HST 150 Module #3
Keepin' the Faith
Throughout history, religion has been a powerful force in shaping society's laws, customs, and social norms. By examining the historical role of different religions, we gain insight into how they have shaped the cultural and political landscape of the world. Christianity in Europe, my dear friends. A tale as old as time itself. The rise of the Catholic Church and the Protestant Reformation shaped the continent like a sculptor and shaped clay. And just like that sculpture, religion has had a hand in molding European culture and politics. And let's remember our Eastern friend, Hinduism. Its beliefs and practices have evolved like a butterfly from its cocoon. Adapting to the ever-changing cultural and historical contexts, it's a fascinating story.
Let me tell you, studying the history of how different religions have influenced each other and coexisted in the past is a dang enlightening experience. Take the history of Islam in India, for instance - it's a fascinating glimpse into how the religion interacted with and was shaped by Hinduism and other indigenous beliefs. It's a reminder that in the grand scheme of things, religions have always found ways to coexist and shape one another in any given society. Religion, man, it's been a wild ride. A real trip through the looking glass, if you know what I mean. It's helped folks make sense of this crazy world and find solace in suffering and adversity. And let me tell you; there's plenty of that to go around. But by diving deep into the religious beliefs and practices of different cultures and societies, we can better understand the human experience. And, let's face it, religion has played a big part in shaping that experience. It's been a wild ride, but damn if it hasn't been one hell of a journey.
As we delve deeper into the annals of religious history, it becomes increasingly apparent that this powerful force has profoundly impacted human events. On the one hand, it has been a source of inspiration and guidance for countless individuals and communities, fostering a sense of hope, purpose, and moral direction. Yet, on the other hand, it has also been wielded as a weapon of oppression and violence, used to justify the persecution of minority groups, the imposition of dogma, and the use of force to advance the interests of the powerful. From the bloody Crusades of the Middle Ages to the ruthless inquisitions of the Spanish Empire, religion has been used to justify some of the most heinous acts of violence and oppression in human history. And even today, as we see religious extremism fueling conflicts and terror around the globe, it is clear that the negative impacts of religion are still very much with us.
On the one hand, religion has been a source of destruction, division, and misery. But on the other hand, it's also been a source of hope, love, and inspiration. It's brought people together, given them a sense of belonging, and helped them through tough times. Religion has also been behind many movements for justice, like the Civil Rights Movement, where religious leaders stood up for the rights of the oppressed. So, it's a mixed bag, this religion thing. But as Howard Zinn reminds us, it is not enough to acknowledge these negative impacts and move on. We must also strive to understand the underlying causes and motivations behind them and work to create a world where religion is a force for good rather than evil. Only by facing the truths of history can we hope to build a more just and equitable future for all.
Religion, like anything else, is a messy business. To truly understand the role of religion in shaping the world we live in today, we need to dive deep and take a critical look at its past. We can't just take the good and ignore the bad - that's not how history works. We need to understand the complete picture, the complexity, and the nuance, which makes studying religion so damn engrossing. Ultimately, it's all about understanding the roots of faith and its impact on the world. Digging deep into the history of religion is like taking a wild trip through time, encountering all the strange and twisted ways people have tried to make sense of the universe. It's a journey through the dark corners of human nature and the power struggles that have shaped societies throughout history. But in the end, it's all worth it because it gives us a deeper understanding of the human experience and religion's role in shaping it. So let's examine the history of faith and the eternal search for meaning in the world's chaos. Cheers.
Throughout history, religion has been a powerful force in shaping society's laws, customs, and social norms. By examining the historical role of different religions, we gain insight into how they have shaped the cultural and political landscape of the world. Christianity in Europe, my dear friends. A tale as old as time itself. The rise of the Catholic Church and the Protestant Reformation shaped the continent like a sculptor and shaped clay. And just like that sculpture, religion has had a hand in molding European culture and politics. And let's remember our Eastern friend, Hinduism. Its beliefs and practices have evolved like a butterfly from its cocoon. Adapting to the ever-changing cultural and historical contexts, it's a fascinating story.
