Category: Religion

1. (Original Content Only) (400 words for the post) (APA citations) (In-text citations are a must)
Assignment 3: Writing Religion
Context Religion is everywhere. Its definition, however, is all over the place. One of the things that this class offers is a solid launching point for understanding religion (hey, that’s the name of this course!) by exposing you to different ideas about religion, including strategies for thinking about those different ideas with a “both, and” mentality rather than the more common “either, or” approach, which often shuts down helpful dialogue.
Description Go to Google News, use the search term “religion” to find current news on the subject, and pick a story that intrigues you. Briefly share the gist of it with the class, then reflect on the following prompts: How does the problem of defining religion factor into the story?
How does the author of this article understand and present religion? For example, they might view it as good or bad, as primarily a moral system, as relative or absolute, in relation to politics, from a Christian-centric perspective, and so on.
If you were the journalist tasked with writing up this same story, how might you approach it differently, knowing what you’ve learned from Hedges this week?
Delivery Please post your initial post (400 words) to the appropriate discussion thread no later than Thursday evening (11:59pm MT). Your post must dialogue with the readings and/or videos for this week, including proper APA citations. Sources to cite: Hawks, J., Garrett, M., & Marcus, B. P. (January 6, 2020). Separating Religion and Government…But What Is Religion?: A Look at the US Supreme Court. [Audio]. The Religious Studies Project.
Blasi, A. J. (2020). Definition of religion. In A. Possamai, & A. J. Blasi (Eds.), The SAGE encyclopedia of the sociology of religion. UK: Sage.
“This entry reviews four major definitional strategies, observes some of their strengths and weaknesses, and notes the importance of definitions of religion both in the sociology of religion and the environing world of social scientific students of religion.” Alston, W. P. (2006). Religion. In D. M. Borchert (Ed.), Encyclopedia of Philosophy (2nd ed., Vol. 8, pp. 366-373). Macmillan Reference USA 2. (Original Content Only) (400 words for the post) (APA citations) (In-text citations are a must)
Assignment 4: Questions and Connecting Thoughts
Context There is always more to say when it comes to religion, as any scholar or student in the field will tell you, meaning that it is possible to go deeper on any given subject.
Description Read through the “Questions and Connecting Thoughts” section on pp.41-42 of Hedges’ Understanding Religion. Choose one of the questions there and respond to it in dialogue with the materials for this week. You may also include additional sources or media as you see fit.
Delivery Please post your initial post (400 words) to the appropriate discussion thread no later than Thursday evening (11:59pm MT). Your post must dialogue with the readings and/or videos for this week, including proper APA citations. 3. (Original Content Only) (400 words for the post) (APA citations) (In-text citations are a must)
Context Religion is a touchy subject. Earlier forms of social etiquette avoided discussing religion (and politics) altogether because it was too easy to offend another person’s—and one’s own—sensibilities, but that is now changing. Religion is at the forefront of civic and social life, and we ought to be able to dialogue about it in a respectable, informed, and thoughtful manner. Part of the problem stems from what scholars call the Insider/Outsider Problem or Emic/Etic Debate.
Listen to the episode of The Religious Studies Project podcast called “The Insider/Outsider Problem: An RSP Remix” (15 min.) for a brief introduction to this issue in the field of religious studies that adds to what Hedges has to say (Ch.2).
Description In dialogue with your Hedges reading and The Religious Studies Project podcast,
what are the pros and cons of studying a religious tradition from a practitioner’s perspective?
From a non-practitioner’s perspective?
How do you reconcile these two possible perspectives—or do you?
4. (Original Content Only) (400 words for the post) (APA citations) (In-text citations are a must)
Context On p.81, Hedges rightly claims, “Studying texts, elite philosophical belief systems, and normative official statements only gets you so far.” The rest of the chapter is dedicated to helping us understand how that is so and what else there is to study—religion as it is lived. That is, religion as people actually practice it and think about it, and how such religion relates to the “official” or institutional religion that informs it. As Hedges explains, religious traditions are often practiced syncretistically, blending practices developed from a variety of religious and cultural traditions that one may or may not realize are imported from elsewhere. Description From Hedges, your own experience, a little independent research, or a combination of these, choose an example of religious syncretism that you find interesting and share it with the class. Then, analyze the practice, addressing these issues and others you would like to discuss.
How does this practice illustrate syncretism?
Which two or more traditions are being blended and what are their historical origins?
When did this practice emerge and under what circumstances?
Do practitioners today acknowledge the syncretistic nature of the practice, or do they consider it a “pure” iteration of their tradition? (This last one may be a bit of a trick question, considering Chs.1-2.)
5. (Original Content Only) (400 words for the post) (APA citations) (In-text citations are a must)
Context Between this week and last week, you have been given much to consider. As we end this section of the textbook, we are leaving our discussion of religion, method, and theory as broad concepts and entering the realm of actual methods and theories of religion. This calls for a moment of pause and reflection.
Description Review the materials for weeks 1 and 2, and reflect on the question “So what?” How, now, am I supposed to approach the task of understanding religion?
Think practically. Share with us your current thoughts on
how religion ought to be studied, and
what areas you might find challenging as we enter the next section of the course.
Any new questions you would like to discuss
anything you would like further clarification on
any important learnings or surprises encountered so far
These will change as we move through the course, so think of this as a first draft that engages only what you’ve learned so far (although you must still be clear and precise in your writing).

