Arisen Again: The Meaning of Resurrection Myths. (Version 2a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister
|
|
- Blaise Owens
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Arisen Again: The Meaning of Resurrection Myths (Version 2a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on Easter Sunday March 27, 2016, at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
2 CALL TO WORSHIP (by Diego Valeri & Rev. M. Walker) 1 You who have an eye for miracles regard the bud now appearing on the bare branch of the fragile you tree. It s a mere dot, a nothing. But already it s a flower, already a fruit, already its on death and resurrection. And so it is this day we see the buds and blooms that have appeared all around us and we rejoice! For the beauty of this spring day and for the community with which we share it, we light our flaming chalice this morning. May it ever be so and blessed be you all! 1 SLT #625: An Eye for Miracles, Diego Valeri OFFERING Let s do something a little bit different today, instead of one of my usual speeches about offerings. I would like to invite up the Chair of our Stewardship Team, Ed Sykes. [Ed s Testimonial] [Back to me...] If you are here for the first time, we invite you to let the offering basket pass you by, because you are our honored guest. And if you have made this your spiritual home, we thank you for your continuing generosity. Every month, we also collect donations during the Offering to support a worthy cause. This month, our March 27, 2016 Page 2 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
3 Share-the-Plate Recipient is. If you are writing a check, please specify on the Memo line whether this is for your Pledge, an offering to UCH, or for the Share-the-Plate recipient. Thank you, all, for your generosity. This morning s offering will now be received. March 27, 2016 Page 3 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
4 Arisen Again: The Meaning of Resurrection Myths Reverend Michael Walker HOMILY #1 As we experiment with multigenerational worship, I m breaking up my usual sermon into three smaller homilies today. I m going to tell you some stories, resurrection myths, and probably not the one you are expecting. Even so... Happy Easter! Spring has sprung, the flowers are blooming beautifully, the sun is more often to be seen in the sky and the grayness of winter is slowly receding. So, happy spring and happy Easter. In our culture, we often honor Easter as a time of new beginnings, and for some, a promise of eternal life guaranteed by their Lord. The term, easter, comes from the ancient Germanic word, Eostre or Ostara, which celebrated the coming of their goddess of the dawn, springtime, dew on the grass and new growth. (Sara told us this story earlier.) After winter, in which so much has died off, the rebirth of vegetation in the spring was a cause for celebration, especially in the northern cultures. From the beginning, Easter has been related to resurrection. Also, throughout history and in many cultures, there have been other stories of resurrection, and I d like to look at these through the archetypal lens of Carl Jung. March 27, 2016 Page 4 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
5 Archetypes are recurring patterns, the basic elements of cultural stories around the world. We tend to refer to those cultural stories as myths, myth being the Greek word for story. The more recent connotation of myth as a story-that-is-untrue is a misunderstanding of the meaning of the word. Any story told to explain a culture s understanding of a concept is a myth, and today, we are exploring myths of resurrection, with the intention to return to the present and explore how the archetype of resurrection can have meaning in one s own life. Speaking of Jung s understanding of resurrection, Dr. Jenna Lilla has written: 2 Carl Jung contemplates the archetype of rebirth 2 Dr. Jenna Lilla. Carl Jung: on rebirth, resurrection, metempsychosis on Path of the Soul website. and resurrection. It is through metaphorical experiences of death and rebirth that we come to know what is essential within us. [...]... Resurrection means a reestablishment of human existence after death. A new element enters here: that of the change, transmutation, or transformation of one s being. The change may be [...] that the resurrected being is a different one; or [...] that only the general conditions of existence have changed, as when one finds oneself in a different place or in a body which is differently constituted. It may be a carnal body, as in the Christian assumption that this body will be resurrected. On a higher level, the process is no longer understood in a gross material sense; it is March 27, 2016 Page 5 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