Let me tell you, studying the history of how different religions have influenced each other and coexisted in the past is a dang enlightening experience. Take the history of Islam in India, for instance - it's a fascinating glimpse into how the religion interacted with and was shaped by Hinduism and other indigenous beliefs. It's a reminder that in the grand scheme of things, religions have always found ways to coexist and shape one another in any given society. Religion, man, it's been a wild ride. A real trip through the looking glass, if you know what I mean. It's helped folks make sense of this crazy world and find solace in suffering and adversity. And let me tell you; there's plenty of that to go around. But by diving deep into the religious beliefs and practices of different cultures and societies, we can better understand the human experience. And, let's face it, religion has played a big part in shaping that experience. It's been a wild ride, but damn if it hasn't been one hell of a journey.
As we delve deeper into the annals of religious history, it becomes increasingly apparent that this powerful force has profoundly impacted human events. On the one hand, it has been a source of inspiration and guidance for countless individuals and communities, fostering a sense of hope, purpose, and moral direction. Yet, on the other hand, it has also been wielded as a weapon of oppression and violence, used to justify the persecution of minority groups, the imposition of dogma, and the use of force to advance the interests of the powerful. From the bloody Crusades of the Middle Ages to the ruthless inquisitions of the Spanish Empire, religion has been used to justify some of the most heinous acts of violence and oppression in human history. And even today, as we see religious extremism fueling conflicts and terror around the globe, it is clear that the negative impacts of religion are still very much with us.
On the one hand, religion has been a source of destruction, division, and misery. But on the other hand, it's also been a source of hope, love, and inspiration. It's brought people together, given them a sense of belonging, and helped them through tough times. Religion has also been behind many movements for justice, like the Civil Rights Movement, where religious leaders stood up for the rights of the oppressed. So, it's a mixed bag, this religion thing. But as Howard Zinn reminds us, it is not enough to acknowledge these negative impacts and move on. We must also strive to understand the underlying causes and motivations behind them and work to create a world where religion is a force for good rather than evil. Only by facing the truths of history can we hope to build a more just and equitable future for all.
Religion, like anything else, is a messy business. To truly understand the role of religion in shaping the world we live in today, we need to dive deep and take a critical look at its past. We can't just take the good and ignore the bad - that's not how history works. We need to understand the complete picture, the complexity, and the nuance, which makes studying religion so damn engrossing. Ultimately, it's all about understanding the roots of faith and its impact on the world. Digging deep into the history of religion is like taking a wild trip through time, encountering all the strange and twisted ways people have tried to make sense of the universe. It's a journey through the dark corners of human nature and the power struggles that have shaped societies throughout history. But in the end, it's all worth it because it gives us a deeper understanding of the human experience and religion's role in shaping it. So let's examine the history of faith and the eternal search for meaning in the world's chaos. Cheers.
#3 Credit is Important
Academics as done a real number on me. After countless hours sitting in a classroom, whether in the back row or up front giving a lecture, one thing stands out to me a pox on the American education system: The group project. Such a vile form of torture. Everyone remembers the first group project they had to do. Their middle school teacher pair you off with 2 to 4 other people to give a presentation on some topic or another. It was something you didn’t necessarily have a passion for, but you wanted to get a decent grade, so you were willing to work with others on this task.
Now enters the actors. First, the bossy student that is the loudest and most insistent on doing thing THEIR way. They refuse to work with other and have a shared vision of only their vision. You know the type, self-aggrandizing that have an inflated self-worth. These are the people that run for political office someday.
The other student is far more insipid. This person sits back quietly, doesn’t contribute, aside from nodding their head in approval occasionally. They promise to give the presentation after YOU make the poster board and YOU do all the research. As the group toils away laboriously, they sit and wait to deliver the speech portion, that everyone for some reason tries to avoid like the plague. Then, in an act of cunning treachery, the day the presentation is due, that kid is OUT SICK. So, the bossy kid makes you do the presentation, because when the rubber hits the road, the domineering kid is loud, not actually informed. You were played like a fiddle.
