Tao 22 -
I find that there is a tone to each paragraph in this chapter. In the first I believe that the Tao is trying to teach that in order to know anything good you must also be aware of the bad. Everything has its inverse. How willing are you to get what you want out of life? The next two paragraphs characterize what type of person we need to be.
Tao 24 -
This chapter has so much depth to it. My favorite phrase is, “He who clings to his work will create nothing that endures.” There are too many examples of men who have invested everything into their jobs while neglecting their families. Their jobs forgot about them once they retired or were fired; their families had all but abandoned them after years and years of abandonment and neglect. Overall, I would argue that this chapter identifies egoistic traits and how to avoid them.
Tao 25 -
To me, this chapter explains the relationship of the Tao or the way to man, the Earth and the universe. Each one plays a vital role in the flow of everything. Each one has pertinence to the other. We need to not be so self-centered. There is more to life that just us.
Tao 32 -
This chapter illustrates how the Tao pertains to everything and if one would center themselves around the Tao, “The world would become a paradise.” My favorite phrase here is, “When you have institutions, know where their functions should end.” This made me reflect on our government and how things are getting to the point to where we are being instructed in too many things. If we have an institution, we should know where its rule ends.
Tao 37 -
This chapter illustrates how if all things were centered around the Tao, there would be peace. If we all would think about it and do it, we would be content with all that we have. We would lose the competitive drive to “keep up with the Jone’s” next-door. We would know that happiness is not found in possessions, but in many other things such as family and friends.
Tao 49 -
Why are we not good to all people? The Master is good to everyone and trusts everyone. She holds no reservation for anyone and she has no expectations. It is a shame that we live in this crazy world where we cannot trust many people for fear of losing something of our own.
Tao 53 -
This chapter describes our present world. We are not keeping up with the Tao. As I have illustrated several times before, if we center ourselves on the Tao, all will be at peace.
Tao 56 -
Sometimes we need to restrain ourselves from speaking. Sometimes we just need to let things be and let things take their course. Too often we pass judgement where we are not qualified to pass judgement. These judgements lead us to treat people in ways that we would not like to be treated. If we centered ourselves on serving others and living the Tao, we would not be so quick to judge or harbor ill feelings towards others.
Tao 77 -
The Tao corrects the wrongs that occur in life. It is the constant that provides clarity to the unclear. It shows how the Tao is something that likes to stay out of the limelight. That’s interesting to me considering there is a religion based on Tao. It does not want credit, but it wants to profess schools of thought. Interesting...
Tao 79 -
This is my favorite of the 10 chapters. You can only blame yourself for your problems. Yes, other people or things can contribute to your problems, but you are ultimately the one who decides how you react to failure. Our culture as a whole needs to stop passing the buck and playing the blame game. We need to accept when we have failed and move on. Learn from it, but move on. It does us no good to continually blame others for problems that we brought upon ourselves.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Religious Literature Post - Analects of Confucius
Jen
The Master has many wise things to say. There is something The Master has to say about everything. For example, Tzu-kung asked about one world being served for all of one’s life. The Master responded by saying, “What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.” There is nothing but positivity and love in everything The Master has to say. Jen is ended with the words, “Let every attainment in what is good be firmly grasped.”
The Superior Man
The Master talks about the superior man. This can be taken in many diferent ways and understood in many different ways. When The Master is talking about the superior man, we can liken his words to ourselves. When The Master speaks about being humble and patient, he is speaking to us. The Master said, “The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.”
Li
The Master speaks about ceremonies saying, “...ceremonies performed without reverence; mourning conducted wihtout sorrow-wherewith should I contemplate such ways?” It is clear that The Master is teaching how things should be done in a respectful and tactful manner.
Yueh
The Master is instructing the Grand music of Lu and he talks about how everything should sound together.
Learning and Teaching
It is said that The Master has four things from which he is entirely free: conclusions, arbitrary predeterminations, obstinance, and egotism. About this he said, “To have faults and not to reform them-this, indeed, should be pronounced having faults.”
Government
This is a very interesting section. Talking about the government Chi K’ang-tzu asked about killing uprincipled people for the sake of principled people. To that Confucius replied, addressing him as sir, “...why should you use killing at all?”
Rectifying the Names
To rectify or not to rectify? To correct or not correct? Confucius said, “To govern means to rectify. If you lead on the people with correctness, who will dare not to be correct?”
The Master has many wise things to say. There is something The Master has to say about everything. For example, Tzu-kung asked about one world being served for all of one’s life. The Master responded by saying, “What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.” There is nothing but positivity and love in everything The Master has to say. Jen is ended with the words, “Let every attainment in what is good be firmly grasped.”