6 assumed that the resurrection of the dead is the raising up of the... subtle body,... Here, Dr. Lilla points out that Jung describes the concept of resurrection, first, as a metaphor for the transformation of one s being, changing oneself in some fundamental way; it also illuminates our lives, allowing us to see ourselves at the most basic or essential level. Secondarily, the quote describes resurrection as a literal raising of the dead, but quickly shifts to looking at that in a soul-sense, which is how I would understand the term, subtle body, which is raised up. When we come to the next homily, I will share some stories, mythographies of resurrection found in many different cultures; mythography being the description and analysis of a cultural story. The most common form of resurrection myth relates to the seasons and agriculture. Stories about agricultural rebirth are most prevalent in regions with very distinct seasons, and even more so if the seasons are different to an extreme, such as arid regions in which the growing season is relatively short. For example, the Sumerian-descended cultures of the Near East, including Babylon, Assyria and Akkad, had a god called Tammuz or Dumuzi. He was the consort of the goddess Inanna or Ishtar, depending on which culture we are discussing. There are several versions to their story, which is a romance for the ages. In one version, Tammuz dies and enters the underworld. Being a vegetation god in the Near East, this marks the March 27, 2016 Page 6 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
7 beginning of the searing summer heat and the death of many plants, including crops. His wife, Inanna, descends into the underworld to rescue Tammuz, but Inanna s sister, the goddess of death does not wish to release him. But, they strike a bargain, by which Tammuz will spend half of every year in the underworld, and half in the waking world, which of course aligns with the annual, agricultural cycle of Sumeria. brought Persephone to the underworld for the winter half of the year, during which time Demeter grieves and thrashes the heavens and sends storms down upon the earth. But, then, for the summer half of the year, Demeter has convinced Hades to reluctantly part from his beloved for a time and so Persephone spends the summer half of the year in the sunshine of the world with her mother, and the crops grow well and all are happy. In the next homily, we will explore a different kind Some may recognize a similarity to a better known of resurrection myth. myth from ancient Greece. Change the genders of the gods involved, and we find Hades, god of the underworld, has fallen in love with beautiful Persephone. The goddess of agriculture in Greek myth is Demeter, mother of Persephone. The story goes that Hades has March 27, 2016 Page 7 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
8 HOMILY #2 Being proficient in magic, Isis brought Osiris back to life, and they returned to Egypt to rule together. The oldest known story of resurrection comes from Egypt, and it is a story of jealousy. In some versions, Osiris is the son of Ra and a king among gods, and beloved of Isis. He brought civilization and prosperity to the Nile River valley. His brother, Set, was jealous of Osiris, who seemed to have it all a kingdom and wealth, a wife and a life filled with love. In a fit of jealous rage, Set killed his brother and locked his body in a box (which became the inspiration for Egyptian sarcophagi), and threw it in the river. It was swept away by the Nile, out into the sea. Isis went searching for her husband, and found the box with his body on the shores Seeing that he would lose what he had gained by killing his brother, Set killed Osiris again. And now the story turns gruesome. This time, Set chopped his brother s body into many pieces and distributed them throughout the world. Refusing to give up, Isis wandered the world, collecting the pieces of her husband s body. Touched by her devotion, the other gods resurrected Osiris again, and made him king of the underworld and the afterlife. It was later that the myths of this resurrected god were tied to the flooding and receding of the Nile, and the agricultural cycles of Egypt, connecting this story with the previous ones. of a far away land, that we would now call Lebanon. March 27, 2016 Page 8 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
9 Another act of jealousy also led to the death and resurrection of a Hindu god in India. The elephantheaded god, Ganesha, is one of the most recognizable gods of the old world, whose worship has continued through to the present day. One version of his story describes Ganesha as a love-child of the goddess and queen, Parvati. While this may not have been a virgin birth, per se, Ganesha is not known to have a father, in this version of the myth. However, he was Parvati s little darling, her beloved child. Also, Parvati was annoyed with her husband, the god of transformation and king of the world, Shiva. So, she set Ganesha as a guard at the door of her chambers. The dutiful son, he would let no one enter, not even his mother s husband. Shiva, jealous of this child, not his son, who