from trimming or removing body hair. The importance of the five Ks is widely acknowledged by Sikhs, though many people choose to adhere to only some of them. Many contemporary Sikhs choose to cut their hair out of personal choice,” (Rodman ICollege). Hair in Sikhism is believed to give you strength. By cutting your hair it is seemed as altering the form that God has made for you. 

Kangha (Comb)- Sikhs have wooden combs that are usually worn in the hair and are used twice daily to keep their hair neat. The Kangha signifies cleanliness and diligence. (Rodman ICollege).

Kara (Steel Bracelet)- The Kara is a steel bracelet made of iron worn by Sikhs. “It represents God as it is a circle and shows that God has been born and never dies, and represents God as the infinite,” (Vimeo). Worn on the right hand, it reminds Sikhs to do good and to remember God in their actions. (Rodman ICollege).

Kachh (Special Undergarments)- Kachh’s are undergarments that look like long boxer shorts. The Kacch represents restraint and monogamy from sexual activities. “They illustrate the fight against lust, and the commitment to one life partner,” (Vimeo).  

Kirpan (Sword)- The kirpan is a sword that can be worn on a belt called a sheath or be worn as a necklace with a small sword on it. The small sword symbolizes courage and self-defense. “Used to fight injustice, Sikhs are a warrior race, so it should always be kept on them. Used to protect others and ourselves, but it should be only used in self-defense,” (Vimeo). 

References  

Carroll, Jill. 2021. World Religions : A Beginner’s Guide : Questions and Answers for Humanity’s 7 Oldest and Largest Faiths. Emeryville, California: Rockridge Press. 

Anderson, Tristan C. 2018. “BBC Bitesize – Prem: A Day in the Life of a Sikh.” Vimeo. December 24, 2018. BBC Bitesize – Prem: A day in the life of a Sikh. 

Ramirez, Marc. n.d. “Sikh Student Detained on UNC Campus for Wearing Kirpan, Curved Dagger Central to Faith.” USA TODAY. Accessed November 5, 2022. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/09/26/unc-sikh-student-kirpan-detained-north-carolina-campus/8120985001/. 

(Rodman ICollege) 

(Rodman ICollege Hinduism) 

Islam vs. Christianity, Their Similarities & Differences  

Islam is known as one of the Abrahamic religions alongside Christianity and Judaism. A truly global religion, founded by the Prophet Muhammad, holds the place of being the second largest religion in the world, with followers from every continent. As close as these religions may be, they also differ from one another conclusively. Let’s focus on Islam and Christianity.  

The Afterlife

In Islam and Christianity, as they are both monotheistic religions, Muslims and Christians also believe in the terms of an afterlife. The afterlife is your perpetuated existence of your consciousness that remains after you deceased. “Christianity, in general affirms the existence of an afterlife of either blessing or suffering based on one’s faith during earthly life. eternal reward and punishment, either heaven or hell. (Carroll, pg. 113 Christianity). In Islam, Muslims agree to this concept, but it is interpreted differently in their religion. After death, one’s soul will be in a state of waiting until the Day of Judgement. In which that individual is judged upon by God based on their good or bad deeds. “Based on their judgment from God and his angel’s people will spend eternity in either heaven or hell. Before the day of judgment Jesus or Isa as he is called in the Quran will return to earth to fight a false Messiah who is very similar to what Christianity calls the Antichrist,” (Carroll, pg. 141 & 142). 

Detering From Ideological Depictions 

Islam and Christianity can differ from one another through their sacred spaces. In Islam, their house of worship is distinguished as mosques. Mosques can be unadorned, but typically seen in mosques are thin beacons called minarets. While in Christianity there are churches with colorful glass-stained windows and art that draws elements from the bible, In Islam that is not the case. Purely seen in Islam’s places of worship are intricate geometrical patterns amongst the ceilings, and artistic foliage of floral designs called arabesque. “A distinct feature of Islamic architecture and art in the mosque is that there will be no figural artwork no statues paintings or drawings of God Mohammed or any other person,” (Carroll, pg. 132). But known in Christianity, paintings of biblical figures like angles, God, or Mary are notably seen in churches. “Christians, on the other hand, underscore the human aspect of God. It is crucial for them to emphasize that Jesus lived the human experience as a way to comprehend the depth of God’s love for humans,” (Rodman iCollege). Mosque don’t hold the images of Muhammad or any figure because in Islam, it is passionately believed that it is infallible to use such images to persuade idolization. “Muslims reject visual images of God on the ground that such images, which cannot possibly capture the reality of the divine, or tempt us toward idolatry,” (Rodman iCollege).

What Exactly Are the Five Pillars? 

The Five Pillars are considered as the fundamental beliefs, ethical and moral values of Islam. “Islam affirms the cultivation of classic virtues like humility, honesty, integrity, piety and other positive qualities,” (Carroll, pg. 132). Five Pillars can be distinguished as Shahada, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj sincerely in Islam. But the five pillars can also be asserted about in these categories: 

Profession of Faith- (Shahada), In Islam showing your profession of faith can be asserted as an oath or creed in the religion of Islam. “There is no God but God, and Muhammad is his Prophet,” (Carroll, pg. 131). Those who recite this phrase with pure devotion and belief are truly considered Muslim. 

