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St. Thomas Aquinas & St Augustine, 2006.
A discussion regarding St. Thomas Aquinas versus St Augustine on the responsibilities of the state and the responsibilities of the ruler.
1,914 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the Hebrew Scriptures were produced from the traditions of the ancient Israeli people, and that these scriptures fused moral, along with political injunctions as to how the state should create a just as well as a holy society, and defined the responsibilities of the leaders in relation to the people, as well as defined the citizen's relationship to the state. The paper goes on to say that Christianity, which is derived from Judaism, was spawned during a different political and historical point in Israeli history. The paper reviews how both the theologians St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, when examining the responsibilities of the state, the ruler and the ruled in the Christian world, would also offer two different portraits of this judicial relationship, in attempting to reconcile scriptural prescriptions about correct behavior.
From the Paper
"However, in the Gospel According to St. Matthew, Jesus says: "Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's" (Matthew 22:21) In other words, the purpose of religion is not to concern itself with the worldly affairs of the here and now, but the world to come. Jesus frequently implies that there is a dichotomy between the morals and values of the ruling state and the true values of a very different world above. The second beatitude of the "Sermon on the Mount" is one of Jesus' most famous: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." (Matthew 5:4) The meek that do not rule on earth will rule later on, and the rules that govern the world will be forever altered after the Day of Judgment. St. Paul reinforces this flesh and spirit divide in his Epistle to the Galatians: "For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." (Galatians 5:14) In other words, the true law of the land is spiritual, not the formally codified laws pertaining to ruling a state found in the Hebrew Bible. This is why Paul preaches against Christians observing the rules that Jews were bound by, such as circumcision. Christ had supplanted such old, physical laws. The laws of the world were of less concern than the inner laws of one's spiritual life."
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Experiencing the Hispanic Culture, 2007.
A personal description of a cultural immersion experience with the Hispanic culture.
2,088 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
The writer describes how he/she spent time over a several week period with two Hispanic families and attended several of the functions that are associated with the Hispanic culture; a family event, a church event and a cultural event. The writer reveals that while Americans pride themselves on privacy and personal space, the Hispanic population is connected by the togetherness and crowded conditions that they purposely set up. The writer concludes that the Hispanic culture is about love, celebration and enjoyment of life and asserts that many of us could learn from this.
Outline:
Introduction
The Experience
The Festival
Church
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Anyone who watches the news is aware that the Hispanic population in America has grown to be the largest minority in the country. Every store has signs written in Spanish and English, every food item has instructions in both languages and there are several Hispanic radio and television broadcasts on at all times. There is no denying that the blending of the two cultures is inevitable and it is an exciting prospect."
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Montgomery County, 2007.
This paper discusses the religion and economy of Montgomery County.
1,865 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that Montgomery County was formed in 1779 from Anson County and was named in honor of Richard Montgomery who, in 1775, lost his life at the battle of Quebec in the attempt to conquer Canada. The paper discusses the various prevalent religions in Montgomery County. The paper also looks at the economy and its future prospects.
From the Paper
"Religion is more than theology or issues of faith and belief. It is as well an important aspect of the cultural life of a community. For example, in many cases people belong to the particular denomination that they grew up with in their families, especially so in the past. Because of the strong connection between religion and the community life, religious participation is often strongly associated here with the population group that first brought it here . Examples can include the Lutheran faith, in the case of the population originating from Germany and the Presbyterian faith in the case of Scots and Scots-Irish settlers. This assertion is also sustained by the recent growth of Catholic congregations, due to recent immigration waves of individuals of Hispanic origin."
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Wilson versus Richard, 2006.
A review of Edmund O. Wilson's book 'Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge' and Mathieu Ricard's 'The Monk and the Philosopher'.
1,373 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and compares the work of Edmund Wilson and Mathieu Ricard. The paper takes a look at Wilson's book, 'Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge' and Mathieu Ricard's 'The Monk and the Philosopher'. According to the paper, Wilson believes that science must win out over more romantic understandings of the purpose of human existence. The paper then goes on to discuss how Ricard suggests the possibility of detachment of the mind from the body through the type of philosophical or religious practice that Wilson regards as futile, or at very least, less interesting and useful than science.
