comparative civilizations & world religions
Basic beliefs and practices of the world’s religions
The elements of culture - belief systems, social norms, family, clothing and diet
OBJECTIVES
- Understand basic religious beliefs of Muslims
- Understand shared and universal beliefs
Suggested Videos
- Episode 1 – Sparkly Hats – Topie
- Episode 2 – Change Steve’s Name
- Episode 3 – Sweet as can be
- Episode 4 – Heebie Jeebies
- Episode 5 – My Favorite Person
- Episode 6 – God Salesman
- Episode 7 – The Hike
- Episode 8 – The “J” Word
- Episode 9 – For Men and Women
- Episode 10 – Better Half
- Episode 11 – Margarine – Spread by the Sword
- Episode 12 – Who Would Eat That
- Episode 13 – Islam vs Muslim
CASE STUDIES 1:
Jamil the preacher
Scenario
Mr. Kaplan’s Comparative Civilization and World Religion course is a tremendously lively class with much discussion and sometimes the butting of heads. The class has students from most of the major world religions. Mr. Kaplan has laid the ground rules for the class including respectful dialogue; active listening and never disparaging other traditions and beliefs. One of the most outspoken students is Jamil who is a devote Muslim deeply passionate about his religion. Mr. Kaplan is seeing the discomfort of the other students when Jamil pushes his views especially in his statements that Islam is the only true religion. His argument is that his religion orders him to preach and convert others so he can’t be silent. Some of the Christian students agree that conversion of others is a duty of the believer. Mr. Kaplan doesn’t want to stifle the excellent exchange of ideas, but how is it possible to create an environment of mutual respect when some of the world’s religions preach only one path is correct?
Relevant Video
- Episode 6 – God Salesman
- Episode 4 – Heebie Jeebies
- Episode 11 – Spread by the Sword
Questions for Reflection
What do the various world religions say about truth and proselytizing?
How is it possible to create an environment of mutual respect when some of the world’s religions preach only one path is correct?
Is Jamil’s point valid - he can’t remain silent as it is his duty to spread God’s message?
Teaching Points
Proselytizing is a reality in some religions –this has both enriched societies through the establishment of morality, justice and equality. It has also had dire consequences through forced conversions and sever persecution of others of differing beliefs.
All religious groups are susceptible to extremism. This is a historical fact and a contemporary reality.
Islam is one of the proselytizing religions. At the same time there exists clear historical texts from the Prophet Muhammad and in the Quran that indicate there is no compulsion in religion or forced conversions. These text prescribe preaching with wisdom, beauty and moderation.
Mainstream Muslim scholars and leaders unequivocally denounce extremism and terrorism and the actions of groups like ISIS and Al-Qaida.
Learning Objectives
- Students should understand proselytizing exists in a variety of world religions
- Students should develop the skills and techniques to allow for multiple views
- All religions have suffered from extremist adherents that have adopt violence
CASE STUDIES 2:
Ban Prayers
Scenario
Chadwick Academy is a private secondary school. The school has a very diverse school population. A number of the Muslim students are in talks with the school administration to have a small room for them to perform their five daily prayers. A number of other students are campaigning against this effort using the argument that this is a non-denominational, secular school and private property. The other faith groups at the school are not exercising any religious rights. There are no prayers performed publically by any other faith group. The Muslim students argue the prayer space will not affect anyone or infringe upon others rights. They also argue that the five daily prayers are a deep and intrinsic part of their faith. It is an obligation. Therefore, the Muslim students argue, their obligation to God is before anything that can be legislated by the school.
Relevant Video
- Episode 1 – Sparkling hats – Topie
- Episode 3 – Sweet as can be
Questions for Reflection
What impact can deep religious beliefs have on the way we conduct our lives?
What ways can the parties in this situation balance their interests?
Would the school be completely free from denominational bias? What about Christmas or Easter breaks?
Teaching Points
Deeply held religious views often govern the actions and conduct of people. These beliefs impact public and private spaces
There are a range of opinions on how to accommodate the religious freedoms of individuals
Practicing Muslims believe some rights and duties between God and humanity supersede the rights between humanity
Some of the legislated religious obligations in Islam include the 5 daily prayers; fasting in the month of Ramadan; performing the pilgrimage to Mecca once in a life time; compulsory charity of 2.5 percent on savings annually; attending Friday congregational prayer for men
Learning Objectives
- Students should understand religious views and practices are governed by the laws of nations
- There are ongoing debates surrounding the practice of religion in public and private places – ban on hijab and wearing religious symbols in public places; the Lord’s prayer in schools; etc.
- Students should evaluate their own positions on the role and place of religion in society