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Bible Literacy at School, 2008.
This paper discusses the importance of Bible literacy and looks at the advantages of Bible courses in public schools.
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
In this essay the writer employs logic to assert that Bible literacy should be integrated into public schools for the purposes of ethical and moral instruction. The writer maintains that such courses would expose young people to the Judeo-Christian tradition upon which the nation of America was founded. Finally, the writer maintains that Bible literacy allows for some meaningful discussion about religion and its applicability to different life experiences within a safe and predictable structure. In the final analysis, the writer notes that Bible study classes can open up new vistas of understanding and offer children the sort of moral instruction they might not receive elsewhere.
From the Paper
"To begin with, moral instruction for America's young people is vitally important; without it, the future becomes a bleak landscape, indeed, and the country's vitality and march forward into progress on a host of social and political issues are both compromised. An ancient article first appearing near the turn of the last century pointed out that the Bible can capably serve as a foundation for moral guidance and instruction - albeit the understandable desire not to give offense to non-Christians, or even Christians who adhere to specific branches of one of the world's great religions has always made the introduction of the "Good Book" into a classroom an extremely controversial matter. Still, with so many of today's children coming from homes wherein one or even both parents are often temporally or emotionally unavailable, having a strict delineation of moral imperatives articulated to them in the relative calm and safety of the "typical" classroom is quite important. Furthermore, it should be added that basic elements such as selflessness, looking after others, living one's life in accordance with high moral virtues, and assiduously avoiding things like sloth, avarice, or lasciviousness are precepts which can be readily adopted by most anyone - regardless of whether one is Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist or affiliated with some other religion."
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Buddhism and Confucianism, 2008.
This paper describes and compares two world religions, Buddhism and Confucianism.
2,265 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Buddhism and Confucianism are quite different. The author points out that Buddhism believes in reincarnation while Confucianism does not. The paper relates that Buddhism is absorbed with metaphysical things to an extent that Confucianism is not. The author states that, while it does seem engrossed in metaphysical matters, Buddhism is more prescriptive than Confucianism in the sense that it lays down very specific moral precepts as opposed to Confucianism's broad doctrinal principles. The paper further asserts that, while there are some general similarities, there certainly appear to be many more dissimilarities - and there is no question that Buddhism is inward-looking and fixated upon impractical matters in a way that Confucianism is not.
From the Paper
"Ashby's online article also introduces a number of other interesting details that hint at how the intellectual, philosophical and moral training of a Confucian will differ from the training granted a Buddhist. Chiefly, Confucians throughout time have been motivated by social and/or political concerns, and have immersed themselves in the difficult task of governance. Implicit in all of this, of course, is that young people raised as Confucians have been trained in the cognitive skills needed to assume leadership positions in public life."
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Women and Ordination into the Priesthood, 2008.
An analysis of the arguments for and against the ordination of women as clergy in the church.
1,391 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the debate over the ordination of women, especially into the Catholic priesthood. It looks at the women's movement and how it relates to the church and how the church interprets the Bible. The paper provides examples of the arguments used both for and against female ordination and female clergy within the church.
From the Paper
"Much of the defense of an exclusively male priesthood goes back to the example of Christ. Here again, one must consider how Christ is to be viewed. If Jesus Christ was merely a good teacher, conveying sound ethical doctrine which warrants consideration and emulation, then there is a reasonable argument that some of his decisions would merely be reflections of the cultural norms then popular in the Holy Land some 2,000 years ago. However, even this argument falters because Jesus did not adhere to the cultural norms of his time. At that time, virtually all religions had priestesses, so that this, rather than an exclusively male priesthood would have been completely normal. Further, Christ certainly had around him many women eager to serve him, by every measure excellent candidates for such positions, including his own mother, Mary, to Mary Magdalene, or the women of Bethany, to name only a few. (Bogle)"
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Quranic Ideas of Women and Benighted Men, 2008.
This paper discusses the Qur'anic ideas of the relationship between women and men as opposed to the fundamentalist Muslim restraint of women.
1,070 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the tendency to view Islam as intrinsically constraining women owes a great deal to fundamentalist movements that rest on interpretations of the Qur'an that do not hold up to scrutiny. The author points out that these fundamentalist overlook the Islamic project of building the Ummah, which the Prophet meant for women and their status vis-a-vis men. The paper relates that the Qur'an states what men must do to support and protect women and to give them liberty. The author stresses that effort must be devoted to encouraging re-education of Muslim males to understand that their attitudes and practices expecting female subservience and confinement to the domestic sphere are not signs of Muslim adherence and respectability. The paper states that the same poles of mysticism versus fundamentalism in the treatment of women may be said for fundamentalist Christianity in Western countries.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Islam, Women and Environment
The Qur'an
Strengthening Men's Obligations
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper
"Again and again, one sees efforts to clarify what the Qur'an does say concerning the sexes and women's status. Fundamentalist Muslim males do violate what was intended. For instance, Allah is said to hold women in the same position of men, rules working both for and against them, according to conduct. (2:228) Women are not to be passed from one household to another against their will, are not to be treated harshly and deserve kindness and equity. (4:19) Both men and women are to display their obedience to Allah, the righteous woman one who makes this adherence plain, as does the righteous man. (4:34) The Qur'an stresses how Allah created men and women to live in a complementary peace and tranquility. (30:21)"
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The Reforms of Abdullah Cevdet and Malkum Khan, 2008.