The Superior Man
The Master talks about the superior man. This can be taken in many diferent ways and understood in many different ways. When The Master is talking about the superior man, we can liken his words to ourselves. When The Master speaks about being humble and patient, he is speaking to us. The Master said, “The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.”
Li
The Master speaks about ceremonies saying, “...ceremonies performed without reverence; mourning conducted wihtout sorrow-wherewith should I contemplate such ways?” It is clear that The Master is teaching how things should be done in a respectful and tactful manner.
Yueh
The Master is instructing the Grand music of Lu and he talks about how everything should sound together.
Learning and Teaching
It is said that The Master has four things from which he is entirely free: conclusions, arbitrary predeterminations, obstinance, and egotism. About this he said, “To have faults and not to reform them-this, indeed, should be pronounced having faults.”
Government
This is a very interesting section. Talking about the government Chi K’ang-tzu asked about killing uprincipled people for the sake of principled people. To that Confucius replied, addressing him as sir, “...why should you use killing at all?”
Rectifying the Names
To rectify or not to rectify? To correct or not correct? Confucius said, “To govern means to rectify. If you lead on the people with correctness, who will dare not to be correct?”
Interactive Post
Response to Barry Moore's Week 2 post:
Barry,
I gotta hand it to you. That is the best response to vegetarianism that I have ever read. It is blunt and beautiful. I am a carnivore by choice and I enjoy every piece of meat I can sink my teeth into. The important thing is that it is our choice to be a carnivore as it our choice if we want to be a vegetarian. Although it is difficult to understand one's beliefs it is important to respect them. In my experience, the majority of the vegetarians that I have encountered are vegetarians due to religious conviction. These individuals have shown strong devotion to their beliefs and I have utmost respect for them. Most of those who are vegetarians by choice and not by religious conviction, again in my experience, tend to fall of the train and give into the urges to eat meat again. If I were to argue the point of vegetarianism with someone, I believe that the Jainistic point of view of the sacredness of life is a much better argument than that of Lane stating we can potentially inflict pain on an animal.
Barry,
I gotta hand it to you. That is the best response to vegetarianism that I have ever read. It is blunt and beautiful. I am a carnivore by choice and I enjoy every piece of meat I can sink my teeth into. The important thing is that it is our choice to be a carnivore as it our choice if we want to be a vegetarian. Although it is difficult to understand one's beliefs it is important to respect them. In my experience, the majority of the vegetarians that I have encountered are vegetarians due to religious conviction. These individuals have shown strong devotion to their beliefs and I have utmost respect for them. Most of those who are vegetarians by choice and not by religious conviction, again in my experience, tend to fall of the train and give into the urges to eat meat again. If I were to argue the point of vegetarianism with someone, I believe that the Jainistic point of view of the sacredness of life is a much better argument than that of Lane stating we can potentially inflict pain on an animal.
Current Event #1
This post is in response to the article found on crosswalk.com
http://www.crosswalk.com/news/religiontoday/11644717/
Three years after Christian widow Gamala Guide’s husband Narayan Guide passed away, Narayan’s burial site is being threatened by the Nepal government. He was a captain in the Nepal army and a successful man who’s death was a sorrow for many. Narayan is buried next to the most powerful Hindu temple and authorities of the temple are claiming that land. The Pashupatinath temple, which has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, is said to be built in the fourth century, is being renovated due to the expected one million tourists in Nepal this year. Gamala is not the only person worried about her husband’s grave, there are an estimated 200 people buried along with him who risk the chance of loved one’s graves being destroyed.
The forested area around the Pashupatinath temple is explained as unkempt, rotten and over-grown. Twenty years ago, the Nepal government gave 292 hectares of land to groom the land and make it better. There is said to be a five year plan in which they will renovate the lot and the temple itself. In doing this, unfortunately, there will be many burial sites which will have to be removed.
This is devastating to many devout Christians who have loved one’s buried at this temple. Christians are not the only ones who have their beloved buried here, the Hindu sect called Dashnami along with Muslims have also rested at this site. There is uproar since the Pashupatinath is a Hindu temple and other religions have been burying their dead here, which is against Hindu religion. Along with the lot needing major cleaning, the Hindus want to keep their property to themselves. That is their main goal and that is what they will fight to have happen.
http://www.crosswalk.com/news/religiontoday/11644717/
Three years after Christian widow Gamala Guide’s husband Narayan Guide passed away, Narayan’s burial site is being threatened by the Nepal government. He was a captain in the Nepal army and a successful man who’s death was a sorrow for many. Narayan is buried next to the most powerful Hindu temple and authorities of the temple are claiming that land. The Pashupatinath temple, which has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, is said to be built in the fourth century, is being renovated due to the expected one million tourists in Nepal this year. Gamala is not the only person worried about her husband’s grave, there are an estimated 200 people buried along with him who risk the chance of loved one’s graves being destroyed.