Ritual Prayer- (Salat), Thoroughly for five times a day, Muslims have obligatory ritual prayers. It is notable that Muslims generally pray towards Mecca, which is considered as one of the holiest cities known to Islam. “At dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and after dark. Prayer includes a recitation of the opening chapter Sura of the Qur’an and is sometimes performed on a small rug or mat used expressly for this purpose. Muslims can pray individually at any location, or together in a mosque, where a leader in prayer guides the congregation,” (Canby 2019). Through ritual prayer, Muslims show conviction and divine submission to Allah, which also means God. 

Almsgiving- (Zakat), According to Islamic law, it is considered as a religious obligation to donate to those in need. Obligatory charity can result in the purification of oneself and/or increase one’s blessings in return. About 2 percent of one’s income is given to those in need. “Many rulers and wealthy Muslims build mosques, drinking fountains, hospitals, schools, and other institutions both as a religious duty and to secure the blessings associated with charity,” (Canby 2019). 

Fasting- (Sawm), During Ramadan Muslims must fast. Such fasting like from food, Muslims also take part into abstaining themselves from human temptations. “Each day for an entire month, from sunrise to sunset, observant Muslims refrain from all food drink and sexual relations. Those who are ill pregnant or otherwise unable to fast may exempt or can observe it at a different time of year,” (Carroll, pg. 131). Muslims partake in fasting as a practice of self-restraint and magnanimity. 

Pilgrimage- (Hajj), In Islam, if feasibly possible, adults must take a journey to Mecca at least once in their lifetime as a pilgrimage. “Which includes various ritual actions and reenactments of stories of Abraham, Ishmael and his mother, Hagar, and Muhammad,” (Carroll, pg. 131 & 132). The purpose of the pilgrimage is one of the ways that Muslims can cleanse themselves of sis and restart anew with Allah. 

I am satisfied with the identification of the five pillars because I can get the full understanding of the shared values and the utmost devotion established within Islam and its basic identity. I can also find the respect made by those who devote their lives to Allah as a part of practice.

The True Meaning of Jihad 

Many people wrongfully distinguish Jihad as holy war, but that is not the case, it simply means the personal struggle to live up to God’s will. The brutal miss use of this word has led to controversy, and it has been vowed by the Muslim community to gain back the true meaning of the word. The word Jihad has two presumed aspects that is sought by many, armed and unarmed jihad. “Armed jihad or jihad of the sword is an armed struggle to defend Muslims and others in their rights to worship and practice their faith. Jihad of the heart or spirit is the unarmed struggle to live a virtuous life of submission to God, (Carroll, pg. 139). Jihad can also be distinguished a way for Muslims to strive in the path of Allah, and a practice of self-exertion. 

Muslim Women & The Hijab 

In Islam, Muslim women are usually seen wearing a Jilbab and a Hibaq compromising into the Hijab. “Muslim women wear head coverings for the same reasons they’re Jewish and Christian counterparts wear them: to preserve their modesty,”(Carroll, pg. 136). In the perseverance of their modesty, it is heavily stated that in Islamic laws. Quoted from the Quran, “And tell the faithful women (Quran 24:31) to cast down their looks, and to guard their private parts to make their outer garments (Quran 33:59) hang low over them so as to be recognized and not insulted,” (YouTube 2019). People are more interested in what Muslim women put on their heads than what is in their heads because, it is believed that going against such laws are counted as a sin. The hijab stands for different meanings for many Muslim women, for many it is a religious tradition that is stood by and for others it’s a choice of dress, or identity. “Women have quranic rights that are drawn out in the Quran, and whether or not people pay attention to that is one thing, but nonetheless they are there,”(YouTube 2019).

“EVEN THOUGH THE HAJAB HOLDS GREAT IMPORTANCE, IT IS JUST A PEICE OF FABIC AROUND MY HEAD,” (YouTube 2019)

References

Canby, Sheila. 2019. “The Five Pillars of Islam.” Metmuseum.org. 2019. https://www.metmuseum.org/learn/educators/curriculum-resources/art-of-the-islamic-world/unit-one/the-five-pillars-of-islam. 

Carroll, Jill. 2021. World Religions : A Beginner’s Guide : Questions and Answers for Humanity’s 7 Oldest and Largest Faiths. Emeryville, California: Rockridge Press. 

(Rodman iCollege- Georgia State University) 

How is the religion of Christianity different/similar from Buddhism? 

