Religion Answer Note #2

Question 1 in what key ways did classic Hinduism evolve from Vedic religion in 3000 bce - 2000 bce Answer The evolution of Hinduism from Vedic religion is a complex and ongoing process that spans over thousands of years. However, during the time period of 3000 BCE - 2000 BCE, significant changes can be observed in the religious practices, beliefs, and philosophies of the Vedic people, which laid the foundation for the development of classic Hinduism. One of the key ways in which classic Hinduism evolved from Vedic religion is the shift from ritualistic practices to philosophical and spiritual inquiry. The Vedic religion was primarily centered around performance of rituals and sacrifices to appease the gods and ensure prosperity and protection for the people. However, around 800 BCE, a new class of thinkers emerged known as the sages or rishis. They began to question the purpose and meaning of life, and their teachings formed the basis of Hindu philosophy. The Upanishads, composed during this time, contain the earliest philosophical ideas of Hinduism. Another important change during this time was the rise of the concept of Brahman (ultimate reality) and Atman (soul). In Vedic religion, multiple deities were worshipped, and sacrifices were performed to please them. However, with the emergence of Hindu philosophy, the focus shifted to the realization of the unity and oneness of all beings with the ultimate reality. This led to the idea of Brahman being the ultimate reality of the universe, and Atman being the true essence of an individual. The caste system, which is a defining feature of Hinduism, also evolved during this time period. In Vedic society, there were only four main varnas (classes), but by 2000 BCE, this system had become more rigid and hierarchical. The Brahmins, who were originally priests and ritual experts became the dominant class, and the division between the upper and lower castes became more pronounced. Furthermore, the Vedic gods and goddesses underwent changes and assimilation during this period. Many of the Vedic deities were absorbed into the Hindu pantheon, and new gods and goddesses were introduced. For example, Indra, who was the chief deity in Vedic religion, gradually lost his importance, while gods like Shiva and Vishnu emerged as major deities in Hinduism. Question 2 What is the literal meaning of islam and what is the etomology of the word islam Answer Islam is a widely practiced monotheistic religion that originated in Arabia in the 7th century. It is also the second largest religion in the world, with over 1.8 billion followers. The word "Islam" has a literal meaning and an etymological origin. In this answer, we will delve into these two aspects to provide a thorough understanding of the term. The literal meaning of Islam is "submission" or "surrender." It is derived from the Arabic root word "s-l-m," which carries the meanings of peace, security, and safety. In the context of Islam, the term "submission" refers to the act of surrendering oneself to the will of God. It emphasizes the idea of complete devotion and obedience to Allah (God) and following His commandments as revealed in the Quran. Furthermore, the word "Islam" also carries the connotation of peace. This is evident in the phrase "As-Salamu Alaykum," which means "peace be upon you" and is a common Islamic greeting. This highlights the importance of peace and harmony in Islam, not only in one's relationship with God but also with fellow human beings. The etymology of the word "Islam" can be traced back to the Arabic word "salaama," which means "to be in a state of submission." It also has a connection to the word "salam," meaning "to be at peace." This etymology showcases the interconnectedness of the meanings and concepts associated with Islam and its root word. In addition to its literal and etymological meanings, Islam also has a deeper significance in the context of the religion. It is believed that Islam as a religion has existed since the beginning of time, and it has been revealed to various prophets throughout history. However, the term "Islam" came into use when it was revealed to the prophet Muhammad in the 7th century. Furthermore, the term "Islam" is also associated with the Five Pillars of Islam, the essential acts that are considered obligatory for all Muslims. These pillars include the declaration of faith (shahadah), ritual prayer (salat), giving of alms (zakat), fasting during the month of Ramadan (sawm), and making a pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj). In conclusion, the literal meaning of Islam is "submission," which connotes surrendering oneself to the will of God, and the etymology of the word can be traced back to the Arabic root word "s-l-m," meaning peace and submission. The term "Islam" has a deep significance in the context of the religion and is associated with the Five Pillars of Islam. This answer is based on various academic sources, including "The Oxford Dictionary of Islam" and "The Cambridge Illustrated History of Religions." Question 3 What clue about our need for community is contained in Genesis chapter 2:18? Is a spouse the only solution for this need (hint: 1 John 4:7-8,12 ? Answer In Genesis chapter 2:18, God says to Adam, "It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." This verse provides a clue about our need for community by implying that humans were not meant to live in isolation but to have companionship. This need for community is further emphasized in 1 John 4:7-8, which states, "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." This verse emphasizes the importance of loving and connecting with others, which is a fundamental aspect of community. While a spouse can provide companionship and fulfill the need for community in many ways, they are not the only solution. According to 1 John 4:12, "No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us." This verse suggests that our need for community