The forested area around the Pashupatinath temple is explained as unkempt, rotten and over-grown. Twenty years ago, the Nepal government gave 292 hectares of land to groom the land and make it better. There is said to be a five year plan in which they will renovate the lot and the temple itself. In doing this, unfortunately, there will be many burial sites which will have to be removed.
This is devastating to many devout Christians who have loved one’s buried at this temple. Christians are not the only ones who have their beloved buried here, the Hindu sect called Dashnami along with Muslims have also rested at this site. There is uproar since the Pashupatinath is a Hindu temple and other religions have been burying their dead here, which is against Hindu religion. Along with the lot needing major cleaning, the Hindus want to keep their property to themselves. That is their main goal and that is what they will fight to have happen.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Week 3 Post 6
“I am awake.” Was the answer from Buddha to people who came to him asking what he was. Buddhism means to awake or to know. Buddha was born in 563 in Nepal. His parents were powerfully influential and he had a luxurious childhood. Buddha was well-rounded and educated. Mature for his age, he married at age 16. Buddha had four distinct experiences that shaped his life. After doing much good and establishing what is now Buddhism, he died at age 80.
The basic Buddhist belief is centered around what they call Nirvana. It is indescribable and untouchable. Huston Smith talks about nirvana like it is describing wind. You cannot touch wind or describe its length. It has no color and no taste. You can’t smell it or talk about the way it looks. So it is with nirvana. Buddha described it as bliss.
Buddhist also believe in reincarnation. They describe this belief as a wave in the ocean. We see a wave coming and it gets closer. Soon the wave hits us and it’s gone, swept up on shore and dissolves until another once comes up to hit us. That is the process at which Buddhist view reincarnation. Smith says, “...when they die leave strands of finite desire that can only be realized in other incarnations...”
Buddhism was founded in India and believe it or not to this day Buddhism exists in every Asian land, except India. Some may say that Buddhism merged with Hinduism explaining why it died out only to leave Hinduism in India. Buddhism and Hinduism are very similar in their beliefs. Both religions believe in reincarnation. Hindus believe in moksha, described as total release. Buddhist describe their end goal as a blow out or an extinguishing which they call nirvana.
One belief that distinguishes Buddhas are their Four Noble Truths. The First Noble Truth is suffering or dukkha. The Second Noble Truth allows for the First Noble Truth to be realized, desire or tanha. The Third Noble Truth is the natural craving and the way to overcome all of these truths or learn to deal with them is through the Eightfold Path. This Eightfold Path is a set of eight steps given by a doctor almost as a prescription. The first being right knowledge and the eighth being right absorption.
Personal Reflection -
It is hard to decide which religion I philosophically relate with more. I understand their similarities and their differences. Though they are very much alike in their beliefs and understandings of God, they also are very different, especially how they were founded. I would have to say I relate more with Hinduism because of their stages of life. I feel like we are constantly learning and learning different things in each stage of life that we’re in. I like how the retired Hindus are in a very important learning phase of life that they use to be educated and learn more, even though they are older. I appreciate this belief that the Hindus have.
The basic Buddhist belief is centered around what they call Nirvana. It is indescribable and untouchable. Huston Smith talks about nirvana like it is describing wind. You cannot touch wind or describe its length. It has no color and no taste. You can’t smell it or talk about the way it looks. So it is with nirvana. Buddha described it as bliss.
Buddhist also believe in reincarnation. They describe this belief as a wave in the ocean. We see a wave coming and it gets closer. Soon the wave hits us and it’s gone, swept up on shore and dissolves until another once comes up to hit us. That is the process at which Buddhist view reincarnation. Smith says, “...when they die leave strands of finite desire that can only be realized in other incarnations...”
Buddhism was founded in India and believe it or not to this day Buddhism exists in every Asian land, except India. Some may say that Buddhism merged with Hinduism explaining why it died out only to leave Hinduism in India. Buddhism and Hinduism are very similar in their beliefs. Both religions believe in reincarnation. Hindus believe in moksha, described as total release. Buddhist describe their end goal as a blow out or an extinguishing which they call nirvana.
One belief that distinguishes Buddhas are their Four Noble Truths. The First Noble Truth is suffering or dukkha. The Second Noble Truth allows for the First Noble Truth to be realized, desire or tanha. The Third Noble Truth is the natural craving and the way to overcome all of these truths or learn to deal with them is through the Eightfold Path. This Eightfold Path is a set of eight steps given by a doctor almost as a prescription. The first being right knowledge and the eighth being right absorption.
