mod3 religion

Assignment 1: Discussion: Visions of God

Christianity and Islam are more recent religions, both appearing within the past 2,000 years. Both claim to offer the ultimate revelation of God to humanity. Together, their adherents number more than half the world's population.

In this discussion, compare and contrast the pictures of God found in these two religions. Consider what you have read in your textbook, as well as other resources in this class. Also consider what you have learned about the older religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism.

As you are composing your response to this discussion, consider the following questions:

•How does the notion of God in Christianity differ from the notion of God in Islam?

•In what ways are the notions of God similar in Christianity and Islam?

•Are there any noticeable similarities between what is found in Christianity and Islam, and the notions of God that are found in Buddhism, Hinduism, or Judaism?

Your initial response should be three paragraphs in length, one for each of the questions listed above, for a total of about 250 words.

After you have posted your initial response, read all of your classmates' postings, and respond to at least two of your classmates. Be sure to use APA format and at least one reference.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Assignment 2: LASA: Comparative Religion Matrix

Part 1: What does it take to be a good Hindu? A good Christian? A good Muslim or Buddhist or Jew?

Each great religious tradition offers guidance for living a joyful and fulfilling life.

Compile a matrix (using the blank matrix available in the Doc Sharing section) that compares the basic origin, beliefs, understanding, components, and precepts (commandments) of the five major religions. Include moral duties and prohibitions, ceremonial obligations, and general principles of ethical behavior toward other people.

There may be a degree of overlap among some religions. An obvious example would be prohibitions against murder in both Judaism and Christianity.

Information in the table should be in your own words rather than copied form an outside source. Please list any your references you used to construct your table following the essay in the appropriate APA format. Please use at least three references.

Part 2: After you have compiled your matrix, write an essay of 350 to 500 words in length that synthesizes the information in your matrix into some general conclusions. You should point out what the different religions (Dharmic and Abrahamic) have in common and draw conclusions about the commonalities.

How do these differences or commonalities affect the way you interact with fellow employees now and in the future?

Similarly, you should point out where these differ and offer an analysis of those differences.

Your assignment will be due on Wednesday, September 24, 2014.

Assignment 2 Grading Criteria

Maximum Points

Complete the matrix sections that deal with the basic components of the Dharmic and Abrahamic religions.

48

Complete the life-question components of the matrix.

48

Develop conclusions about the comparative nature of the religions. Discuss both similarities and differences between Dharmic and Abrahamic religions.

40

Discuss the way the differences and similarities between Dharmic and Abrahamic religions affect how the student interacts with fellow employees now and in the future.

20

Style (4 points): Tone, audience, and word choice

Organization (12 points): Introduction, transitions, and conclusion

Usage and Mechanics (12 points): Grammar, spelling, and sentence structure

APA Elements (16 points): In-text citations and references, paraphrasing, and appropriate use of quotations and other elements of style

44

Total: