Definitions and Origins of Christianity, Part 3

Question 1: Briefly explain the major theories regarding the origin of religion.

Answer 1: The animistic theory: Edward Burnett Tyler, a nineteenth century anthropologist, believed that early man’s exposure to dreams death led him to believe in the existence of another, spiritual, world. This belief led to the worship of dead ancestors as well as a belief in animism.The nature-worship theory: Max Müller, a nineteenth century thinker, believed that primitive people, aware of the regular nature of some aspects of nature (for instance, the four seasons), attributed personal qualities to these aspects of nature, a mythology that later evolved into religious belief.The magic theory: Sir James George Frazer, observing the Scientific Revolution, declared that religion evolved from the use of magic in an attempt to control nature directly (for instance, rain dances), and that eventually humans began to ask the gods to intervene in nature rather than trying to control it themselves. Once humans began to rely on scientific reason to control nature, Frazer argued, religion would die away.

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Question 2: Describe in general terms the major differences between Eastern and Western religions.

Answer 2: In general terms, there are some major differences between Eastern and Western religions, though there are notable exceptions within each grouping.Western religions are characterized by:A linear view of time (time has a beginning and an end and progresses in one direction only)Monotheism (a worship of a single god)A defined role for humans (they should worship and serve God)Humans bear similarities to god (created “in God’s image”)-Humans are superior to nature and their relationship to it is one of stewardship or “dominion”-Exclusivity (to be a Christian, for instance, means not being a member of any other religion)Eastern religions are characterized by:A cyclical view of time, often incorporating beliefs in reincarnationThe role of humans is not limited to the service of GodHumans are interconnected with nature rather than apart from itInclusivity (one’s own religion is not necessarily viewed as the only means to the divine)

Question 3: Define creation story and provide notable examples from various religions.

Answer 3: A creation story is the founding myth of a religion. Through creation stories, religious practitioners tell themselves how the world came into being.Judaism, Christianity, Islam—God created the heavens and the earth. Then God created all creatures and an original couple (Adam and Eve), who lived in an earthly paradise. Hinduism–All creation comes from the word aum.Jainism—The universe was not created and cannot be destroyed, but changes continually in a fixed series of cycles.Taoism—All creation comes from the Way, which led to the Unity, which then divided to create all creatures and things. Mayan religion—The prehistorical world consisted of water. Creator gods made the world in three stages: first land, then animals and plants, then humans (three attempts, from mud, then wood, and finally from maize).Australian Aboriginal religion—In the Dreamtime, a time that predates earthly time, totemic ancestors made the Creation.

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