SOR - Nature of Religion, Aboriginal Spirituality

What does religion translate to

to bind or tie back - people bound together by common beliefs and united together in fear of supernatural forces

What is a worldview

The overall perspective from which one sees and interprets the world

How is religion a worldview

A system of understanding that gives a sense of order or meaning. it acknowledges the supernatural dimension beyond the measurable world and beleives in a diving being/beings beyond the human or dwells within the individual.

Transcendent dimension

Beyond human existence

How does religion give meaning

Provides comfort, reasons for life after death, explanation of key human questions, community of like-minded people, support for social issues and beliefs and ethics

Supernatural dimension/ Transcendent

'above nature' - a force that exists beyond the natural world and is not easily defined by humanity e.g. Islam, Judaism

Immanent Worldview

To exist or dwell within humanity and nature. Emphasies the presence of Gods/deties within human existence that have an active and continuing presence among beleivers in the world.

Examples of immanent worldview religions

Buddhism and Hinduism

Is Christianity transcendent or immanent

Trick question; it is the only religion that is both

What are the 4 characteristics of religion

Beliefs and beleivers, sacred texts and writings, ethics and rituals and ceremonies.

What are beleifs and beleivers

The key tenets, doctrines or values which underpin the religious practice of a particular religion for the believers.

Sacred texts and writings

Contain the most important beliefs of a religion are contained in its sacred texts. Usually these beliefs were in oral circulation before they were written down. Contain and explain sacred stories, explain how people are connected to the supernatural dimension.

Ethics

The reasoning behind moral decision-making. Laws that embody the key doctrinal tenets of a religion, allow for practical application of religious beliefs.

Rituals and ceremonies

Practical expressions of aspects of a religion. Involve prescribed words, actions and symbols that reflect the sacred dimension. Lead to a greater understanding of the ultimate reality.

What does it mean for a religion to be living and dynamic

Living and dynamic religions have energy, new ideas and achievements. They are practical, real and immersed in everyday culture and human existence.

How do the characteristics of religion create a living, dynamic religion

Religions should revitalise the 4 characteristics of religion. This guides the community into the future. When they all interact, this also creates a living and active religion.

How do beliefs and believers contribute to a living and dynamic religion?

Through daily actions, allowing continual interpretation of religious beliefs to be involved in a contemporary society.

Example of beliefs and believers in a dynamic religion

Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God. They aim to live out his actions, values and morals.

Sacred texts and writings contribution to dynamic religion

Contain key values and morals that believers apply to every day life. e.g. Bible allows Christians an insight into Jesus life, allowing them to mirror his actions in their own lives

Contribution of ethics to a dynamic religion and example

Ethical stances are based on religious beliefs which affect adherant's responses to current ethical and moral discussions. E.g. Christians apply their belief that every person is made in God's image to the discussion about abortion.

Contribution of rituals and ceremonies to a living and dynamic religion

Allows adherents to physically demonstrate and live out their core beliefs in a communal or individual setting. E.g. when Christians attend a baptism they renew their baptismal vows and engage with scripture.

Intrinsic religion

Being religious by internalising religious values. To hold beliefs that transcend his or her own existence.

Extrinsic religion

being religious for the benefits it brings (largely negative)

How does religion create a sense of belonging

Religion provides a sense of community, brings people with similar ideals and values together to allow them to express these in a supportive environment. E.g. Christian Sacraments, Islamic Ramadan

How does religion contribute to rituals for individuals

Rituals mark important events, and are important elements in the contribution of religion to individuals.

How does religion contribute to personal wellbeing?

Enhances personal well being by promoting self esteem (e.g. Christians beleive that everyone is made in God's image) and Offers meaning and a sense of direction in life.

How does religion contribute to society

An agent of social stability as beliefs motivate people to work towards a peaceful and just society. e.g. Muslims have the 5 pillars, one of which is giving alms. The Islamic Association of Australia does this by promoting social welfare and Islamic culture by fostering education and community relationships.

How does religion contribute to culture

Religion is impacted by its cultural context because religion is expressed through cultural setting and context. e.g. Hot Cross Buns, Ramadan markets, Nativity scene at Christmas

How does religion act as a conservative influence on society

In areas such as sexual morality and bioethics, religion may be considered a conservative influence. Religion often tries to prevent society from moving away from traditional values.

How does religion act as a progressive influence on society

Religion emphasise human dignity, which is important in areas such as refugee rights, environment protection, international conflicts etc. It also seeks to instil justice and challenge community views in prominent social debates.

How does religion contribute to an ethical society

Religion teaches that people possess free will and are capable of doing great deeds.

What is the Dreaming

The centre of Aboriginal spirituality. Holds the essence of the truth, told through stories of Great Spirit Ancestors who created and shaped the land and established the law. These are passed on through rituals, art, songs, language etc. through oral tradition.

What are the origins of the Universe in Aboriginal Spirituality

Before time, there was only a formless mass of dark, and then the Dreaming began. The Spirit being shaped the land, thus the whole of creation is sacred and significant. The sites from which they emerged are called Sacred Sites.

Discuss the diversity of the Dreaming

Different boundaries/groups meant that different groups had different language, sacred sites, animals and plants, and different stories associated with them. However, the Dreaming is common among all of them. This gives them kinship, which connects them to spirits and each other.

Kinship

A person's responsibilities towards other people, the land and natural resources. Aims to build a harmonious community and structure for relationships, behaviours and obligations.

What is the role of rituals in Aboriginal spirituality

Bring the Dreaming to the present and allow participants to connect with ancestors. E.g. the Karamundi people summon rain (hence they summon a spirit ancestor) by making a paste from blood, hair and gypsum and submerging it in water.

Why is the Dreaming important?

Answers questions of existence, explains what is right and wrong, contributes to spiritual wellbeing, acts as a source of identity and maintains the status quo.

How does religion contribute to ethical guidance?

Religion enables individuals to act morally. Many issues of ethical debate have used religion as ethical guidance. e.g. 10 commandments, beatitudes, Jesus' commandment of love