Why this clearly anecdotal story? Rule number three of history: Credit is important. Everyone one, whether political party or ethnic group wants to take credit for the past. Who built what. Who was the first. In the scheme of things, this can seem innocuous, or harmless. But not if you ask “why” the credit is being taken.
Giving proper credit helps to ensure that the history of an event or time is accurately represented rather than being distorted or misunderstood. This is particularly important for marginalized or underrepresented groups, whose contributions and perspectives may be overlooked or minimized if proper credit is not given. Proper credit helps to recognize and honor the contributions of individuals and groups who have played essential roles in historical events. By giving credit where it is due, we can acknowledge the efforts and sacrifices of those who have shaped the world we live in today.
Giving proper credit helps to preserve the historical memory of an event or period, ensuring that the stories and experiences of those who lived through it are not forgotten. This is especially important for events or periods that may be at risks of being forgotten or overlooked, such as those that occurred in the distant past or those that affected small or marginalized groups. Christopher Columbus is often credited with "discovering" America, but this is inaccurate. Columbus landed on islands in the Caribbean, and indigenous peoples had already inhabited the landmass of North and South America for thousands of years. In recent years, there has been a push to acknowledge these indigenous peoples' contributions and correct the narrative surrounding Columbus's "discovery" of the Americas.
Thomas Edison is often credited with inventing the light bulb, but this is only partially accurate. Edison improved existing designs for the light bulb and is credited with the first commercially viable light bulb. Still, he was one of many who came up with the idea of using electricity to create light. Other inventors, such as Warren de la Rue and Frederick de Moleyns, had also developed early light bulb versions. Rosalind Franklin made essential contributions to the discovery of the structure of DNA, but she needed to be credited appropriately at the time. Franklin's work, which involved using X-ray crystallography to create detailed images of the structure of DNA, was crucial to the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA. However, she was not included in the Nobel Prize awarded to James Watson and Francis Crick for their discovery. It was not until decades later that Franklin was adequately recognized for her contributions to the field.
These examples demonstrate how important it is to give proper credit to individuals and groups who have made significant historical contributions. Inaccurate recognition can lead to a distorted understanding of the past and obscure the contributions of those who may have been overlooked or marginalized.
THE RUNDOWN
Academics as done a real number on me. After countless hours sitting in a classroom, whether in the back row or up front giving a lecture, one thing stands out to me a pox on the American education system: The group project. Such a vile form of torture. Everyone remembers the first group project they had to do. Their middle school teacher pair you off with 2 to 4 other people to give a presentation on some topic or another. It was something you didn’t necessarily have a passion for, but you wanted to get a decent grade, so you were willing to work with others on this task.
Now enters the actors. First, the bossy student that is the loudest and most insistent on doing thing THEIR way. They refuse to work with other and have a shared vision of only their vision. You know the type, self-aggrandizing that have an inflated self-worth. These are the people that run for political office someday.
The other student is far more insipid. This person sits back quietly, doesn’t contribute, aside from nodding their head in approval occasionally. They promise to give the presentation after YOU make the poster board and YOU do all the research. As the group toils away laboriously, they sit and wait to deliver the speech portion, that everyone for some reason tries to avoid like the plague. Then, in an act of cunning treachery, the day the presentation is due, that kid is OUT SICK. So, the bossy kid makes you do the presentation, because when the rubber hits the road, the domineering kid is loud, not actually informed. You were played like a fiddle.
Why this clearly anecdotal story? Rule number three of history: Credit is important. Everyone one, whether political party or ethnic group wants to take credit for the past. Who built what. Who was the first. In the scheme of things, this can seem innocuous, or harmless. But not if you ask “why” the credit is being taken.