Let us start with how they are different. While Christianity believes in ONE GOD (monotheism), Buddhism DOES NOT believe in the presents of any god, (nontheistic). “Buddhism is, at its core and atheistic religion meaning “no God.” Buddhism generally does not name worship of a God or deity as a key to achieving nirvana or as a central to taming unenlightened desire, So the Buddha is not a God to be revered the where the deities of Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity or Islam are worshipped, (Carroll, pg. 79/80, Buddhism). In the religion of Christianity, Christians believe in the Trinity, where the presence of one God is projected as one: 

God the Father 

God the Son (Jesus)

God the Holy Spirit  

(Carroll, pg. 101) 

Christianity and Buddhism can relate to one another on how the aspects of their religion can influence one’s spiritual well-being and the spreading of one’s teachings. “Buddhist generally respect Jesus, not as divine, in the way that Christians do, but as a spiritual leader worthy of respect and a sage whose teachings offer benefit for those wishing to make progress on their own spiritual path,” (Carroll, pg. 118). As we remember from Buddhism, as the teachings of Hinduism failed the buddha from reaching his spiritual goals, he rested upon a Bohdi tree and meditated for several weeks. “During which he went into trance states, experienced terrifying visions, and endured painful inner battles, he achieved enlightenment. He gathered disciples and began to teach what he’d come to see as the truth of reality, (Carroll, pg. 75, Buddhism). To his followers and disciples for the next 45 years he taught the truth of dharma which can contribute to the Buddhist community known today. Similar to Jesus Christ when he was sentenced to death by crucifixion, “After three days according to Christian belief he rose from the dead and soon afterward ascended into heaven leaving instructions for his disciples to spread his teachings of salvation called the gospel or good news to all the world,” (Carroll, pg. 100). Christians follow the beliefs of Jesus to achieve salvation, while Buddhist follow the teachings of the buddha to reach enlightenment.  

Mary Magdalene  

Mary Magdalene was known as one of Jesus’s followers that travelled beside him, and also witnessed the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. “Mary Magdalene’s reputation as a prostitute originated not in the Bible but in a sixth-century sermon by Pope Gregory in the year 591: She whom Luke calls the sinful woman, whom John calls Mary, we believe to be the Mary from whom seven devils were ejected,” (Rodman ICollege, Spotlight on Christianity: Gender & Race). Mary Magdalene was considered a prostitute because she tried seducing men with her fragrance. “It is clear that the woman previously used the unguent to perfume her flesh in forbidden acts,” (Rodman ICollege, Spotlight on Christianity: Gender & Race). Mary Magdalene being assumed as a prostitute and adulterer is perpetuated by much Western medieval Christian 
art known today. (Rodman ICollege, Spotlight on Christianity: Gender & Race). 

What is Atonement and Salvation? How do they relate to each other?

Particularly important to the religion of Christianity is salvation. Salvation means the deliverance or disablement of suffering or evil. “Salvation is the act of delivering (or keeping away) from evil or saving from sin,” (Rodman, ICollege). While a sin is an immoral act that goes against a divine law. Atonement can be referred to as an individual’s reconciling to God through Jesus’s self-sacrifice. “The idea of salvation is a very important part of Christianity and is closely connected with the idea of atonement. Christians believe that Jesus sacrificed himself on the cross to make salvation possible for humans, (Rodman ICollege). This clarifies what Atonement and Salvation are precisely and how they work together. While salvation is the process of being saved from evil, attornment is the repair done at sake of the relationship between God.

Praised in All Shades 

Attributed to Dr. King, racial segregation in Christianity can still be seen today in churches of America, but not in a way that causes dispute between one another like in the past. “Race and religion, intersect, change, shift and intertwine, (Rodman ICollege, Spotlight on Christianity: Gender & Race). Not through hate or significates of color, but by individual perspectives or backgrounds can be influential on how Jesus looks, or how the teachings of Christianity are depicted. “Religion plays a vital role in the construction, deconstruction, and transgression of racial identities and boundaries,” (Rodman ICollege, Spotlight on Christianity: Gender & Race). As in beauty is in the eye of the beholder, the same goes for the religion of Christianity, the perception of Jesus is subjective, as is beauty. People can have differing opinions on how he looks. It might seem normative for many people to see Jesus a certain way, which is perfectly fine. It deals with how faith resonates with them and how they wish to be represented. Jesus can be in any shade of your own image. It is not a concept of reality, but a personalization of Christ that echos off one’s unique experiences culturally.

Christmas or Easter? 

Some may believe that Christmas is the most important holiday in the religion of Christianity, but in reality, that is not the case. Although Christmas is celebrated by many Christians as the day that marks the birth of Jesus, the holiday Easter holds the outmost significance in Christian belief. This secular holiday is celebrated during the springtime festively by Christians and many others. “People attend services, share a meal, and adults may hide Easter eggs for children to find. Symbols of eggs, rabbits and other such things point to Easter’s coinciding with pre-Christian springtime festivals, which celebrate new life and “resurrection” from winter, (Carroll, pg. 99). Christmas is not the most important holiday in Christianity, because it does not signify the resurrection of Christ and the true birth of the faith of Christianity like Easter elucidates. Easter is celebrated as the initial day of Jesus’s death and resurrection. Easter is considered as one of the most notable and oldest holidays out of Christianity, “Traditional Christianity views Jesus’ death not merely as a tragedy but as a sacrificial death that is redeemed or “atoned for” the sins of all humankind. Jesus’ death (and his blood) functions for all of humanity,” (Carroll, pg. 106).  

References

First, what is anti-Semitism, and what are the origins of it? 

