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Imam al-Shafi'i, 2008.
Discuses the influence of Imam al-Shafi'i on Islamic jurisprudence.
1,595 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the role of Imam al-Shafi'i, one of the earliest architects of Islamic jurisprudence, is visible in Islamic law even today. Not only did he interpret the Hadith but also, more significantly, he was able to gather, maintain and sustain a following of supporters for his interpretation of Islamic jurisprudence. The paper relate the importance of the Hadith, which is the biographical collection of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, and the process of Islamic jurisprudence.
From the Paper
"It is important to the doctrine of Islam that the religion be inextricably woven into the fabric of Muslim life. Unlike Judaism and Christianity, there is no separation between civil and religious life, public or private life and religious life. In order for Islam to successfully achieve its goals in the life of Muslims, it must be woven into the fabric of every aspect of Muslim life, especially the legal and court system. Of course the issue of how to incorporate the faith based doctrine into law must have been a question asked by those who followed the Prophet Muhammad early on in the Islamic tradition."
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Stalin's Anti-Semitism, 2008.
An exploration of Stalin's covert and overt hatred of the Jews throughout his rule.
1,893 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
The paper explores why Stalin hated the Jews during his rule and shows how his anti-semitism was a reflection of his overall scheme to remake a homogenous Russia. The paper discusses how there were extreme shifts in Stalin's policy with regard to anti-Semitism, but his overall actions were based upon political and ideological needs specific to the context. The paper explains that his particular fear of Jews was as a result of their success in the world, just as it was feared by most of the Western world and played out in many examples of anti-Semitic policy.
From the Paper
"The era of Stalin's dominance in Russia is often marked with covert actions, as many of his actions were guised in secrecy, yet many years of open regard for the history of his bloody reign have offered many ideas about the nature of his political thought as it played out upon the population of Russia and in particular Russian nationalism. One issue that has been regarded as particularly interesting is the depletion of Russian Jews and their organizations, which in retrospect demonstrates a similar character to that of the Nazi genocide of the Jews during WWII."
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Mythology, 2008.
An examination of areas of mythology related to Atonism, Zarathustrism and Judaism.
1,302 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses mythology, particularly the major areas of mythology that have influenced the development of the collective mythological heritage - the concepts of Atonism, Zarathustrism and Judaism. The paper describes examples from these areas of mythology to understand their role in explaining or interpreting natural events as they pertain to nature, the universe and humanity in general.
From the Paper
"Historically, many scholars view this hymn as one of the earliest known examples of monotheistic mythology. In fact, the Pharaoh's thoughts were eventually found heretical by his own people and were quickly reverted to the more traditional polytheism of Egyptian mythology. However, this fact of both monotheism and atonement found in this hymn serve as an example of how mythology is passed on, as many scholoars argue that this hymn is an indication that Egyptians were the original source of Judaism and thus, the Judeo-Christian tradition."
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'Economy of Grace', 2008.
This paper discusses the book 'Economy of Grace' by Kathryn Tanner, looking at the connection drawn between God and economics.
1,516 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that in 'Economy of Grace', Kathryn Tanner approaches the fiscal side of Christianity. The writer discusses that Tanner begins by asserting that there is a unique relationship between economics and Christianity, primarily because a Christian is compelled to incorporate faith into daily life. The writer looks at examples in the work used to demonstrate why God should be a part of economics. The writer then points out that Tanner explains that the economy is missing an essential element when God does not play a role in it. The writer concludes that although it seems unlikely that the world will ever wholly embrace a theological economy, there are some promising signs that indicate that capitalism has been influenced by the principals of a theological economy.
From the Paper
"In other words, a theological economy is a win-win economy, where none of the participants are expected to act to their own detriment, but where they are also expected to consider more than personal bottom-line when engaging in economic transactions. The result is an economy that is unlike capitalism, because it is non-competitive, but also unlike communism, because it allows for personal property ownership and permits monetary success as a religious goal.
"Next, Tanner compares and contrasts her idea of a theological economy with traditional capitalism. To do so, she acknowledges that her interpretations of Christianity and how those interpretations have shaped her concept of a theological economy are not the only interpretations of Christianity."
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Religious Fundamentalism, 2008.
This paper refers to the works of Karen Armstrong, Mark Juergensmeyer and Malise Ruthven on the issue of holy wars and crusades.
