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Ancient and Medieval Philosophy, 2007.
This paper explores the contrasting ideas of reason and faith as seen in ancient and medieval philosophy.
2,686 words (approx. 10.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 80.95
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Abstract
This paper describes various ideas of ancient and medieval philosophy. The author begins by contrasting the concepts of reason and faith. Also analyzed is the belief system of a higher being. Philosophies of both Christian and Jewish religions are highlighted and the major writings briefly introduced. The author also includes other philosophical schools of thought from this time period, including realism and natural theology.
Outline:
Faith and Reason
Natural Theology
Universals
Works cited
From the Paper
"Faith and reason are often seen as adversarial. It appears that since the middle ages the two principles fail to find common ground. Reason is about gathering evidence that supports a position. Faith, on the other hand, is the formation of belief in the absence of or in opposition to evidence that appears to prove other than that which is believed. For those who support reason, faith would appear to be irrational. "
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Catholicism, 2007.
A discussion on the origins of Catholicism.
1,737 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with a general definition on the Roman Catholic denomination of Christianity. The paper focuses on the the origins of Catholicism and offers a historical review on this topic. In the conclusion the author offers a personal opinion on findings, and mentions the theories that doubt the existence of a historical Jesus.
Table of Contents:
The Roman Catholic Version
The Historical View of the Origins of the Catholic Religion
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"Very few non-Christian writings from the period mention Jesus or Christianity. Only the work of four major non-Christian historians contains any mention to Jesus or Christianity. They include Josephus, a Jew and Roman citizen who wrote Antiquities of the Jews in 93 AD; Pliny the Younger (c. 63-113 AD) who was a lawyer and philosopher in ancient Rome; Suetonius (c. 69-110), a Roman historian and biographer; and Tacitus (c. 56-117) another important Roman historian. Even the writings of these writers about Christianity are extremely sketchy and do not throw significant light on the light and teachings of Jesus, his early followers or the origins of Christianity. In fact the passage in Josephus' "Antiquities" about Jesus has been noted by some scholars to contain several "internal indicators" that are seem to be inconsistent with the rest of Josephus' writing, indicating that part or all of the passage may have been interpolated by later Christians."
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Emanuel Swedenborg, 2006.
A review of the life and work of Emanuel Swedenborg.
1,474 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses the life, history and work of Emanuel Swedenborg. The paper begins by reviewing his book 'The Heavenly Doctrines of the Second Coming' and follows with a discussion regarding Swedenborg's life and theories of religion.
Contents:
His Religious Experience
An Encounter with the "Sacred"?
II. His Understanding
III. His Following
IV. His Evil Concept
V. His Solution
VI. His "Message"
From the Paper
"He viewed God at the center of a person's being; as infinitely loving. He perceived life to be an individual's spiritual birth while each person partakes in their own creation. Scripture, he contended, is ". . . a story of inner-life stages" as people we learn and grow. (The Swedenbogian Church) Jesus Christ manifested God, Swendenborg stressed . . . the Divine became flesh to empower humans to be comprehend a distinctive relationship with God. Prior to Christ's coming, God had been beyond human comprehension. Jesus gave humans an overt expression of God's reality. Christ reflects the trinity. Swendenborg denied that Christ came to redeem people from original sin, but argues Christ mission was to reveal the spiritual life's reality and nature. "
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Judaism in England, 2006.
A literary review of Jewish life in England.
2,594 words (approx. 10.4 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 78.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a review of the relevant primary and secondary literature which determines the salient features of traditional Orthodox Jewish life in England between Restoration and the 1900s. A summary of the research and findings are provided in the conclusion.
Table of Contents:
Review and Discussion
Orthodox Judaism in England: Mid-17th Century - 19th Century
Conclusion
References
From the Paper
"According to Jacobs (1995), Orthodox Judaism can be defined as, "The trend in Jewish life and thought which accepts without reservation and in its literal sense the doctrine: 'The Torah is from Heaven.' The actual term Orthodox is derived from Christian theology and was, at first, a term of reproach hurled against the traditionalists by the early Reformers at the beginning of the nineteenth century to imply that those who failed to respond to the modernist challenge were hidebound" (p. 370). Over time, though, the term was also employed by traditionalists as a useful method to communicate the attitude of complete loyalty to the Jewish past, although some traditionalists prefer the term 'Torah-true' to describe their religious position (Jacobs, 1995)."
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Early Christianity, 2006.
A review of early Christianity and a discussion regarding how it helped to shape the Christianity of today.