“Prior to the 20th century, there were large migrations of Jewish communities throughout the Middle East, Northern Africa, Europe, and beyond. As minorities in each new land they settled in, the Jewish people faced varying forms of prejudice known as antisemitism, (Carroll, pg. 41). Antisemitism is the hatred, hostility or discrimination of any nature against those who identify as Jewish. The Jews are known to be the people of the Hebrew bible and lived in the land of Israel. In Judaism, they believe that there is only one G-d. When Jesus was put to death by crucifixion, according to the gospels account, the finger was pointed at the Jews for the blame of his death. But instead, Jesus was put to death at the hands of Roman authorities under Pontius Pilate in Judea. (United States Holocaust Memorial Museum 2019). This caused the initial uprise in the hate towards the Jewish community. The accusations were renounced in 1960’s when the Second Vatican council officially rejected that the Jew had murdered Jesus. “For centuries, state and church laws restricted Jews, from preventing them from owning and holding public office, Guilds excluded Jews from most occupations, forcing them to pursuit things like money lending and trade,” (United States Holocaust Memorial Museum 2019). 

The Holocaust  

Between 1941 and 1945, at least 6 million jews were killed during the holocaust of World War II by Nazi Germany. The holocaust is known as the mass genocide of innocent Jewish people and others. With Germany’s technological powers, they gathered, transported and killed off those who were Jewish, as well as gypsies, homosexuals, Jehovah’s Witnesses and political dissidents in concentration camps, (Carroll, pg. 42). “Sadly, the antisemitism that spawned the holocaust still exists. Jews worldwide still suffer on a regular basis from antisemitic attacks on their synagogues, cemeteries and businesses,” (Carroll, pg. 42). 

What is a Scapegoat?  

A scapegoat can be revered as a person, or a group being blamed for wrongdoing done by another human or thing. An example of a scapegoat can be identified by the meaningless accusations made towards the Jewish community and the fault for Germany’s mishaps. “Throughout the Middle Ages, Christians prosecuted Jews and portrayed them as aliens and users. It was said the Jews poisoned the wells of Europe causing the black plague. The Jewish people were placed under lots of unreasonable blame for problems that many people really don’t know the main cause of how it happened. The Jews were also held responsible for the consequences being faced in Germany and the assassination of Czar Alexander II in 1881. “The devastation of World War 1, the demeaning peace of Versailles, the hyperinflation of the 1920’s, and the depression of 1929 fueled mass discontent, the presence of Jews in German cultural, economic, and political life made them a convenient scapegoat in Germanys misfortune,” (United States Holocaust Memorial Museum 2019).   

Anti-Semitism Through the Years in Atlanta Georgia 

In Atlanta Georgia the region became to emerge as a virtue for many Jews to prosper and develop tremendously. The Jewish people implemented major contributions into the economic expansion of Atlanta Georgia. “Jews played an important role in Atlanta’s rise and development, helping to build the city and gaining remarkable acceptance. Despite this, Atlanta has also witnessed two of the most infamous incidents of anti-Semitism in American Jewish history,” (Goldring/Woldenburg 2022). 

Political Calamity 

Jews were targeted by many of those who opposed the economic and social changes that they brought upon, even in political terms. “Jewish candidates were increasingly losing local elections in the first decade of the 20th century; in several cases their opponents were explicitly anti-Semitic in their appeals,” (Goldring/Woldenburg 2022). Canidates who identified as Jewish were singled out because of their religion and ultimately from the past accusations made about the Jewish community, which still haunts them. It has adversely affected the way Jews are viewed in society. Jewish political candidates may experience horrific propaganda slander and lack of trust from the public. “One of the major political issues of the time was alcohol prohibition, Jews were overwhelmingly on the “wet” side of the debate. Public campaigns against alcohol sometimes took an anti-Semitic tone. After the 1906 riot, in which white mobs terrorized the city’s black population, some blamed Jewish saloon keepers for serving alcohol to blacks; after the riot, several Jewish saloon owners lost their licenses,” (Goldring/Woldenburg 2022).

The Trial of Leo Frank  

 The story of Leo Frank has predominately sparked the major degree of antisemitism, political corruption, and the horrific execution of an American born Jewish man. “Raised in New York, Leo Frank moved to Atlanta as a young adult, where he worked at his uncle’s pencil factory. On April 26, 1913, a 13-year-old employee, Mary Phagan, was found murdered in the factory basement. Suspicion soon fell on Frank, who was arrested and indicted for the murder a few weeks later,” (Goldring/Woldenburg 2022). Jim Conley, an African American who worked as a janitor in the facility, was found as a key witness in the case against Frank. Jim Conley stated that Frank forced him to help move Mary Phagan’s body. “The case became a major news story in Atlanta, covered in detail by the local newspapers. Attacks on Frank, especially in Jeffersonian newspaper, often took an anti-Semitic tone. Scurrilous rumors about Frank were printed and widely discussed in the community,” (Goldring/Woldenburg 2022). Although the story of Jim Conley continuously changed, Leo Frank was found guilty of the Murder of Mary Phagan and was sentenced to death. But governor John Slaton had serious doubts about the verdict and decided to commute Leo’s life sentence before leaving office. This action infuriated those who were in favor of the death penalty. “On August 19, 1915, a vigilante group calling itself the “Knights of Mary Phagan” kidnapped Frank from the state prison farm, took him to Marietta, a small town outside of Atlanta where Phagan was from, and lynched him. The ringleaders of the lynching were among the prominent political and business leaders in the state, including the son of a U.S. Senator who was a former mayor of Marietta,” (Goldring/Woldenburg 2022). The lynching of Leo Frank has left a deep scar and the impression that the Jewish community will never be safe from antisemitism. 