Examines the approaches of two reformers, Abdullah Cevdet in the Ottoman Empire and Malkum Khan in the Persian Empire, to the problem of modernization and the need to retain the integrity of the Islamic religion.
1,760 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the similarity in the conditions that prevailed in both the Ottoman and Persian empires at the end of the nineteenth century and the challenges posed to those empires by their involvement with and exposure to European commerce, science and ideas. The author argues that both Cevdet and Khan took similar rhetorical approaches in arriving at a conceptualization of reform that was both modern and democratic yet rooted in the Islamic tradition. The paper stresses that Cevdet and Khan were situated within intellectual and religious trajectories of the time, which were seeking alternatives to the prevailing interpretations of Islam through Baha'ism and Pan-Islamism.
From the Paper
"Having spent a lot of time in Switzerland, Cevdet was acquainted with European ideas of the time, such as French and German scientific materialism, social Darwinism and positivism. He saw the decline of the Ottoman Empire as the product of it not being European, and felt that it was the responsibility of the intellectuals to change this condition. For Cevdet, the Islamic religion in its traditional incarnation, was an obstacle to the changes required to contemporize Ottoman society and politics and he therefore felt that it was necessary to modify the Islamic religion."
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The Origins and Development of Judaism, 2008.
Argues that Karen Armstrong's "mythos vs. logos" thesis, as presented in her books "The Battle for God" and "A Short History of Myth", provides the best explanation for the origins and development of Judaism.
1,525 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Karen Armstrong's "mythos vs. logos" thesis demonstrates convincingly why the ancient Israelites rejected prevailing pagan beliefs and came to believe in Yahweh as the only God and as the creator of the world. The author points out that Jewish religious doctrine emerged and evolved in response to this initial acceptance of monotheism, which in early Hebrew doctrine identified the special role of the Jews as God's chosen people and which relied significantly upon mythos. The paper relates that myths of ancient cultures were absorbed into religions, such as Judaism, Islam and Christianity, thus providing a means for human beings to understand the unseen forces in the world around them. The author relates that Armstrong emphasizes that, despite the great importance of mythos, logos came to be almost equally influential in the development of Judaism.
From the Paper
"Despite the influence of logos, mythos was the primary influence on the origins of Judaism. Armstrong clarifies, however, that mythic accounts in the Hebrew bible should not be misunderstood as an attempt to write history, for myths have never been intended to be objective truth, nor have they been accepted as such. Unfortunately, the purpose of myth has been widely misunderstood in our modern era, for the conflict between logos and mythos has generated misguided perceptions that mythos requires proof of the existence of Yahweh or Allah or Jesus Christ."
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Role of Women in the Church, 2008.
This paper discusses whether female egalitarianism in the Church is undermining the leadership of the Church by contradicting the scriptures of the Bible.
2,968 words (approx. 11.9 pages), 21 sources, MLA, $ 87.95
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Abstract
In this study, the writer presents a critical review of the arguments surrounding the egalitarian position of women in church. Ideally the idea is to get an understanding of whether the necessary hypothesis is grounded in the scriptures of the Bible. More importantly, the writer maintains that there has to be a critical review of whether the egalitarian approach is simply an adaptation of changes in society as it relates to gender roles. The writer questions if the Church is imitating how society treats women. If this is the case, the writer argues that it should be that society imitates the church's value and leadership structure. The writer discusses what the Bible has to say about the issue.
Outline:
Introduction
Literature Review
Working Outline: Structure & Dissertation Categories
From the Paper
"The egalitarian position as presented by Datu is that, since the Bible teaches that all people are created and should be equal, then the Church has a duty to advocate gender equality and equity in churches, and more so in church leadership . Many theorists ground the general egalitarian movement in the foundations and teachings of Jesus Christ, and other New Testament principles. Datu highlights the fact that female egalitarianism is a necessary prerequisite for the success of the church, since the role of women cannot be undermined. Datu also shows that the current opposition of the movement is due to societal pressure and that the historical process shows that female egalitarianism and female leadership in the church was not uncommon in past periods, however cultural prejudices and defined gender roles in society, have created an atmosphere that not affects female leadership in the church."