had the love and attention of his own wife, killed Ganesha in a fit of jealousy. Of course, Parvati was furious and inconsolable. To make amends, Shiva promised to resurrect Ganesha. He had only to put a head on his shoulders and breathe life back into him. But, still jealous and a bit spiteful, Shiva place the head of an elephant on Ganesha s body. Once he had resurrected the boy, Parvati was grateful better to be elephant-headed than dead, I suppose. In a further show of supposed magnanimity, the king Shiva made Ganesha, not a prince, but put in him in charge of all the King s servants. The charismatic boygod, Ganesha prevails though, as one with such a likable personality that he drew many gods and people to him; he became very beloved. Shiva eventually had to March 27, 2016 Page 9 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
10 concede the Ganesha was a prince among gods. summary of the life of Krishna says: 3 According to the Mahabharata, [a] Hindu epic, There was another among the Vedic and Hindu deities of ancient India that has a story about a different sort of resurrection. This is a story of an avatar, the earthly manifestation of a god. Shiva s brother, Vishnu was the god for the preservation of the universe and king among gods in heaven. In one story about Vishnu, he wanted to learn more about the people of earth and what happens in their lives. So, he caused his soul to be borne into a human body, and was called Krishna while he was on the earth. He lived a full life, with adventures and teachings for those who would follow him. One Krishna is an incarnation of the god Vishnu. The form of Krishna allowed the god to better understand his creation and interact with his people. After many adventures, wars, and explorations of the nature of the universe, Krishna attends a festival. At this festival conflict breaks out and Krishna retires to a wood to meditate. While he is contemplating under a tree, a hunter mistakes him for a deer and fatally wounds him with an arrow. Krishna dies and his body burned, but, being a god, he does not decay and instead ascends to heaven. 3 March 27, 2016 Page 10 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
11 Many religions have stories of gods walking among humans, dying and being resurrected and returning to heaven. Besides Krishna, another was the Germanic father-god, Odin, as well as the one you probably were thinking of, the Semitic Son of God named Yeshua. We will hear Yeshua s story in the next homily. March 27, 2016 Page 11 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
12 HOMILY #3 Jew, and apprenticed to his step-father as a carpenter. The story of Jesus has provided Christians with several Yeshua brings us back to Easter, as it is celebrated in western culture. Yeshua, or Jesus, was said to be the son of the God of the Jews, sent to earth to live among people and save them from damnation, by living as a role model for others as to how God wished them to live their lives. For some, during his life, that was an unbelievable claim. For others, it became their whole reason for existence, and the teaching of Jesus lessons became the lifelong work of many disciples, spreading his religion throughout the Middle East. In the story of the life of Jesus, we are told he was born in a miraculous manner, but into very indigent circumstances. He grew up as an observant and faithful key moments that reflect on their theology. First, his birth was a major moment in his story, followed by his baptism into the service of his Father, God, and concluded with his execution and resurrection. It is the final days of his story that are most applicable today. Jesus had a message that, in part, contradicted the official teachings of the establishment. The temple priests felt that he was undermining them and convinced the Roman authorities to arrest him. Wishing to keep the peace, they did so and he was crucified alongside two petty criminals. They designed the whole event to degrade him and minimize his importance. It did not turn out that way, however, because of what is said to have March 27, 2016 Page 12 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
13 come after. Entombed for three days after his execution, with women from his family mourning outside his tomb, it said that the rock covering the entrance to the tomb was rolled away and the body of Jesus ascended into heaven, to rejoin his Father. This was another unbelievable story! Many people did not believe the women who said they were witnesses to the event. However, over time, the disciples realized that this only enhanced the story of Jesus, and made the teachings they offered all the more powerful and compelling. That was important, because saving souls was their mission. This event was to foreshadow a far-future event that has been a cornerstone of Christian doctrine for two millennia now. That is, like Jesus, all believers will one day be bodily assumed into heaven at the time of the Final