5,706 words (approx. 22.8 pages), 20 sources, MLA, $ 137.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the factors that were responsible for the formation of Christianity, particularly in the context of Orthodoxy and Heresy. In other words, the paper discusses how Christianity became Christianity as seen through the lenses of Orthodoxy and Heresy. The research explores several defining moments in the history of Christianity including proto-orthodox and the boundary markers that enabled the proto-orthodox to prevail and become the dominant religion of the empire from the first through the fourth century.
Outline:
Introduction
Proto-Orthodox
Heretical Text and Heretical Doctrines
The Rule of Faith and Apostolic Succession
Gender
The Appeal to Jewish Antiquity
Future Research
Conclusion
From the Paper
"In addition to docetic theologies there were other theologies that emerged and were deemed to be heretical by the proto-orthodoxy. Among these was the adoptionists theology. This particular theology asserted that Jesus was a man but he was not divine. They also asserted that Jesus was adopted by God as his son (Grant). Those that held this view asserted that there were church traditions that solidified this view but just what these church traditions were differed greatly from that of proto-orthodox Christians (Grant). Adoptionists also claimed that all Christian held the aforementioned doctrine. However proto-orthodox Christians argued that the doctrine of the adoptionists was in opposition to scriptures (Grant). They also asserted that Christian apologists and anti-heretical authors had throughout history, declared that Jesus was God or that Jesus was both God and Man (Grant). In addition both hymns and psalms that were written from the beginning of time describe Christ as the Logos and describe him as God (Grant). "
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'Evangelism Outside the Box', 2006.
A discussion regarding 'Evangelism Outside the Box' by Rick Richardson.
861 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how Rick Richardson's acclaimed book, "Evangelism Outside the Box" took many by surprise. According to the paper, Richardson points out many flaws in the way evangelism is done in the contemporary church and proposes that society has changed, but that our idea of evangelism is still geared towards the generation before us.
From the Paper
"Perhaps the greatest contribution of Richardson's work is that he asks the reader to step outside of their own mind and look at the message that is being sent from the perspective of the receiver. He asks the reader to consider their audience and how their message is actually received, instead of assuming that the message was received as intended. He points out that what one might think of as being helpful may be perceived as arrogance on the part of the other person. This is perhaps the book's greatest contribution to the field of evangelism.
Richardson feels that evangelism has transformed from a science to an art in the postmodern mindset. His work is theoretical in nature and explores evangelism from a sociological perspective. Richardson relates his theories on the postmodern mindset to how we should communicate the Gospel. Richardson uses the examples of John Wesley and the Wesleyan movement and Saint Patrick to support his thesis. "
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The Messiah, 2006.
A discussion regarding those who claimed to be the messiah.
1,177 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at historical figures, claiming for various reasons, to be the messiah. The paper discusses the chronicles of historian, Flavius Josephus, which listed many of the ancient world's messianic candidates as well as disparaged most of them for their hubris, violence, and quest for power.
From the Paper
"As Lendering points out, messiahs exhibited militaristic, political, and religious traits. The Christian tradition emphasized the religiosity of the messiah more than its original definition entailed. The Jews viewed the role of the messiah as a holistic ruler, anointed by God but equally as experienced and talented in war and secular leadership. Many messianic claimants therefore aspired to the throne. Herod's death stimulated a wave of messianism related to disputes over his son's authority. In 4 BCE, a slave named Simon of Peraea led a revolt against Herod Archelaus and Josephus claims that Simon was "superior to others of his order." Believing in his own right to rule, Simon of Peraea "was so bold as to put a diadem on his head." Josephus states sardonically that "he was declared to be a king, and he thought himself more worthy of that dignity than any one else." In spite of his military prowess and his unabashed conceit, Simon was eventually executed by Gratus. According to Josephus' accounts, Simon of Peraea "burnt down the royal palace," then "plundered" all that was left to leave a legacy of destruction and death. Simon, at least in Josephus' conservative estimation, was one of many false messiahs trying to capitalize on political instability."
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Chinese Philosophy, 2007.
This paper discusses the three Chinese philosophies of Confucianism, Legalism and Taoism.
1,277 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
The paper explains that although the three Chinese philosophies do not comprise the overall doctrine of the Chinese government at present, their concepts and ideas still form part of the present Chinese culture and society. The paper discusses the beliefs of Confucianism, Taoism and Legalism. The paper maintains that of these three ideologies/philosophies - which at times are considered religions - Confucianism could well be the best replacement for the defunct U.S. Constitution. The paper describes how it will bring a spirit of harmony and cooperation amongst U.S. citizens and its guiding principles on how we deal with our fellowmen can cultivate respect not only for others, but for ourselves too.