Hateful Images and Hate Speech  

I believe we live in a world where hate is learned in a manner that turns into existing attitudes. Antisemitism targeted amongst the Jewish community became brought upon by terrible accusations made against them, which for centuries caused an invisible hatred towards the community by people who are engulfed in this attitude and are encouraged by others from the past. By invisible hatred I mean by there being no factual sense of hatred for any moral reason, especially when the lies aren’t true. For instance, after the Jews were blamed for the death of Jesus, “Some church leaders intensified the charge and condemned Jews as the agents of the devil or murderers of G–d. Illustrations depicted Jews as the devil with horns and cloven feet and showed them using the blood of Christian children in ritual sacrifices. Illuminations showed Satan binding they eyes of Jews that are unwilling to accept the church of G–d,” (United States Holocaust Memorial Museum 2019). For centuries many people started to believe in these negative deceptions about Jews which created a false narrative of them being casted as the “root of all evil” in problems that many people don’t know how to fix or the answer too. Human beings are not born haters but can easily learn how to dislike others who have different views or customs. Hate speech and negative imagery causes society to divide instead of advocating for things that are true and positive. No one is born a prejudice; it is only taught. Antisemitism is like other forms of group hatred because it negatively impacts society at large. Like any other discriminatory term, antisemitism puts a hold on humanity as collectively feeling as one. When there are people still being tormented for their religion, race or traditions, it is hard to feel united as a whole.

References

How Taoism influences others outside of the religion 

Many who practice Taoist rituals do not identify themselves as Taoist because of how Taoism’s religio-philosophical aspects have helped improve the lifestyles of many who come from different cultures and religions. “At the heart of Taoist rituals is the concept of bringing order and harmony to many layers of the cosmos: the cosmos as a whole (the world of nature), the world or (human society), and the inner world of (human individuals), (Rodman iCollege).  

      The Three Vehicles  

 1. Doing honorable deeds 

 2. Rituals and ceremonies 

 3. Physical movements and postures that aid healing.  (Rodman iCollege)

Taoism can help improve the lives of those who need direction. “Influencing nearly all aspects of daily life while offering paths of esoteric spiritual achievement, (Carroll, pg.48). Internal alchemy or the third level of the three vehicles, includes working with the natural energies of the body. An example can be the Tia-chi. the Tia-chi is a fundamental concept that is practiced by Taoist and many people who do not consider themselves as Taoist. In Taoism the tai-chi is known as one of the most known expressions where the mind and body align together to create better health. Non-Taoist can learn about the religion of Daoism. With the help of the three vehicles, it creates a better understanding that the path of Taoism consists of multiple paths for all people. Non-Taoist can cultivate themselves and take these ideas into consideration as an aid to harmony in life.  

What is the role of nature in Taoism? How do you think Taoists might distinguish between what is natural and what is unnatural? 

Nature plays a vital role on how Taoist view the world the way it is today. In Taoism, nature is distinctly useful to help find our true selves and implement harmony in our lives. “Each part of nature can remind us of a quality we admire and how we should cultivate ourselves. The strength of the mountains, the resilience of the trees, and the cheerfulness of flowers,” (YouTube). If we embrace stillness, we can outweigh the load that life brings us and find our sense of mental stability. As individuals we can learn from nature. We should not rush time, while nature collectively takes its course when time is due.

              “We must empty ourselves from everything and allow our minds to become still,” (Lao tzu, YouTube). 

Nature also represents the sacred spaces known in Taoism. “Taoism recognizes several mountains as sacred, which is also a feature of Chinese religion as a whole. Rivers, streams, meadows, groves, and valleys can also serve as sacred places in Taoism, (Carroll, pg. 58). 

 To distinguish the difference between what is natural and unnatural accordingly, we can start by referring to the natural force as the primordial state or “natural flow of the Tao,” and an opposing force of one’s attempt to go against the Tao, also called unnaturalness. “Often translated as “the natural” or “naturalness,” it is more literally rendered as the “self-so” or that which is “so-of-itself. It can be seen as the positive correlation of Wu-wei, the notion of “action-less action,” since acting without desire is only possible when embodying and manifesting one’s true nature,” (Rodman iCollege).

  What is Wu-wei in the context of Taoism? 

