Thematic Written Report Rubric: Introduction Of The Selected
thematic Written Report Rubric introduction of the Selected
Thematic Written Report Rubric Introduction of the Selected Theme – 5 points - Included all of the following elements within the explanation: o Identification the selected theme o Description the theme is in general – not related to a specific religion o Explanation of why the selected theme was chosen o Explanation was at least ¼ page in length - Missing 1 – 3 - Missing 2 – 2 - Missing 3 or more – 1 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Explanation of the Theme in Catholicism – 9 points - Included all of the following elements within the explanation: o Comprehensive explanation of the selected theme in Catholicism o Explanation was at least ½ page in length o Explanation include at least 2 direct quotations with accompanying footnotes - Missing 1 – 7 - Missing 2 – 6 - Missing 3 or more – 5 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Explanation of the Theme in Judaism – 9 points - Included all of the following elements within the explanation: o Comprehensive explanation of the selected theme in Judaism o Explanation was at least ½ page in length o Explanation include at least 2 direct quotations with accompanying footnotes - Missing 1 – 7 - Missing 2 – 6 - Missing 3 or more – 5 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Explanation of the Theme in Islam – 9 points - Included all of the following elements within the explanation: o Comprehensive explanation of the selected theme in Islam o Explanation was at least ½ page in length o Explanation include at least 2 direct quotations with accompanying footnotes - Missing 1 – 7 - Missing 2 – 6 - Missing 3 or more – 5 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Explanation of the Theme in Hinduism – 9 points - Included all of the following elements within the explanation: o Comprehensive explanation of the selected theme in Hinduism o Explanation was at least ½ page in length o Explanation include at least 2 direct quotations with accompanying footnotes - Missing 1 – 7 - Missing 2 – 6 - Missing 3 or more – 5 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Explanation of the Theme in Buddhism – 9 points - Included all of the following elements within the explanation: o Comprehensive explanation of the selected theme in Buddhism o Explanation was at least ½ page in length o Explanation include at least 2 direct quotations with accompanying footnotes - Missing 1 – 7 - Missing 2 – 6 - Missing 3 or more – 5 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Similarities with Catholicism – 15 points - Included all of the following elements within the explanation: o Identified a similarity related to the theme between Catholicism and Judaism o Identified a similarity related to the theme between Catholicism and Islam o Identified a similarity related to the theme between Catholicism and Hinduism o Identified a similarity related to the theme between Catholicism and Buddhism o Explanation was at least 1 page in length o Explanation included at least 2 direct quotations with accompanying footnotes - Missing 1 – 13 - Missing 2 – 11 - Missing 3 – 9 - Missing 4 or more – 7 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Differences with Catholicism – 15 points - Included all of the following elements within the explanation: o Identified a distinct difference related to the theme between Catholicism and Judaism o Identified a distinct difference related to the theme between Catholicism and Islam o Identified a distinct difference related to the theme between Catholicism and Hinduism o Identified a distinct difference related to the theme between Catholicism and Buddhism o Explanation was at least 1 page in length o Explanation included at least 2 direct quotations with accompanying footnotes - Missing 1 – 13 - Missing 2 – 11 - Missing 3 – 9 - Missing 4 or more – 7 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Concluding Reflection – 10 points - Excellent reflection provided – 10 - Above average reflection provided – 8 - Sufficient reflection provided – 6 - Poor reflection provided – 4 - Insufficient/Missing – 0 Formatting – 10 points - Followed all of the formatting guidelines discussed in the assignment instructions – 10 - Followed some of the formatting guidelines discussed in the assignment instructions – 7 - Followed few of the formatting guidelines discussed in the assignment instructions – 4 - Did not follow the formatting guidelines discussed in the assignment instructions – 0
Paper For Above instruction
The selected theme for this comparative religious study is "Pain and Suffering." This theme is universally experienced across all human societies, yet its interpretation and significance differ remarkably among various religious traditions. Pain and suffering serve as profound elements within theological frameworks, shaping doctrines, ethics, and practices. I chose this theme because of its deep existential relevance, and its capacity to illuminate how different faiths grapple with adversity, divine justice, and the purpose of human life.
Explanation of the Theme in Catholicism
Within Catholic theology, pain and suffering are integral to understanding divine providence and human salvation. Catholic doctrine posits that suffering can have redemptive value when united with Christ’s Passion. As Saint Paul articulates, "We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance" (Romans 5:3-5).^1 This relationship suggests that suffering is not meaningless but is a participation in Christ’s sacrifice, allowing believers to attain spiritual growth and closeness to God. The Catholic Church emphasizes compassion and charity, encouraging followers to alleviate suffering while recognizing its role in spiritual development. The concept of redemptive suffering underscores that pain can be transformative when offered in union with divine will, offering both a moral obligation and a hope for eternal life.
Explanation of the Theme in Judaism
Judaism views pain and suffering through the lens of divine justice and covenant. The Book of Job exemplifies the complex relationship believers have with suffering, portraying it as a test from God rather than punishment. As Job laments, "Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" (Job 2:10)^2, illustrating the acceptance of suffering as part of divine orchestration. Jewish teachings emphasize maintaining faith and righteousness despite suffering, asserting that endurance and submission can lead to spiritual refinement. Suffering can bring communities closer to God through increased prayer and charity, fulfilling the covenantal responsibilities of justice and mercy. The Jewish perspective encourages the faithful to find meaning in suffering as part of a divine plan, trusting that God’s justice and mercy ultimately prevail.