1,635 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
The paper examines Karen Armstrong's "Holy War", Mark Juergensmeyer's "Terror in the Mind of God" and Malise Ruthven's "Fundamentalism: The Search for Meaning". The paper discusses Armstrong's theory that fundamentalist religion is essentially a response to and a product of modern culture, Juergensmeyer's belief that cultures of violence, and not the religion itself, cause terrorism within fundamental believers and Ruthven's explanation of fundamentalism. The paper shows how the three authors each offer important insight into understanding both the history and current status of religious fundamentalism.
From the Paper
"In Holy War: Armstrong argues that it was the historic crusades against the Byzantine empire overrun by Muslim Turks by the Christian warriors summoned by Pope Urban II. During this period, the Christian fundamentalist took up the cross and the sword against the Turks with the sole purpose of recovering the holy city of Jerusalem from Islam. It is this initial battle that is still today raging, as the sides of Christians, Jews and Muslims continue to fight against the modern holder of the holy lands, whether the ownership be actual or theoretical."
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Navajo and European Witchcraft, 2008.
A comparison of the background and characteristics of Navajo and European witchcraft.
1,283 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper explores some of the similarities and differences between Navajo and European witchcraft. It discusses the background of each form of witchcraft and includes a discussion of the different cultures and geographical locations that influence the practice of witchcraft. It also looks at the characteristics of each form of witchcraft and how they differ.
Table of Contents:
Navajo Background
Navajo Traditions in Witchcraft
European Witchcraft
The Similarities and Differences Between Navajo and European Witchcraft
From the Paper
"First, the Navajo by way of their Asian traditions from an ancient time, pursued stories of creation and the end of life, and compensated for those things which they did not understand or which mystified them with stories, prayers, and rituals. To the extent that they could not fully understand or explain something, they turned to shamans, or holy men, to explain those things for them; or, by way of ritual and prayer, to protect The People from them unknowns which might harm or adversely impact their lives. This is found to be much the same in the European tradition, as Europeans, like the Navajo, have traditions and rituals that were rooted in pagan eras and addressed those things about the world and universe that could not be explained or understood by the majority of the people."
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Genesis and Incest, 2008.
This paper looks at the subject of incest while comparing and contrasting Genesis 12 and Genesis 20.
1,762 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper compares how Genesis 12 and Genesis 20 treat the subject of incest. The writer notes that one of the most taboo topics, even in our own society, is the question of what constitutes incest. The writer then relates that in Genesis, this topic is addressed not once, but twice, in Genesis 12 and Genesis 20. These incidents in the life of the patriarch Abraham (Abram) and his wife Sarah (Sarai) are, like other significant episodes in the first book of the Pentateuch, told and retold, virtually right after one another in ways that are similar but with some critical differences in plot and tone. The writer maintains that these two different versions of the same incident of the life of Abraham and Sarah are used to shed new light upon the meaning of the same anecdote. The writer concludes that although it has the same plot of the sister-as-wife, Genesis 12 is more interested in showing how God will intervene to protect Abraham on earth, and to show this is a demonstration of God's plan for Abraham to be a father of Israel. Further, the writer maintains that textual resonances with the later Mosaic covenant take predominance over character development, or even explaining basic details of the plot, like how Pharaoh understands the relationship between the husband and wife.
From the Paper
"Abraham believes that as a woman, Sarah's life (still Sarai) will be protected although very likely she will be violated, if the two of them are known to be married. He fears his own life will be at risk. But if the two are taken to be unmarried strangers, the Egyptians will be less hostile to them as foreigners. He anticipates her resistance to this idea (as it may still put her chastity in danger) but begs her to do so, so his soul might live. Abraham seems to make a plea that this is a God-fearing thing to do by invoking the soul, rather than merely asking his wife to engage in a potentially immoral deception to save his life.
"Interestingly, in both versions of the incidents, Abraham is not blamed for his deception by either his wife, the man he deceives, or the Lord, even though it places Sarai's life at risk, not his own."
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Psychology and Christianity, 2008.
A reflection on David N. Entwistle's book, "An Integrative Approach to Psychology and Christianity".
1,365 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses David N. Entwistle's book, "An Integrative Approach to Psychology and Christianity" and explains Entwistle's contention that pastoral counselors are placed in a bind because psychology is an analytic discipline that sprang from science and is thus seen as incompatible with faith and Christianity. The writer then offers a personal and critical reflection of Entwistle's contention as well as a personal action plan for bridging the divide between science and religion.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Personal Reflection
Critical Reflection
Action
From the Paper
"I believe it is because religion has been constructed by our culture as intolerant, or as hostile to thought, that people in my age group tend to reject the concept of faith. The ideas and concepts of both religion and psychology can be used for negative purposes, but that does not mean that the disciplines themselves are bad. Psychology and science must stop trying to shut religion and faith out, especially as people articulate the need for a more meaningful life than current cultural circumstances offer them."