Giving proper credit helps to ensure that the history of an event or time is accurately represented rather than being distorted or misunderstood. This is particularly important for marginalized or underrepresented groups, whose contributions and perspectives may be overlooked or minimized if proper credit is not given. Proper credit helps to recognize and honor the contributions of individuals and groups who have played essential roles in historical events. By giving credit where it is due, we can acknowledge the efforts and sacrifices of those who have shaped the world we live in today.
Giving proper credit helps to preserve the historical memory of an event or period, ensuring that the stories and experiences of those who lived through it are not forgotten. This is especially important for events or periods that may be at risks of being forgotten or overlooked, such as those that occurred in the distant past or those that affected small or marginalized groups. Christopher Columbus is often credited with "discovering" America, but this is inaccurate. Columbus landed on islands in the Caribbean, and indigenous peoples had already inhabited the landmass of North and South America for thousands of years. In recent years, there has been a push to acknowledge these indigenous peoples' contributions and correct the narrative surrounding Columbus's "discovery" of the Americas.
Thomas Edison is often credited with inventing the light bulb, but this is only partially accurate. Edison improved existing designs for the light bulb and is credited with the first commercially viable light bulb. Still, he was one of many who came up with the idea of using electricity to create light. Other inventors, such as Warren de la Rue and Frederick de Moleyns, had also developed early light bulb versions. Rosalind Franklin made essential contributions to the discovery of the structure of DNA, but she needed to be credited appropriately at the time. Franklin's work, which involved using X-ray crystallography to create detailed images of the structure of DNA, was crucial to the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA. However, she was not included in the Nobel Prize awarded to James Watson and Francis Crick for their discovery. It was not until decades later that Franklin was adequately recognized for her contributions to the field.
These examples demonstrate how important it is to give proper credit to individuals and groups who have made significant historical contributions. Inaccurate recognition can lead to a distorted understanding of the past and obscure the contributions of those who may have been overlooked or marginalized.
THE RUNDOWN
- The American education system needs help with group projects.
- Group projects can be challenging because of bossy and unhelpful group members.
- It's important to give credit where it's due in history to represent events and prevent distortion or misunderstanding accurately.
- Proper credit helps recognize and honor marginalized or underrepresented groups and their contributions to history.
- Giving proper credit helps preserve the historical memory of an event or period, especially those at risk of being forgotten or overlooked.
- Examples of inaccurately given credit include Christopher Columbus is credited with discovering America, Thomas Edison being credited as the sole inventor of the light bulb, and Rosalind Franklin not being credited for her contributions to the discovery of the structure of DNA.
STATE OF THE WORLD
HIGHLIGHTS
We've got some fine classroom lectures coming your way, all courtesy of the RPTM podcast. These lectures will take you on a wild ride through history, exploring everything from ancient civilizations and epic battles to scientific breakthroughs and artistic revolutions. The podcast will guide you through each lecture with its no-nonsense, straight-talking style, using various sources to give you the lowdown on each topic. You won't find any fancy-pants jargon or convoluted theories here, just plain and straightforward explanations anyone can understand. So sit back and prepare to soak up some knowledge.
LECTURES
LECTURES
- COMING SOON
READING
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Bentley, Jerry. Traditions & Encounter Volume 1 from Beginning to 1500, 7th ed.: McGraw Hill, 2021 .
Jerry H. Bentley was a historian and academic who specialized in world history, with a focus on cultural and economic exchange, comparative history, and the study of empires. He was a professor at the University of Hawaii and served as the President of the American Historical Association. Bentley wrote several books on world history and globalization, including "Old World Encounters" and he made significant contributions to the field. He passed away in 2014.
- Bentley, Chapter 5: The Emergence of Complex Society in Mainland East Asia
- Bentley, Chapter 6: Early Societies in the Americas and Oceania
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Bentley, Jerry. Traditions & Encounter Volume 1 from Beginning to 1500, 7th ed.: McGraw Hill, 2021 .
