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Civic Athenian Festivals, 2007.
An analysis of the practices of some of the main Athenian civic festivals.
2,412 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the ways that the Athenians practiced a polytheistic religion which expressed itself through civic festivals and cults. The paper attempts to create an overview of the most important Athenian civic festivals. It describes the way in which each festival provided a basis in Athenian worship, gave Athenian's a sense and a meaning in life and provided them with a sense of identity as human beings.
Table of Contents:
The Panathenaia
The Anthesteria
The Dionysia
The City Dionysia
From the Paper
"The Dipolieia was a very strange Athenian festival that took place two days after another important festival, the Skira (Parke 162). It comprised of a ceremony called the Butaphonia in the honor of Zeus (Parke 162). They celebrated a special aspect of Zeus by this festival, i.e. Zeus as the God of the city and the festivities took place at his altar from the Acropolis (Parke 162). The ceremony implied the sacrifice of an ox and a mock of its restoration to life. The ritual had become antiquated and so did the festival (Parke 166).
In conclusion, the calendar of the ancient Greeks was full with both the specific Athenian festivals and the ones referring to the entire Attica. However, they did not serve only the scope of entertainment, but they supported the development of the sciences and the art while encouraging people to travel and try new things."
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The Black Church, 2007.
This paper discusses the emerging independence of the black church.
2,407 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that throughout American history, the black church has played an important role in the African-American community. The writer provides a summary description of the contemporary issues impacting the sociology of religion. Further,the writer offers brief explanations from a sociological perspective of the arguments presented from both sides of the issue. The writer also looks at the sociological history of the issue and the impact this matter has had upon both society and religion. In addition, the writer presents a personal evaluation of the issue, including possible solutions. A summary of the research and salient findings are provided in the conclusion.
Outline:
Introduction
Review and Analysis.
Background and Overview
Summary Description of the Contemporary Issues Impacting the Sociology of Religion
Sociological Perspectives, History and Impact
Conclusions, Personal Evaluation of the Issues and Possible Solutions
From the Paper
"Because of the centrality of the position in black communities, the black church has assumed an important part in administering to the worldly needs of their congregations and neighborhoods, a feature that has also contributed to their emerging independence. For instance, a study of black churches was conducted by Billingsley and his colleagues to identify the role of the black church in youth development programs. Of the 176 churches reporting youth programs, the greatest interest was shown for teen support programs which are provided by 39 percent of the churches. These programs consisted of various Christian fellowships, ministry, counseling, group discussions, rap sessions, seminars, and workshops, and the second most prevalent services provided were sports activities; 31 percent of the churches provided athletic camps, teams, and/or martial arts classes. Among the least common programs were youth AIDS support programs (3 percent) and youth health-related services (2 percent). The former was comprised of classes/seminars, counseling, and financial support to persons with AIDS and the latter included health clinics, seminars, and screening for specific health problems; however, the authors emphasize that substance abuse programs (drug/alcohol counseling, seminars for drug abuse prevention, and workshops) were also offered by 15 percent of the churches."
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American Religious History, 2007.
A review of Laurence Moore's book "Touchdown Jesus. The Mixing of Sacred and Secular in American History" and the collection of texts in the book entitled "Major Problems in American Religious History: Documents and Essays," edited by Patrick Allitt.
1,499 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at both Laurence Moore's book "Touchdown Jesus. The Mixing of Sacred and Secular in American History" and the collection of texts in the book entitled "Major Problems in American Religious History: Documents and Essays," edited by Patrick Allitt. It discusses the religious problems that the multicultural mix-up in the United States creates.
From the Paper
"In yet another essay on this subject, Rick Fields makes a very interesting comparison between what he calls the immigrant Buddhists and the "white" or American Buddhists. He draws a similar conclusion as the other authors, pointing to the way in which the Western reconstruction of an Oriental religion can be very different. He argues that White Buddhism is no longer a religion, but something more like a fashionable lifestyle. He also observes the poignant problem of racism that arises here, which is also his reason for calling the new cult "white" Buddhism: in spite of the fact that the White Buddhists may adopt all the traditional Asian customs- from their name to the food they eat or to the rituals as such, they will still be part of the "mainstream of the white culture." (Allitt 1999, 459). That is to say, the racial differences, still linger no matter what, and are emphasized by the American racism, which is the dark side of American culture."