To understand Wu-wei, we must understand what Ziran means and how they both work together. Naturalness (Ziran) and nonaction (Wu-wei) is the common and fundamental philosophical view of many Taoists. In Taoism, it is taught that everyone is perceived satisfied with what they are doing when it seems “natural” or authentic to them. Take the tree for example, “Designed to grow into shape, size, and colors and inherent properties that deem it “natural” to grow into, (Carroll pg. 63)” Forcing the tree to do differently would go against its normal nature on how its designed or what it becomes. That is where Wu-wei takes place, the nonaction or effortless action. “There is no contrived, calculated action it has to undertake. Assuming it is planted in a hospitable environment, it simply has to stand there. No further action is needed,” (Carroll, pg.63). It would be better to leave it be and let it execute naturally. “According to Taoism, human happiness occurs when one aligns with the Tao, and Wu-wei allows practitioners of Taoism to live in harmony with one’s natural surroundings and to be mindful of the interconnectedness of all life,” (Rodman iCollege). Wu-wei and Ziran work together to generate an essential flow in life for all inhabitants. 

     No Authority or Hierarchy  

Like Hinduism, religious Taoism does not have a centralized religious clerical authority or hierarchy, (Carroll, pg. 59 & pg. 17). In the two religions they have different actions on how they determine leadership structure and what titles are given. The most common titles known in Hinduism are priests, they can also be referred to as the “masters of the Tao” (Dao Shi) according to the religion Taoism, (Carroll, pg. 59) They can also be called Shamans in the distinct functions of Taoism. In both religions they have different sects or schools to help set up order. 

  Achieve Enlightenment & Attain Immortality  

Buddhism can also be related to Taoism because on why the people look up to those, they find important in their religions. In both religions there is a sense of reaching a higher sense of self, realm or being such as enlightenment or immortality. Prominent figures are valued by people because of their attainment or achievement of some sort, although they have two completely different goals. In Buddhism, it is known that they are an atheistic religion, but they also look up to the Buddha because of his attainment of enlightenment. “Certain figures also known as bodhisattvas are revered and worshipped as holy, mainly because they are believed to be people who have achieved enlightenment,” (Carroll, pg.80). Much like religious Taoist, there is not a personal god that is looked up too, instead they worship the shrines of their ancestors through religious rituals. “Religious Taoism specifically also revers or worships important sages and spiritual leaders who have become defied, because people believe that they have achieved immortality through spiritual practice,” (Carroll, pg. 54).  

     The Divine Reality vs the Ultimate Supreme   

 Unlike Taoism, Buddhism and Hinduism originated from the subcontinent of India instead of China, although Buddhism heavily influenced China as well. Taoism can differ from other known religions because of how it does not have an established structure. “Taoism is distinct from other religions in that it has neither a rigid organizational structure, nor holy sites like Mecca or Jerusalem, nor a leader like the Pope or Dalai Lama,” (Carroll, pg. 48). As we already know in Hinduism, there are many deities that are worshiped collectively as one “divine reality.” Like Hinduism, for Taoist the Tao is the “Supreme Ultimate.” But instead, the supreme ultimate is not hailed as the reincarnations of many gods or goddess like in Hinduism. “The Tao is a force, presence, or reality, not so much a god or personal deity. The Toa must be experienced, felt, intuited, or sensed. It is a mystical reality that cannot be reduced to logical analysis, (Carroll, pg. 54). 

References

Carroll, J. (2021). World religions: a beginner’s guide: questions and answers for humanity’s 7 oldest and largest faiths. Rockridge Press. 

YouTube. 2014. “FILOSOFÍA ORIENTAL – Lao Tse.” YouTube. 2014. EASTERN PHILOSOPHY – Lao Tzu 

YouTube. 2014. “Motions of the Tao, a Documentary Film about One of the Oldest Faith Traditions: Taoism.”  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vT9gAJqqhsg. 

Legend of the Buddha, “Siddhartha Gautama”

A Hindu prince named Siddhartha Gautama lived wealthily upon a kingdom with his father. After Siddharatha’s mother had passed, his father took it upon himself to shield Siddharatha from the world and its dangers. When he started experiencing spiritual adversities, Siddharatha led out and decided to see the uncertainty that lived behind the walls of the palace. In his journey, he encountered the Four Noble Sights and began to discover the true understanding of human suffering.

How Buddhism Sprouted from Hinduism

Siddharatha became to be what is known as a Sannyasi and started practicing the tactics of Hinduism and its austerities. He strictly fasted and meditated without sleep, which made it impossible for him to achieve his spiritual aspirations. “Two aspects of Hindu practice failed him at the time: one was too philosophical and theoretical, and the other was too austerities. Like fasting from food and drink and going without sleep, especially failed him,” (Carroll, pg.76). Siddharatha began to become restless and malnourished from his extreme efforts. In order to significantly draw a line between self-indulgence and deprivation, he adapted to The Middle Way. “Eat, exercise and rest enough to stay healthy so that you can meditate properly and effectively,” (Carroll, pg.77). The middle way has become the general and ethical practice of Buddhism for avoiding such extremes.

Siddharatha finally settled under a Bohdi tree and started meditating until he reached his spiritual desires. After 49 days Siddharatha attained enlightenment and was granted the name Buddha or also being called The Awakened One (Rodman iCollege).

What the difference between these two religions?

