The second section of Junior Morality was centered on four common moral systems throughout the world; Islam, Judasim, Confucianinsm, and Buddhism. Throughout the study of these morals systems, aspects that ranged from their origins to their personal views on worldy issues were examined. The process by which the studying took place was that of group work. Each group essentially studied one of the four moral systems and from this presented what was learned through research. As a follow up various discuusions were held, the main subject being the similarities and differences between the moral systems. Throughout these discussions were various viewpoints about values and the what was seen as right or wrong, depending upon the moral system that was analyzed. From this derived a conclusion that though some viewpoints differed concerning issues such as alcohol use and abortion, each system worked towards a similar aspect which was the importance of living a moral life, which is governed by something greater than ourselves. Some of the viewpoints and research can be viewed through links above, each corresponding to some group presentations.
2. List and explain three of the most important ideas you want to remember from this week.
A)Buddhism- The first main idea that I want to retain derives from the moral system of Buddhism. The idea of the chart as presented through the link, is a brief description of each while the one above depicts an in depth view of this certain idea. This specific aspect known as the eightfold path not only examines our personal character but expands in illustrating the way in which this personal examination obtains the potential to improve our life within society. It presents knowledge and introduces a type of wisdom that branches from sexual misconduct (Right Action) to mental self improvement (Right Thought). The variety that is witnessed under the eightfold path exmplifies its widespread focus, as it attempts to focus on various aspects that are crucial in society. It essentially highlights an aspect of something that I like to call "realness", as it encourages one to see things as they really are in the world rather than relying on the surface to provide the true meaning of it. This idea is grasped within the ideas of Right Understanding and Right Mindfulness.
B) Confucianism- The second idea lies in the moral system of Confucianism. This is the aspect commonly known as the 5 Key Relationships. This is important to retain due to the fact that it is more focused on the relationship values between individuals. It serves as unique because rather than centering on issues so common in the world it goes more in depth in the aspect of family and individual relationships. By examining the relationships between; father and son, ruler and subject, husband and wife, elder and younger brother, and between friends, it illustrates a simple word in various forms. By emphasizing the values of kindness, obedience, loyalty and humility it reaffirms the importance of family values and personal respect. It highlights the way in which these benefit in other realtionships that may correspond to businesses or other large industrial partnerships, where healthy relationships are vital.
C)Islam- The third idea that I feel is important derives from the moral view of Islam. The primary reason that this could serve as beneficial lies within the fashion in which individuals of the Islamic faith act on their concerning their beliefs. This is emphasized in The Five Pillars of Islam. This is a practice that, in my thoughts takes a lot of effort as well as discipline which this, in turn, serves as a reason for my wanting to retain this partcular idea. The five pillars consist of the belief that there is one, whom they refer to as Allah, and Muhammed is His prophet. The second, prayer to Allah five times each day, while facing Mecca initiates the acts that are willingly attended to. The third is giving alms to the poor, which introduces another form of duty that they is of primary focus. In doing this it exemplifies their care of the less fortunate. Not to say that we as individuals don't care and tend to the poor as an act of obedience to God, however it is a major duty to the individuals of the Islamic faith and prominent enought that it is a part of the Five Pillars of Islam. In addition to these are the acts of fasting during the month of Ramadan and a pilgrimage to Mecca during their lifetime. These acts support the idea of dedication and discipline due to the fact that these are crucial when in act of the parts within the Five Pillars of Islam.
3.One good image that reminds me of the topic(s).
A wheel of the major world religions including Buddhism, Confucianism, Judaism, Islam.
4. One good question I should kepp with me to ponder.
I am not Buddhist, Confuciust, Jewish nor Islamic but as a Christain do I examine my traits focused on in the Eightfold Path, to better understand the world around me, or attempt to strengthen my relationships with those I encounter, or maintain the discipline and the willingness to do the will of God or better myself in the understanding of various ethical aspects as exempified in Judaism?
5. I think that in order to make myself a better person within my Christiam faith, my efforts to delve deeper into the Word of God should increase and continue to retain the infromation received from the word and try to live in it.