Jerry H. Bentley was a historian and academic who specialized in world history, with a focus on cultural and economic exchange, comparative history, and the study of empires. He was a professor at the University of Hawaii and served as the President of the American Historical Association. Bentley wrote several books on world history and globalization, including "Old World Encounters" and he made significant contributions to the field. He passed away in 2014.
Howard Zinn was a historian, writer, and political activist known for his critical analysis of American history. He is particularly well-known for his counter-narrative to traditional American history accounts and highlights marginalized groups' experiences and perspectives. Zinn's work is often associated with social history and is known for his Marxist and socialist views. Larry Schweikart is also a historian, but his work and perspective are often considered more conservative. Schweikart's work is often associated with military history, and he is known for his support of free-market economics and limited government. Overall, Zinn and Schweikart have different perspectives on various historical issues and events and may interpret historical events and phenomena differently. Occasionally, we will also look at Thaddeus Russell, a historian, author, and academic. Russell has written extensively on the history of social and cultural change, and his work focuses on how marginalized and oppressed groups have challenged and transformed mainstream culture. Russell is known for his unconventional and controversial ideas, and his work has been praised for its originality and provocative nature.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.

Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"...The need for slave control (In America) led to an ingenious device, paying poor whites-themselves so troublesome for two hundred years of southern history-to be overseers of black labor and therefore buffers for black hatred.
Religion was used for control. A book consulted by many planters was the Cotton Plantation Record and Account Book, which gave these instructions to overseers: 'You will find that an hour devoted every Sabbath morning to their moral and religious instruction would prove a
great aid to you in bringing about a better state of things amongst the Negroes...'
"...The need for slave control (In America) led to an ingenious device, paying poor whites-themselves so troublesome for two hundred years of southern history-to be overseers of black labor and therefore buffers for black hatred.
Religion was used for control. A book consulted by many planters was the Cotton Plantation Record and Account Book, which gave these instructions to overseers: 'You will find that an hour devoted every Sabbath morning to their moral and religious instruction would prove a
great aid to you in bringing about a better state of things amongst the Negroes...'

Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
"...By 1700, then, three major themes characterized the history of the early English colonies. First, religion played a crucial role in not only the search for liberty, but also in the institutions designed to ensure its continuation. From the Mayflower Compact to the Charter of Liberties, colonists saw a close connection between religious freedom and personal liberty. This fostered a multiplicity of denominations, which, at a time when people literally killed over small differences in the interpretation of scripture, 'made it necessary to seek a basis for political unity' outside the realm of religion..."
"...By 1700, then, three major themes characterized the history of the early English colonies. First, religion played a crucial role in not only the search for liberty, but also in the institutions designed to ensure its continuation. From the Mayflower Compact to the Charter of Liberties, colonists saw a close connection between religious freedom and personal liberty. This fostered a multiplicity of denominations, which, at a time when people literally killed over small differences in the interpretation of scripture, 'made it necessary to seek a basis for political unity' outside the realm of religion..."

Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"... God forbid they could be simply and only "fun." Historians hostile to popular culture-who are far more numerous-dismiss it as part of the "culture of consumption" that was forced on the masses by advertisers, who were labeled by one historian as 'the captains of consciousness.' Though billions of Americans have gained real pleasure, radically improved their lives, and determined the production of goods by what economists call 'voting with one's feet,' nearly all histories of consumerism are negative. Allegedly 'progressive' scholars write as if they are unaware that bourgeois moralists of the nineteenth century were the first to criticize the 'base' desires and 'unseemly' spending habits of the masses."
"... God forbid they could be simply and only "fun." Historians hostile to popular culture-who are far more numerous-dismiss it as part of the "culture of consumption" that was forced on the masses by advertisers, who were labeled by one historian as 'the captains of consciousness.' Though billions of Americans have gained real pleasure, radically improved their lives, and determined the production of goods by what economists call 'voting with one's feet,' nearly all histories of consumerism are negative. Allegedly 'progressive' scholars write as if they are unaware that bourgeois moralists of the nineteenth century were the first to criticize the 'base' desires and 'unseemly' spending habits of the masses."