Similar to Hinduism, Buddhism believes in the ideas of reincarnation and karma. “Reincarnation, for both religions is a cyclical understanding of time in which individuals exist perpetually in a cycle of life, death and rebirth until they escape,” (Carroll, pg.79). And how one’s actions may follow them throughout existence, either good or bad, and how they interpret your future, which can be referred to as Karma. But the two religions can differ from one another by what happens after being released from samsara and how karma can be eliminated. As we remember in Hinduism there is a living soul (Atman) and a divine reality (Brahman). The ultimate concept of Hinduism is to be released from Samsara or the endless life cycle and enter Moksha. But completely contrasting from Buddhist belief, in Buddhism there is not a divine reality or soul. “There is a “self” that is propelled from life to life through the energy of karma, and when that karma is neutralized through spiritual work that results in enlightenment,” (Carroll, pg. 80). In Buddhism the goal is to completely escape samsara, or the cycle of life, death and rebirth and reach Nirvana. Also in Hinduism, there are known deities that are worshiped and are shown devotion through practicing Dharma, although they both believe in this concept, Buddhism does not collectively worship any deities or gods. Therefore, Buddhism is an atheistic religion. 
 

“The Hindu gods bow at his feet, ready to receive his teachings so that they, too, can escape the cycle of life, death and rebirth and enter into nirvana,” (Carroll, pg. 79). 

Shakyamuni Buddha 

In Tibet, China around the 13th and 14th century, the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni was created as a representation of his great awakening. “A teardrop-shaped turquoise inlay depicts the Urna, a swirling hair between the Buddha’s eyes, which represents understanding. The eyes, half closed, look both inward in contemplation and outward, engaged in the world. His smiling face and golden complexion suggest compassion for all beings. Small spheres on his palms and the soles of his feet represent the wheel of Dharma, the Buddha’s teachings,” (Michael C. Carlos Museum n.d.). The Dharma teaches others how to live life accordingly in a beneficial way. It addresses the fundamental phenomena of achieving universal truth. After passing through nirvana, “What he left behind is called the Triple Treasure: the Buddha (his life and example), the dharma (teachings and doctrine), and the sangha (the community of practitioners),” (Carroll, pg.76). The Buddha’s unembellished stretched earlobes stands for his abandonment of his luxurious life. The Shakyamuni Buddha is viewed as a paragon by many, and he is known to help guide others into enlightenment upon his grace and encourage positive intuition amongst all.

Is Suffering Avoidable? 

Suffering is not avoidable, but it is plausible to appease. Unlike the pain that we feel when we physically hurt ourselves, suffering refers to the attachment to outcomes that are unrealistic or the idea of wanting or craving things to last forever, which can mean materialistically or even immortality. This concept can also be described as an ignorant desire. “It wants permanent happiness to come from the possession of impermanent things, even though it won’t. It grasps and clings to things, trying to control them and never lose them, when it can’t really control anything but itself,” (Carroll, pg. 78). I believe we as humans cannot be honest with ourselves on what we have, or don’t have in life. Meaning that satisfaction in life cannot come from wealth or another person but from within ourselves. Money cannot buy happiness or gratitude in our lives. It takes us to accept reality and let go of the ignorance to introduce enlightenment and end suffering. 

                                         Buddhist Mathematics!  

3 + 4 + 8 = 0      

The Three Marks of Existence + The Four Noble truths + The Eightfold Path = NOTHINGNESS or SUNYATA! 

(Rodman iCollege) 

Criticism Surrounding Buddhism 

The criticism about Buddhism can be understandable because of the complexity of the religion. But I do not believe that Buddhism does not help people at large or as a society. Mostly because if it didn’t help, we wouldn’t have contributions from Buddhism that supply psychologist the ways of mental training for patients when it comes to their mental health. An example can be Zen Buddhism. “Because of this special psychological aspect, Zen Buddhist teaching has found a welcome audience in the West among not just those who self-identify as Buddhist but a boarder swath of people who wish to manage their destructive thoughts and achieve more peace and happiness in their lives as well,” (Carroll, pg. 82). This form of meditation is universally used in the field of psychology known today.  

References 

Michael C. Carlos Museum, E. n.d. “Shakyamuni Buddha.” Collections.carlos.emory.edu. Accessed September 24, 2022. https://collections.carlos.emory.edu/objects/9012/shakyamuni-buddha. 

Carroll, J. (2021). World religions: A beginner’s guide: Questions and answers for humanity’s 7 oldest and largest faiths. Rockridge Press. 

Most Americans, if they have heard of Hinduism at all, automatically think of a Bindi (the red dot some Hindus put between their eyebrows), or perhaps yoga. But what they miss is that this fundamental and key concept can be associated with giving good fortune to those in the coming years of life. In the Hindu culture, Men and women will wear them to solidify marriage between one another. Formally during ceremonies like the Puja, The Bindi or Tilaka is placed on couples’ foreheads by clergymen as a blessing from God (YouTube 2018). 

Polytheistic Or Monotheistic?