Personal Reflection -
It is hard to decide which religion I philosophically relate with more. I understand their similarities and their differences. Though they are very much alike in their beliefs and understandings of God, they also are very different, especially how they were founded. I would have to say I relate more with Hinduism because of their stages of life. I feel like we are constantly learning and learning different things in each stage of life that we’re in. I like how the retired Hindus are in a very important learning phase of life that they use to be educated and learn more, even though they are older. I appreciate this belief that the Hindus have.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Week 2 Post 5
Sikhism, the forgotten religion was founded in the early 16th century. Sikhism is 500 years old and originated in Northern India, in the Punjab. This religion was founded by Guru Nanak. He is one of 10 main gurus but in Sikh history there are more than just 10 gurus. Guru Nanak was born in 1469. He died, thus ending his guruship in 1539 making him 70 years old. He was the first of 10 gurus which makes his importance obvious. His message was that of love and peace. In guru Nanak’s hymn on the importance of a guru it states, “Through faith in the guru the True Self is known.” He believed that the necessity of a guru was great.
Sikhs believe that God is without form, also called nirguna. Meditation is commonly practiced in this religion while meditating one repeats a name of God thus resulting in bhakti, or spiritual, powerful and mystical experience. These spiritual happenings draw people closer to God and a feeling of belonging. Sikhs believe in one God who is referred to as Wahiguru. They believe in reincarnation and the idea of life after life after life. A sect of Sikhism is called the Khalsa or Orthodox Sikhs who view smoking and eating meat as evil and refrain from doing such things. The males wear the 5 k’s which are: turban (kesh), bracelet (kara), comb (kanga), shorts (kaach), and sword (kirpan). The main focus of Sikhism is to obtain liberation or moksha. They see this as a source or enlightenment.
According to the film there are 20 million members of the Sikh religion. Though it is only 500 years old, it is one of the 5 biggest religions in the world. I also learned in the films that their God is without form or sex. They believe he is one supreme God. They believe it is important to do good and serve others around them. The men and women have a standard dress. The greatest guru, guru Nanak believed in equality.
Personal Reflection -
Of all the religions we have studied thus far, Sikhism has been the most fun and intriguing religion for me to learn. I have enjoyed learning about their standards, beliefs and goals. To me they seem like a loving and motivated people. Learning about their 10 gurus, especially guru Nanak was interesting to me. It’s amazing that one person can make such a great difference in history.
In response to the question of Sikhs having a political right to establish Khalistan, I believe they do have a right to have their own place to call home. I think it is fair and right and just for them to have a place to go to for worship and unity. Many religions have that in our present day and I think it’s good for them to have one if they feel it’s something that would strengthen them as a religion and people.
Sikhs believe that God is without form, also called nirguna. Meditation is commonly practiced in this religion while meditating one repeats a name of God thus resulting in bhakti, or spiritual, powerful and mystical experience. These spiritual happenings draw people closer to God and a feeling of belonging. Sikhs believe in one God who is referred to as Wahiguru. They believe in reincarnation and the idea of life after life after life. A sect of Sikhism is called the Khalsa or Orthodox Sikhs who view smoking and eating meat as evil and refrain from doing such things. The males wear the 5 k’s which are: turban (kesh), bracelet (kara), comb (kanga), shorts (kaach), and sword (kirpan). The main focus of Sikhism is to obtain liberation or moksha. They see this as a source or enlightenment.
According to the film there are 20 million members of the Sikh religion. Though it is only 500 years old, it is one of the 5 biggest religions in the world. I also learned in the films that their God is without form or sex. They believe he is one supreme God. They believe it is important to do good and serve others around them. The men and women have a standard dress. The greatest guru, guru Nanak believed in equality.
Personal Reflection -
Of all the religions we have studied thus far, Sikhism has been the most fun and intriguing religion for me to learn. I have enjoyed learning about their standards, beliefs and goals. To me they seem like a loving and motivated people. Learning about their 10 gurus, especially guru Nanak was interesting to me. It’s amazing that one person can make such a great difference in history.
In response to the question of Sikhs having a political right to establish Khalistan, I believe they do have a right to have their own place to call home. I think it is fair and right and just for them to have a place to go to for worship and unity. Many religions have that in our present day and I think it’s good for them to have one if they feel it’s something that would strengthen them as a religion and people.
Week 2 Post 4
Jain believers/followers are taught that Jainism has always been around and that it will always be around. Here is a list of some of the beliefs:
Jainism is a belief that one needs to have absolute control over the mind and body. The goal is to teach the follower to be liberated from the negative effects that their thoughts, words and actions can have on their lives. The follower can achieve this by following the triple gems of Jainism
The right view - seeking to view reality correctly
The right knowledge - finding the true meaning of reality
The right conduct - applying the knowledge acquired into one’s life
Every creature is divine and every human has the potential to become divine
Karma. Unlike the Hindu belief it is something material. It is a reaction to something that is taking place. The reading gives the example of gravity acting on a falling object.
Here are some of the ethics followed by Jainism:
Non-violence - This is a blanket statement/belief to all living things. One should minimize violence, be it intentional or unintentional, to all living things.
Truthfulness - Speak the truth, but with tact. Be constructive and not destructive in word and thought
Non-stealing - Be honest in your dealings with your fellow man. Always be fair in all things
Jain followers participate in festivals and have traditions as many religions do. Some of the festivals are:
Diwali - A celebration of the new moon day of Kartik.
Mahavir Jayant - This is a birthday celebration for Mahavir.
Some traditions/practices are:
Fasting - There are a few ways to fast. Not eating or drinking for a period, minimal eating as to avoid hunger, limiting what you eat and abstaining from your favorite foods.
Jain monks will sweep the ground in front of them as they walk in order to ensure they do not harm any smaller living creature as they walk.
Prayer - There is preparation before prayer. One bathes in order to cleanse the body. Saffron paste or sandal paste is applied to certain spots on their body to assist in meditation. There are many other things that can be done in order to prepare one’s self for prayer.
Vegetarianism -
Jainism believes in non-violence. This belief applies to all aspects of life, including food choice. They do not consume root vegetables due to their harvesting would end the life of the plant. They also do not consume root vegetables due to their interaction with the soil and the nutrients they provide to the soil. It goes without saying that they do not consume animals.
The Jainism belief differs from that presented in Why I Don’t Eat Faces. It differs due to the emotional and neurological aspects. This reading argues that we have imbedded into our brains something that triggers our not wanting/needing to kill and eat something. This is due to our having sympathy for the animal and their ability to feel and express pain.
Personal Reflection -
I respect this point of view however, I do not agree with it. I believe that animals serve a purpose for human consumption. I do not agree with abusing this privilege. Every time I see a trailer transporting pigs or cattle I always think that there could be a better way to transport them but they sure do taste good. As stated in the reading, it is purely a choice. I will continue to chose to eat meat and all its juiciness. It tastes too good to let go.
Jainism is a belief that one needs to have absolute control over the mind and body. The goal is to teach the follower to be liberated from the negative effects that their thoughts, words and actions can have on their lives. The follower can achieve this by following the triple gems of Jainism
The right view - seeking to view reality correctly
The right knowledge - finding the true meaning of reality
The right conduct - applying the knowledge acquired into one’s life
Every creature is divine and every human has the potential to become divine
Karma. Unlike the Hindu belief it is something material. It is a reaction to something that is taking place. The reading gives the example of gravity acting on a falling object.
Here are some of the ethics followed by Jainism:
Non-violence - This is a blanket statement/belief to all living things. One should minimize violence, be it intentional or unintentional, to all living things.
Truthfulness - Speak the truth, but with tact. Be constructive and not destructive in word and thought
Non-stealing - Be honest in your dealings with your fellow man. Always be fair in all things
Jain followers participate in festivals and have traditions as many religions do. Some of the festivals are:
Diwali - A celebration of the new moon day of Kartik.
Mahavir Jayant - This is a birthday celebration for Mahavir.
Some traditions/practices are:
Fasting - There are a few ways to fast. Not eating or drinking for a period, minimal eating as to avoid hunger, limiting what you eat and abstaining from your favorite foods.
Jain monks will sweep the ground in front of them as they walk in order to ensure they do not harm any smaller living creature as they walk.
Prayer - There is preparation before prayer. One bathes in order to cleanse the body. Saffron paste or sandal paste is applied to certain spots on their body to assist in meditation. There are many other things that can be done in order to prepare one’s self for prayer.
Vegetarianism -
Jainism believes in non-violence. This belief applies to all aspects of life, including food choice. They do not consume root vegetables due to their harvesting would end the life of the plant. They also do not consume root vegetables due to their interaction with the soil and the nutrients they provide to the soil. It goes without saying that they do not consume animals.
The Jainism belief differs from that presented in Why I Don’t Eat Faces. It differs due to the emotional and neurological aspects. This reading argues that we have imbedded into our brains something that triggers our not wanting/needing to kill and eat something. This is due to our having sympathy for the animal and their ability to feel and express pain.
