Religions, Beliefs, and Social Structures in the World

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to various religions, beliefs, and social structures discussed in the lecture.

Religion

A system of worship involving beliefs, rituals, and practices, which may be personal or institutional.

Sinocentrism

The belief that China is the center of the world and influences surrounding nations culturally and politically.

Mandate of Heaven

A traditional Chinese philosophical concept that grants emperors the right to rule based on their ability to govern well and fairly.

Devaraja

A belief in the divine origin of kings in India, linking royal authority to the gods.

Cakravan

A universal monarch in ancient Indian thought, possessing the divine right to rule over the entire world.

Kowtow

A former Chinese custom of deep respect shown by kneeling and bowing so low as to have one's head touching the ground.

Son of Heaven

Title used to describe the emperor in China, emphasizing their divine authority and connection to heaven.

Ahura Mazda

The supreme god in Zoroastrianism, representing all that is good.

Islam

A monotheistic Abrahamic religion that follows the teachings of the prophet Muhammad as revealed in the Quran.

Five Pillars of Islam

The foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice, including belief in one God, prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage to Mecca.

Hinduism

An ancient Indian religion characterized by belief in many gods, the caste system, and the concept of dharma.

Buddhism

A religion and philosophy based on the teachings of the Buddha, emphasizing the path to enlightenment and the overcoming of suffering.

Castes

Social divisions in Hindu society that dictate the roles and responsibilities of individuals.

Jati

A subcategory of the caste system in India, defining specific social groups based on profession and family lineage.

Animism

A belief system that attributes spiritual essence to animals, plants, and other elements of nature.

Shamanism

A practice that involves a shaman acting as a mediator between the physical and spiritual world to heal and communicate with spirits.

Judaism

One of the oldest monotheistic religions, rooted in the covenant made between God and the Hebrews, led by figures like Abraham.

Christianity

A monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing salvation and the New Testament.

Zoroastrianism

One of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, based on the teachings of the prophet Zarathustra.