Isms
describe the difference between theism, monism, and polytheism.
Theism - God (or gods) exist
Monism - One God exists
Polytheism - Many gods exist
What is animism?
the belief that all things are sacred and/or are spirits
What is the materialistic theory for the presence of religion?
Religion is a human creation that we use to comfort ourselves is a mechanical world we have trouble understanding.
What is ritual?
define atheism and agnosticism
Atheism - there is no God (or gods)
Agnosticism - There is no way for humans to know so it is best to reserve judgment.
What is a shaman?
a religious leader of an indigenous community that acts as a middle ground between the spiritual world and the material world or one who communes with the ultimate reality.
Describe functionalism
Whether religions are acurate or not, they hold useful information to help guide individuals or communities to good behavior or helps create unity within a group.
What is a symbol?
A metaphorical totem to describe or evoke the meaning of something other than itself. An image borrowed from the material world used to describe something from the immaterial.
Distinguish exclusivism, inclusivism, and pluralism
Exclusivism: our particular religion or system of belief is true
Inclusivism: many different sets of beliefs are true in their own right
Pluralism: the acceptance of religious tolerance and coexistence
What are the three commonly held beliefs of indigenous religions
Is faith enough of a reason to believe? no right answer what's your opinion?
depends on who you ask really, some who love rationality and logic say no, but some with subjective experiences that prove that fact to them may say yes.
Why are so many symbols so prevalent in so many different religions?
Because religions are typically trying to examine, worship, or communicate with the unseen/invisible Divine or Ultimate Reality-- *because it they're addressing the invisible, it can only be suggested through metaphor*
What's the difference between Pantheism and Panentheism
What is: Pantheism - God is the universe
Panentheism - The universe is in God.
What are the two types of Shaman? what differentiates them?
Traveling shaman seek out experiences with the divine whereas possessive shaman allow the Divine to interact with or possess them. Actively seek verses passively accept.
what is mysticism?
the belief that it is possible to directly experience the ultimate reality (that normally lies beyond human perception) and return to help others achieve the same experience.
What is a Myth?
symbolic stories and moral parables that are designed to communicate wisdom through a group and through generations.