From the Paper
"In contrast, to Wilson, Mathieu Ricard offer the more idealistic but perhaps comforting notion that the physical matter of the brain and mind are not synonymous. Ricard suggests the possibility of detachment of the mind from the body through the type of philosophical or religious practice that Wilson regards as futile, or at very least, less interesting and useful than science. Through meditation and achieving a higher sense of consciousness, the mind can control the physical aspects of the human body, suggests Ricard. Ricard believes that there is more to the brain than neurotransmitters and synapses. The human species cannot be subsumed into the sum total of its DNA. "
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The "Spark' of the Sufi, 2006.
A mystical experience debate regarding the Sufi.
1,059 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the 'spark' of Sufism, defined by the Qur'an as that which God placed into man or breathed into man. According to the paper, Sufism is the part of man that desires to return and unite with the Universal Spirit. The paper reports that the origin of the name Sufi is the Arabic word "suf" which means wool, or the Persian word "saf", which means pure.
Outline:
Introduction
Mystical Experience Defined
The Debate Surrounding the Sufi Experience
Neurotheology - Biotheology
The Two Views Debated
Science Provides the Proof
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The work of Syed includes studies that have located the regions of the brain that are stimulated during certain experience. For instance, the middle temporal lobe has been proven to the "linked to emotional aspects of religious experience, such as joy and awe." (Syed, 2006) The lower temporal lobe is stimulated during the "viewing of sacred images such as candles or crosses..." (Ibid) The "juncture of three lobes" or the Broca's region is stimulated when the individual is stimulated through a "response to language". Finally, when the individual enters a state of deep spirituality or mystical experience the region of the brain that finally "quiets down" and signifies that the person has entered the place where they may "feel at one with the universe" is the region of the brain which is called the "parietal lobes". (Syed, 2006)"
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Joshua 24, 2006.
An in-depth look at Joshua, Chapter 24.
2,917 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses Joshua, Chapter 24. According to the paper, Joshua 24 is first of all seen by its commentators as one of the covenant rituals between the God of Israel and its people, which may be included in the series of the covenants made initially by Abraham and then by Moses. The paper reports that the reconstruction of the event in Joshua 24 varies from a perspective that sees it as a historical event signaling important transformations for Israel and a perspective in which it is only a textual expansion of the Deuteronomic texts.
From the Paper
"The origins of the Joshua 24 chapter are therefore much disputed, both as to what regarded the historical context and to the possible interpretations. The conclusions are that the actual tribes involved could have been either the entire amphictyony of Israel, as Delbert Hillers suggests, or the tribes belonging to North Israel in the province of Samaria or a Judaeic province, as Perlitt supposed or, finally as Van Seters puts forth - merely a textual addition to the Deuteronomy work, and addressed rather to the "individual households" of Israel than to the nation as such or to certain tribes. "
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A Tendency toward God, 2007.
A discussion on Man's tendency to lean towards God or some other presence in this world.
1,041 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the natural tendency of human beings to lean towards God or some other force or presence in the world. The paper describes the infinite nature of God. It discusses this concept as it relates to the concepts expressed in quantum physics and then discusses it from the point of view of Christianity and spirituality.
From the Paper
"If God is Mind and infinite, there can be only one Mind. Human beings are turning to it all the time for good ideas. It is logical that human beings would sense and want to know intimately the source of their existence. Religions and rituals have sprung from this natural desire. I believe that all human beings wonder at one time or another about the nature of existence. Some have more confidence that they can eventually understand it than others do, and that accounts for those who seem disinterested. They may have given up, or they think and wonder about God rarely. Or they have come upon an explanation for existence that satisfies them, at least, superficially, but doesn't include a concept of Creator. Even so, these same disinterested people are sometimes "converted" as a result of experiencing God's presence, and they end up turning to a whole new way of life."
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Life and Times of Jesus, 2007.
An analysis of the impact of Jesus on the geographical, political, religious and social environment of his time.
1,256 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the life and times of Jesus, as it maintains that an understanding of Jesus' historical context is extremely helpful, perhaps even essential, to a true understanding of Christianity. It looks at the geographical, political, religious and social environment of Jesus' time period and discusses how these factors contributed to the impact that he had in his time.
