1. Asia Cultural Geography

2. Religion  Some religions that are found in Asia are: A. Buddhism B. Hinduism C. Confucianism D. Taoism E. Shintoism F. Islam G. Christianity

3. Buddhism  Buddhism is related to Hinduism and shares many of the same basic beliefs. The relationship between Buddhism and Hinduism is similar to the relationship between Christianity and Judaism.

4. Buddhism  Buddhism was founded by a man named Siddhartha who was born around 500 - 400 B.C. in Nepal.  The religion quickly spread to other parts of Asia and was a major religion in India for a time, however, most people are Hindus in India today.

5. Buddhism (Basic Beliefs)  The four noble truths: A. Life is suffering B. Suffering is caused by want or desire C. There is a way to end suffering D. The way to end suffering is the eightfold path

6. Buddhism (Basic Beliefs)  Buddhists believe in karma and reincarnation

7. Buddhism  Buddhism is a major religion in Southeast Asia and is practiced in China, Korea, and Japan. Countries that are predominantly Buddhist are: A. Thailand B. Laos C. Cambodia D. Myanmar

8. Spread of Buddhism into Southeast Asia

9. Dharma Wheel

12. Taosim  Taosim is a religion or philosophy that began in China around 500 - 400 B.C.  Tradition says that Taoism is based on the teachings of Laozi.  The Tao Te Ching is a collection of Laozi’s teachings.

13. Taoism The Tao is called the Great Mother Empty yet inexhaustible, It gives birth to infinite worlds. It is always present within you. You can use it any way you want.

14. Yin Yang Symbol

15. Confuciansim  Confucianism is a philosophy that began in China around 500 - 400 B.C.  It is based on the teachings of Confucius.  Confucianism is concerned mainly with social organization. It emphasizes respect for elders and education.

16. Shintoism  Shintoism is a native religion of Japan.  Shintos worship kami (spirits). Sometimes kami live in specific places such as rivers, mountains, and lakes, and sometimes they are major natural objects such as the sun or moon.

17. Small Shinto Shrine

18. Torii

19. Tanuki - A Japanese Racoon Spirit

20. Tanuki Road Sign

21. Christianity  Christianity was brought to Asia by Europeans who colonized parts of Asia and controlled some countries.  The Philippines is predominantly Roman Catholic.  There are many Catholics in Vietnam and East Timor.

22. Respect for Ancestors  Many Asian cultures venerate and even worship ancestors. This belief has been incorporated into Asian religions and belief systems. http://youtube.com/watch?v=nDRdclRhmts