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Contraception and Christianity, 2007.
An analysis of the implications of Pope Paul VI's ruling against the use of contraception.
2,040 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Pope Paul VI's 1968 encyclical, entitled "Humanae Vitae," (or "On Human Life), which condemned the use of all artificial means of contraception as a sin and called on all Roman Catholics to reject the contraceptive mentality. It discusses the controversy surrounding his ruling and the practical implications of it for Christians.
From the Paper
" AIDS campaigners put the blame on the condoms ban as contributing to the spread of the disease (Bruce 2006). Reports said that the majority of the 40 million infected people came from developing countries in Africa and urged the Church to take appropriate action. The Catholic Church has dogmatically taught that each sexual act within marriage must always be open to procreation. The Vatican, however, stands pat on its teaching on condoms. It continues to teach that the only way to avoid AIDS is through fidelity and chastity. It neither confirmed nor denied the report on the evaluation of a possible relaxation of the condoms ban. Some predicted a change in the Church's teaching while others felt it would be a disastrous gamble to make over the one of the Vatican's major doctrines. It could compound controversies among Catholics and an erosion of faith even among the clergy in the highest levels in the Vatican (Bruce)."
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The Buddha, 2007.
An analysis of the life story of Siddhartha Gautama, otherwise know as the Buddha.
906 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the life story of Buddha. Specifically it discusses Buddha's life and how he attained the ultimate enlightenment. It looks at how Siddhartha Gautama is considered to be the Supreme Buddha (often called simply "the Buddha," or Buddha Shakyamuni) who created the Buddhist religion and how his life story is an interesting blend of wealth and privilege combined with great compassion and religious awareness. It discusses how he threw away all the rich trappings of his life to attain enlightenment and serve others and how his life shows the power of belief and spiritualism.
From the Paper
"Buddha was born a prince to parents who were king and queen of Lumbini, which is located today in Nepal. One biographer notes, "The Buddha was born the son of a king, and so grew up with wealth, pleasure, and the prospect of power, all goods commonly desired by human beings" (Carrithers 2). It seemed the Buddha had everything he could possibly desire, but he still was not content. Even after his parents arranged a marriage for him, he felt as if there was something missing from his life. He married and even had a son, but still he wanted to do more than rule his kingdom and raise a family. Because he saw suffering in his father's kingdom and wanted to do something about it, he decided to leave his home and seek enlightenment and understanding so he could help end the suffering of the people of the world. "
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Globalization and Domestic Extremists, 2007.
This paper looks at domestic extremists and Islamist groups and explores their connection to globalization.
1,379 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
The subject that is explored in this paper is the link in ideology, intentions and other aspects between domestic revolutionary and supremacist groups and Islamic extremists. Another related aspect that is discussed is the wider connections with transnational extremist and terrorist entities and groups. The central thesis that is posited is that one of the ways that connections between these often disparate groups has been established is through an alignment in terms of overarching ideological objectives. It is asserted that while real and active connections between the groups are difficult to establish and more problematic, connections in terms of ideological similarities are more evident. This paper therefore shows that there is a real possibility of an alignment between domestic extremists and Islamic extremists and also between these and transnational groups in terms of shared ideologies such as anti-Semitism.
From the Paper
"This has also led to the realization that terrorist groups, whether representing different nationalistic and ideological persuasions, can also be linked by shared concerns, objectives and perceptions. The increase in the ease of communications and the Internet has also accelerated the possibly of these connections. This has highlighted the threat of domestic extremists and the possible connections between extremist groupings. There has also been a more directed contemporary focus on the underlying causative facets that motivate and precipitate terrorist actions, resulting in a growing realization that these underlying causative elements in extremist groups can be more important and possibly override national and regional differences. Coupled with this is the understanding of how domestic terrorism and extremist groups have played a role in the threat to the security of the country."
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Sacramental Theology, 2007.
This paper discusses the Catholic sacrament and looks at the practice of baptism.