Judgment. This has become the focus of the Christian observance of Easter, setting aside the Germanic goddess for which the day is named, or the bunnies and eggs that were her symbols. In the Christian church, Easter is about resurrection, which was an answer to the problem of death and the after-life. Now, some theologians (and even psychologists like Jung) have suggested that we can better understand resurrection in the sense of what Jung called the subtle body, or one might call the soul. That it is the soul that returns to God, or the Source of All. My purpose today was to find meaning in the resurrection myths. I do not believe in bodily resurrection, although I have many people in my life who do. I am more inclined to take the Jungian approach, and March 27, 2016 Page 13 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
14 consider that one s soul, which is also one s conscience, merges with the collective unconscious. Emerson would have called this the over-soul and the world-soul. Returning the Hindu and Vedic teachings, they have an explicit name for this: Brahman, which is the soul of the world or the universe, and Atman, the personal soul is a nugget of Brahman that all living beings carry within. Something else that seems apparent to me, in all this talk of resurrection, is that it is based in a fear of death and the unknown. Though many of these myths speak of an afterlife, we mere humans do not actually know what comes after life. Some will take the rational approach, and say that life ends with bodily death. There is nothing that comes after. Others might say that our life-force or soul or conscience or Atman continues on, even after the body itself has died. There are many other possibilities. But, that s the catch they are possibilities, variables in the great theorem of existence, the equation we call life. We don t know the value of those variables, or the answer to that equation of life. We cannot see what comes after the equal sign, or what is on the other side of the veil between life and death. And so, a recurring pattern in the stories of so many cultures is the archetype of resurrection. A common factor in those stories is what Dr. Lilla, in the quote we began with today, said: 4 A new element enters [the story]: that of the change, transmutation, or transformation of one s being. 4 Lilla, ibid. March 27, 2016 Page 14 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
15 That is what people are seeking, a transformation of a disappointing or dreary life, the changing of oneself for the better. And, it seems to me that this is something that we can seek to achieve in this life, not knowing what comes after. If I wish to live a good life, I shall seek to live it now, because I simply don t know if I ll get the chance later! Many of the stories of resurrection told today might offer inspiration they were stories of love against all odds, prevailing in the face of adversity, and service to something greater than themselves. All of these stories, not least of all the story of the life of Jesus, have this to offer us on this Easter Sunday, and beyond. May it ever be so and blessed be you all! March 27, 2016 Page 15 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
16 BENEDICTION (by Helen Steiner Rice) In honor of our Christian brethren and all who celebrate Easter this day, I wish to offer a benediction from that tradition. God, give us eyes to see the beauty of the Spring, And to behold Your majesty in every living thing - And may we see in lacy leaves and every budding flower The Hand that rules the universe with gentleness and power - And may this Easter grandeur Awaken faded flowers of faith lying dormant in our hearts, And give us ears to hear, dear God, the Springtime song of birds With messages more meaningful than man's often empty words Telling harried human beings who are lost in dark despair - 'Be like us and do not worry for God has you in His care. Helen Steiner Rice 5 May it ever be so and blessed be you all! that Spring lavishly imparts 5 March 27, 2016 Page 16 Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
EASTER, RESURRECTION AND ALL THAT CHRISTIAN STUFF!
Rev. Bob Klein First UU Church Stockton April 20, 2014 EASTER, RESURRECTION AND ALL THAT CHRISTIAN STUFF! I haven t called myself a Christian in many years, but I still value my best understanding of Jesus
More informationBC Religio ig ns n of S outh h A sia
Religions of South Asia 2500 250 BC Hinduism gave birth to Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism Christianity Jesus Christ, son of God the Bible Islam Muhammadlast prophet to talk to Allah t he Quran Do you think
More informationSowing the Seeds, Reaping the Harvest
Sowing the Seeds, Reaping the Harvest (Version 1a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on May 28, 2017, at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania WELCOME
More informationAnother significant holiday that occurs in the spring is Passover.