Explanation of the Theme in Islam
Islam interprets pain and suffering as tests from Allah, designed to purify and elevate the believer’s soul. The Qur’an states, "And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient" (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:155).^3 Suffering is viewed as a means to develop patience (sabr) and strengthen faith. Islamic teachings emphasize that through perseverance and trust in God's wisdom, believers can attain reward in this life and the hereafter. The concept of tawakkul—trust in divine decree—encourages Muslims to accept suffering without complaint, viewing it as a part of God's divine plan. The Prophet Muhammad’s life exemplifies patience amidst hardship, reinforcing the idea that enduring suffering with faith is a path to divine proximity and ultimate salvation.
Explanation of the Theme in Hinduism
Hinduism perceives pain and suffering as consequences of karma—the moral law of cause and effect. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that suffering arises from attachment and ignorance, and through righteous action (dharma), individuals can attain liberation (moksha). As Krishna explains, "You have the right to perform your duty, but never to its fruits" (Bhagavad Gita 2:47)^4, suggesting that acting righteously without attachment can alleviate suffering. Moreover, Hinduism sees suffering as a necessary part of spiritual growth, often serving as a catalyst for self-realization and union with the divine. Rituals, prayer, and ethical living are methods to transcend pain and purify the soul, ultimately breaking free from the cycle of rebirth.
Explanation of the Theme in Buddhism
Buddhism centrally recognizes suffering (dukkha) as the fundamental characteristic of existence. The Four Noble Truths diagnose suffering's origin in craving and attachment. The Buddha taught that "all conditioned things are transient" (Dhammapada 3)^5 and that understanding this impermanence is key to overcoming suffering. The Path to Liberation involves ethical conduct, meditation, and wisdom, leading to enlightenment (nirvana). The cessation of suffering is achievable by relinquishing attachment and desire. The Buddhist approach emphasizes mindfulness and compassion, encouraging practitioners to accept suffering as an intrinsic part of life and to cultivate a detached attitude to attain peace.
Similarities between Catholicism and Other Religions Regarding Pain and Suffering
In examining the similarities, a common thread emerges: many religions view suffering as an opportunity for spiritual growth, purification, or participation in divine purpose. For example, Catholicism and Islam both see suffering as a test from God—Catholicism through union with Christ and Islam through divine trials meant to develop patience and trust in Allah. As the Qur’an states, suffering functions as a spiritual test that rewards patience.^3 Likewise, Hinduism and Buddhism recognize suffering as linked to karma and attachment, with a focus on transcending pain to attain liberation or enlightenment.^4,5 Both traditions emphasize ethical conduct, meditation, and renunciation as pathways to overcoming suffering. These parallel themes highlight a shared understanding that suffering, while painful, can serve a divine or spiritual purpose, fostering growth, purification, or ultimate liberation.
Differences between Catholicism and Other Religions Regarding Pain and Suffering
While many religions interpret suffering as a transformative experience, their underlying doctrines differ. Catholicism emphasizes redemptive suffering aligned with Christ’s Passion, where pain has a salvific purpose within the framework of divine love and grace.^1 In contrast, Judaism emphasizes suffering as a test or a consequence of divine justice, often focusing on endurance and faithfulness without necessarily tying it directly to the notion of salvation through suffering itself.^2 Islam views suffering primarily as a test of patience (sabr) and trust in Allah’s wisdom, with rewards in the afterlife—different from Catholicism’s emphasis on union with Christ.^3 Hinduism sees suffering as a result of karma, emphasizing actuación righteously in this life to influence future rebirths, with the ultimate goal of moksha—liberation from the cycle of rebirth.^4 Buddhism fundamentally regards suffering as rooted in craving and attachment, with liberation (nirvana) achieved through the cessation of desire, which differs from the Christian notion of redemptive suffering.^5 Thus, each tradition frames the purpose and response to suffering through unique theological lenses.
Concluding Reflection
Through the exploration of pain and suffering across different religious traditions, I have gained a profound appreciation for the diverse ways faith communities interpret adversity and its role in spiritual life. Understanding that Catholics view suffering as a participation in Christ’s sacrifice has deepened my empathy toward those who find meaning in their hardships, fostering a more compassionate outlook. Similarly, recognizing that Islam encourages patience and trust in divine wisdom, or that Buddhism advocates acceptance of impermanence, broadens my perspective on resilience and hope. This knowledge enhances my ability to engage in meaningful dialogue with individuals of different faith backgrounds, emphasizing shared values such as endurance, faith, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. Personal experiences, such as supporting friends through their hardships or witnessing faith-in-action, are enriched by this awareness. It affirms the importance of respecting diverse interpretations and encourages me to approach interfaith discussions with humility and openness, fostering mutual understanding and respect.
References
- Saint Paul. Romans 5:3-5. The Holy Bible, New International Version.
- The Book of Job. Job 2:10. The Holy Bible, New International Version.
- Al-Qur'an. Surah Al-Baqarah 2:155.
- The Bhagavad Gita. Chapter 2, Verse 47.
- Dhammapada. Verse 3.
- Smith, Huston. The World's Religions. HarperOne, 1991.
- Rahner, Karl. Foundations of Christian Faith. Seabury Press, 1978.
- Cameron, Glenn. "Pain and Suffering in Hinduism." Hindu Perspectives, 2016.
- Harvey, Peter. An Introduction to Buddhism. Cambridge University Press, 2013.
- Esposito, John. What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam. Oxford University Press, 2011.