Personal Reflection -
I respect this point of view however, I do not agree with it. I believe that animals serve a purpose for human consumption. I do not agree with abusing this privilege. Every time I see a trailer transporting pigs or cattle I always think that there could be a better way to transport them but they sure do taste good. As stated in the reading, it is purely a choice. I will continue to chose to eat meat and all its juiciness. It tastes too good to let go.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Week 2 Post 3
According to Huston Smith’s definition and explanation of Hinduism, people want four things: pleasure, success (including power, fame and wealth) duty and liberation or moksha. We may ask ourselves, “How do we obtain pleasure?” It may seem difficult and may be even nearly impossible for us to understand how to achieve pleasure. India says to the the person who wants pleasure, “Go after it.” Smith explains that success is an insatiable. We are never content with what we have but what we want that which we already have. Behind pleasure and success brings us to duty. This means real responsibility and the maturity to perform such duty sufficiently. Liberation is the fourth and last thing people want. Smith says, “Liberation from everything that distances us from infinite being, infinite awareness and infinite bliss.”
The greatest belief that the Hindu people have is that they can have what they really want. That which we desire more, we can have. What’s the secret to getting that which we want the most? We already have it. Though we may not even know we possess it, that which we want most may be hiding or buried by other things within us that are not allowing us to realize that we have it.
India has three stages of life. The first being that of Youth. This is their time to learn and be educated about the world around them. The second stage of life is Household where we put our time and energy into creating a family and a stable profession in which to provide and support that family. The last stage of life is Retirement. People in the West think this is perhaps the most boring time of life where we’ve learned all we need to know, making our retirement stagnant. India believes this is the time to turn our life into a devoted time of understanding of what the real purpose of life is.
Personal Reflection -
It is intriguing to read about how the Hindus view themselves. They seem to never be good enough, to not have enough self-worth and to continually strive to be better. I think people in the West could use a little bit more of this mentality. I think we should all constantly strive to be better and have more self-worth.
The greatest belief that the Hindu people have is that they can have what they really want. That which we desire more, we can have. What’s the secret to getting that which we want the most? We already have it. Though we may not even know we possess it, that which we want most may be hiding or buried by other things within us that are not allowing us to realize that we have it.
India has three stages of life. The first being that of Youth. This is their time to learn and be educated about the world around them. The second stage of life is Household where we put our time and energy into creating a family and a stable profession in which to provide and support that family. The last stage of life is Retirement. People in the West think this is perhaps the most boring time of life where we’ve learned all we need to know, making our retirement stagnant. India believes this is the time to turn our life into a devoted time of understanding of what the real purpose of life is.
Personal Reflection -
It is intriguing to read about how the Hindus view themselves. They seem to never be good enough, to not have enough self-worth and to continually strive to be better. I think people in the West could use a little bit more of this mentality. I think we should all constantly strive to be better and have more self-worth.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Week 2 Post 2
The Sage -
Reading about him and his beliefs/teachings was interesting. It amazes me how some people have “it” when it comes to animals. Some people are able to “whisper” to animals and they listen. I believe this is attributed to his treating everything as nothing less than human. He eliminated the “I” in his life. He did not focus on how to possess more or become better than others. That desire was eliminated when he had his enlightenment. I chose this guru because his interaction with animals and his view of our equality with them is admirable. If we all showed that much respect to humans this world would be a better place.
The Yogi -
This guy was cool. The experience that is shared of the boil on his arm and his “prophecy” of sorts that it would appear; intriguing. The explanation of the body and soul and how avatars are used, again, intriguing. I am interested to know more about the anja chakra (the third eye-the inner vision). Will this class offer more insight to this? I chose this guru due to the fact that avitar is mentioned. It caught my eye due to how the word ties it to the movie. The meditation and leaving the body is also interesting.
The Mother -
Here we learned also about how one can meditate to get that physical and spiritual separation. It is interesting to know how one can meditate and go to another level of enlightenment or understanding. I chose this guru because, all the gurus or leaders of any religion are held up to a standard that may be too extreme. As pointed out in this section, these leaders have needs too. In this case, smoking was the need. She also taught the author that god can be found in any life form. Hence her stating, “You are my maharaj, my guru.”
The Wrestler -
The understanding of having a “pre-game warm-up” in order to focus on the interior and not exterior events was very insightful. By doing this it would help a meditating individual a head start towards their enlightenment while meditating. I chose this guru because of all the gurus in this reading I believe I would relate best to Pratap Singh. That is due to his not taking everything too serious. Laughter is one of life’s greatest joys.
The Master -
I cannot fathom speaking in front of thousands of people, let alone try to feed them. The teaching that we are all “in essence drops of love from the sea of God” is interesting. We are all trying to make our way back home to God. That is a profound teaching and it is interesting how, in my opinion, everyone is trying to make their way back home to God. Everyone has a different take on how to make it back to God, that’s why so many religions exist.
Videos -
It is interesting to me how Faqir Chand saw his guru and then when he returned to Bagdad there were others that saw him in their “visions.” His take that our mind creates images that seam to guide us through life is very interesting.
