ᯓ★ Introduction to World Religions and Belief Systems

• What is the title of the lesson discussed in the study material?

  Introduction to World Religions and Belief Systems
• According to Viktor Frankl, what does being human point towards?

  Something or someone other than oneself
• How does Viktor Frankl suggest one becomes more human?

  By giving oneself to a cause or another person
• Who is Desmond Mpilo Tutu?

  A retired Anglican bishop and South African social rights activist
• What can humans tolerate according to Desmond Mpilo Tutu?

  Suffering, but not meaninglessness
• What term describes humans as inherently religious beings?

  Homo religiousus
• What does self-fulfillment in religion refer to?

  The practice of one's faith
• What is a basic human right related to religion?

  The right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion
• What does the etymology of the word "religion" derive from?

  The Latin word "religare," meaning "to bind fast"
• How does the term "religio" relate to religion?

  It refers to conscientiousness or reverence
• What are the main elements of religion?

  1. Creed: Fundamental beliefs and assumptions
  2. Code: Norms of behavior for adherents
  3. Cult: Practices that nourish spirituality and union with ultimate realities
• What does the term "creed" mean in the context of religion?

  It comes from the Latin "credo," meaning "I believe"
• What does the "code" in religion refer to?

  Norms of behavior expected from adherents
• What does "cult" refer to in religious terms?

  Practices that nourish believers' spirituality
• What is a worldview in the context of religion?

  A collection of beliefs about life and the universe
• What are the common characteristics of religious worldviews?

  1. Relationship to an unseen transcendent realm
  2. Myths or stories about the unseen world
  3. Organized rituals celebrated in holy places
  4. Statements about life beyond death
  5. A code of ethical behavior
  6. Large followings at present or in the past
• What does theology originate from?

  The Christian tradition
• What does theology attempt to explain?

  The beliefs and practices of a religious institution
• Who commonly conducts theology?

  Insiders or practitioners of a religion
• What is the focus of religious studies?

  To include readers who are outsiders to a religion
• What are the kinds of religious studies mentioned?

  1. Philosophy of Religion: Analyzes religious concepts and beliefs
  2. Psychology of Religion: Explains religious behavior using psychology
  3. Sociology of Religion: Describes religious phenomena in society
  4. Religious Anthropology: Focuses on cultural significance of religion
• What does the philosophy of religion study?

  The nature and meaning of religion
• How does psychology of religion explain religious behavior?

  By using current theories in psychology
• What does sociology of religion describe?

  Religious phenomena in terms of their function in societies
• What is the focus of religious anthropology?

  The cultural significance of religious experiences and ideas
• What potential benefits does religion provide to individuals?

  Religion can provide a sense of purpose, community, moral guidance, and comfort during challenging times.
• What negative aspects can arise from religion throughout history?

  Religion has been a source of conflict, intolerance, and division.
• How has the Roman Catholic Church contributed to knowledge preservation?

  Catholic monks helped preserve classical learning after the fall of Rome.
• What role did the Catholic Church play in the development of music?

  The Catholic Church encouraged the creation of early forms of musical notation.
• What are some unfortunate events associated with the Catholic Church?

  The Catholic Church has been involved in violent movements and human rights violations.
• What are the three purposes that religion serves according to James L. Griffith?

  1. Ensures group security.
  2. Builds individual self-worth and competence.
  3. Reduces personal suffering for self or others.
• How can group security provided by religion become dangerous?

  It can lead to moral blindness and misguided loyalty among adherents.
• What is an example of moral blindness in religious adherence?

  BLOC voting for electoral candidates endorsed by religious groups.
• How can religion foster hatred among adherents?

  By using religious practices to boost morale or pride at the expense of nonbelievers.
• What is an example of conflict arising from religious differences?

  The conflict between Jews and Muslims in Palestine.
• What is the significance of the Godhra Train Incident?

  It exemplifies how religion can turn people against each other.
• How does religion help reduce personal suffering?

  It provides comfort and support for oneself and others.
• What can be a disadvantage of reducing personal suffering through religion?

  It can lead to tolerance or blindness to the suffering of oneself or others.
• What is self-immolation in the context of religious practices?

  It is violence directed to oneself by ascetics to gain God's favor.
• What are the positive outcomes of religion when it becomes a blessing?

  1. Encounters with the Sacred/Transcendent stimulate reflection and ethical behavior.
  2. Commitment to an ethic of compassion.
  3. Emotional resilience in the face of adversity.
  4. Prioritizing individual well-being over group needs.