Intro To World Religions Test 1

The tree of life is often seen as a symbol representing the center of the universe in many primal religions. It is believed to connect the earth, sky, and underworld, acting as a bridge between different realms. The tree of life is seen as a source of life and knowledge, and its branches and roots are seen as connecting all living beings. This symbol holds great significance in primal religions as it represents the interconnectedness of all things and the cyclical nature of life and death.

Both Sikhs and Hindus believe in the concept of reincarnation. Reincarnation is the belief that after death, the soul is reborn into a new body. This belief is rooted in the idea of karma, where one's actions in this life determine their fate in future lives. Both Sikhs and Hindus believe in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth until one achieves spiritual liberation.

The Vedas are believed to have come to ancient members of the priestly class directly from Brahman. Brahman is the ultimate reality or supreme cosmic power in Hinduism. It is considered to be the source of all creation and the essence of all existence. The Vedas are considered to be the sacred texts of Hinduism and are believed to contain divine knowledge and wisdom. Therefore, it is believed that the Vedas were revealed to the ancient priests by Brahman himself, making Brahman the correct answer.

The hadiths are a collection of recollections that people have had of Muhammad's words and deeds. These recollections serve as a valuable source of guidance for Muslims in their daily lives, providing them with insights into the Prophet's teachings and actions. By referring to the hadiths, Muslims can gain a deeper understanding of Islamic principles and apply them to various aspects of their lives. These recollections are considered to be an important supplement to the Quran, helping Muslims interpret and implement its teachings in practical ways.

Christian Fundamentalism is a Protestant movement that grew up in response to issues of liberalism and modernity. This movement emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to the perceived threats of secularism, scientific advancements, and theological liberalism. Christian Fundamentalists emphasize the authority of the Bible, reject certain modern scientific theories, and adhere to traditional conservative values. They believe in the literal interpretation of the Bible and view it as the infallible word of God. This movement aimed to preserve and defend traditional Christian beliefs and practices in the face of perceived threats from modern society.

Animistic beliefs involve the belief that there are no clear boundaries between the natural and the supernatural. This means that in animism, the spiritual and physical worlds are intertwined and interconnected, and there is no strict separation between them. Animists believe that spirits and supernatural forces can be found in natural elements such as trees, rivers, and animals. This belief system emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living beings and the spiritual realm.

During the Roman period, the Essenes were a Jewish community that retreated to the wilderness in response to apocalyptic visions. They believed in living a simple and ascetic lifestyle, away from the corrupt society. The Essenes were known for their strict adherence to religious laws and rituals, including communal living and ritual purification. They also believed in the imminent arrival of the Messiah and the end of the world. Their retreat to the wilderness can be seen as their way of preparing for the apocalyptic events they believed were about to occur.

Wicca is an alternative religion that emphasizes and celebrates the feminine aspect of the divine. Wicca is a modern pagan witchcraft tradition that reveres nature and worships a goddess and a god. The religion places a strong emphasis on the feminine divine, with the goddess being seen as the primary deity. Wicca also values equality and balance between the masculine and feminine energies, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a religion that celebrates the feminine aspect of the divine.

Shiite beliefs concerning the Imam Mahdi are similar to the Christian belief in the second coming of Christ. Both beliefs revolve around the idea of a future return of a messianic figure who will bring about justice, peace, and the establishment of a divine kingdom on earth. Just as Christians believe that Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead, Shiites believe that the Imam Mahdi will return to establish justice and righteousness in the world. Both beliefs hold the concept of a future coming of a savior figure who will bring about a significant transformation in the world.

Shame is not typically associated with Shinto. Shinto is a Japanese religion that focuses on the reverence of nature, ancestors, and spirits. It emphasizes purity, gratitude, and harmony with the natural world. While Shinto places importance on family values, animal spirits, and fertility, shame is not a central concept in Shinto beliefs and practices.

The orientation of religion that seeks union with a reality that is greater than oneself is mystical. Mysticism involves the pursuit of a direct and personal experience of the divine or ultimate reality, often through practices such as meditation, contemplation, and prayer. It emphasizes the importance of transcending the limitations of the individual self and connecting with a higher power or spiritual truth. This orientation is distinct from apocalyptic, prophetic, and communal orientations, which may focus on different aspects of religious belief and practice.

Epistles are letters written in the New Testament for the purpose of instruction, encouragement, and practical advice. They are a form of communication used by early Christian leaders to address specific issues and provide guidance to individuals or communities. The epistles were written by apostles such as Paul, Peter, and John, and they cover a wide range of topics including theology, morality, and Christian living. These letters serve as important sources of teachings and guidance for Christians and provide insights into the early Christian community.