From the Paper
"Confucianism, funded by Confucius or Kung-Fu-Tzu - meaning "Master Kung" - "is a code of conduct to live this life, and it has had a tremendous impact on how the Chinese live their lives... with a great influence in Chinese government, education, and attitudes toward correct personal behavior and the individual duties to society (Dominguez, 2006)" Although at times, one could look at Confucianism as a derivative of Taoism the basic beliefs and practice of this philosophy are..."
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Goddess Worship, 2006.
This paper discusses the history of goddess worship from prehistoric times to current Wiccan and pagan beliefs.
2,960 words (approx. 11.8 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 87.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that archeology and linguistic findings indicate that goddess worship in various forms has taken place since the Ice Age. The author points out that many experts believe that, during biblical times, as Christianity and Islam began to evolve, almost all pagan goddess worship was driven from society and religion, thus creating patriarchal societies with women subservient to men. The paper relates that more recently goddess worship has enjoyed a renewed popularity through (1) the spiritual practices of pagans and Wiccans and (2) the women's movement.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
History
Biblical Times Arrive
Keeping Them Down
Marija Gimbutas
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Goddess worship began long before any formal records were kept but there have been stories and illustrations throughout history that indicate goddess worship began in prehistoric times. From the beginning of time, mankind began to divide itself into societies that had two types of humans, the hunters and the gatherers. Humans are the only animal species on earth that understand life it finite. It ends and people die. Out of that understanding came the foundation for religious principles and practices."
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"The Book of Proverbs", 2007.
An analysis of the fundamental messages of "The Book of Proverbs".
1,005 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how "The Book of Proverbs" offers abundant references to the meaning of money, the value of wealth and the process of giving and receiving. It looks at how financial themes that run through it include advice about the virtue and process of generosity and noble means to acquire and receive wealth. It also discusses how it outlines the advantages of material wealth, as well as the potential pitfalls of acquiring too much money.
From the Paper
"One of the primary financial messages running throughout the Book of Proverbs is that spiritual virtue is more important than wealth. For example, money can't buy wisdom: "What doth it avail a fool to have riches, seeing he cannot buy wisdom?; and he that refuseth to learn, shall fall into evils," (17:16). Simplicity is also more important than prosperity: Better is the poor man walking in his simplicity, than the rich in crooked ways," (28:6). Also, "Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, than great treasures without content," (15:16). Ultimately, true wealth rests in the spiritual, not in the material, world: "With me are riches and glory, glorious riches and justice" (8:18). Spiritual truth and heavenly wisdom trump material abundance: "For my fruit is better than gold and the precious stone, and my blossoms than choice silver. "
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Hermeneutics - The Book of Esther, 2006.
An in-depth discussion regarding the reading of the biblical Book of Esther and how it represents a challenge to patriarchal authority in ancient Jewish society.
22,296 words (approx. 89.2 pages), 41 sources, MLA, $ 249.95
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Abstract
This study provides a critical analysis of how the biblical Book of Esther can be regarded as both a challenge to, but more dominantly a reinforcement of, patriarchal authority in ancient Jewish society. The paper also discusses what the text's implications were for the ancient Jewish people as well as its legacy today.
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1: Introduction
Aims of the Study
Research Questions
Hypothesis
Rationale in Support of the Study
Potential Contributions of the Study
Chapter 2: Discourse Analysis of the Book of Esther
Chapter 3: Sources of Power in the Ancient Near East
Power in the Ancient Near East
Feminism and Patriarchality in the Ancient Near East Society Chapter 4: Language/Power Theory Analysis of the Esther Text and Its World of Text Production
Chapter 5: Discussion
Chapter 6: Contribution of the Study
From the Paper
"From this perspective, Esther's courage and ingenuity enabled the Jews of Persia to be saved from Haman's plot to massacre them. There are also some delicious parts of the tale where irony plays an important part, such as when Haman is forced to provide the lavish parade in honor of Mordecai and ends up being hung on the same gallows that he constructed for Mordecai's execution. From another perspective, there is a sufficient amount of bloody violence, intrigue and dirty dealings in the Book of Esther to keep even a modern Mickey Spillane fan happy. In fact, some authorities have even suggested that the name Esther derived from the Hebrew word 'seter' (hidden), a foreshadowing of her ability to disguise her Jewish identity until she had won the heart of King Ahasuerus and was therefore in a position to save her people from destruction (Eisenberg 261).