Many Hindus claim to be monotheistic, although there are many gods and goddesses that share the face of one central nature of reality. For instance, just like a diamond, with different faces that reflect the light of one of different ways, each of the deities of Hinduism reflect their unique aspect or face of ones “primal divine reality,” (Carroll, pg. 8).  Each god or goddess is known for one’s specific capabilities and representations. Theses deities are incarnations of one another that are a definite form of one supreme being or essence of Brahman. 

The Goddess Kamadhenu 

In Indian culture many of the gods and goddess’s hold their own unique story or an integral part of one’s beliefs. Deities can take all forms, and some even as animals. A well-known and beloved idol takes the form of a cow. According to Early Vedic literature, “Tells of a goddess named Kamadhenu who is part human, part cow. She is the mother goddess of abundance whose very body provides nurture and nourishment,” (Carroll, pg. 5). Cows are known to be sacred animals that are protected by all. Some Hindus preferably don’t eat beef just because of the cows’ history. Kamadhenu is the mother of all cows, and she is the projected as a symbol of the earth.

The Concept of Worshipping 

Hindus worship the many gods of the divine reality as whole through one of the ways called bhakti. To show bhakti is to show devotion directly to one’s supreme idol. As stated, gods can take many forms, and it’s up to you to choose which form you wish to worship Brahman. Some recognized gods such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Ganesha are commonly prayed upon in Hinduism. Many Hindus pray to altars, photos or homemade shrines and give offerings to the deities of their choosing, or ones that they feel will fulfill their specific needs in the next life. But that doesn’t happen without the idea of karma. Karma refers to how our good or bad actions can interpret a positive or negative future. The ultimate concept of Hinduism is to be released from Samsara or the endless life cycle and enter Moksha a transcendent state. Hindus believe by practicing dharma you can gain good karma and progress the outcome of a better next life and decrease the track of bad karma.

If atman is brahman, and brahman is atman, then both solidify an infinite consciousness of existence that coexist as one. Or a nondual consciousness called Advaita.   

References

Carroll, Jill. 2021. World Religions: A Beginner’s Guide: Questions and Answers for Humanity’s 7 Oldest and Largest Faiths. Emeryville, California: Rockridge Press.

CNN. n.d. “What Hindus Really Believe – CNN Video.” Www.cnn.com. Accessed September 16, 2022. https://www.cnn.com/videos/world/2017/03/06/believer-reza-aslan-hinduism-beliefs-explained.cnn/video/playlists/believer-with-reza-aslan/.

YouTube. 2018. “What Is a Puja Ceremony? Inside Priyanka Chopra & Nick Jonas’ Wedding Week Rituals | Access.” Www.youtube.com. 2018. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMguiEq2Sfo.

To study the world of many religions, you get to explore religious ideas and perspectives of many cultures. Having cultural awareness can give others the ability to appreciate diversity, reduce cultural barriers, and increase intercultural communication. As a whole, we can discover the ethical framework and fundamentals that the world of religions holds.  

What is Religion? 

Religion can be distinguished in three ways, substantial, functional, and family resemblance.  

The Substantial definition 

Substantial definitions refer to the belief in a supernatural force or higher being. The definition tries to depict the essential qualities of what is true and what is not true. For instance, Sir Edward Tylor argued that “a minimum definition of Religion [is] the belief in spiritual beings” (Tylor, 1871, cited in Stark, 1999), or as Sir James Frazer elaborated, “religion consists of two elements… a belief in powers higher than man and an attempt to propitiate or appease them” (Frazer, 1922, cited in Stark, ibid.). Substantialism draws a clear line between religious and non-religious beliefs. You can see this in a familiar religion called Christianity, the system believes in no other being but God himself.  

 The Functional definition 

Functional definitions refer to the tribulations or functions of religion in the general public. The functional definition can consist of reinforcing social unity and controlling social behavior. In Milton Yinger’s definition, religion can be used as a stabilizing force in life that can end problems. Expressed by Mark Taylor, “religion is “an emergent, complex, adaptive network of symbols, myths, and rituals that, on the one hand, figure schemata of feeling, thinking, and acting in ways that lend life meaning and purpose and, on the other, disrupt, dislocate, and disfigure every stabilizing structure (2007).” It can create guidelines on ways to live your life. An example could be in the recovery of addictions, those who are struggling with addiction may use their sense of faith to help lead them into better paths in their lives after taking treatment or to prevent them from abusing substances again.  

 The Family Resemblance definition  

The family resemblance definition means concepts that share one similar feature that may overlap with many other similar attributes. According to Ludwig Wittgenstein, he stated “the idea is that a family – even a real family – will hold a number of, say, physiological traits in common, which can be used to distinguish them from other families, even though each family member is unique and any particular family member might not have all of them. You can still tell that the member belongs to the family and not to another because of the traits he or she shares (1958).” An exemplification would be the Abrahamic religions, Judaism, Islam and Christianity. While these religions do diverge, they run on a few of the same morals or beliefs. Such as being monotheistic, vision of human nature and recognition of a holy book. 

References 

Vyain, Sally, et al. “Chapter 15. Religion.” Introduction to Sociology 2nd Canadian Edition, BCcampus, 5 Oct. 2016, https://opentextbc.ca/introductiontosociology2ndedition/chapter/chapter-15-religion/.