I would argue that the origins of Christianity began much earlier than the birth and death of Jesus. Christianity was created from Judaism, which in turn was influenced by Zoroastrianism and other local beliefs. The idea of a virgin birth has been used in various greek and roman myths before Jesus was even born and there are even similiarties between Jesus and Buddha who both advocated for social equality and reformation. In turn, Islam also a strong connection to Judaism and Christiantiy. Islam considers Jesus a prophet along with other prophets from the Old Testament.
In my studies of history, I can't help but see how current religons have built upon the beliefs and cultures of older, pagan religions and thought it is important to point out. Even the idea of Christmas is partially based off pagan customs.
I agree with your opinion that is is important to study religion so that we may understand and empathize with the people around us, even if their beliefs don't match our own. In studying religion we can recognize the positive influence any religion may have upon it's followers.
Post 2
I agree with you that Raja seems the most interesting of all the yogas. I think Raja yoga also seems the most difficult to do because it requires such intense discipline of the self. This self discipline would be a great thing to have in all things though, because not only are we working to achieve moksha but we are also mastering our selves for our daily lives, as you pointed out in your post. I think it's also very interesting about Raja yoga that there are eight steps to achieving a trance state to become one with everything
Response to a post - week 2
I agree, the violence perpetuated by the Sikhs have done nothing to further their cause with anyone. I think some it may come from when the British Empire ruled India and the Sikhs experienced much more autonomy and representation in the government than other religions due to their military involvement. When British rule ended it was almost as if they were punished by other religious groups for their involvement with the British Empire. This is only my perception of things though, the readings didn't state this idea so explicitly. I don't think Sikhs have much of a chance to establish their country with their previous history of violence, because they have burned bridges by those who would be their neighbors, both Pakistan and India. Hopefully one day they will find what they are looking for though.
Post 3
I've found that Buddhism is the philosophy that seems to suit me best as well. In the film, Life of the Buddha, they talk about how suffering is a condition that we share at some point, that suffering is both a very personal and a very shared experience. I think this is what draws me to Buddhism, and it seems it is what draws you to Buddhism as well.
Did you decide to practice Buddhism based on what we learned in this class? Or has it been a philosophy/religion that you've been interested in for a while? For myself, I've always been interested in Buddhism but it wasn't until I formally learned about that I really began to connect with it.
I think it's awesome you are willing to share a little about your experiences with suffering and your attempts to cultivate de attachment from things. For me, letting go and accepting things and people for what they are is the hardest thing to do. I see that people are imperfect, selfish and that the world is imperfect, but it's always a surprise when I'm let down. I think it's amazing how true the Four Noble Truths really are and the application of the 8 Fold Path to make our lives better.
anyway, best wishes on your new found path. :)
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