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Ancient Israeli Women, 2009.
A discussion on the connection between ancient Israeli women and women in the modern ministry.
1,900 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper relates that the passage of time has made it almost impossible to understand what role ancient Israeli women actually played in the Bible. However, the author relates that, by combining Biblical sources with archeology, sociology and other sciences, a better picture of the life of women in ancient Israel can be projected, which helps illuminate the role of women in the modern church. The paper presents examples from Carole Meyers' "Discovering Eve: Ancient Israelite Women in Context", which concludes that ancient Israeli housewives were involved actively in subsistence and contributions to the family's economy; on the other hand, much of Christian tradition has been concerned with relegating women to the domestic sphere, basing that separation on Biblical tradition.
From the Paper
"The emphasis on reproduction continues to be an interesting aspect of the modern church's approach to gender roles. In many denominations that self-identify as Christian, birth control is discouraged, if not prohibited. Catholics prohibit birth control, Mormons tout the virtue of the large family, and most denominations discourage sexual activity outside of marriage or for any type of self-gratification. To encourage fecundity, many Christians point to a reference in the Bible discussing the spilling of seed upon the ground, ignoring the fact that the context of that passage was concerned with the fulfillment of a Levirate obligation, rather than with normal sexual relations."
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Secular Vs. Religious, 2009.
This paper examines why the West is mainly secular and the developing world mostly religious.
2,308 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 19 sources, MLA, £ 45.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer concentrates on certain specific and cardinal aspects in order to provide some understanding of the secularization of the Western developed counties as compared to the more religious outlook of many countries in the developing world. The view of secularization that is explored in this paper refers essentially to the materialistic cultural nexus that has developed in many Western countries and especially in industrialized developed countries. This is compared to the spiritual and religious orientation in less developed counties. The writer concludes that in general the secularization of the West in comparison to less developed counties is a fact that can be understood in terms of the advance of objective, rational thought and other concomitant factors in politics and history.
Outline:
Introduction and Overview
What is Secular and Secularization?
A Brief Overview of Secularization in the West
The Reasons for the Decline of Religious Beliefs
Rationality and Science in the West
Western Thought and Philosophy
Social and Political Aspects
Conclusion
From the Paper
" While it is not possible to isolate any one single aspect as a central motivating factor in the movement towards a secular society in developed countries, yet the growth of rationality and the belief in objective science, especially in Western developed countries like the United Kingdom, had a profound effect on the attitude towards religion in the West. The Eastern and less developed countries of the world did not imbibe this strong trend towards rationality and scientific materialism to the same extent - which is a central reason for their greater tolerance of a religious and spiritual perspective on life.
"The growth of rationalist thinking is intimately connected with the increased faith in modern science and objectivity - which runs counter to subjective perception and faith in a God that cannot be seen or objectively encountered. Scientific thought was or lead to the questioning of the basic assumptions of religious reality."
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Prayer as Communication, 2009.
This paper looks at prayer as a type of communication and discusses its place in the religious life of a Christian.
2,965 words (approx. 11.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 55.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that, stripped down to its essential meaning, prayer is a form of communication. The writer points out that prayer does not refer to communication between people, but between human beings and God. Prayer has its own diction, its own language. The writer discusses how prayer is portrayed in the Bible and notes that it is presented as a simple and straightforward practice. The writer maintains that prayer is absolutely essential to the Christian lifestyle because it establishes and maintains a personal communication with God, helps revive faith, and because it ensures right living. The writer concludes that prayer is an act of love and an expression of faith that is both extremely personal and integral to the whole of the Christian world.
From the Paper
"Developing a personal communication with God is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. Although some Christians believe that communication with God is mainly possible through intermediaries including saints and clergy, many Christians believe that God wants individuals to pray on their own. Church attendance is not sufficient to inspire the Soul toward God, to affirm religious faith, or to put Christian living principles into practice. Church may introduce individuals to Christian ideals and ideas through Bible readings and sermons. However, Christians need to dwell permanently with the Spirit. A few hours per week at Church are not enough to establish communication with God and to put faith into practice."
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Religion in "Mansfield Park", 2009.
An analysis of the significance of religion in the construction of Jane Austen's novel "Mansfield Park".
2,401 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, £ 46.95
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Abstract
The paper attempts to show how religion in the novel "Mansfield Park" is the dominant theme. The paper illustrates how religion offers a perspective on the nature of the characters and the way in which they interact with the rest of the actors on the narrative scene. The paper also shows how religion points out several aspects of the traditional belief in the religiousness of the time while it also addresses indirectly the issue of slavery as a corollary of religion and morals. Finally, the paper demonstrates how we see the power of religion as being an equal replacement to the power of social demands.