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Zen Buddhism, 2008.
An examination of the characteristics and practices of Zen Buddhism.
2,278 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Zen Buddhism. It describes the background of Zen Buddhism, its practices and the significance of its rituals. The paper discusses facts and historical proof of Zen Buddhism that is spread around the world and presents evidence of significant personalities. The paper briefly looks at how Zen Buddhism differs from other religions that are found today.
Table of Contents:
Background Information
Characteristics
Practices
Rituals
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The Zen Buddhism could be described as personal enlightenment, the individual's advance through knowledge and meditation. There are some clear differences as compared to other religions and beliefs, since the Zen Buddhism does not imply the idea of divinity. It is up to the individual to evolve both from the cultural and spiritual points of view. By bonding with a teacher, the disciple learns to meditate, conduct a proper life - in accordance with the morality, kindness and openness principles. In time, the disciple will become a teacher himself, and in this way the cultural and spiritual heritage will be transmitted. A trend observed in the present days is that the Zen belief captures new followers even from the Western societies, meaning that people are able to cross over structural differences and get to the hidden and profound fundament."
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The "First Epistle of John", 2008.
An examination of the content and presentation of the "First Epistle of John."
984 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the "First Epistle of John" and describes how it is different from many of the Epistles, which take the form of letters. The paper describes the structure and content of the Epistle and discusses the effect of the way that it was presented to the people. The paper also describes the message from John to his followers that he gave in the sermon that is the first Epistle.
From the Paper
"The First Epistle of John is unlike many of the Epistles, which take the form of letters. John's first epistle instead takes the form of a sermon, a set of reminders to followers and the curious of the nature of their needed devotion and the clarity of their place in the world of the Lord, if they chose to live by his laws, as well as repent those sins which they are unable to avoid through devoted actions. The Epistle describes the manner in which a believer should live his or her life with a fervent spirit of the writer, building upon his own love for the word and the love of the lord. The work is comprehensive in that it develops almost an outline of the needed actions of the follower. According to Blaney in the Wesley Notes on New Testament "no other book of the bible treats so many doctrines so completely and so well." (Blaney 343)"
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Emperor Worship, 2008.
An examination of the history of emperor worship in Rome and how their rituals changed over time.
3,756 words (approx. 15.0 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 103.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the historical worship of emperors in Roman culture. It describes the background to their worship of emperors and provides examples of some of the Roman emperors who were worshiped. The paper then follows the trend through history and describes how rituals changed over time. The paper also looks at why emperor worship was so popular.
From the Paper
"The god Apollo was identified with the sun. Hence, the sun, which shines over all of the earth, was perceived to symbolize both the universal king and the central authority. The sun, also called Sol, was believed to ascend in importance with the sky god and even outshone him under certain leaderships. This identification of a ruler with the sun existed in other ancient cultures around the world, such as in Mexico and Bengal. The sun symbol also appeared in Ptolemy's records as it did with the zodiac sign of Leo and the month of August. The symbol was a sign of the projection of ego power, such as Augustus'."
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The Jewish Community within the USA, 2008.
This paper discusses the three waves of Jewiss immigrants to the U.S.A. and looks at the Jewish community as one of the strongest and most important ethnic-religious communities in America.
1,767 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that understanding America is directly linked to understanding its mosaic of ethnic, religious and racial groups living and working together. The writer discusses that one of the most important groups is the Jewish community, which has made enormous contributions to the development and evolution of America. The writer looks at the three separate waves of Jewish immigrants to the U.S.A. and studies the modern Jewish community in the U.S.A. The writer concludes that the particularity of the Jewish community is the result of the interaction between the informal environment, i.e. family, and the formal, i.e. the rabbi and synagogue, as well as the community's tie to Israel, and its educational, political and social values.
From the Paper
"However, in order to be able to provide a pertinent answer, one must begin with the conclusion, i.e. that Jewish history, is, similarly to American history itself, a succession of waves of migration. Each of these three waves of immigrants came to America in different periods, established in different regions of the country and was contributed to the profile of American Jewry in its own way. The first wave of immigrants was made up of Sephardic merchants who came from Brazil and settled in New Amsterdam; other immigrants from Spain and Portugal followed towards the middle of the seventeenth century and settled in Newport, New Amsterdam, Philadelphia, Georgia and South Carolina. The second wave of settlers consisted of German Jews who came to America in the 1840s in search of economic and social opportunity. They left Germany because of persecution and the failure of their reform movements. The final wave lasted from the 1880s to 1924 and consisted of Eastern European Jews emigrating from Russia, Austria-Hungary and Romania."