1,766 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that one cannot expect to understand baptism without first understanding the sacraments and beliefs of Christianity in general. The writer also notes that it is important to have an understanding of Christianity itself in order to be aware of what the Book of Psalms really means for Christians. Further, the writer points out that it is sad that the teachings of Jesus stay mostly in the church, where everybody already knows what they are, instead of making their way out onto the street where not nearly enough people know them or try to make them work. The writer concludes that it is easy to be holy in church, but far harder to be holy out on the street where all of the aggravations and temptations take away from the truth of the sacraments and the beliefs of Christianity, and cause difficulties for many people.
From the Paper
"One cannot expect to understand Baptism, however, without first understanding the sacraments and beliefs of Christianity in general. The Book of Psalms has often been said to be the "book of evidences" to discuss and strengthen the Christian faith and the reasoning behind it. It still applies to Christianity today and can easily be used by a counselor or other individual in order to help those that are struggling with their faith because of the significance of much of what the Book of Psalms has to say regarding Jesus Christ and what He did for humanity (Lawler, 1996). This has much to do with why the sacraments are used in the ways that they are. It is important to have an understanding of Christianity itself in order to be aware of what the Book of Psalms really means for Christians. Christianity has many similarities to Judaism (Burr, 1961). In fact, the term 'Christian' was first used in Syria to find a name for an emerging religious movement that was made up of both Jews and Gentiles. These individuals worshipped the messiah, which was the title given to a Jewish teacher named Jesus of Nazareth. The Romans had executed Jesus as a political criminal in Judea."
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New Year in Japan and China, 2007.
This paper compares and contrasts the New Year holiday in Japan and China.
972 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that Japan and China are similar in a sense because they share some traditions, beliefs and cultures; yet they are dissimilar for the same reasons. The writer notes that if one looks at the present day celebration of the New Year in China and Japan, one may think that it is overly commercialized like the western traditions of Christmas and Easter. The writer maintains that if one examines it deeply, one sees that the religious facade is still there and most Japanese and Chinese will relate to a lot of religious traditions embedded in these festivities. The writer concludes that after all, most celebrations celebrated worldwide whether Christmas, Easter or the New Year would not have been in existence today without any real religious roots or traditions that signify their deep and true meanings.
From the Paper
"The New Year's festivities for one are one of the most important celebrations of the country embedded in deep traditions and rich culture. China follows both the Western New Year and the Lunar New Year but the latter is more important. Japan considers the Western New Year more important and holds big celebrations. Although religion is not a big part of the two countries New Year celebrations, some of the activities and beliefs have its roots on religious flavors."
"The earliest known history about the Chinese New Year had something to do with the legendary Nia."
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Christianity vs. Roman Catholicism, 2007.
A comparison between Christianity and Roman Catholicism.
2,427 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the origins of biblical Christianity as well as that of the Roman Catholic religion. The paper further compares and contrasts these ideologies to reveal the primary differences between them.
From the Paper
"Perhaps one of the most vast differences between biblical Christianity and Roman Catholicism is the belief in Hell. Thessalonians 1:8-9 of the Bible states that "those who do not know God...will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his Power." Thus, Christianity does not mention Hell, but simply the absence of God's love, power, and presence. On the other hand, Roman Catholicism notes "immediately after death the souls of those who die in a state of mortal sin descend into hell, where they suffer eternal fire (Gendron, 1996, p. 1035). In this passage, Roman Catholicism notes a punishment of fire in a physical location. This vastly differs from the Christian view of punishment through the absence of God. This difference is substantial, in that Christian belief stems from the idea that the absence of God is the ultimate form of punishment. The Roman Catholic Church Doctrines clearly see this punishment as not enough, and translate the Word to include physical punishment as opposed to only spiritual punishment."
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Bacchic Rituals and Modern Manifestations, 2007.
A review of the legend of Dionysus and the Bacchic ritual.
4,615 words (approx. 18.5 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 119.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses and demonstrates the transitional phase in human development by discussing the history of the mythical legend of Dionysus, and the Bacchic ritual and its rich traditions. The paper then discusses modern manifestations of this ritual as the expression of the spiritual that modern people seek in ways that are not religiously motivated but still boast many of religion's facets.