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Muhammad, Medina and the Jews, 2008.
This paper discusses the treatment of Jews in the establishment of a state in Medina.
3,900 words (approx. 15.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 106.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer notes that in the 6th century, Muhammad moved to Medina in order to get away from the Meccans, who were tormenting him. This was a turning point in Muhammad's life, and gave rise to the first Islamic communities. The writer then discusses that in Medina, there were several Jewish communities and there is much disagreement and controversy concerning the relationship between Muhammad and the Jews. The writer looks at the issues of who were the umma referred to in the Constitution of Medina and the definition of the umma. The writer also discusses whether Muhammad's raids on the Medinan Jews were contrary to the spirit of Islam. As is shown in the paper, different scholars have offered differing interpretations, such that it is difficult to be clear on these issues.
From the Paper
"On the other hand, al-Waqidi does not describe this relationship of integration and proselytizing. Yet Ibn Ishaq argues that some good experiences had convinced Muhammad that the Jews could in fact be included in an umma with the Muslims. Unfortunately, this was not to be. Even if there was as much integration and cooperation as Ibn Ishaq believes, it was very short-lived. Religious conflicts caused the Jews to turn away from Muhammad, while Faizer notes that Muhammad's symbolic turning of his qibla from Jerusalem to Mecca indicates that the feelings of antipathy were mutual."
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Religion and the Media in Nigeria, 2008.
An analysis of the reasons for and effects of the intersection between religion and the media in Nigeria.
1,183 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the intersection of religion and the media in Nigeria. It shows how the effect of the fundamentalism and conservatism in religion can be felt in nearly all forms of the media in Nigeria, but primarily in television and newspapers, which account for the majority of the media productions in the nation. The paper discusses the reasons for and effects of this intersection between religion and the media.
From the Paper
"In short, the Nigerian media faces significant pressure and limitations on independence from religious and political groups, including fundamentalist Muslims. Islamic influences, particularly in the broadcast media and the print media, have resulted in religiously inspired television programming, sensationalized newspaper articles, and fatwas calling for the death of "offensive" journalists. In any sufficiently modern nation, the freedom of the press from just this kind of influence and control should be sacrosanct. It is a basic freedom that permits religious and political intolerance from erupting into major conflicts and violence. Unfortunately, in Nigeria the independence of the media is severely limited and the influence of religious groups, including fundamentalist Muslims, has affected the kind of media that is produced and the public's reaction to it."
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Including Children in Celebrating the Eucharist, 2008.
An analysis of the history of the Eucharist and a discussion over the advantages and disadvantages of including children in its celebration.
1,465 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the Eucharist, the rite that Christians perform as part of their liturgy marking the liturgical re-enactment of Christ's actions at the Last Supper. The paper explores the origins and history of this rite and discusses the benefits and negative aspects of including children in the celebration. The paper then argues that it is very important that children participate in its celebration.
From the Paper
"These questions are revealing of both the curiosity of the children, and the lack of adequate preparation that they were given regarding the rite that they would perform later that day. It is likely that the majority of children experiencing First Communion possess similar questions which, unlike these children's questions, probably go unanswered. It may be argued that full participation in the Eucharist should be accompanied by better teaching of children as to the significance of the Eucharist. This should be expressed not simply in theological terms but, as one of Benedict's questioners asked, in terms of their "everyday life" as well. A fuller understanding of the Eucharist will allows this children to participate on a deeper level in the Eucharist, and thereby mature into fuller lives as Christian adults."
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Renaissance Christianity, Natural Disasters and Witchcraft, 2008.
A look at how Christians throughout Europe responded to natural disasters and the ways in which they contributed to certain widespread notions of eschatology.
1,965 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that Christians, during the late medieval period and the proto-modern period before the advent of the Enlightenment, responded to disasters by seeking out scapegoats and attributing them to something they had done to incur the wrath of God. The paper points out that the determination to find scapegoats for pestilence or crop failure invariably led to the witch hunts that extended over a period encompassing roughly seven centuries, from about the thirteenth century until well into the nineteenth century. To better understand this phenomenon, the paper examines the eschatological assumptions of the age. The paper concludes that Christian eschatology had the effect, for many centuries, of convincing large numbers of Europeans that the return of the Almighty was near and that righteous Christians would fortify their souls by rooting out those who were heretical, unfaithful, and responsible for unnatural natural disasters.