Furthermore, the secular character of the Book of Esther (the divine name is never mentioned) and its strong nationalistic overtones made its admission into the biblical canon highly questionable for both Jews and Christians. From still another perspective, and apparently in response to the conspicuous absence of any reference to God in the book, the redactors of its Greek translation in the Septuagint interspersed many additional verses throughout the text that were intended to emphasize Esther's and Mordecai's religious devotion; these so-called Additions to the Book of Esther do not appear in the Hebrew Bible, but are treated as canonical in Roman Catholic Bibles, and are placed in the Apocrypha in Protestant Bibles (Faherty 2-3) (see Additions to the Book of Esther at Appendix A). In his book, Invitation to the Apocrypha, Harrington (1999) reports that, "The Hebrew Esther is canonical for Jews and Protestants. In the Roman Catholic and Greek and Russian Orthodox churches, the expanded Greek version with the additions is the canonical form. The canonical status of Esther was debated in antiquity among both Jews and Christians. It is the only book in the Hebrew Bible not represented among the Dead Sea Scrolls. Indeed, the revised and expanded Greek version of Esther was most likely produced to make the book more acceptable" (53)."
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Bhagavad Gita, 2007.
This paper analyzes the book 'Bhagavad Gita' by Easwaren, Eknath.
1,256 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses the book "Bhagavad Gita". The writer maintains that the book looks at the distinction between the temporary material body and the eternal spiritual soul and characteristics of the self-realized person. The writer points out that from the beginning of this religious work to the end, the character Arjuna grew from a person who was overcome by the trappings of life to the understanding that the way that he conducts his life is all important for this world and the next. The writer further discusses that the book relates not only to how Arjuna should conduct himself, but to how one should do so to this day, as well.
From the Paper
"This can be done, further explains Krishna, through the practice of meditation. Arjuna, however, questions how a defected mind can actually meditate. Here, as the entire Bhagavad Gita, the emphasis is on education. It is not possible to immediately reach a meditative state--the mind is difficult to restrain. So, it takes much practice and continual renunciation.
Once individuals are in this meditative state, they can see things they never could before, because of the constraints of the lower states of mind. It is possible, for example to see God in the here and now, as long as one stops a fascination for the various objects of the world. However, it is only when people love God can they become open to see him in all. This trip starts with seeing God and then ends in the state of 'being' God."
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Taoism, Buddhism and Chinese Fraternity, 2006.
A discussion regarding the characteristics of the Chinese cultural value of fraternal respect amongst siblings.
3,572 words (approx. 14.3 pages), 50 sources, MLA, $ 99.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews how the cultural values of the Chinese people, especially that of the fraternal respect that is seen amongst siblings, comes largely from the religious beliefs and values of the Chinese. The paper discusses Taoism and Buddhism, relating these religious values and perspectives to the Chinese culture of fraternity.
From the Paper
"In "The Tao of Physics," Fritjof Capra talks of the blending of east and west that can occur when mysticism and science meet and mingle. Much of this is happening today to some degree because of the globalization of society. In the east, Taoism is more of a religion. In the west, it is a system of belief that can be applied to something specific to see what kinds of results are achieved. This is different than applying it to daily life and everything one does, but it is still important. However, in China Taoism is used to teach many different cultural values, including the fraternal respect that siblings need to have for one another.
In the book, Capra says that "If there is an intuitive element in science, there is also a rational element in eastern mysticism" (33). By this, he means that both science and mysticism are more than what they seem on the surface and the opinion that science is purely analytical, or the opinion that mysticism is purely theoretical, is simply not correct. It does not delve deeply enough into what science and mysticism really are, and this deep exploration is the only way to understand them fully. Capra's statement shows to all of his readers that he values the eastern beliefs just as much as the western beliefs, for there are elements of each in mathematics, science, and other arenas that many western thinkers see as factual and nothing more. "
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Angels in Catholic Doctrine, 2007.
An analysis of the history and duties of angels in this world according to Catholic doctrine.
2,700 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 80.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses angels and the way that they are portrayed in Catholic doctrine. The paper begins with a general definition and discussion of the history of angels in religion. The paper goes on to discuss various opinions regarding the duties of angels and then discusses the references to angels in Scriptures. The paper concludes by discussing faith and belief in angels as they are not obviously visible in this world.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Angels and Cosmological Order
Angelic Offices
Freedom and Free Will in Angels: The Problem of Evil
Angels in Scripture
Angels as Guardians
Archangels
Faith
Conclusion/Further Thoughts
From the Paper
"Belief in Angels is ultimately an act of faith because Angels are, in Pope John Paul II's words, "not proper to the visible world." However, their invisibility does not preclude their de facto existence, according to Catholic doctrine. Angels are presumed to exist, as they were created by God no differently than God created mankind. Their occasional appearance in bodily form may serve as some sort of proof for their existence, as does their presence throughout scripture. Catholic doctrine explicitly avers the existence of Angels, though they may be unseen. Angels exist in "truth," and their existence has been upheld by the Fourth Lateran Council as well as the First Vatican Council (Pope John Paul II). Therefore belief in Angels can be considered central to Catholic faith."
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