What are the Characteristics of Major Belief Systems of the World Global History and Geography Br. Siraj June 10, 2018

Animism The Belief that every living and non-living thing in nature has a spirit is called animism Shinto in Japan Religious Belief of Shang China & Some traditional African religions 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Hinduism Major Religion of India Grew and shaped over 3000 years of Age Major Characteristics Belief in the universal Spirit –Brahman 3 major gods: Brahma – creator, Vishnu – preserver, & Shiva – Destroyer. Belief in reincarnation – rebirth of the soul in a new body. Target is to achieve Moksha – union (Yoga) with Brahman 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Hinduism Major Characteristics Sacred Texts: Karma: All the deeds of a person’s life that affects his/her existence in the next life Dharma: Moral and religious duties that one should follow. Caste System: Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Sudra. A group of untouchables (Harijan) Sacred Texts: Vedas and Upanishadas Bhagvad Gita 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Buddhism Founder: Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha – enlightened one. Main Ideas: Belief in 4 noble truth Follow an eight-fold path Target is to achieve Nirvana to be freed from reincarnation of sorrow Nonviolence Sacred Text: Tripitaka 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Confucianism Not really a religion Based on the teachings of Confucius Main Ideas: 5 Key relationships based on duty (loyalty) & responsibility [ruler-subject, father-son, Husband-Wife, Older Brother-Younger Brother, & Friend to Friend People are naturally good Education should be road to achievement Individuals must find his/her proper place in society 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Taoism/Daoism Based on the ideas of Laozi Main Teachings: People to learn to live in harmony with nature Yielding and acceptance The world is a place of struggle between Yin & Yang Rejection of World & Human Government 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Homework Describe the main teachings of Confucianism in a short essay. 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

What are the Characteristics of Major Belief Systems of the World Global History and Geography Br. Siraj June 10, 2018

Judaism Belief system of the descendants of Abraham Believed in Monotheism Guided by Prophets Followed the Torah (Old Testament of Bible) for Moral and ethical guidance. Ten Commandments of Moses were very important 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Christianity Based on the teachings of Jesus Christ Jesus was born to a Jewish mother in Palestine He taught about love and mercy The teachings were popularized by Paul Roman Empire helped it grow faster Believes in Bible (emphasis is given on Gospels of new testament) 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Islam Founded in its present form by Prophet Muhammad (SAAS) in Arabia during the 7th century. Based on the teachings of the Qur’an Prophetic tradition also plays an important role. There are five pillars of Islam based on the 6 pillars of faith Shari‘ah (laws derived from the Qur’an and prophetic teachings) guides ethical and moral behavior. 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Other Religions Sikhism Bahai: A blend of Islam and Hinduism Guru Granth Sahib is the book Mainly located in Indian State of Punjab Bahai: Founded by Baha Allah Blended Islam with Persian traditions. 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj

Homework Explain the similarities and differences between Christianity, Islam and Judaism. 10 June 2018 USH&G Br. Siraj