The correct answer is "jen." In Confucian ethics, "jen" is considered the cornerstone and supreme virtue representing human qualities at their best. It encompasses benevolence, kindness, empathy, and the cultivation of moral character. Jen is the ideal state of being that promotes harmonious relationships and social harmony, emphasizing the importance of treating others with respect and compassion.

Both Jainism and Sikhism view the human being as a composite of spirit and matter. This means that they believe that humans are made up of both a physical body and a spiritual essence. This similarity highlights the importance of recognizing the dual nature of human existence in both religions.

Romanticism was a nineteenth-century movement that emphasized the importance of emotion and intuition over reason in human understanding. It rejected the rationality and scientific approach of the Enlightenment period, instead celebrating individualism, imagination, and the power of nature. Romanticism sought to evoke strong emotional responses in art, literature, and music, valuing subjective experiences and the expression of personal feelings. This movement had a significant impact on various fields, including literature, art, and philosophy, and it challenged the dominant intellectual and cultural norms of the time.

The correct answer is "set a tone of guilt and the need for repentance." The Puritan jeremiad was a form of sermon or writing used by Puritan preachers to express their concerns about the moral decline of society. They aimed to instill a sense of guilt and the need for repentance in order to bring people back to a righteous path. The jeremiad often highlighted the sins and shortcomings of the community, emphasizing the consequences of straying from God's will. By setting a tone of guilt and repentance, the Puritans hoped to inspire individuals to reflect on their actions and seek redemption.

The Christianization of the Roman Empire resulted in several significant changes, including a new emphasis on the final destiny of the individual rather than the universe, the appointment of Christians to high-ranking public positions, and the government's return of confiscated church property. However, it did not directly result in several books being added to the New Testament. The canonization of the New Testament occurred over a longer period of time and was not solely a result of the Christianization of the Roman Empire.

Confucius endorsed virtues such as loyalty, thrift, and ritualization. However, he did not endorse pride as a virtue. Confucius believed in humility and modesty, emphasizing the importance of self-improvement and self-reflection rather than arrogance or excessive self-esteem. He believed that pride could lead to arrogance and hinder personal growth and social harmony. Therefore, pride is the correct answer as it is not endorsed by Confucius.

The correct answer is "the substitution of grape juice for wine." The second Vatican Council brought about significant changes in public worship within Catholicism, including the increased use of sacred music in nontraditional formats, the use of the vernacular language instead of Latin in the liturgy, and the simplification of rites. However, the substitution of grape juice for wine was not one of the changes implemented during Vatican II.

Fire is considered a symbol of God for most Zoroastrians. In Zoroastrianism, fire is believed to be a pure and sacred element that represents the presence of God and his divine power. Fire is seen as a source of light, warmth, and purification, and it is used in various religious rituals and ceremonies. The eternal flame in Zoroastrian temples, known as the Atash Behram, is considered the highest grade of fire and is believed to embody the divine essence of God. Therefore, fire holds great significance and is a prominent symbol of God in the Zoroastrian faith.

A sannyasin in Hinduism is a person who has renounced worldly goods to live a life of asceticism and seek moksha. Moksha is the ultimate goal in Hinduism, which represents liberation from the cycle of birth and death. By renouncing worldly possessions, a sannyasin dedicates their life to spiritual pursuits and detachment from material desires. This allows them to focus on achieving spiritual enlightenment and ultimate liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Buddhism differs from many other major religions because it emphasizes salvation through one's own efforts. Unlike religions that rely on the grace of a higher power or the worship of a supreme god, Buddhism teaches that individuals can attain enlightenment and liberation from suffering through their own actions and practices. This belief in self-reliance and personal responsibility sets Buddhism apart from other religions that emphasize external forces or divine intervention for salvation.

Paraliturgical devotions in Catholicism refer to religious practices or rituals that are not part of the official liturgy but are still encouraged and supported by the church. Devotions to the saints and to Mary, the mother of Jesus, are examples of paraliturgical devotions. These devotions involve praying to the saints and seeking their intercession or honoring Mary as the mother of God. While they are not considered sacraments or specific to monastic orders, they hold great significance in Catholic spirituality and are widely practiced by believers.

The correct answer is "dukkha". Dukkha is a fundamental concept in Buddhism that refers to the inherent suffering and dissatisfaction in human existence. It encompasses the idea that life is filled with impermanence, unsatisfactoriness, and the inability to find lasting happiness. The Buddhist analysis of the human condition begins with recognizing and understanding dukkha as a universal experience, which then leads to the exploration of its causes and the path to liberation from suffering.

According to Jainism, the highest stage of life short of liberation is human birth. In Jain philosophy, human birth is considered to be a precious opportunity for spiritual growth and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It is believed that only in human form can one fully understand and practice the principles of non-violence, truthfulness, and self-control, which are essential for attaining liberation. Therefore, attaining human birth is seen as a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of a soul.

