Assignment 2: Comparative Religious Approaches

The origins of Judaism and Hinduism are almost 4,000 years old. Buddhism arose from the teachings of a single Hindu teacher more than two thousand years ago. All three have changed and developed over the centuries. All three are very much alive today.

Concentrating on their current forms, compare the approaches of the three religions to the basic religious questions:

• How should I think about ultimate reality (Hinduism)? Is there a Supreme Being (Judaism)? Should I even think of god, letting myself be my supreme authority (Buddhism)?
• What is the relationship of human beings to this reality (God)?
• What exactly is the concept of faith to each of these three religions? Is it the same as belief, or not? Consider all three religions and compare.
• How do these concepts of the Ultimate Reality, Supreme Being or self help address the following questions: What is wrong with the world, and how can I help to fix it? What am I supposed to do with my life?

Consider the three religions, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism. In an essay of approximately 700 to 800 words in length, answer the questions listed above. Be sure to use appropriate APA format for citations and to include at least one reference for each religion.

Assignment 2 Grading Criteria

Maximum Points

Compares, contrasts, and applies concepts of Ultimate Reality, Supreme Being, and the authority of self to personal philosophical position on religion.

24

Uses critical thinking to describe and explain the relationship of humans and God.

16

Considers and measures the relationship between faith and belief from the three perspectives.

16

Considers and analyzes the application of concept of Ultimate Reality, Supreme Being (monotheism) and Self-actualization in addressing world problems.

20

Wrote in a clear, concise, and organized manner; demonstrated ethical scholarship in accurate representation and attribution of sources; displayed accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

20

Justified ideas and responses by using appropriate examples and references from texts, Web sites, and other references, including correct APA format.

4

Total:

100