Everybody s Birthday Rev. Walter LeFlore UUFP March 27, 2016 In the Western Church, between March 21 and April 25, on the first Sunday, after the first full moon following the northern spring equinox,
More informationKey questions: Hinduism
Key questions: Hinduism! Where did Hinduism originate?! Who founded Hinduism?! Hinduism is considered a major world religion. Why?! What is the goal or ultimate reality according to Hinduism? Basics of
More informationDeath and Resurrection : Readings and Reflections on Easter Day 2014 By Laura Hodges. Reading 1: From The Golden Bough by Sir James Frazer i
Death and Resurrection : Readings and Reflections on Easter Day 2014 By Laura Hodges Reading 1: From The Golden Bough by Sir James Frazer i Under the names of Osiris, Tammuz, Adonis and Attis, the peoples
More informationSeekers on a Journey:
Seekers on a Journey: A Free & Responsible Search for Truth (Seven Principles series) (Version 1a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on April 9, 2017, at the
More informationA Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister
(Version 2a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on MLK Day January 17, 2016, at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania CALL TO WORSHIP (by Rev. Michael
More informationThe Importance Of Right Conduct In Hinduism
The Importance Of Right Conduct In Hinduism Hinduism has no one main founder like the Buddha or Jesus or the Prophet Muhammad or Guru Nanak. One result of this is that there are many forms of Hinduism
More informationSarah Napoline Thematic Preaching Fall 2011 Sermon 1: Easter
Sarah Napoline Thematic Preaching Fall 2011 Sermon 1: Easter The sabbath is over, and Jesus is dead. The sky is drenched with the first whispers of sunlight: a radiant peach, pink, red. The dark of the
More informationA Covenant of Care: What does it mean to be in a Covenantal Community? (Version 3a)
A Covenant of Care: What does it mean to be in a Covenantal Community? (Version 3a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on February 28, 2016, at the Unitarian
More informationHINDU GODS AND GODDESSES 1. BRAHMA
HINDU GODS AND GODDESSES 1. BRAHMA The first deity of the Hindu trinity, Lord Brahma is considered to be the god of Creation, including the cosmos and all of its beings. Brahma also symbolizes the mind
More informationWhat we celebrate here today was totally outside of the frame of reference of every single disciple,
Easter Day 2014 Parish of Itchen Valley Final sermon in parish No one expected it - not one single person. What we celebrate here today was totally outside of the frame of reference of every single disciple,
More informationOpen Hearts, Open Minds:
Open Hearts, Open Minds: Who Are We and What Are We Doing? (Version 1a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on my first Sunday in the pulpit September 6, 2015,
More informationZeitgeist (Part 1), another new age stunt
Zeitgeist (Part 1), another new age stunt Zeitgeist means Spirit of the Age in German. The basic theme of part 1 of the film is that there is no historical truth in the Bible and that Christianity is used
More informationRedeem the time; redeem the unread vision in the higher dream
Redeem the time T.S. Eliot Redeem the time; redeem the unread vision in the higher dream T.S. Eliot, Ash Wednesday The Dream of the Cosmos and planet The Dream of Earth the Cosmos Day One the Lunar Era
More informationIs a drop of water the same thing as the entire ocean? 8/14/2013
THE BASICS Hinduism World s oldest religion World's third largest religion, after Christianity and Islam Largely influenced later religions: Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism Nearly 1 billion followers 13% of
More informationResurrecting Gods. Oglethorpe University. From the SelectedWorks of Ahissa Branson, Oglethorpe University
Oglethorpe University From the SelectedWorks of sbranson@oglethorpe.edu Fall December 31, 2012 Resurrecting Gods Ahissa Branson, Oglethorpe University Available at: https://works.bepress.com/ahissa_branson/1/
More informationANCIENT PERIOD. RIVER CIVILIZATIONS
ANCIENT PERIOD. RIVER CIVILIZATIONS MESOPOTAMIA. (THE LAND BETWEEN RIVERS) Mesopotamia WHEN and WHERE? Between the years 3,000 and 539 BC. The land between the rivers Euphrates and Tigris in the Persian
More informationOrigin. Hinduism is an ethnic religion that evolved on the Indian subcontinent beginning about 3,500 years ago.
Hinduism Origin Hinduism is an ethnic religion that evolved on the Indian subcontinent beginning about 3,500 years ago. Distribution/Diffusion Hinduism (shown above in hot pink) has approximately 806 million
More informationEncouraging Words: Acceptance & Spiritual Growth
Encouraging Words: Acceptance & Spiritual Growth (Seven Principles series) (Version 1a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on January 16, 2017, at the Unitarian
More informationSacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry
Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year C Easter Sunday Scripture: John 20:1 18 NRSV Gathering Welcome Easter is the day Christians celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is
More informationNotes from an April 1999 lecture by Robert Sarmast in Boulder Colorado.