What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
It's essential to recognize that religion can also be used as a means of control, particularly when it is wielded by those in positions of power to shape the beliefs and behaviors of others. This can happen through religious doctrine or teachings to justify specific actions or ideas or through the use of religious institutions or leaders to exert influence over individuals or communities.
By 1700, religion had become crucial to the colonies' efforts to achieve and maintain liberty. From the Mayflower Compact to the Charter of Liberties, colonists saw a close connection between religious and personal freedom. This led to the proliferation of various denominations, which in a time of intense religious conflict, necessitated the search for a basis for political unity outside of religion. In America, the need to control enslaved individuals resulted in the use of poor white people as overseers of black labor, serving as a buffer against black hatred. Religion was also used as a means of control, and plantation owners often consulted the Cotton Plantation Record and Account Book, which advised overseers to provide "moral and religious instruction" to the enslaved weekly to improve their behavior.
Popular culture, which has brought joy and improved the lives of many Americans through their consumption choices, is often viewed negatively by historians, who see it as a tool of advertisers known as "the captains of consciousness." However, despite the pleasure and positive impact it has had on people's lives and the influence it has had on the production of goods through consumer decisions, most histories of consumerism are negative. Even so-called "progressive" scholars often seem unaware that it was bourgeois moralists in the 19th century who first criticized the general population's "base" desires and "unseemly" spending habits.
Popular culture may play a similar role to religion in providing a sense of community, meaning, and identity. It offers a way to express and explore personal values and beliefs and connect with others with similar interests. Popular culture can also be a source of entertainment and distraction, offering a temporary escape from the stresses and challenges of everyday life. In this sense, it may serve a similar purpose to some religious practices, providing peace, calm, and clarity. Popular culture tends to be more diverse and inclusive than religion because it does not typically require adherence to a specific set of beliefs or practices to participate. This means that people are generally free to engage with popular culture in the way that best suits their interests and preferences without feeling pressured to conform to certain expectations or norms.
It's essential to recognize that religion can also be used as a means of control, particularly when it is wielded by those in positions of power to shape the beliefs and behaviors of others. This can happen through religious doctrine or teachings to justify specific actions or ideas or through the use of religious institutions or leaders to exert influence over individuals or communities.
By 1700, religion had become crucial to the colonies' efforts to achieve and maintain liberty. From the Mayflower Compact to the Charter of Liberties, colonists saw a close connection between religious and personal freedom. This led to the proliferation of various denominations, which in a time of intense religious conflict, necessitated the search for a basis for political unity outside of religion. In America, the need to control enslaved individuals resulted in the use of poor white people as overseers of black labor, serving as a buffer against black hatred. Religion was also used as a means of control, and plantation owners often consulted the Cotton Plantation Record and Account Book, which advised overseers to provide "moral and religious instruction" to the enslaved weekly to improve their behavior.
Popular culture, which has brought joy and improved the lives of many Americans through their consumption choices, is often viewed negatively by historians, who see it as a tool of advertisers known as "the captains of consciousness." However, despite the pleasure and positive impact it has had on people's lives and the influence it has had on the production of goods through consumer decisions, most histories of consumerism are negative. Even so-called "progressive" scholars often seem unaware that it was bourgeois moralists in the 19th century who first criticized the general population's "base" desires and "unseemly" spending habits.
Popular culture may play a similar role to religion in providing a sense of community, meaning, and identity. It offers a way to express and explore personal values and beliefs and connect with others with similar interests. Popular culture can also be a source of entertainment and distraction, offering a temporary escape from the stresses and challenges of everyday life. In this sense, it may serve a similar purpose to some religious practices, providing peace, calm, and clarity. Popular culture tends to be more diverse and inclusive than religion because it does not typically require adherence to a specific set of beliefs or practices to participate. This means that people are generally free to engage with popular culture in the way that best suits their interests and preferences without feeling pressured to conform to certain expectations or norms.
