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Sacramental Theology, 2007.
This paper discusses the Catholic sacrament and looks at the practice of baptism.
1,766 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that one cannot expect to understand baptism without first understanding the sacraments and beliefs of Christianity in general. The writer also notes that it is important to have an understanding of Christianity itself in order to be aware of what the Book of Psalms really means for Christians. Further, the writer points out that it is sad that the teachings of Jesus stay mostly in the church, where everybody already knows what they are, instead of making their way out onto the street where not nearly enough people know them or try to make them work. The writer concludes that it is easy to be holy in church, but far harder to be holy out on the street where all of the aggravations and temptations take away from the truth of the sacraments and the beliefs of Christianity, and cause difficulties for many people.
From the Paper
"One cannot expect to understand Baptism, however, without first understanding the sacraments and beliefs of Christianity in general. The Book of Psalms has often been said to be the "book of evidences" to discuss and strengthen the Christian faith and the reasoning behind it. It still applies to Christianity today and can easily be used by a counselor or other individual in order to help those that are struggling with their faith because of the significance of much of what the Book of Psalms has to say regarding Jesus Christ and what He did for humanity (Lawler, 1996). This has much to do with why the sacraments are used in the ways that they are. It is important to have an understanding of Christianity itself in order to be aware of what the Book of Psalms really means for Christians. Christianity has many similarities to Judaism (Burr, 1961). In fact, the term 'Christian' was first used in Syria to find a name for an emerging religious movement that was made up of both Jews and Gentiles. These individuals worshipped the messiah, which was the title given to a Jewish teacher named Jesus of Nazareth. The Romans had executed Jesus as a political criminal in Judea."
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New Year in Japan and China, 2007.
This paper compares and contrasts the New Year holiday in Japan and China.
972 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that Japan and China are similar in a sense because they share some traditions, beliefs and cultures; yet they are dissimilar for the same reasons. The writer notes that if one looks at the present day celebration of the New Year in China and Japan, one may think that it is overly commercialized like the western traditions of Christmas and Easter. The writer maintains that if one examines it deeply, one sees that the religious facade is still there and most Japanese and Chinese will relate to a lot of religious traditions embedded in these festivities. The writer concludes that after all, most celebrations celebrated worldwide whether Christmas, Easter or the New Year would not have been in existence today without any real religious roots or traditions that signify their deep and true meanings.
From the Paper
"The New Year's festivities for one are one of the most important celebrations of the country embedded in deep traditions and rich culture. China follows both the Western New Year and the Lunar New Year but the latter is more important. Japan considers the Western New Year more important and holds big celebrations. Although religion is not a big part of the two countries New Year celebrations, some of the activities and beliefs have its roots on religious flavors."
"The earliest known history about the Chinese New Year had something to do with the legendary Nia."
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Hispanic Women and Religion, 2007.
This paper looks at the different ways in which religion plays a part in Hispanic society, particularly among the women.
943 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of Hispanic society and religion. Specifically, it discusses the various ways religion plays an active role in Hispanic society and the molding of women within the society. The writer notes that religion, specifically the Catholic religion, is a vital part for many in Hispanic society, and it has been for centuries. Further, the writer points out that religion plays an active role in Hispanic society by offering not only hope and faith for its members, but social opportunities for interaction, support, and comfort during times of need. The writer maintains that the Church plays a significant role in the fabric of Hispanic life, and without it, Hispanic society would crumble - they rely too much on the spiritual authority and guidance of the Church to help them through their daily lives. The writer concludes that they might take on another religion, but in their souls, most Hispanics will always hold the Catholic philosophy as their own to guide their way of life and their faith.
From the Paper
"First, it has been the religion of Latin America for centuries, since the Spanish Conquistadors first conquered Mexico in the late 1400s. Second, because the Church is organized on a parish system, the Church has locations throughout the Hispanic community neighborhoods, making it more accessible to the people in different Latino neighborhoods throughout larger communities. Puerto Rico is home to the oldest Catholic diocese in the New World, and today, there are nearly 3.5 million practicing Catholics in the country. Most homes contain a crucifix and other religious items, and religious festivals and observances are the backbone of culture and society in the country."