From the Paper
"Because the concept of sacrifice was extremely important during Jesus' time, it follows that the concept of forgiveness was equally important. People could ask for forgiveness, and they did not have to engage in personal suffering or sacrifice in order to receive such forgiveness. Furthermore, because God had the obligation to forgive the repentant, so did fellow Jews in the community. This is an aspect that has been incorporated into modern-day Christianity. In fact, forgiveness is not optional in the Christian church, but is taught as a duty for true Christians. For example, according to John Owen, who outlined the basic tenets for Protestant churches, forgiveness was to be given even to those who were cast out of the church. In fact, such persons had a right "to be forgiven both by those who in an especial manner were offended by him, and by the whole church." (Owen, 66). Moreover, Christians have a duty to make forgiveness an active thing, by applying the promises of the Gospel to the sinner and re-admitting him into the church. (Owen, 66)."
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St. Augustine of Hippo, 2006.
This paper discusses St. Augustine of Hippo (354 to 430 A.D.) and his conversion to Christianity.
815 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in 386 A.D., St. Augustine of Hippo experienced a penultimate life-changing event which resulted in his conversion to Christianity and ended his hedonistic lifestyle. The author points out that this conversion to the faith and tenets of Christianity led St. Augustine to attack a number of humanistic and secular organizations, which were very influential in Europe during the latter years of the Roman Empire. The paper concludes that the conversion of St. Augustine literally opened the proverbial door to much human experience and thought in matters of religion and theology and paved the way for many influential religious and philosophical thinkers that followed him.
From the Paper
"In Book 11, Chapter 26 of his Confessions, St. Augustine discusses the concept of time which during the early years of Christianity was viewed as an extension of God Himself. He writes that, "It would appear to me that time is simply an extension, though what it is an extension of I have no idea. I begin to wonder if it is perhaps an extension of the mind itself." It should be noted that without his conversion to Christianity, St. Augustine would never have been capable of such deep thought, for what he is attempting to say is that the power of God extends into infinity with time being a mere extension of His power."
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"The Scarlet Letter"--An Analysis, 2007.
This paper analyses Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel "The Scarlett Letter" in the context of Puritan society.
921 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
In this analysis of Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel "The Scarlett Letter," the concept of sin and puritanical society is examined. The reviewer focuses on the protagonist, Hester Prynne, and her development and eventual transcendence of her punishment for adultery. The paper also examines the role of Hester's daughter, Pearl, linking her symbolically with the concept of original sin. The paper concludes by contrasting Hester's strength with Reverend Dimmesdale's downfall.
From the Paper
"Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel The Scarlet Letter addresses the issue of sin, responsibility, and even salvation in the Puritan society of North America. Sentenced to wear her sin of adultery in the form of the letter 'A' on the outside of her dress, Hester Prynne is forced to live with the ignominy of having borne a child out of wedlock. Hawthorne initially uses the scarlet letter as a symbol of Hester's sin, but the meaning of the letter evolves throughout the novel as Hester is eventually empowered and her secret lover is enfeebled by the sin they had both committed. The evolution of the letter shows the power of accepting punishment and persevering over the enervating capacity of trying to hide and escape sin."
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Medieval Literature and Christian Themes, 2007.
An analysis of the influence that Christianity had on Medieval European literature.
919 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the influence of Christianity on Western (particularly European) literature in the medieval period of world history. It addresses and puts into perspective some of those influences. The paper gives some examples which are found in several published books and journals to illustrate the influence that Christianity had at the time.
From the Paper
"Although the great literary "masterpieces" of Medieval Germany "often lack specific Christian references," the Notre Dame Introduction to Anthropology continues, "the impact of religious values is always present." In the book, The City of God, Christian concepts of "virtue and vice and interlaced with ingredients of a knight's courtly behavior. The Notre Dame narrative admits that there is "controversy among scholars" today as to whether some works which are not "obviously moral or didactic in tone" are expressing "normal medieval" ways of approaching subjects. Still, that having been said, it would be "equally questionable," the narrative asserts, to imagine that any literature, "however secular in conception," could have been written without being permeated by "the prevailing intellectual climate, which was thoroughly Christian.""
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Religion and Magic, 2007.
An analysis of the different types of religion and magic and how one culture may change to accept another.
1,282 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the contrast that exists between the worlds of religion and magic. It begins by defining several types of religions and then discusses two types of magic that exist. The paper then discusses cultural change, as it can apply to an individual, a group or an organization. The paper concludes that revolution still occurs today and will continue happening in the future because people have different beliefs and practices.