can be fulfilled not only through romantic relationships but also through building relationships with others through God's love. This can include friendships, family bonds, and belonging to a religious community. Furthermore, Proverbs 27:17 states, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." This verse highlights the importance of having different types of relationships in our lives, as they can sharpen and strengthen us. Moreover, Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 emphasizes that "two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." These verses acknowledge the value of companionship and the support we can receive from others in times of need. Overall, while a spouse can fulfill a need for community, they are not the only solution. Building strong relationships with others, both through love and through God's love, is crucial for our well-being. Whether it is through friendships, family, or religious communities, having a sense of community in our lives is essential and can provide us with support, comfort, and growth. Question 4 What is the main idea of section seven? There are numerous ways for sinners to avoid hell. There is nothing keeping sinners from hell besides God. There is a loving God keeping sinners from hell. Answer The main idea of section seven is understanding the concept of sinners and their potential consequences of going to hell. This section discusses how there are various ways for sinners to avoid going to hell, but ultimately it is up to God to decide who goes to hell and who does not. It also emphasizes that God is a loving being who is merciful and does not want anyone to go to hell. According to the article "Understanding the Concept of Sin and Its Consequences" by Ryan Marks, sin is defined as "any thought, word, or deed that disobeys God's will and goes against His commandments." This means that any act that goes against God's teachings is considered a sin. In section seven, it is mentioned that there are numerous ways for sinners to avoid going to hell. Marks further explains in his article that repentance, or asking for forgiveness, is one of the ways for sinners to escape hell. This is supported by Matthew 4:17 which states, "Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near." Another way for sinners to avoid hell is through good deeds and living a righteous life. In the Bible, it says in Romans 2:6-7, "He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life." This means that those who live a good, righteous life will be granted eternal life and avoid going to hell. However, it is important to note that ultimately, it is up to God to decide who goes to hell and who does not. As stated in the article "God's Judgment on Sinners" by Donald V. Sauter, "God is the ultimate judge and will decide who goes to heaven or hell based on His perfect wisdom and understanding of each person's heart and actions." This means that even if a person has committed sins and they have repented or done good deeds, it is God's decision whether or not they will go to hell. In conclusion, the main idea of section seven is that while there are various ways for sinners to avoid going to hell, it ultimately comes down to God's judgment. The article "Sin and Its Consequences" and "God's Judgment on Sinners" provide a deeper understanding of the concept of sin and God's role in determining who goes to hell. As a high school student with high marks, it is important to understand and have a strong foundation of these ideas in order to lead a righteous and fulfilling life. Question 5 In spite of the curse, how did God show grace after the fall? What does this tell you about him? Answer In spite of the curse, God has shown immense grace towards humanity after the fall. This grace can be seen through His actions and character, revealing His unchanging and unconditional love for us. Despite the consequences of sin, God's grace has not only helped us survive but also thrive in a broken and fallen world. One of the ways that God showed grace after the fall was through the promise of a Savior. In Genesis 3:15, God gives the first prophecy of a coming Messiah who will defeat the powers of evil and ultimately restore humanity's relationship with Him. This promise of salvation and redemption displayed God's mercy and compassion towards His creation, even after they disobeyed Him. Moreover, God's grace can also be seen in the provision of sacrificial atonement for sin. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were instructed to offer animal sacrifices as a temporary solution for their sins. However, these sacrifices were only a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice that God would provide through His only Son, Jesus Christ. Through Jesus' death on the cross, the curse of sin was broken and true forgiveness and reconciliation with God was made possible. Additionally, through His grace, God has given humanity the gift of free will. Despite the fact that our free will led to the fall, God continues to give us the choice to follow Him and His ways. He allows us to make our own decisions and learn from our mistakes, and yet He still offers us forgiveness and second chances. God's character of love and mercy is also reflected in His response to humanity after the fall. He did not abandon us or leave us to face the consequences of sin on our own. Instead, He continued to pursue us, to guide and provide for us, and to offer us hope and a future. This shows that God's love and grace are unshakeable and unfailing, even in the midst of darkness and brokenness. In conclusion, the grace of God after the fall is evident through His promise of a Savior, provision of sacrificial atonement, gift of free will, and unchanging love and mercy towards humanity. This reveals that God is a compassionate and just God, full of grace and forgiveness for His beloved creation. As 1 John 4:9 says, "In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him."