Every religion is a robust and stable whole constituted of various well-integrated parts: dogmas, practices (including ceremonies), ethics, social hierarchy, and others. Religion is not merely the dogmas taught by theologians; it is not the ceremonies and rituals conducted by the clergy; it is far from merely representing given ideas about the world and humankind. "Religion" is so complex and contains so many interwoven elements that one cannot properly analyze it by putting stress only on one of them. Therefore, if we are to analyze the essence of Christianity, more precisely in its Catholic form, which is the truest form of Christianity, we cannot merely refer to a set of dogmas and work only with them. We have to take into consideration all the Sacraments, all practices, all moral principles. This is not an easy task. Hence, the present book will try to elucidate the fundamental dogmas and principles of Christianity, but it will not go as deep as to deal with particular practices (with the exception of several Sacraments which will be discussed). As the present book is focused mainly on dogmas, we will try to analyze Christianity in a dogmatic and theoretical context. The current chapter is dedicated to the history of Christian dogmatics and on the central dogmas of Christianity. Both things should be examined together since Christian dogmas did not appear out of nothing. They had a certain basis- the teaching of Christ Himself, the epistles and sermons of the Apostles, the works of the early Fathers of the Church.
Hinduism and Buddhism are two of the most influential and prevalent religions in the world. Both have their historical and cultural origin in India. Hinduism is based on the sacred books called The Vedas and The Upanishads. Buddhism, in turn, builds on them, but it adds new points and ideas to them, primarily through the teaching of Buddha. Both religions have recently become very popular also in the United States with their emphasis on the harmony between the individual and universe/world, and the ideas of reincarnation and karma. Here we will ask questions such as: What is so specific in them which can attract the representatives of Western civilization? Can they contribute to our spiritual and intellectual development? Is there any point in learning about Hinduism and Buddhism?This book will show that it is pertinent to learn about Hinduism and Buddhismbecause these two religions have had some influence on our society. Evidently, they have been adjusted to our society in a way that makes it better for North Americans to understand their moral principles and theological views. Some might argue that wecannot become authentic Hinduists and Buddhists in reality; we can only borrow some ideas from them. However, is this worth it? According to the thesis of this book, it is good to be familiar with their main principles. The reader can still object: but there are vast libraries on Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and other Eastern religions. Why should we read the current book? What is so important about it? Especially if one is a Christian, what is the point of reading a work on Buddhism and Hinduism? These two religions are very different from Christianity. Would the knowledge of them help me understand any Christian doctrine or view?
American Identity by Dr. ant Published and copyright in 2014All rights reserved
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