Issues and Traditions of Western Religions
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
REL/134
February 14, 2011
William F. Stapleton
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
Every person has his or her own set of beliefs and traditions in which they have been raised by or simply believe in. Whether it is Judaism, Christianity, or Muslim, all individuals have the freedom to practice and express what they believe in. Gaining knowledge of other religions can provide a better understanding of current issues that concerns them as well as their beliefs and characteristics, and most important specific traditions that define each religion. No matter if it is Judaism, Christianity or Muslim, taking a closer look at their beliefs can help understand their faith and culture. Concerning Issues Religions are not perfect and worry free. They all have issues that are of great concern to them. For as long as one can remember, Jews always have been in conflict with the Palestinians. Although this has been happening for a long time, it is an ongoing issue that today concerns Jews. The war between them drags along since the 1800s. The fight for the promise land is a never-ending concern. Even today, Palestinians and Jews continue to fight for the promise land. Palestinians will fight until they destroy Israel and there for makes it an issue of great concern for all Jews. The hopes can only be that an agreement suitable for both takes place. Christians Current Conflicts One of the biggest issues concerning Christians today is homosexuality. Society’s acceptance toward homosexuality has rapidly changed from what it was perhaps several years ago. Because of scriptures in the Holly Bible, Christians have no tolerance for homosexuality and they consider it a sin and an act of the devil. It is common in today’s society to see two persons of the same sex walking holding hands and perhaps even kissing in public. Years ago, this was not seen as normal and was not accepted by any means from anyone. Now many same
REL/134
February 14, 2011
William F. Stapleton
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
Every person has his or her own set of beliefs and traditions in which they have been raised by or simply believe in. Whether it is Judaism, Christianity, or Muslim, all individuals have the freedom to practice and express what they believe in. Gaining knowledge of other religions can provide a better understanding of current issues that concerns them as well as their beliefs and characteristics, and most important specific traditions that define each religion. No matter if it is Judaism, Christianity or Muslim, taking a closer look at their beliefs can help understand their faith and culture. Concerning Issues Religions are not perfect and worry free. They all have issues that are of great concern to them. For as long as one can remember, Jews always have been in conflict with the Palestinians. Although this has been happening for a long time, it is an ongoing issue that today concerns Jews. The war between them drags along since the 1800s. The fight for the promise land is a never-ending concern. Even today, Palestinians and Jews continue to fight for the promise land. Palestinians will fight until they destroy Israel and there for makes it an issue of great concern for all Jews. The hopes can only be that an agreement suitable for both takes place. Christians Current Conflicts One of the biggest issues concerning Christians today is homosexuality. Society’s acceptance toward homosexuality has rapidly changed from what it was perhaps several years ago. Because of scriptures in the Holly Bible, Christians have no tolerance for homosexuality and they consider it a sin and an act of the devil. It is common in today’s society to see two persons of the same sex walking holding hands and perhaps even kissing in public. Years ago, this was not seen as normal and was not accepted by any means from anyone. Now many same
References: Abmad, K. (2004). Islam basic principle and characteristics. Word Assembly of Mulsim Youth. Retrieved February 12, 2011 from www.witness-pioneer.org. Abou-Bakr, O. (2011). Gender perspectives in islamic traditions. Retrieved February 12, 2011, from http://www.minaret.org/articles.htm#education. All About Religion. (2011). Five pillars of islam. Retrieved February 11, 2011, from http://www.allaboutreligion.org/five-pillar-of-islam-faq.htm BBC News. (2006). What is hajj. Retrieved February 12, 2011, from http://www.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4180965.stm History.com. (2010). Ramadan/ Christmas. Retrieved February 13, 2011, from http://www.history.com/topics/ramadan http://www.history.com/topics/christmas Jewish Globe. (2009). Daily Jewish Prayers and Worship. Retrieved February 12, 2011, from http://www.jewishglobe.com/jewish_prayer.html