The video about Ramana Maharshi is also interesting. How does questioning one’s self continuously bring about an un-egotistical attitude? This is one teaching I do not comprehend. However, this self-questioning worked for Ramana and he has been able to share his understanding with many.
Personal Reflection -
I didn’t realize how intense meditation needs to be. I didn’t realize that through meditation one’s soul could go on to bigger and better things in another location. Of all the things that were taught in this reading, the last two guru’s stood out to me the most for two reasons.
1 - Live but laugh. Laughter is always the best medicine.
2 - Everyone is trying to make their way back to God.
Reading about him and his beliefs/teachings was interesting. It amazes me how some people have “it” when it comes to animals. Some people are able to “whisper” to animals and they listen. I believe this is attributed to his treating everything as nothing less than human. He eliminated the “I” in his life. He did not focus on how to possess more or become better than others. That desire was eliminated when he had his enlightenment. I chose this guru because his interaction with animals and his view of our equality with them is admirable. If we all showed that much respect to humans this world would be a better place.
The Yogi -
This guy was cool. The experience that is shared of the boil on his arm and his “prophecy” of sorts that it would appear; intriguing. The explanation of the body and soul and how avatars are used, again, intriguing. I am interested to know more about the anja chakra (the third eye-the inner vision). Will this class offer more insight to this? I chose this guru due to the fact that avitar is mentioned. It caught my eye due to how the word ties it to the movie. The meditation and leaving the body is also interesting.
The Mother -
Here we learned also about how one can meditate to get that physical and spiritual separation. It is interesting to know how one can meditate and go to another level of enlightenment or understanding. I chose this guru because, all the gurus or leaders of any religion are held up to a standard that may be too extreme. As pointed out in this section, these leaders have needs too. In this case, smoking was the need. She also taught the author that god can be found in any life form. Hence her stating, “You are my maharaj, my guru.”
The Wrestler -
The understanding of having a “pre-game warm-up” in order to focus on the interior and not exterior events was very insightful. By doing this it would help a meditating individual a head start towards their enlightenment while meditating. I chose this guru because of all the gurus in this reading I believe I would relate best to Pratap Singh. That is due to his not taking everything too serious. Laughter is one of life’s greatest joys.
The Master -
I cannot fathom speaking in front of thousands of people, let alone try to feed them. The teaching that we are all “in essence drops of love from the sea of God” is interesting. We are all trying to make our way back home to God. That is a profound teaching and it is interesting how, in my opinion, everyone is trying to make their way back home to God. Everyone has a different take on how to make it back to God, that’s why so many religions exist.
Videos -
It is interesting to me how Faqir Chand saw his guru and then when he returned to Bagdad there were others that saw him in their “visions.” His take that our mind creates images that seam to guide us through life is very interesting.
The video about Ramana Maharshi is also interesting. How does questioning one’s self continuously bring about an un-egotistical attitude? This is one teaching I do not comprehend. However, this self-questioning worked for Ramana and he has been able to share his understanding with many.
Personal Reflection -
I didn’t realize how intense meditation needs to be. I didn’t realize that through meditation one’s soul could go on to bigger and better things in another location. Of all the things that were taught in this reading, the last two guru’s stood out to me the most for two reasons.
1 - Live but laugh. Laughter is always the best medicine.
2 - Everyone is trying to make their way back to God.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Post 1 Week 1
What is religion?
Just as there are many different religions in the world there are many different interpretations as to what classifies a group as a religion. Five classical definitions of religion are:
“1 - Eliade: Religion is an experience of the ‘sacred.’
2 - Otto: Religion is an experience of the ‘Wholly Other.’
3 - Tillich: Religion is one’s ‘ultimate concern.’
4 - Smith: Religion is a ‘cumulative tradition’ - not an ‘ism.’
5 - Smart: Religion is ‘a seven dimensional organism.’
Searching online dictionaries I found that most definitions contain some, if not all, of Ninian Smart’s seven dimensions of religion. The seven dimensions are:
1 - Myths (sacred stories)
2 - Rituals (activities, typically repeated)
3 - Experiences (experiences of the sacred)
4 - Doctrines (the philosophy/belief)
5 - Ethics (moral codes)
6 - Social Aspect (the organization)
7 - Material Forms (sacred objects).
Each dimension plays an important role to any religion. Some religions have more emphasis in certain dimensions than others. That, however, does not qualify or disqualify the classification of a religion.
How should we study it?
Again, as with religions, there are many ideas as to how religion should be studied. One could study any religion through theological, sociological, psychological, phenomenological, anthropological and many other “-ical” methods. Smart argues three methods (antipathy, sympathy and empathy) while Berger argues three similar, but altogether different methods (reduction, deduction and induction). It is not an easy task to maintain objectivity while studying any religion. The reading offers “A Complete Methodology” as the best method to study religion on page 46.
1 - Phenomenology - (Objectively describing religious phenomena; induction)
2 - Sociology of Religion - (Understanding the social origins of religion; reductionism)
3 - Transpersonal Psychology - (Assessing the developmental stage of religion)
Why study it?
Throughout the reading there is an underlying theme of seeking understanding. The reading also presents many different methods to study it. One could study religion to find truth or one could study religion to find that sense of belonging that comes with being part of a “communita.” Religions offer a unique way to study history and society at the same time. Since history and society are intertwined in religion, the understanding of many religions can also assist in breaking barriers to communication that exist due to ignorance about another’s religion.
How did religion start?
Ninian Smart explains this through his seven dimensions of religion. Over time religions have evolved into what they currently are today due to the needs of society. Francis Crick believes that it is due to our biology.
Will gods decay?
For whatever reason, society will always turn to something more to find answers. Communitas evolve over time to address issues that may arise in society. These communitas, be they cults or sects, will always provide a guidance for its followers.
What role do memes play in religion?
They, arguably, are the backbone to any religions sustainability. Memes are simply replicas of something that can be passed down to believers. Without memes the passing on of religion could not happen. Memes are what allows others to “fit into” with one’s religious society.
Personal Reflection
How did religion start?
The reading has opened up a new world of understanding in my eyes. Did religion start because of one’s desire to feel apart of a communita? Or did religion start because of a “mythical” event? However they started, if a religion promotes good principles and morals, it shouldn’t matter. I will support that individual in their faith.
Just as there are many different religions in the world there are many different interpretations as to what classifies a group as a religion. Five classical definitions of religion are:
“1 - Eliade: Religion is an experience of the ‘sacred.’
2 - Otto: Religion is an experience of the ‘Wholly Other.’
3 - Tillich: Religion is one’s ‘ultimate concern.’
4 - Smith: Religion is a ‘cumulative tradition’ - not an ‘ism.’
5 - Smart: Religion is ‘a seven dimensional organism.’
Searching online dictionaries I found that most definitions contain some, if not all, of Ninian Smart’s seven dimensions of religion. The seven dimensions are:
1 - Myths (sacred stories)
2 - Rituals (activities, typically repeated)
3 - Experiences (experiences of the sacred)
4 - Doctrines (the philosophy/belief)
5 - Ethics (moral codes)
6 - Social Aspect (the organization)
7 - Material Forms (sacred objects).
Each dimension plays an important role to any religion. Some religions have more emphasis in certain dimensions than others. That, however, does not qualify or disqualify the classification of a religion.
How should we study it?
Again, as with religions, there are many ideas as to how religion should be studied. One could study any religion through theological, sociological, psychological, phenomenological, anthropological and many other “-ical” methods. Smart argues three methods (antipathy, sympathy and empathy) while Berger argues three similar, but altogether different methods (reduction, deduction and induction). It is not an easy task to maintain objectivity while studying any religion. The reading offers “A Complete Methodology” as the best method to study religion on page 46.
1 - Phenomenology - (Objectively describing religious phenomena; induction)
2 - Sociology of Religion - (Understanding the social origins of religion; reductionism)
3 - Transpersonal Psychology - (Assessing the developmental stage of religion)
Why study it?
Throughout the reading there is an underlying theme of seeking understanding. The reading also presents many different methods to study it. One could study religion to find truth or one could study religion to find that sense of belonging that comes with being part of a “communita.” Religions offer a unique way to study history and society at the same time. Since history and society are intertwined in religion, the understanding of many religions can also assist in breaking barriers to communication that exist due to ignorance about another’s religion.
How did religion start?
Ninian Smart explains this through his seven dimensions of religion. Over time religions have evolved into what they currently are today due to the needs of society. Francis Crick believes that it is due to our biology.
Will gods decay?
For whatever reason, society will always turn to something more to find answers. Communitas evolve over time to address issues that may arise in society. These communitas, be they cults or sects, will always provide a guidance for its followers.
What role do memes play in religion?
They, arguably, are the backbone to any religions sustainability. Memes are simply replicas of something that can be passed down to believers. Without memes the passing on of religion could not happen. Memes are what allows others to “fit into” with one’s religious society.
Personal Reflection
How did religion start?
The reading has opened up a new world of understanding in my eyes. Did religion start because of one’s desire to feel apart of a communita? Or did religion start because of a “mythical” event? However they started, if a religion promotes good principles and morals, it shouldn’t matter. I will support that individual in their faith.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Hindu Temple Houston, Texas
My wife and I visited this Hindu temple 2 years ago.
It was so interesting to walk around all areas of this
building that are so sacred to the people of this faith.
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