From the Paper
""Acculturation is a process in which members of one cultural group adopt the beliefs and behaviors of another group" (Rice University, 2006). There are cultural groups that have the power to convince other people and this is the reason why minorities are easy to encourage. Although, cultural groups can convince others, they can also assimilate some of the cultural beliefs of the minorities. According to the Website of Rice University, "assimilation of one cultural group into another may be evidenced by changes in language preference, adoption of common attitudes and values, member's hip in common social groups and institutions, and loss of separate political or ethnic identification (2006)." This is also a process where two cultures are combined together to harmoniously unify."
"One example of acculturation is when the Spaniards introduced to the Mayans the Christianity as religion. The Mayans are believers of gods that can help them in farming. When the Spaniards came, the Mayans were able to gradually adopt the Christian beliefs although they continue to believe on their traditional faith. O'Neil stated that "as a result, their indigenous religious belief system was essentially only added to and modified; the overt religious practices seemed to be Christian to the Spanish authorities but they retained dual meanings for the Maya (2006).""
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Jemaah Islamiyah, 2006.
A review of the terrorist organization, Jemaah Islamiyah.
3,029 words (approx. 12.1 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper traces the roots and dynamics of Jemaah Islamiyah as an Islamic militant group and terrorist organization. This paper discusses the extant literature looking into the roots and dynamics of JI as a politico-religious organization.
Outline:
Introduction
II. Research Objectives
III. Roots of Jemaah Islamiyah as a Politico-Religious Organization
IV. Dynamics of Jemaah Islamiyah as a Politico-Religious
Organization: Links with Al Qaeda
V. Summary & Conclusion
From the Paper
"Chehab (2006) resounded the Singh's report on the dominant prejudice against militant groups like the JI, mainly because: (1) they use violence and/or force in accomplishing its holy war, and (2) they are allegedly collaborating and affiliating with Al-Qaeda in committing these terrorist/violent acts. If, more than anything, the offensive attack against Al-Qaeda further intensified the animosity between Muslims and Americans, proving that despite the prejudiced, dominant view against Muslims as terrorists, Chehab concedes that despite the crippling of Al-Qaeda as a terrorist group, "other groups have succeeded in making the arduous journey" (3). Whether these terrorist actions are motivated individually or collectively, the continuous commitment of terrorist attacks and "holy war" violent acts demonstrate that, as Wright-Neville posited earlier, the continuous dominance of the status quo, that is, US power and democracy as the dominant social order, results to the continued struggle of the Muslims to break this status quo."
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"The Pensees", 2007.
An analysis of "The Pensees", by Blaise Pascal.
1,285 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how Blaise Pascal characterizes the existence of God as man's search for truth and knowledge about His real being. The paper explores how, by means of defending the Christian belief against those who persecutes and criticize, he later re-affirms this argument by offering several proofs that god really exists. The paper concludes that, even with the non-completion of "The Pensee"s due to Pascal's death, it has served its primary motive and has brought forth all the messages and lessons that Blaise Pascal wanted to convey in his notes.
From the Paper
"In Pascal's arguments about religion, the existence of God and Christianity directly complement the core idea of the Pensees. That is to stand in defense of the Christian Faith. His line of reasoning on religion utters in evidences and proofs that God exists. The God in the Penesees refers to the God of the Christians and other religion which believes that there is a Divine Being that created the world. Pascal describes religion as part of man's duty to seek his God."
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Dogma and Doctrine, 2007.
An analysis of the close relationship between dogma and doctrine within the Catholic faith.
1,336 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the true cohesion that exists between dogma and doctrine within the Catholic faith. The paper defines the terms dogma and doctrine and then relates them to Catholicism and how they are expressed within Catholic faith, individually. It then goes on to show how the two concepts are closely related and used together in Catholicism.
From the Paper
"In theory, the Roman doctrine of salvation by faith and works support the understanding of true doctrine. Yet, all subscribed in word, as well as in deed, to the overriding elicitations of a divine love that directed human response to the divine self before it taught the soul volitional self-awareness. Any fair-minded individual of such representative medieval thinkers as these must be impressed by their working acquaintance with the spirit of un-prudentialized agape. Furthermore, one must be conscious, likewise, of categorical explications native to a doctrine of saving works illogically fostered by at least some descendants of the sixteenth-century agape revival. One may remark a sobering fact, not altogether without its humble efficacy, at work in the most diversified Christian soteriologies. The evangelical movements within the Reformed tradition have often acted based on eschatological premises thoroughly redolent of medieval Christian societalism. (Petry, 1956, p. 379)"
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