KEY TERMS
- Hinduism
- Buddhism
- Egyptian
- Greek
- Roman
- Chinese
- Maya
- Aztec
- Inca
- Judaism
- Christianity
- Roman Emperor Constantine
- Nicene Creed
- Islam
- Catholic Church
- the Great Schism of 1054
- The Crusades
DISCLAIMER: Welcome scholars to the wild and wacky world of history class. This isn't your granddaddy's boring ol' lecture, baby. We will take a trip through time, which will be one wild ride. I know some of you are in a brick-and-mortar setting, while others are in the vast digital wasteland. But fear not; we're all in this together. Online students might miss out on some in-person interaction, but you can still join in on the fun. This little shindig aims to get you all engaged with the course material and understand how past societies have shaped the world we know today. We'll talk about revolutions, wars, and other crazy stuff. So get ready, kids, because it's going to be one heck of a trip. And for all, you online students out there, don't be shy. Please share your thoughts and ideas with the rest of us. The Professor will do his best to give everyone an equal opportunity to learn, so don't hold back. So, let's do this thing!
Activity: "Religious Comparisons"
Objective: To compare the beliefs and practices of ancient religions and identify similarities and differences.
Instructions:
• Divide the class into groups of four or five students.
• Assign each group one of the following ancient religions: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, or Buddhism.
• Provide each group with questions to guide their research (see below).
• Allow the groups time to research and gather information about their assigned religion.
• After the research is complete, have each group presents their findings to the class.
• As a class, discuss the similarities and differences between the ancient religions.
Questions for group research:
• What are the central beliefs and practices of the religion?
• Who are the leading figures and deities in the faith?
• What are the key texts and holy writings of the faith?
• How does the faith view the concept of the afterlife?
• What role does religion play in daily life and society?
• Are there any significant historical events or figures associated with the religion?
Activity: "Religious Comparisons"
Objective: To compare the beliefs and practices of ancient religions and identify similarities and differences.
Instructions:
• Divide the class into groups of four or five students.
• Assign each group one of the following ancient religions: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, or Buddhism.
• Provide each group with questions to guide their research (see below).
• Allow the groups time to research and gather information about their assigned religion.
• After the research is complete, have each group presents their findings to the class.
• As a class, discuss the similarities and differences between the ancient religions.
Questions for group research:
• What are the central beliefs and practices of the religion?
• Who are the leading figures and deities in the faith?
• What are the key texts and holy writings of the faith?
• How does the faith view the concept of the afterlife?
• What role does religion play in daily life and society?
• Are there any significant historical events or figures associated with the religion?
ASSIGNMENTS
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
- Forum Discussion #4
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #4
Patheos.com is a leading website that allows people to explore and engage with different religious and spiritual beliefs from around the world. With a focus on providing credible and balanced information about religion, Patheos.com has become a go-to destination for millions of people seeking to learn more about spirituality. In addition to its main website, Patheos.com now also has a YouTube channel that offers a growing selection of videos covering a range of topics related to religion and spirituality, including information, discussion starters, and inspiration. Watch this video and answer the following question:
Patheos.com is a leading website that allows people to explore and engage with different religious and spiritual beliefs from around the world. With a focus on providing credible and balanced information about religion, Patheos.com has become a go-to destination for millions of people seeking to learn more about spirituality. In addition to its main website, Patheos.com now also has a YouTube channel that offers a growing selection of videos covering a range of topics related to religion and spirituality, including information, discussion starters, and inspiration. Watch this video and answer the following question:
During the ancient history of world religions, one significant event was the rise of monotheism in the Near East. This shift, which occurred in the first millennium BCE, saw the emergence of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which all worship a single deity. In your opinion, what were some of the key factors that contributed to the rise of monotheism in this region, and how did this development impact the religious landscape of the ancient world?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
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