Pastoral or Designated Leadership Interview and Report
In this assignment, you will have an opportunity to talk about spiritual authority with a church leade
.
Step 2: Once the interview has been conducted, discuss your findings in a written 3-4 page report (not counting the title page). Use the Interview Report Template. Include the following sections. (Each section should be a ½ page in length.)
1. Introduction: Introduce the person you interviewed. Share basic background information regarding their role as a leader in your local church body.
2. Body: Incorporate information from the interview responses.
a. Paragraph 1: Leadership Styles
i. Which type of the four following leadership styles do you feel that you primarily operate in (spiritual, visionary, intrapreneurial, or servant)? Why?
ii. Which leadership style do you feel is most effective in supporting spiritual authority in the setting of a church body?
b. Paragraph 2: Church Governance
i. What are some of the responsibilities of a Spirit-Led leader?
ii. How do these responsibilities correlate to church governance?
iii. What are some of the delegated authorities in your local church body?
c. Paragraph 3: Rebellion and Obedience
i. Have you ever had an experience where blatant rebellion affected your local congregation? If so, what were some of the repercussions of that situation?
ii. How can those who are followers avoid the pitfalls of rebellion against spiritual authority?
iii. What is the value of an obedient “follower” or saint to a man of God or church leadership?
d. Paragraph 4: Practical Application of Spiritual Authority
i. In his book, Spiritual Authority, Watchman Nee makes the statement: “The church suffers from many who do not know how to obey, but she is likewise damaged through some who have not learned how to be in authority.” What are your thoughts on this?
ii. What are some ways that I can be a blessing to my local assembly in support of the spiritual authority of this church body?
3. Conclusion: In a few sentences, summarize the main points of your paper.

Based on your reading, particularly Mission of God, pp. 20-69, and the first week PowerPoint presentation, discuss how the mission of God flows out of his relationship with us.In the light of your reading, discuss the transcendent and holy God revealed himself to humankind and invited us to engage in mission. What does the relational aspect of God mean to you and how does that motivate you to engage in mission.

What is the Guru Granth Sahib?
What is the Jain worldview?
What are Jain monk’s practices?
What is Zoroastrianism’s Origins?
What is Guru Nanak?
What are the items worn by Sikh Khalsa?
What is the Adi Granth?
What is theology?
What is a Shaman?
What is Sacred time?
What is similar to Jainism and Sikhism?
What is the Sikh gurus?
What are the spiritual forces of Zoroastrianism?
What does religious mean in indigenous religions?
What does the term “indigenous” mean?
What is the creation religion’s view of time?
What is “moksha”?
What is a famous Zoroastrian?
What is Globalization?
What is a “Myth”?
What are Hinduism’s origins?
What is Raja yoga?
What is a Brahmin?
What is dharma?
Who is Siddhartha Gautama?
What are Buddhism’s origins?
What is the Buddha’s story?
What are the four noble truths of the Buddha?
What does the term “religion” mean?
What is Animism?
What is the motto of Zoroastrianism?
How did Christmas start?
What is the vision quest of Native Americans?
Where do the majority of Zoroastrians live today?
What are the holy texts for the religions we have studied?
Essay Questions
Note: Answers should be 1 – 2 paragraphs, cite proper examples, and use complete sentences and proper grammar.
In a short summary, explain the life of Mohandas Gandhi and why he is so important to India and Hinduism.
What is the caste system? What are some of the pros and cons of it?
Compare and contrast the concept of God in two faith traditions discussed in class.
Give three examples of religious rituals, each from a different religious tradition, and explain its significance.
What answers does religion seek to answer for human beings?
What happened to the Indigenous religions of America? How have they managed to hold on to their religious traditions, and what challenges have they faced?
In a world in which hate towards religions exists (such as antisemitism and Islamophobia), what practical steps can an individual take to build bridges of understanding and respect with others about the diversity of religion?
What protects our freedom of religion in the United States of America? What are examples of protection for freedom of religion and violations of freedom of religion?
Explain the concept of Ahimsa and the accompanying renunciation of the world according to the Jain tradition.
In what manner did Sikhism try to forge a peaceful balance between the tension of Islam and Hinduism in India?
Discuss the origins of Buddhism and its connection to Hinduism.
How has Buddhism impacted the world?
What questions does religion seek to answer?
Why is the study of religion important? How should one approach the study of religion?