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Christianity vs. Roman Catholicism, 2007.
A comparison between Christianity and Roman Catholicism.
2,427 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the origins of biblical Christianity as well as that of the Roman Catholic religion. The paper further compares and contrasts these ideologies to reveal the primary differences between them.
From the Paper
"Perhaps one of the most vast differences between biblical Christianity and Roman Catholicism is the belief in Hell. Thessalonians 1:8-9 of the Bible states that "those who do not know God...will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his Power." Thus, Christianity does not mention Hell, but simply the absence of God's love, power, and presence. On the other hand, Roman Catholicism notes "immediately after death the souls of those who die in a state of mortal sin descend into hell, where they suffer eternal fire (Gendron, 1996, p. 1035). In this passage, Roman Catholicism notes a punishment of fire in a physical location. This vastly differs from the Christian view of punishment through the absence of God. This difference is substantial, in that Christian belief stems from the idea that the absence of God is the ultimate form of punishment. The Roman Catholic Church Doctrines clearly see this punishment as not enough, and translate the Word to include physical punishment as opposed to only spiritual punishment."
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Bacchic Rituals and Modern Manifestations, 2007.
A review of the legend of Dionysus and the Bacchic ritual.
4,615 words (approx. 18.5 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 119.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses and demonstrates the transitional phase in human development by discussing the history of the mythical legend of Dionysus, and the Bacchic ritual and its rich traditions. The paper then discusses modern manifestations of this ritual as the expression of the spiritual that modern people seek in ways that are not religiously motivated but still boast many of religion's facets.
Outline:
Introduction
Dionysus in the Ancient and Modern Expression
Bacchic Ritual Today
From the Paper
"The whole expression of the initial rejection of the Rock-n-Roll culture, music and lifestyle, not to mention its messages of rejection of the broader conservative culture is an example of the manner in which youth demonstrates revolutionary control over subsequent generations. The initial desire of the broader more conservative culture to suppress the movement, and all its expressions was met by heated rejection of conservatism. Many who look back on the beginnings of the movement express that all their fears were realized, through the very public expression of conflict and rage that became synonymous with Rock-n-Roll music and all of its accompanying events, which clearly reached it peak of possibility both good and bad during the Woodstock era. (Altschuler, 2003, p. 3) Yet, it is also clear that the music and the mentality it brought with it changed the face of society, and all that the older more conservative generations could do about it was warn the culture of its potential threats, just as those who drove the Bacchic ritual into the attic in earlier times did."
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The Historical Importance of Muhammad, 2007.
A discussion of the historical significance of Muhammad in the Muslim religion.
2,294 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper presents an in-depth examination of Muhammad from an Islamic perspective. In particular, the author focuses on Muhammad's role in the creation of the Holy Quran, his influence related to Muslim beliefs and practices and his role in the creation and dissemination of the Five Pillars of Islam, namely, faith, daily prayer, the giving of alms, fasting during the month of Ramadan and the pilgrimage to Mecca. The author describes Muhammad's first religious experience and how he spread this message to the masses. Additionally, the importance of the Islamic belief in one God is also emphasized along with other Muslim outlooks, such as the importance of family. The paper also gives a brief religious history of Islam, including many of the initial conflicts with the pagan religions of the Arabian peninsula. The author concludes that Muhammad was the"interpreter" of the Holy Quran and he transformed an entire culture from one of pagan traditions to the belief in one God.
From the Paper
"As a human being, Muhammad considered marriage and family as the foundation for all things related to man's existence on earth. When Muhammad was about twenty-five years old, he married a woman named Khadija who owned a trading caravan in which the young Muhammad was hired to assist with the daily activities related to the selling, bartering and trading of a wide range of goods from all over the Middle East. At the time of her marriage to Muhammad, Khadija was forty years old and possibly had children from an earlier marriage. As husband and wife, Muhammad and Khadija bore seven children. In 619 A.D., Khadija died from an unknown illness; soon after, Muhammad married for the second time. However, at this point in his life, ..."