The Babylonian Talmud is considered to be the dominant version in Jewish theology and law because it was compiled and edited by the scholars of Babylonia, which was a major center of Jewish learning during the time of its composition. It contains the teachings and discussions of rabbis from both Babylonia and the Land of Israel, and is widely studied and revered by Jewish scholars and communities worldwide. The Roman, Jerusalem, and Assyrian Talmuds do not hold the same level of authority and prominence as the Babylonian Talmud.

The central concern of the new testament gospel writers is the suffering and death of Jesus. The gospels, including Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, all emphasize the events leading up to Jesus's crucifixion and his ultimate sacrifice for humanity. These texts highlight Jesus's suffering and the significance of his death as a central theme, portraying it as a pivotal moment in the salvation of mankind. Through the depiction of Jesus's suffering and death, the gospel writers aim to convey the message of redemption and the fulfillment of God's plan for humanity.

The correct answer is nyingma-pa. The Nyingma school is considered to be the oldest form of Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded in the 8th century by Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche. The Nyingma school emphasizes the importance of meditation and the direct experience of enlightenment. It is known for its teachings on Dzogchen, a practice that focuses on the innate nature of the mind. The Nyingma school also incorporates elements of Bon, the indigenous religion of Tibet.

The five daily prayers observed by Muslims include Zuhr, Maghrib, 'Asr, and 'Isha. However, 'Id prayer is not part of the five daily prayers. 'Id prayer is a special prayer performed on the day of 'Id, which is a festive celebration marking the end of Ramadan or the end of Hajj pilgrimage. It is not a regular daily prayer like the other four mentioned options.

Taoism today currently has about 20 million followers and is centered in Taiwan. Taiwan has a significant population of Taoist practitioners and is home to many Taoist temples and religious activities. The religion has a strong presence in Taiwanese culture and society, with Taoist rituals and traditions being widely practiced and celebrated. Therefore, it can be concluded that Taiwan is the center of Taoism today with a significant number of followers.

The most significant outside influence on Hinduism historically came from Britain. During the colonial period, British rule had a profound impact on Indian society, including Hinduism. The British introduced Western education, legal systems, and governance, which led to the spread of new ideas and the erosion of traditional Hindu practices. The British also played a role in the codification and standardization of Hindu law, as well as the promotion of English education, which brought about significant changes in Hindu society.

Tanakh is the correct answer because it is an acronym for the three major divisions of the Hebrew Bible. The "T" stands for Torah, which refers to the first five books of the Bible. The "N" stands for Nevi'im, which refers to the books of the prophets. The "K" stands for Ketuvim, which refers to the writings. Together, these three divisions make up the Tanakh, which is the Hebrew Bible.

The Kama Sutra is not one of Hinduism's darshana scriptures because it is a text that focuses on human sexuality and relationships, rather than philosophy or spiritual teachings. The darshana scriptures, such as the Brahma Sutra, Yoga Sutra, and Nyaya Sutra, are philosophical texts that explore different aspects of Hindu philosophy and provide guidelines for understanding the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth. The Kama Sutra, on the other hand, is a guide to the art of love and pleasure, discussing various sexual positions and techniques.

Hsun-tzu was the main proponent of ritualism in early Confucianism. He believed that rituals were essential for maintaining social order and harmony. Hsun-tzu emphasized the importance of strict adherence to rituals and believed that they could cultivate virtue and transform individuals. He argued that human nature was inherently selfish and that rituals were necessary to restrain and control these selfish tendencies. Hsun-tzu's ideas had a significant influence on Confucian thought and became an integral part of the Confucian tradition.

Krishna is considered the savior figure in Hinduism due to his role in the epic of Mahabharata. He is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is regarded as the preserver and protector of the universe. Krishna played a crucial role in guiding and supporting the Pandavas in their battle against the Kauravas, ultimately ensuring the victory of righteousness. Additionally, Krishna's teachings in the Bhagavad Gita, where he imparts wisdom and guidance to Arjuna, are highly revered by Hindus. Therefore, Krishna is widely recognized as the savior figure in Hindu religion.

Approximately 85% of Japan's population follows both Buddhism and Shinto. This suggests that the majority of the Japanese people practice a combination of these two religions, which are deeply rooted in the country's culture and history. Buddhism and Shinto have coexisted in Japan for centuries, with many individuals incorporating elements from both belief systems into their spiritual practices. This high percentage indicates the enduring influence and relevance of these religions in Japanese society.

Soto is a branch of Japanese Zen Buddhism that emphasizes the practice of zazen (seated meditation) as a means to achieve enlightenment. Unlike other branches, Soto does not focus on sudden enlightenment but rather views enlightenment as a gradual process that unfolds through continuous practice and deepening insight. This approach encourages practitioners to fully immerse themselves in the present moment and cultivate awareness without striving for any specific outcome. Soto Zen also places importance on everyday activities as opportunities for spiritual growth, promoting mindfulness and compassion in all aspects of life.

The nine doors and central dome of a house of worship in the Bahai faith symbolize the diversity and unity of humankind. This suggests that people from all walks of life and different backgrounds are welcome and can come together in harmony to worship. The design of the house of worship represents the belief in the importance of embracing diversity and recognizing the unity of all human beings, regardless of their differences. It emphasizes the idea that everyone is equal and should be treated with respect and acceptance.

Bodhidharma, an Indian monk who traveled to China in the sixth century C.E., is widely regarded as the founder of the Zen school of Buddhism. Zen Buddhism emphasizes direct experience and meditation as a means to attain enlightenment. Bodhidharma is credited with bringing the teachings of Zen to China and laying the foundation for its development. Zen has since become one of the most influential and popular schools of Buddhism worldwide.

The correct answer is "tipitaka". The Pali Canon, also known as the Tipitaka, is the earliest known Buddhist scripture. It is a collection of texts that contain the teachings of the Buddha and is considered the most authoritative scripture in Theravada Buddhism. The Pali Canon is divided into three parts: the Vinaya Pitaka (rules for monastic discipline), the Sutta Pitaka (discourses of the Buddha), and the Abhidhamma Pitaka (philosophical analysis and interpretation).

The most sacred part of the Hebrew Bible is embodied in the Pentateuch. The Pentateuch, also known as the Torah, is the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, namely Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These books are considered sacred and foundational to Judaism, as they contain the divine laws, teachings, and narratives that form the basis of Jewish religious and ethical traditions. The Pentateuch is highly revered and studied by Jewish scholars and practitioners, making it the most sacred part of the Hebrew Bible.

Coptic Christianity has not had a significant influence on the modern Baha'i religion. While Zoroastrianism, Babism, and Persian Shiite Islam have all played important roles in shaping the Baha'i faith, Coptic Christianity, which originated in Egypt, has not had a notable impact on its development. The Baha'i religion emerged in the mid-19th century in Persia (present-day Iran) and drew inspiration from various religious traditions, but Coptic Christianity is not one of them.

Traditional indigenous religions in Africa often believe in an omnipotent god whom people worship and ask for help. These religions view this god as the supreme being who holds immense power and is capable of assisting and guiding individuals. They believe that through worship and prayer, they can seek the aid and support of this god in various aspects of their lives. This understanding of the supernatural reflects the central role of this powerful deity in their religious practices and the belief in their ability to communicate and seek assistance from this divine entity.

Sabellianism is the correct answer because it refers to the belief held by some Christians in the second century that the three persons of the trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) are not distinct individuals but rather different modes or aspects of God. This belief is also known as modalism or monarchianism. Gnosticism, Niceaism, and anomoeanism are not the correct answers as they refer to different beliefs or movements within Christianity.

The Vedic religion emphasized order in nature and society, as well as worship of multiple gods and goddesses. Additionally, it placed emphasis on sacrifice. Therefore, the correct answer is II, III, and IV.

The cult of Mithras was Christianity's leading competitor in the Roman culture of the first three centuries C.E. It was an all-male religion that practiced baptism and honored the Persian god born on December 25th.

The correct answer is the I Ching because it is a sacred text that is revered and used in both Confucianism and Taoism. The I Ching, also known as the Book of Changes, is an ancient Chinese divination text that provides guidance and insight into various aspects of life. It is considered a foundational text in both Confucianism and Taoism, and its teachings and principles are highly valued and followed by practitioners of both religions.

The belief in polytheism is not common to all Baha'is. Baha'is believe in monotheism, which means they believe in the existence of only one God. Polytheism, on the other hand, is the belief in the existence of multiple gods. Baha'is emphasize the unity of God and the oneness of all religions, which is why polytheism is not a belief shared by all Baha'is.

In the third century BCE, a group of Jain monks known as Digambaras left northern India to escape a predicted famine. The Digambaras are one of the two major sects of Jainism, the other being Svetambaras. They believe in the practice of nudity as a symbol of renunciation and detachment from material possessions. This belief led them to leave their homes and wander naked in search of spiritual enlightenment. The Digambaras hold the belief that women cannot achieve liberation in their current birth, unlike the Svetambaras who believe in the spiritual potential of women.

The correct answer is kerygma. The kerygma refers to the early Christian proclamation about Jesus, which was primarily spread through oral communication. This means that for nearly four decades after Jesus' crucifixion, the message about him was transmitted verbally rather than through written texts or documents. This highlights the importance of oral tradition and the role it played in the early development and dissemination of Christian beliefs.