Each student will be individually assigned a specific topic. The objective of this assignment is to conduct research and identify academic, peer-reviewed, and reputable sources, which may include books or articles. Students are required to report their selected sources in a written format and provide a comprehensive review and report on the content.
Topics are as follow:
Islam and Modernity
Islamic Feminism: Challenges and Progress
Islamophobia in the Modern World
Political Islam: Movements and Ideologies
Islamic Finance: Principles and Practices
Digital Islam: Social Media and Online Communities
Secularism and Religion in Islamic Societies
Refugees and Islam: Challenges and Opportunities
Environmental Ethics in Islam
Islam and Human Rights: Debates and Perspectives
The Impact of Technology on Islamic Education
Interfaith Dialogue in Contemporary Islam
The Arab Spring: A Decade Later
Islam and the Arts: Literature, Music, and Film
Islamic Bioethics: Ethical Considerations in Medicine and Science
25% Rubric:
Source Identification: Student accurately identifies and provides details on an academic, peer-reviewed, and reputable source related to the assigned topic. Source is appropriate for academic research and contributes to the understanding of Contemporary Islam. /5
Introduction to the Source:
Student effectively report the selected source to the class, highlighting its relevance to the assigned topic. Provides a clear and concise overview of the source, including the author, publication details, and context. /5
Content Review:
Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the content of the selected source. Analyzes key arguments, concepts, and findings presented in the source, showcasing critical thinking skills. /5
Organization and Clarity:
Presents the information in a well-organized manner with a clear structure and logical flow. Uses appropriate headings, subheadings, and transitions to guide the reader through the review. /5
Writing Style and Mechanics:
Exhibits a clear and concise writing style appropriate for an academic assignment. Adheres to grammatical and spelling conventions, with minimal errors. /2.5
Adherence to Guidelines:
Adheres to the instructions and guidelines outlined and complying with all prescribed formatting criteria such as maintaining a maximum of 3 pages, employing Chicago citation style, using Times New Roman font with a size of 12, and double-spacing throughout the document. /2.5

In what ways do Sikhs view their tradition as inherently egalitarian in terms of gender and caste? How do Sikh ideas of gender roles for women compare to ideas of gender roles for women in Buddhism and Jainism? Make specific references to your readings
Discussion responses and participation will be scored as a mark out of ten, according to the
following rubric:
A = 8 to 10 Response and participation demonstrate critical thought or reflection on the
discussion question, clear interaction with assigned course material including
citations, and strong evidence of proofreading;
B = 7 to 8 Response and participation demonstrate critical thought or reflection on the
discussion question, clear interaction with assigned material and includes
citations, but contains some spelling and grammar error
C = 6 to 7 Response and participation contain some reflection on the discussion question
but makes little use of assigned course materials and citations are incomplete.
D = 5 to 6 Response and participation display very minor engagement with discussion
questions and assigned course material without proper attention to spelling
and grammar, and citations are incomplete.
F= 0 No submissions, no citations, and/or no participation
PLEASE USE CHICAGO STYLE MANUAL 17 EDITION

each answer should be 250 words and in-text citation
Did “complex marriage” play a role in the decline of the Oneida Community? Why or why not? Responses should be at least 250 words and include in-text citations such as (Noyes, 22) to support your points.
What is the biggest difference in the trajectories of the Seventh-day Adventists and Jehovah’s Witnesses? Why does that stand out for you? Responses should be at least 250 words and include in-text citations such as (Butler, 22) to support your points.
What aspects of the Shakers seem to create the greatest reaction from the outside world? Why? Responses should be at least 250 words and include in-text citations such as (Butler, 22) to support your points.
What aspects of the Church of Christ, Scientist seem to create the greatest reaction from the outside world? Why? Responses should be at least 250 words and include in-text citations such as (Butler, 22) to support your points.
What aspects of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints seem to cause tension with the “outside world?” Why? Responses should be at least 250 words and include in-text citations such as (Gaustad, 22) to support your points.

For this assignment, you will choose one library article and one Scripture (full assigned passage) from the Topic 7 and Topic 8 Resources.
For each of your two chosen readings, you will assimilate the knowledge you have gained and reflect on its value in your life.
You will demonstrate your understanding of integrating Christian worldview principles, Scripture, counseling theories into counseling practice, and their application to your personal professional counseling practices by completing the “Topics 7-8: Reading Report” document that includes an additional section at the end for an analysis of the growth of your personal counseling theory from the beginning of this course to the end. The reading report is to be completed in no more than a total of 1,200 words.
While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

Write a two-three page paper that contains your reflections on and questions about Week Six’s readings and lectures.
Your paper must include the following:
(a) Three things you learned from the lectures;
(b) Three things you learned from the assigned textbook readings; and
(c) Three questions that the lectures and assigned textbook readings raised for you.
Do not just list those nine items, but rather briefly discuss each one.
The paper should be double-spaced, have standard margins, and be in 12-point font. Lectures https://merceru.instructure.com/media_objects/m-5R… https://merceru.instructure.com/media_objects/m4H… https://merceru.instructure.com/media_objects/m-Qf… https://merceru.instructure.com/media_objects/m-3i… https://merceru.instructure.com/media_objects/m-59…

Reading: Bruce Lawrence, The Qur’an: A Biography, pp. 108-130 (available on blackboard, week 11).
Discuss the three stages (steps) Ibn Arabi describes through which one can connect with the path of truth (come closer to God).
How does Ibn Arabi see the importance of the Beautiful 99 Names of God?
What are the main features that define Rumi’s mystical (Sufi) thought?
Explain the role that the Qur’an plays in the mystical thought of both Ibn Arabi and Rumi.