Outline:
Introduction
Dionysus in the Ancient and Modern Expression
Bacchic Ritual Today
From the Paper
"The whole expression of the initial rejection of the Rock-n-Roll culture, music and lifestyle, not to mention its messages of rejection of the broader conservative culture is an example of the manner in which youth demonstrates revolutionary control over subsequent generations. The initial desire of the broader more conservative culture to suppress the movement, and all its expressions was met by heated rejection of conservatism. Many who look back on the beginnings of the movement express that all their fears were realized, through the very public expression of conflict and rage that became synonymous with Rock-n-Roll music and all of its accompanying events, which clearly reached it peak of possibility both good and bad during the Woodstock era. (Altschuler, 2003, p. 3) Yet, it is also clear that the music and the mentality it brought with it changed the face of society, and all that the older more conservative generations could do about it was warn the culture of its potential threats, just as those who drove the Bacchic ritual into the attic in earlier times did."
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The Historical Importance of Muhammad, 2007.
A discussion of the historical significance of Muhammad in the Muslim religion.
2,294 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper presents an in-depth examination of Muhammad from an Islamic perspective. In particular, the author focuses on Muhammad's role in the creation of the Holy Quran, his influence related to Muslim beliefs and practices and his role in the creation and dissemination of the Five Pillars of Islam, namely, faith, daily prayer, the giving of alms, fasting during the month of Ramadan and the pilgrimage to Mecca. The author describes Muhammad's first religious experience and how he spread this message to the masses. Additionally, the importance of the Islamic belief in one God is also emphasized along with other Muslim outlooks, such as the importance of family. The paper also gives a brief religious history of Islam, including many of the initial conflicts with the pagan religions of the Arabian peninsula. The author concludes that Muhammad was the"interpreter" of the Holy Quran and he transformed an entire culture from one of pagan traditions to the belief in one God.
From the Paper
"As a human being, Muhammad considered marriage and family as the foundation for all things related to man's existence on earth. When Muhammad was about twenty-five years old, he married a woman named Khadija who owned a trading caravan in which the young Muhammad was hired to assist with the daily activities related to the selling, bartering and trading of a wide range of goods from all over the Middle East. At the time of her marriage to Muhammad, Khadija was forty years old and possibly had children from an earlier marriage. As husband and wife, Muhammad and Khadija bore seven children. In 619 A.D., Khadija died from an unknown illness; soon after, Muhammad married for the second time. However, at this point in his life, ..."
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Zeus, 2007.
This paper examines the figure of Zeus, as the father of the gods.
1,852 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that it is not exactly clear how or when the ancient Greeks first began to worship Zeus as the supreme leader of the gods. The writer maintains that some scholars argue that the name of Zeus originated in specific Indo-European cultures some 5,000 years ago. Further, th writer points out that the names of numerous gods and goddesses have been found on what are known as Linear B tablets, names like Hera, the wife of Zeus, Poseidon, the ruler of the seas, and of course Zeus. Thus, the name of Zeus became the foundation of ancient Greek mythology. The writer concludes that Zeus was the "King of the Gods" and the ultimate symbol of the Greek Pantheon, a religious system still studied by scholars today.
From the Paper
"Zeus also played a major role in the position of women in ancient Greek society. Overall, marriage, procreation and family property were all under the control of men, while women remained under the guardianship of their fathers, brothers and those linked to the political arena of Greek society. Once again, the poet Hesiod helps us to understand this situation by relating the myth of the first woman named Pandora. According to this legend, Zeus, the King of the Gods, created Pandora as a punishment for men when Prometheus, a divine being and enemy of Zeus, stole fire from Zeus to give it to the human friends of Prometheus."
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Sun Tzu's "The Art of War", 2007.
A discussion of the Taoist influences in Sun Tzu's "The Art of War."
