Religion and Theology World Religions - Essay Example

Religion and Theology – World Religions Details: al Affiliation: Introduction In his revision of the major faiths of the human race, the religious historian Robert S. Ellwood introduces many new religious movements in America. He arranged them in seven categories primarily based on their historical origins. The first were groups in the Theosophical and Rosicrucian traditions. These include the Theosophical Society of America, the Liberal Catholic Church, Anthroposophy, Rosicrucians, and Modern Gnosticism.

They believe that all men have been given a higher intuition acquired by theosophia, or, God- knowledge. This carries the world from the world of form into that of the formless spirit. In this way, man has been able to perceive things in the invisible world. The second group comprises of Spiritualism and UFO cults. These believe that aliens with sub human features exist. These creatures are believed to be residents of heaven who are much wiser than men. Initiatory groups such as the Church of Scientology, the Prosperos and Builders of the Adytum emphasize on initiation practices as a means to get closer to God.

They also hold that these practices can overcome barriers that cause conflict between the different cultures and ethnicities of the world. The Neo- pagan group includes the Feraferia, Church of all Worlds, Ceremonial magic and witchcraft and Satanism. They believe that divinity is both internal and transcendent, and also hold that every human being and animal has a bit of divinity within and so can be referred to as gods in their own right. Eastern religions from the Asian subcontinent make up the vast majority of the Hindu and Buddhist religious members.

Krishna consciousnesses, meditative movements, the Bahai faith, and the worship of the Indian pantheon of gods are examples of Eastern religions. They embrace the ritualistic contemplation of god in all his forms and as represented in man. The Islamic religion, predominantly practiced in the Middle East and Northern Africa is a monotheistic religion that centers on submission Allah. The Quran is believed to contain the teachings and instructions for living that god gave to Muhammad, the last prophet given to the adherents (Bishop, 2010).

Its religious concepts and practices include the five pillars of Islam. These are obligatory acts of worship that touch on every aspect of life and society of a Muslim. Muslims also profess belief in the key figures of the Christian faith such as Abraham, Moses, Joseph, and Jesus Christ. These are believed to be prophets who came before Mohammed. The final group centers on the Judaic and Christian faith. Christianity sprouted from Judaism and then diverged profoundly in the first century. Christians obtain individual salvation from original sin by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ who is the son of God.

Jews collectively participate in dialogue with Yahweh, a different name for Christ, through rituals and prayers that express their nation’s covenant with God. Reference Bishop, P. (2010). Adventures in the Human Spirit. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.