From the Paper
"Between the thirteenth and nineteenth centuries, it is estimated that one million people in Europe were executed for witchcraft. Additionally, those witchcraft trials which have survived the passage of time appear to have frequently been conducted by ecclesiastical (Christian) courts. In the earliest trials, the institution of the Church took the lead role; by the end of the aforementioned period, it appears as though the Church was rarely, if ever, involved. In any case, whatever the amount of blame one wishes to affix to the European Christian Church, it would be inaccurate to suggest that only religious factors - however important - determined the actions of Europeans when confronted with a meteorological crisis they could not understand."
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Taixu and Modern Chinese Zen Buddhism, 2008.
An analysis of the efforts of Buddhist activist monk, Taixu, to improve Buddhism and life in China.
1,622 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the life and influence of the Buddhist activist monk, Taixu. It describes how he was profoundly affected by China's experience of World War I and the suffering of ordinary Chinese and what he did to improve the situation. In particular, the paper discusses how Taixu improved Buddhism, in order to improve the life of ordinary people in China.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Improving Buddhism, Improving China
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper
"What was observed as a New Buddhist Movement in China after the Communist Revolution of 1949 was still remarked upon by observers and associated with Taixu after his death. (See Callahan 1952) Taixu had hoped for a Buddhism that was national, transnational, public and populist, as needed well educated and otherwise prepared monks and outlets suiting lay people who wanted to create an improved society. Taixu could not imagine what lay in store for the Chinese in the decades after his death. In 1950, his disciplines saw his writings published, and then all things of the kind were steadily discouraged. In 1989, there was renewed interest in Taixu and his followers, in a rather glorified rendition of Taixu, despite his failure to ever gain leadership of the Chinese Buddhist Association. The regime backed several volumes of his works that were reprinted in various languages, as though the People's Republic of China had never opposed its spiritual authorities, the competing network in the Buddhist establishment."
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Catholic Church Music and Gregorian Chant, 2008.
A look at the development of the Gregorian chant and the important role it plays in church music.
1,390 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a historical background to the Gregorian chant, an important musical style that came to represent all holy occasions by putting poetry to music, and charts its development through the years. The paper then discusses and describes four hymns that are still used today: Stabat Mater Dolorosa or "Our Lady of Sorrows", Pange Lingua Gloriosi or "Sing, My Tongue, the Saviour's Glory", Victimae Paschali Laudes or "May you praise the Paschal Victim", and Veni Creator Spiritus or "Come Holy Spirit, Creator Blest".
From the Paper
"By the Sixth Century, when Gregory was a Monk, there were already many, many chants in use. He gathered and collected these. In those days monks often wrote their own hymns or adapted earlier versions they had heard in other monasteries. The result is that there was already many different kinds chant. For example in the 4th Century Mozarabic chant developed in Spain. We get Ambrosian chant for St. Ambrose in Milan and Gallican chant from "Gallic" France. There are even chants from Ethiopia in Africa. Over time many different styles of chants developed and found their way into daily mass and special services for festivals or holidays. (Hope, 2007) Sometimes this style was also used for non-church music as well. (Music-for-Church-Choirs.com)
"Gregorian chant is also known as "plainchant" from the French "plein chant" which means "full singing." (Music-for-Church-Choirs.com) By the time of Gregory different chants had been connected with or written for most all special events. We don't know the names of most of the early chant composers, but we do know that many intended for specific Sundays or feast days were composed between the 5th and 8th Centuries. (Ex. Introit, Gradual, Alleluia, Offertorio and Communio). Many of those commonly heard in mass today like the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo or Sanctus were composed later, between the 9th and 12th Centuries. (Hope, 2007)"
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The Holy Spirit, 2008.
This paper discusses the Holy Spirit in the role of guidance.
1,214 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer looks at the topic of the Holy Spirit and notes that the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the lives of Christians. The writer notes that the Holy Spirit guides, teaches, and protects. The writer also points out that for a chaplain, the role of the Holy Spirit is two-fold because a chaplain not only is in charge of the worship service, but the chaplain also counsels individuals and families. The writer maintains that the Holy Spirit helps the chaplain in these roles as a spiritual leader.
Outline:
Abstract
The Holy Spirit in the Life of the Believer
The Holy Spirit
The Role of the Holy Spirit in the Christian Life
Holy Spirit Convicts
Holy Spirit in Every Day Life
The Holy Spirit Protects
Holy Spirit as a Comforter
The Holy Spirit Teaches
The Holy Spirit in the Life of a Chaplain
From the Paper
"In order for the chaplain to be used by God, the chaplain must rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance.
"Chaplains must have a good relationship with God and the Holy Spirit. A chaplain must allow the Holy Spirit to guide, teach, comfort, and protect in his or her own life. Having a good relationship with God enables the chaplain to help others. Sometimes the words the chaplain says to others will make the difference in life and death. Military people rely on the chaplain to guide them and to help them understand the promises of God."
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| Term Paper # 103673 |
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