Instructions For Final Rel 103 Paper For My Writer I'm A 22

Instructions For Final Rel 103 Paperps For My Writer Im A 22 Years

Essentially, this paper is a revision of your first paper, “Religion to me is…”. What you need to do on this final paper is ask yourself if your views on religion have changed since spending a semester studying the great religions of the world. You will need to answer the following questions: Have my views changed? How have they changed? If they haven’t changed, why haven’t they changed? If they have changed, why have they changed?

Next, you will need to say something about which religion you liked the most out of the ones we studied. Finally, you will need to say whether or not this course has helped you better understand the function of religion in the world. Has it helped you see religion in a more positive way or a more negative way?

Do not simply tell me things like, “Religion to me is Jesus…” or “Religion to me is Islam…” and then quote from your own religious tradition for 5 pages. That is unacceptable. Though this is a reflection paper, you should back up anything you say by using quotes from the textbook. You may note your citations using MLA, APA, Turabian, etc. Just be consistent! Good grammar, spelling, etc. count.

Paper For Above instruction

The transformation of personal perspectives on religion after engaging with the teachings of the world’s major faiths is an intellectually enriching journey that fosters understanding and tolerance. This reflection explores how my views have evolved over a semester of studying various religions, identifies the most compelling religion I encountered, and assesses the course’s impact on my perception of the role of religion in society.

Initially, my understanding of religion was limited to my personal faith and cultural experiences. As a Sunni Muslim, I held certain beliefs rooted in my religious upbringing but was somewhat insular in my worldview. However, through studying Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, and other traditions, I developed a more nuanced appreciation of the diversity and complexity of religious beliefs and practices worldwide. This academic exposure challenged me to reevaluate my assumptions and prejudices, fostering more empathy and open-mindedness.

My views on religion have indeed changed significantly. Before this course, I perceived religion primarily as a set of doctrines and rituals centered on worship and moral guidance within my community. Now, I see religion more broadly as a vital social and cultural phenomenon that shapes identities, worldviews, and social cohesion. The understanding that religions serve diverse functions—providing meaning, community, moral frameworks, and pathways for spiritual growth—has deepened my respect for their importance in human society.

Despite this newfound appreciation, I maintain that my own faith, Islam, holds unique significance for me due to its emphasis on monotheism, community, and social justice. The Quran, Hadith, and Islamic teachings continue to guide my life. However, my exposure to different traditions has reinforced that these core values are shared across many religions, albeit expressed differently within each tradition.

Among the religions studied, I found Buddhism particularly intriguing. Its emphasis on mindfulness, compassion, and the pursuit of enlightenment resonated with me as a practical approach to living ethically and peacefully. Although I do not follow Buddhist practices, I appreciate its philosophical depth and the universal applicability of its teachings, especially in today’s tumultuous global climate.

The course has significantly helped me understand the multifaceted role of religion in the modern world. It has enlightened me to the ways religions foster community, provide moral guidance, and respond to existential questions. I now see religion as a positive force that can promote social cohesion and moral development, but I am also aware of potential conflicts arising from religious differences. Overall, my perception has shifted towards a more balanced view that recognizes both the unifying and divisive aspects of religion.

This academic experience has not only expanded my knowledge but also enhanced my capacity for empathy and critical thinking regarding religious diversity. It has reinforced my commitment to respecting all faiths and understanding their significance in shaping human history and culture.

References

• Smith, Huston. The World's Religions. HarperOne, 2011.
• Rahner, Karl. The Shape of the Religious Life. Crossroad Publishing, 1984.
• Keown, Damien. Buddhism: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press, 2013.
• Fowler, James W. Stages of Faith: The Psychology of Human Development and the Quest for Meaning. HarperOne, 2000.
• Armstrong, Karen. The Case for God: What Religion Really Means. Anchor Books, 2009.
• Kelsay, John. Religion and Politics in the Modern World. Princeton University Press, 2014.
• Lopez Jr., Donald S. The Scientific Buddha: His Short Life and Long Reflection. Yale University Press, 2012.
• Esposito, John L. What Everyone Needs to Know about Islam. Oxford University Press, 2011.
• Huston Smith. The World's Religions. (20th Anniversary Edition). HarperOne, 1991.
• Yong, Amos. The Bible, the Qur'an, and Science: The Historical and Cultural Contexts. Wipf and Stock Publishers, 2011.