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Heinrich Heine and the German Language, 2008.
This paper looks at the foundations of literary German, through a study of Heinrich Heine's work "Religion and Philosophy".
1,267 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 2 sources, APA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
Considering Heinrich Heine's work "Religion and Philosophy", this paper shows that Luther unleashed not only a true religious revolution in Germany, but that this was corroborated with and triggered in itself a literary revolution. The writer discusses Heine's belief that the new religion that Luther promoted in Germany had one substantial literary characteristic: it was German and in German, which meant that the Bible and service needed to be in German. The writer maintains that this was perhaps the foremost contribution Luther made to German literature and literary language, marking the beginning of literary manifestations in German language. The writer concludes that Heine's constant references throughout his book to the importance of Luther as a literary revolutionary show that the impact of his revolution by far left the simple sphere of politics or religion and laid the foundations of literary German.
From the Paper
"Undoubtedly, Luther's religious revolution had enough force so as to propagate itself as a literary revolution as well. This was done in several ways, first of all by simply creating the use of German language as a mean of communication. In the 16th century, this is of utmost importance, as it subsequently gave way to the birth of the German nation in its respective European territory.
"However, even more than that, Luther actually produced literature, with his poems and songs and was a generous source of inspiration for his own contemporaries, but also for the German poets to come. It is no wonder that Heine, one of the greatest German poets of all, recognizes Luther as one of his own important predecessors and advices all writers that his language and the words he has introduced are there to stay and need to be used, as rejuvenating as they are."
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Judaism and Roman Catholicism Comparison, 2008.
This paper compares and contrasts the Jewish and Roman Catholic religions.
2,159 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer first provides an overview of Judaism and Roman Catholicism. The writer then presents a comparison of the two religions. The writer looks at Jewish and Roman Catholic beliefs in particular regarding God and Jesus Christ. The writer concludes that Judaism and Roman Catholicism have roots in the same culture and religious history that emerged in the Middle East. Both religions are monotheistic and believe ostensibly in the same God. Both religions share the same Old Testament books of the Bible. The writer maintains however, that in the history of both religions there have been important divergences from these common roots.
Outline:
Introduction: Brief Overview of Judaism and Roman Catholicism
Comparison
The Understanding of God
The Relevance of Jesus Christ
Original Sin
Heaven and Hell
Conclusion
From the Paper
" In other words, sin from the Roman Catholic perspective is the measure of the distance from God or righteousness and this original sin is rectified by the intervention of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. In contrast, Judaism does not recognize the validity or the concept of original sin. In contrast to the Christian view of salvation, the Jewish view is that the individual is not born intrinsically good or bad. The focus in Judaism is on the moral will, which can overcome evil and temptation in the individual. There is a greater emphasis in Judaism on individual action and personal moral perception, compared to the more deterministic view of original sin in Catholicism. "
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Parable of the Good Samaritan, 2008.
This paper discusses and analyzes the text of the parable of the good Samaritan from the New Testament.
1,964 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that the parable of the good Samaritan is one of the most familiar in the New Testament. It tells the story of a man who is harmed by robbers. The writer explains that two men pass him by, but the third stops and goes out of his way to help this stranger. The writer maintains that the parable of the good Samaritan teaches us that we are all the same. It teaches that differences are only skin deep and that we all must depend on our brethren for survival. The writer also explains that, in this parable, Jesus makes an obvious insult to the Pharisees and Levites, who felt more highly of their piousness than of their fellow man. The writer concludes that this parable is an excellent example of the type of actions that could end all conflict. The body of the paper includes a version of the text discussed.
Outline:
Historical Context
Literary Context
Structure
Grammatical Data
Biblical Content
Theological Importance
Application
From the Paper
"The most important note on historical context is that Jesus was speaking to the Jews in the passage. The Samaritans and Jews were enemies who despised each other. The tale, as told in the context of the audience had a hidden significance in the ideal of non-discrimination. In this story, a racist was helped by another racist. Through this act, they were brought together for the common good of all. This element is often lost in the retelling of the story because the significance of racial tensions between the groups is not known to modern audiences.
"The key element that is important to a clear understanding of the text is the social setting in which the parable is told. There are racial tensions between the groups sitting in the audience. The essential essence of the parable lies within the conflict between the different groups in the audience."
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Opportunity In Colonial America, 2008.
A review of the evolution of religious tolerance in colonial America.
