Matt bruns
2/27/06
Journal 2
1. One paragraph summary of the key idea summarizing the topic of the week
The main topic of the section was the moral systems of the world. We studied Buddhism, Islam, Confucianism, and Judaism. We also had a chance to learn about anarchism, nihilism, and moral relativism. I learned how much they all have in common with each other and with Christianity in such areas as alcohol, being a good person, and acheiving happiness.
2. List and explain three of the most important ideas you want to remember from this week.
A)Buddhism's Four Noble Truths
- There is Suffering in Life
- This Suffering is due to the attachment of people to worldly goods
- There is an end to this Suffering, Nirvana
- The way to achieve Nirvana is to follow the Eightfold Path
These four truths were the basis of Buddha's philosophy. They offer insight into life that help's people in their strive to live the "right life" in order to achieve the state of no suffering, Nirvana.
B)The Five Pillar's of Islam
- There is no God but Allah and Muhammed is his prophet.
- Pray to Allah five times a day, always facing Mecca.
- Give alms to the poor.
- Fast from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan.
- Make at least one pilgrimage, or Hajj, to Mecca during your lifetime.
C)The Five Key Relationships
- Father (kindness) and son (obedience),
- ruler (benevolence) and subject (loyalty),
- husband (righteous) and wife (obedience),
- older brother (gentility) and younger brother (humility),
- and two friends (humane consideration).
3. One image of that reminds you of the topic.
Image Found Here
4. One good question I should keep with me to ponder.
What Can I do to better live like the "chun-tzu", the person whose life epitomizes "JEN"?
5. What should you try to do to make you a better person from this study?
From this study, I have learned the worldwide importance of having certain relationships, and doing certain things to achieve happiness. From this study, I can uphold the Five Relationships as best as I can. I will also strive for "Jen" all the time now. I also now understand Judaism more, which is the root of Christianity and in turn can better understand Christianity because I know more about its roots.