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Zeus, 2007.
This paper examines the figure of Zeus, as the father of the gods.
1,852 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that it is not exactly clear how or when the ancient Greeks first began to worship Zeus as the supreme leader of the gods. The writer maintains that some scholars argue that the name of Zeus originated in specific Indo-European cultures some 5,000 years ago. Further, th writer points out that the names of numerous gods and goddesses have been found on what are known as Linear B tablets, names like Hera, the wife of Zeus, Poseidon, the ruler of the seas, and of course Zeus. Thus, the name of Zeus became the foundation of ancient Greek mythology. The writer concludes that Zeus was the "King of the Gods" and the ultimate symbol of the Greek Pantheon, a religious system still studied by scholars today.
From the Paper
"Zeus also played a major role in the position of women in ancient Greek society. Overall, marriage, procreation and family property were all under the control of men, while women remained under the guardianship of their fathers, brothers and those linked to the political arena of Greek society. Once again, the poet Hesiod helps us to understand this situation by relating the myth of the first woman named Pandora. According to this legend, Zeus, the King of the Gods, created Pandora as a punishment for men when Prometheus, a divine being and enemy of Zeus, stole fire from Zeus to give it to the human friends of Prometheus."
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Sun Tzu's "The Art of War", 2007.
A discussion of the Taoist influences in Sun Tzu's "The Art of War."
1,632 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the religious and spiritual roots of Chinese Taoism found in the military treatise "The Art of War." The paper explains the basic tenets of Taoism and Sun Tzu's connection to the religion. The reviewer also addresses the book's paradox that Taoism is a peaceful religion, yet the work is about war. The reviewer states that traditional Taoist concepts emerge from discussions of battle tactics and troop movements. The paper also discusses Taoist views on duality such as the ying-yang and the art of wu wei. The paper concludes by stating that although Taoism is traditionally viewed as a peaceful religion, it recognizes that life involves conflict, but that the wise man can mediate this conflict and control it so that it is least destructive and most productive.
From the Paper
"Basically, Taoism is an ancient Chinese spiritual tradition that can be roughly translated as "the way of life." It provides loose proscriptions for how individuals can live in harmony with their surroundings and with their fellow man. But like any good philosophy, Taoism contains a few key tenets that are common throughout all of the writings on the subject. Chief among these include the idea that one should remain immovable and allow events to flow over and around oneself, that one should try to balance the opposite but complementary forces of the universe (yin and yang), and the art of "wu wei," which can be roughly translated as action through inaction or accomplishing goals through the least effort (Wilson). At its heart, Taoism recognizes that there is conflict inherent in life, that the competition for limited resources will inevitably lead to conflicts, but that this conflict naturally takes the form of a universal balance that human beings can imitate in their own endeavors (Cantrell 13). This realization is the point on which Sun Tzu is able to use Taoist philosophy to describe warfare. In other words, he uses the notion that conflict can be balanced and harmonious in dictating the way in which wars can best be fought."
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The Nature of God, 2007.
A discussion on the nature of God from differing religious and philosophical perspectives.
1,219 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This essay considers the Western perception of a Divine Creator, from both a religious and philosophical outlook. The paper first examines God from a Christian viewpoint, stating the requirements of a believer and the characteristics of God. Next, the essay analyzes several Western philosophers' concepts of God, including those of Friedrich Nietzsche, David Hume, Albert Einstein, Bertrand Russell, and many other post-relativity scientific philosophers like Stephen Hawking. The author then discusses the difficulties Western individuals may have with the cultural definition of God. The paper concludes, however, citing the benefits of belief in a creator.
From the Paper
"Very generally, Christian religions require unquestioned loyalty to an eternal, loving, and just God, who is fundamentally of Good "character." The Christian God rewards good behavior and also punishes for sinful human conduct. God rewards (and punishes) both in life as well as in the afterlife. Many believe that God appreciates (indeed, demands) our personal allegiance even more than our good conduct toward our human contemporaries, and that, unlike the former, our shortcomings with respect to the latter are unforgivable. According to Christian religious beliefs, God forgives all earthly sins of those who believe in him and rewards them with eternal life in Heaven after death. Conversely, no good deed on earth is sufficient to avoid eternal damnation in Hell for those who do not accept God, Christ, and the Holy Ghost."