833 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper traces the evolution of religious tolerance in American beginning with colonial America and continuing up until the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The paper looks at how, even though religious autonomy was the primary influence that sparked the first settlers to leave England and establish colonies in the New World, some of these same settlers and their colonies immediately emulated the very principle responsible for their persecution in Europe, by establishing mandatory churches in the new colonies. The paper also looks at how, ultimately, many of the opportunities available only to some during the early colonial period only started to become equally available to all after the Civil War and, in the case of true equality for everyone, these rights weren't guaranteed until the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.
From the Paper
"Maryland was the first colony to recognize absolute religious freedom after originally being established by the son of George Calvert, a Catholic convert in England who had remained close to the Royal family, nevertheless. His son, Lord Baltimore intended Maryland as a refuge for Catholics, but refrained from imposing any religious affiliation and welcomed Protestants as well.Shortly before the end of the seventeenth century, the English King had decided to combine the two colonies known as the Plymouth Colony, (consisting of the first descendents of the original Settlers), and the Massachusetts Bay Colony, (consisting of the first descendants of the Puritans), into a single colony to be named Massachusetts. "
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Women and Wisdom in the Old Testament, 2008.
A study of some cases in the Old Testament where women are associated with divine wisdom and understanding.
2,531 words (approx. 10.1 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 76.95
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Abstract
This paper investigates the exact type of wisdom that was granted to certain women in the Bible, and how they achieved important things through their wisdom. The writer discusses how Michal, through her wisdom, saves the life of her husband David and how Israel is saved from the Moabites through the wisdom and actions of Deborah and Jael. The writer also relates that the two unnamed wise women in the second book of Samuel who persuade the leaders of enemy armies not to attack Israel by quoting old proverbs may point to the existence of an actual class of wise women in ancient Israelite society. Finally, the writer points out that the fact that wisdom is personified as a woman in the book of Proverbs throws some light on the other references to wisdom and women in the Old Testament, as it shows that women were associated with a high spiritual power, an attribute of God himself.
From the Paper
"Deborah acts here as a divine prophetess who is advised in her actions by God himself, and Jael as the instrument through which these actions are completed. The fact that they both are women is significant in more ways than one: first of all, this points to the complete triumph of the people of Israel, and implicitly of their God and religion over the Moabites and their gods. The morale of the narrative is obviously that the strength of Israel comes from their spirituality, and this is why they are apt to vanquish their enemies without using force or weapons. Women, who are not usually associated with physical strength or with warring skills act here as the perfect instrument for the delivery of Israel: they indicate the spiritual, religious force of Israel that makes it triumph over the other peoples of the Earth."
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Divisions of Buddhism and Judaism, 2008.
A discussion of the transformations that have been seen in Buddhism and Judaism between the conservative and liberal sects of the religions.
2,460 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how, within Buddhism and Judaism, both religions have gone through a series of transformations, most importantly a division between more the conservative and liberal sects. It discusses the history of the transformations and then shows how these divisions are still prominent in the practice of both religions even today.
From the Paper
"A more liberal Reform Judaism came about in the 1840's through ideas influenced by the liberalization of much of the Western world. The origins of Reform Judaism began in German synagogues which proposed a modernizing of temple worship. Much of the extensive Sabbath ceremony was reduced and translated into various native languages rather than Hebrew., along with the removal of "References to the coming of Messiah, the Resurrection of the dead, or the reestablishment of Jewish nationality and the sacrificial rites of ancient Palestine," (445). They believe that Judaism is constantly changing, and unlike their Orthodox counterparts, the Torah needed to be adapted to modern living."
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Jemaah Islamiyah, 2008.
An in-depth review of the Jemaah Islamiyah Southeast Asian terrorist group.
4,091 words (approx. 16.4 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 110.95
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Abstract
The paper describes the Jemaah Islamiyah organization and their goal of creating an Islamic state in Southeast Asia. The paper discusses this terrorist group's origins, creation, current status, financing and ideology. The paper also shows how the organization's underground activities, the close international cooperation with so many other groups around the world, and the financing make it impossible for the organization to be terminated. The paper asserts that we can only closely monitor the organization and prevent other terrorist attacks that they are most likely planning.
From the Paper
"The main goal of the organization is of creating an Islamic state in Southeast Asia. Considering that Southeast Asia has the largest Muslim population in the world, it is no news that extremist Muslim organizations operate in the area. Jemaah Islamiyah is the strongest and most dangerous terrorist organization in the region particularly because of the great number of people that believe in the cause of the organization. The dimension of its attacks shows that Jemaah Islamiyah is an organization that is truly committed to its goals and that it should be dealt with in the most serious manner."
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