1,632 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the religious and spiritual roots of Chinese Taoism found in the military treatise "The Art of War." The paper explains the basic tenets of Taoism and Sun Tzu's connection to the religion. The reviewer also addresses the book's paradox that Taoism is a peaceful religion, yet the work is about war. The reviewer states that traditional Taoist concepts emerge from discussions of battle tactics and troop movements. The paper also discusses Taoist views on duality such as the ying-yang and the art of wu wei. The paper concludes by stating that although Taoism is traditionally viewed as a peaceful religion, it recognizes that life involves conflict, but that the wise man can mediate this conflict and control it so that it is least destructive and most productive.
From the Paper
"Basically, Taoism is an ancient Chinese spiritual tradition that can be roughly translated as "the way of life." It provides loose proscriptions for how individuals can live in harmony with their surroundings and with their fellow man. But like any good philosophy, Taoism contains a few key tenets that are common throughout all of the writings on the subject. Chief among these include the idea that one should remain immovable and allow events to flow over and around oneself, that one should try to balance the opposite but complementary forces of the universe (yin and yang), and the art of "wu wei," which can be roughly translated as action through inaction or accomplishing goals through the least effort (Wilson). At its heart, Taoism recognizes that there is conflict inherent in life, that the competition for limited resources will inevitably lead to conflicts, but that this conflict naturally takes the form of a universal balance that human beings can imitate in their own endeavors (Cantrell 13). This realization is the point on which Sun Tzu is able to use Taoist philosophy to describe warfare. In other words, he uses the notion that conflict can be balanced and harmonious in dictating the way in which wars can best be fought."
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The Nature of God, 2007.
A discussion on the nature of God from differing religious and philosophical perspectives.
1,219 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This essay considers the Western perception of a Divine Creator, from both a religious and philosophical outlook. The paper first examines God from a Christian viewpoint, stating the requirements of a believer and the characteristics of God. Next, the essay analyzes several Western philosophers' concepts of God, including those of Friedrich Nietzsche, David Hume, Albert Einstein, Bertrand Russell, and many other post-relativity scientific philosophers like Stephen Hawking. The author then discusses the difficulties Western individuals may have with the cultural definition of God. The paper concludes, however, citing the benefits of belief in a creator.
From the Paper
"Very generally, Christian religions require unquestioned loyalty to an eternal, loving, and just God, who is fundamentally of Good "character." The Christian God rewards good behavior and also punishes for sinful human conduct. God rewards (and punishes) both in life as well as in the afterlife. Many believe that God appreciates (indeed, demands) our personal allegiance even more than our good conduct toward our human contemporaries, and that, unlike the former, our shortcomings with respect to the latter are unforgivable. According to Christian religious beliefs, God forgives all earthly sins of those who believe in him and rewards them with eternal life in Heaven after death. Conversely, no good deed on earth is sufficient to avoid eternal damnation in Hell for those who do not accept God, Christ, and the Holy Ghost."
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The Image of Lilith, 2007.
This paper discusses Lilith as the first woman and a symbol of independence.
1,323 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer notes that there are many women who might be admired in history, but there is one independent woman who seems to have accomplished a lot and who has been in existence since the beginning of recorded time. The writer explains that Lilith, supposedly of Hebrew mythology, but also found in other ancient myths predating Hebraic literature, is a woman of distinctive and admirable characteristics. The writer maintains that today, women praise her and write books about independent women, as Lilith becomes the patroness of strong and influential women who are becoming leaders and figureheads. The writer concludes that women's fight against the wage gap, discrimination against women in political parties and the recent endorsement by NOW of Hillary Clinton to become President may be the result of this image of the independent woman becoming more accepted, more real and legitimate.
From the Paper
"The body that God created was divided into two, the male and the female, becoming separate beings. Later on, Eve was created. The first female, however, according to the Midrash, was Lilith, who refused to submit to Adam, as she was his equal. When Adam demanded that she submit, she fled from him, leaving Adam alone. When Adam complained to God that he was lonely, God created Eve. Thus begins a history of Lilith fleeing the dominant male."
"In the Midrash, after the "Fall," and expulsion from Eden, Adam reunited with Lilith and she bore him several children before he returned to Eve. In the Midrash, the children Lilith bore Adam became demons and she became the Queen of the Demons. In other stories she remained childless and unpartnered, either with a husband or remained with Adam."
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