From the Paper
"English literature is considered to be one of the most interesting and artistically rewarding experiences for any literature fan. It shares the views of an environment which is complex in its social and cultural elements. At the same time it points out the perspectives of writers who have been deeply influenced by the period of their existence in a more profound manner as the rest of literature writers. In this sense, Jane Austen is viewed as one of the most complex literature writers, for her dedication to her work as well as for the way in which she managed to convey the message across to her readers. Some of the most important novels of her literary creation include "Pride and Prejudice", "Emma", as well as "Sense and Sensibility" which have all represented important sources for inspiration for later authors of the 19th and 20th century."
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Mindfulness, 2009.
An analysis of how mindfulness can be used in cognitive therapy.
1,510 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 4 sources, APA, £ 31.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how mindfulness is a central Buddhist concept and practice, especially in the Theravadan school and how it can be used to monitor destructive thought habits, which lead to destructive behaviors. In particular, the paper looks at how cognitive scientists and therapists have naturally incorporated mindfulness into their research and practice and how one of the goals of weaving mindfulness into cognitive therapy is to help the client become more aware of what is known as the inner critic.
From the Paper
"The goal of mindfulness is not so much to destroy the inner critic as it is to make it vanish on its own accord. By simply accepting its illusory nature, the individual can learn how to act in spite of the inner critic. Observing the inner critic is the goal of mindfulness. Using mindfulness, a person can learn to discern the voice of the inner critic and distinguish that voice from reality. Once the individual can see how the inner critic works, when it is most vocal, and how to ignore it, self-destructive behaviors are likely to change naturally and without the use of pharmaceutical interventions or lengthy therapy sessions. Mindfulness is a personal practice and requires a great degree of self-discipline, which is why the technique is not suitable for all clients. Only those who are willing to meditate and to assume responsibility for their own role in their problems would benefit from the practice. "
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Film: "Why Bodhidharma has Left for the East", 2009.
Analyzes a 1989 movie "Why Bodhidharma has Left for the East: A Zen Fable" ("Dharmaga tongjoguro kan kkadalgun"), written and directed by Yong-Kyun Bae.
785 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 17.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that "Why Bodhidharma has Left for the East: A Zen Fable", written and directed by Yong-Kyun Bae, is a very profound artistic description of both inner beliefs and individual approaches to enlightenment and, externally, of the relationships formed between individuals. The author describes the ways this internal vs. external framework is playing throughout the movie by emphasizing different perspectives, which underscore some of the essential characteristics of the three characters, especially the Zen master Hyegok. The "Ten Bulls" pictures of the Zen tradition, which reflect the steps in the path to enlightenment, the paper relates, are a good fit with the stages each of the characters in the movie achieve.
From the Paper
"On the other hand, Hae Jin has accidentally killed a bird at some point. While this may seem as a reasonably unimportant fact, in the Buddhist mythology, because of the constant reincarnation process, killing a bird may mean killing a human soul who has reincarnated in the bird. It is small, real elements like this that keep the characters' human consciousness alert and unable to yet make the final step towards enlightenment with a final departing from the real world. "
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Women in Islam, 2009.
A comprehensive exploration of the oft-misunderstood role of women in Islam.
6,663 words (approx. 26.7 pages), 16 sources, APA, £ 96.95
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Abstract
The paper attempts to show the contrast between the theoretical role of women in Islam and the practical manner in which women are treated. The paper points out that the historical perception of Islam as being unequal or cruel in its treatment of women is founded not upon a faith with precepts of inequality but upon various cultures and contexts where this type of attitude has been fostered. The paper explains that the global war on terror has encouraged many Muslim civilians to aggressively demonstrate male power over women. The paper therefore shows how women, who in the eyes of the Quran are highly regarded, are only the victims of low regard offered by the men of their societies.
From the Paper
"The Islamic faith represents one of the most widely spread and acknowledged religions in the world. Often misunderstood and even more often exploited, members of the Muslim faith have developed an identity in the modern world which is problematically associated to such issues as regional conflict, global terrorism and internal mistreatment of women. However, an examination of Islam finds it to be a deeply complex faith based in a rich history of tradition and progressiveness. First and foremost to that tradition is the relevance of its theological code of laws to everyday life of observant Muslims, which though today are perceived as only helping to intensify the stigma surrounding the people, are nonetheless a self-contained moral paradigm and, in fact, a slew of promises to such oft-mistreated groups as Muslim women. Though current geopolitical conflicts tend to demonstrate a contrary behavior by many Islamic societies, the core doctrines of the Islamic faith, in the core text known as the Quran and in the accompanying code of laws called Sh'riah, tend to favor the establishment of respect for the familial roles of women and the accord of protections for certain female rights otherwise undermined by unrestrained behaviors of varying pre-Muslim societies and tribal communities."
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"Siddhartha", 2009.