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The Image of Lilith, 2007.
This paper discusses Lilith as the first woman and a symbol of independence.
1,323 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer notes that there are many women who might be admired in history, but there is one independent woman who seems to have accomplished a lot and who has been in existence since the beginning of recorded time. The writer explains that Lilith, supposedly of Hebrew mythology, but also found in other ancient myths predating Hebraic literature, is a woman of distinctive and admirable characteristics. The writer maintains that today, women praise her and write books about independent women, as Lilith becomes the patroness of strong and influential women who are becoming leaders and figureheads. The writer concludes that women's fight against the wage gap, discrimination against women in political parties and the recent endorsement by NOW of Hillary Clinton to become President may be the result of this image of the independent woman becoming more accepted, more real and legitimate.
From the Paper
"The body that God created was divided into two, the male and the female, becoming separate beings. Later on, Eve was created. The first female, however, according to the Midrash, was Lilith, who refused to submit to Adam, as she was his equal. When Adam demanded that she submit, she fled from him, leaving Adam alone. When Adam complained to God that he was lonely, God created Eve. Thus begins a history of Lilith fleeing the dominant male."
"In the Midrash, after the "Fall," and expulsion from Eden, Adam reunited with Lilith and she bore him several children before he returned to Eve. In the Midrash, the children Lilith bore Adam became demons and she became the Queen of the Demons. In other stories she remained childless and unpartnered, either with a husband or remained with Adam."
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Greek and Roman Thoughts and Culture, 2007.
A look at how Greek and Roman thought and culture has impacted Western civilization.
1,953 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the contributions made by the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome to Western thought and culture. According to the paper, these contributions are many, especially in the areas of art, literature, architecture, politics, government, science and religion.
From the Paper
"During the Enlightenment (the eighteenth century), theorists such as John Locke and Adam Smith in Great Britain, Rousseau in France and Jefferson in America, championed "natural law" passed down from the time of the Greeks and Romans by the perpetuation of Roman law and the rediscovery of Greek philosophical writings during the Renaissance. But the interpretation of those laws became the subject of major disagreement. During the sixteenth century, Machiavelli had put state over citizen and Jean Bodin had defended the divine right of monarchs. But in the seventeenth century Hugo Grotius proposed a system of international law based on reason (nature), profoundly influencing two British thinkers, Thomas Hobbes and John Locke. The refinement of "natural law" and the discourses on how one is to define it ultimately influenced the philosophy of the "Founding Fathers" in the United States as well as the ideals of the French revolutionaries."
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Jews in the Middle Ages, 2007.
This paper analyzes the book "Under Crescent and Cross: The Jews in the Middle Ages" by Mark R. Cohen.
1,289 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
The paper relates how throughout their long history, the Jewish people have often been the object of persecution and prejudice. The paper looks at how Cohen's book, "Under Crescent and Cross: The Jews in the Middle Ages", maintains that during the Middle Ages, Jews living in the Arab world were more tolerated and less persecuted than those living in the Christian world. The paper shows how Cohen proves his thesis with historical research and solid arguments, discussing his historical findings. The paper discusses the significance of this work in the field of Jewish studies.
From the Paper
"The author begins by "debunking" several myths on both sides of the debate, so he can level the playing field. He indicates there were misunderstanding and misinterpretations on both sides of the debate, and that Jews and Arabs have both helped perpetuate some of these misinterpretations. He then begins to compare life in the Christian world opposed to that in the Islamic world, and begin to sort out the information regarding Jews in both worlds. For example, he notes that in the Christian world in the Middle Ages, most Jews lived under the mantle of serfdom that decreed who they worked for, where they lived, while Jews in the Arab world did not serve and serfs, and could choose to live wherever they wanted (Cohen 46). Thus, Jews in the Arab world had better living arrangements, and were better off in that regard."
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