This reading was about worldview, religion, and intercultural communication. It broke religion down into 6 different categories, and explained the beliefs of each religion and the gods they worshiped. Coming from a small Nebraska town, this was interesting to me because everyone I grew up with practiced Christianity so we all prayed to the same person. This would also include using the word “Christianity” synonymously with “religion” because we have not been exposed to many other religions.
Another interesting topic in this section was the religious differences and national differences. Looking at the laws that govern our society I see a distinct similarity to the commandments from the Christian bible. So, in the United States I think religion did come before nationalism.
I also thought it was interesting when the book pointed out that in U.S. American culture it is considered impolitic to ask other about their religions. I believe that this is because in the Christian faith you are supposed to have a personal, individual relationship with god. When the book talks about Christianity it says, (pg. 25) “Prayers should be private, good deeds should be done secretly, and the ultimate aim is to be included in the kingdom of heaven afterlife (Fisher, 1999).”
This reading opened my eyes to the other types of religions and what they believe. It might be easier to understand and accept the beliefs of other religions if I had a little more exposure to them. I think it would be interesting to see first had the practices of a Buddhist munk.
Do you think the governments are affected by religious beliefs?
Do you believe in sharing your religious beliefs with others?
No comments:
Post a Comment