A review of Herman Hesse's novel "Siddhartha".
1,170 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 3 sources, APA, £ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at Siddhartha, the protagonist in Herman Hesse's novel titled after the main character. Summarizing the book on Siddhartha's journey for enlightenment, the author describes Siddhartha's process of first studying the ways of the forest-dwelling ascetics, the Samanas. The paper then describes how, when that proves to be unyielding in lasting spiritual fruits, Siddhartha begins to embrace materialism and sensuality before realizing his goal of enlightenment with the understanding of unnecessary stringency of asceticism and the meaninglessness in a materialistic existence. The paper also discusses the tradition of asceticism as practiced in several major religions.
From the Paper
"Asceticism played a major role in the psychological, social, and spiritual evolution of Siddhartha, the titular protagonist in Herman Hesse's novel. Modeled partly after the historical Gautama Buddha, Siddhartha begins his quest for enlightenment by following in the Brahmin footsteps of his fathers and forefathers. Finding little satisfaction in the rites and traditions of Brahmanism, Siddhartha starts to study the ways of the Samanas. The Samanas are forest-dwelling ascetics, rejecting all types of material comforts including sex, material goods, and any food except that which is required for the survival of the body."
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"Siddhartha", 2009.
A comparison of Herman Hesse's "Siddhartha" novel and the movie based on the novel, directed by Conrad Rooks.
765 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 2 sources, APA, £ 17.95
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Abstract
The paper asserts that though the movie, 'Siddhartha', remains relatively faithful to the novel in terms of rough narrative, the film lacks the technical precision and excellence that Hesse demonstrated in the novel. The paper attempts to show Hesse's ability to convey great philosophical and spiritual concepts and expand on the characters and their internal dilemmas in words that speak volumes for the motivations of each character. The paper contends that the book therefore far surpasses the film in terms of artistic merit and literary execution.
From the Paper
"Published in 1922, Herman Hesse's Siddhartha became one of the classic texts of the 1970s counterculture fascination with Eastern philosophy, Buddhism in particular. Even today the book has a strong cult following, though the fervor afforded its admittedly shallow mysticism has dimmed somewhat. In 1972, at the height of the book's popularity and fifty years after the book's release, the text was adapted into a film by Conrad Rooks. Though the movie remains relatively faithful to the novel in terms of rough narrative, the film lacks the technical precision and excellence that Hesse demonstrated in the novel. Without this literary gravitas, the film ultimately falls flat when contrasted to the book."
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Taoism, 2009.
An overview of the philosophical principles of Taoism.
701 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 3 sources, APA, £ 15.95
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Abstract
The paper offers a brief background and history of Taoist philosophy and outlines the Taoist concept of yin-yang that emphasizes the respect for the harmony and balance evident in the natural world. The paper also discusses the concept of wu wei that refers to the notion that interacting "naturally" in the world is a key to internal psychological peace and external harmony within society. In addition, the paper explains the foundational moral rule of Taoism as well as looks at the Taoist belief on the appropriate neighborly perspective, on the correct intellectual perspective and, finally, on the concept of change.
Outline:
Background and History of Taoist Philosophy
Taoism, Nature, and Yin-Yang
The Natural Law of Wu Wei
The Moral Golden Rule of Taoism
Empathy and Social Concern
Intellectual Perspective
The Concept of Change
From the Paper
"Taoism (or Daoism) is not a specific religion, but rather, it refers to a large class of religious philosophies dating back to the third or fourth century, BC. The most remote origins of Taoism go back even further, perhaps one or two thousand years, to the shamans and cults associated with ancient China before recorded history (Bowker 1997).
"Unlike many Western religious traditions, Taoism emphasizes principles and fundamental teachings that are equally applicable to secular life as to a specific religious orientation. In many respects, Taoist teachings are conducive to personal growth and development that completely transcend any formal religious beliefs or cultural perspective."
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Religion and Politics, 2009.
An exploration of the impact of religious affiliation on voting choices of Americans.
1,299 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 7 sources, APA, £ 27.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the actual impact of church membership and religious affiliation upon partisanship of those church members and religious adherents. The paper looks at research on religion in the Latino community and amongst African-American women and refers to two Pew Research Center reports. The paper concludes that religious affiliation has historically and traditionally affected the resultant voting choices of individuals in the United States, but there has been a growing trend to judge candidates more individually than from just the party view of that candidate when it comes to a choice in the voting process.
Outline:
Statement of Thesis
Introduction
Churches and Political Engagement Examined
Relevance of Large Social Networking Involvement
Examination of Voting of African-American Women
Pew Research Center Report
Pew Research Center Report (2003)
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper
"The work of Kelly and Kelly (2005) entitled: "Religion and Latino Partisanship in the United States" reports a research study in the Latino community, which has until now been little studies in relation to religious affiliation and the effect of that affiliation on the partisanship of the community. This study utilized data from the 1990-2000 National Election Studies in examining both the religious affiliation and the level of religious commitment among Latinos and focused on the effects of these statistics on the political affiliation of the Latino group. Findings in this study include that the classification of Latinos into two groupings of either being Catholic or non-Catholic is a faulty classification and additionally findings are stated that religious significantly influences Latino partisanship."
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A Study of John 3:16-17, 2009.
An in-depth analysis of the verses 3:16-17 in the "Book of John."
2,390 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 15 sources, MLA, £ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the "Book of John" in the Bible. It specifically focuses on the verses 3:16-17. The paper describes the overall content of the "Book of John" and then analyzes each of the verses specifically in terms of its content, language and the meaning used. The paper then looks at the message that each of the verses sends to its Christian readers.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
John 3:16 Analysis
John 3:17 Analysis
From the Paper
"To answer this question, we need only look to God's creative process. God created the world, all things in the world, all the plants and the animals. Then, God created man, and He created man in his own image. To suggest that God loved the world, into which he put the image of His self, is without merit, as it is not supported in the Old or New Testaments. Rather, both books say time and again that God so loved mankind, that he gave his only Son so that man could be reassured of God's love for mankind. This is explained in John 3:16, "For," the beginning preposition explaining the motivation of the object noun, God. So mankind is assured of God's love for us, and, as such, that God's sacrifice was on behalf of mankind. God loved the world, but He loves the world with his image in it. God knows that the world is beautiful, except for the sin of mankind. So God is going to make a sacrifice on behalf of mankind, to show love for those whom he created in his image."
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The Role of Women in Religion, 2009.
An examination of the historical and contemporary role of women in Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
3,349 words (approx. 13.4 pages), 10 sources, APA, £ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper examines and compares the historical role of women in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. It first looks at the role of women according to the Bible and the Koran. The paper then looks at education and women, the ability of women to bear witness, and the role of women as mothers. The paper finally compares the roles of women in all three religions and discusses how their roles have changed with time.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
In The Beginning
Role Of Women In The Church
Education And The Woman
Almujadilah Or 'The Man Who Is Arguing
Women And Bearing Witness
The Role Of The Mother
Rights Of Women Compared
Jewish Women Reclaiming Their Role In Religion
Misconceptions Regarding Marriage In Islam
The Issue Of Shame In Islam & The Role Of Honor
Summary & Conclusion
From the Paper
"While the Jewish and Christian society have tended to be one that restricted women historically and traditionally, this study has shown that in the earlier days of Judaism and Christianity women were very active in the religious life of the community. In the Old Testament of the Bible women filled the role of prophet, judge, general, war heroes, and great examples of faith as reported in this work citing the work of Hughson, Johnston and Bisman (nd). The truth is that women's roles have changed and evolved continually and in a perpetual manner being constantly shaped through the struggle of women to fully participate while the powers vested in the patriarch within each religion have a tendency to restrain their participation in religious activities that carry with them the weight of authority in an age old struggle that may have very well had its' beginning in the Garden of Eden."
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God and Evolution, 2009.
This paper reviews the book "Responses to 101 Questions on God and Evolution' by John F. Haught.
2,083 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 1 source, APA, £ 41.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that Haught's book "Responses to 101 Questions on God and Evolution" discusses many of the pressing questions that Christians - and especially Catholics - have today. The writer points out that the information contained in this book is actually not new for those of the Christian faith, but it is the basic information that should not be forgotten. The writer discusses that this book serves as a reminder to Christians who might possibly forget some of the basics of their faith when the pressures of the world become a bit excessive and who might have a lot of questions about how their faith fits in with the scientific ideas that are being addressed in today's world. The writer maintains that the book is also helpful to Christians who want to read more about something than what Haught provides. The writer concludes that even though Haught works to answer the most important questions that he feels that Christians ask today, he is aware of the fact that he cannot provide total and complete answers in a book.
From the Paper
"There was nothing in life that the Roman Catholic Church did not have a reason for, and the church made a great deal of money off of its followers by selling indulgences to those who were trying to either or spend less time in Purgatory or help loved ones who had already passed away spend less time there.
"It is the goal and desire of most Christians that they find those who are not Christians and bring them into the faith. Christians are not taught to rise up against nonbelievers or treat them cruelly. Rather, most Christians have great pity and compassion for those that they believe are not saved. There is some difference between Catholics and Protestants in this way, as for quite some time Catholics believed that they were the only true Christians, and therefore the only ones who were truly saved and would go to heaven. They believed that Protestants do not follow the one true church, that being the Roman Catholic Church, and therefore are not any more saved then a heathen tribe in Africa."
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