Notes from an April 1999 lecture by Robert Sarmast in Boulder Colorado. People of all cultures grow up hearing of the mythical and heroic legends passed down by our ancient ancestors. Names like Adam and
More informationTerms. Yuga: a Hindu philosophy that refers to an 'era' within a cycle of four ages: the Satya Yuga, Dvapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga
DEITIES Terms Brahman: the concept of the Godhead found in Hinduism. Brahman is the unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent reality which is the Divine Ground of all matter, energy, time, space,
More informationReligion. How Do We Define It?
Religion How Do We Define It? What is Religion? In your skeletal notes, jot down a definition for the word religion. The Academic Definition Religion-a system of faith and worship Monotheistic Religions
More information(Seven Principles series) (Version 1a)
Justice, Equity and Compassion (Seven Principles series) (Version 1a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on November 20, 2016, at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg,
More informationSanātana Dharma Sanskrit phrase "the eternal law"
1. Notebook Entry: Hinduism 2. How do we identify a belief system EQ: How does Hinduism fit our model of a belief system? code of ethics, place of origin, texts, impact, spread, divine being, founder,
More informationEQ: Explain how Hinduism fits our model for a belief system.
1. New Entry: Belief Systems Vocabulary 2. New Entry: Hinduism EQ: Explain how Hinduism fits our model for a belief system. By the end of class are objectives are to: -describe the origins, beliefs, and
More informationMASONIC ORIGIN IN THE MYSTERIES R.W. Bro. W.J. Collett, SGW Grand Lodge of Alberta
MASONIC ORIGIN IN THE MYSTERIES R.W. Bro. W.J. Collett, SGW Grand Lodge of Alberta Presented at the Western Canada Conference, 1962 The Mysteries were secret religious assemblies that grew up in the Ancient
More informationTopic Page: Nut (Egyptian deity) Keeping chaos at bay. The mother of all gods. https://search.credoreference.com/content/topic/nut_egyptian_deity
Topic Page: Nut (Egyptian deity) Summary Article: NUT from Gods, Goddesses, and Mythology In ancient Egypt the goddess Nut was known as mother sky. Her body was both the day and the night sky, and the
More informationEaster Sunday: Life Calls Us On Reverend Susan Frederick-Gray April 5, 2015
Easter Sunday: Life Calls Us On Reverend Susan Frederick-Gray April 5, 2015 Reading: Our reading this morning is by Mark Belletini, Senior Minister of the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Columbus,
More informationAshtoreth from ancient Israel (Canaan actually but this is my addition)
EASTER? Say - Let's bow our head and ask God for understanding as we study the subject of Easter. We will discuss the origins of Easter and we will study what God thinks about celebrating Easter. We will
More informationDO YOU KNOW WHAT REALLY HAPPENED?
Two other men were crucified with Jesus that day. They were thieves. One of them asked Jesus to save him. Jesus promised that they would be in heaven together that same day. Three hours later Jesus died.
More informationThe Story of Jesus Leading to His Resurrection
The Story of Jesus Leading to His Resurrection v Introduction: Ø We are about to celebrate the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Many times during this time of year, we only focus on a couple parts of the
More informationThe Rise of Hinduism
The Rise of Hinduism Not many things have endured without major transformation for over 5,000 years. That's one reason Hindu traditions stand out. Hinduism might be the oldest religion on Earth. To understand
More informationThe Candles of Chanukah
The Candles of Chanukah A Story from Jewish History (Version 2a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on Chanukah December 13, 2015, at the Unitarian Church of
More informationRESURRECTION DAY An Easter Sermon by Dean Scotty McLennan University Public Worship Stanford Memorial Church April 8, 2012
RESURRECTION DAY An Easter Sermon by Dean Scotty McLennan University Public Worship Stanford Memorial Church April 8, 2012 Happy Easter to each and every one of you! Happy Resurrection Day. This is the
More informationThursday, February 23, 17
Thursday, February 23, 17 World Religions: Hinduism Objec+ve: Complete Warm-Up, discuss Do-Now, complete outline notes on Hinduism Do Now: What two major powers have controlled India? What is a Raj? What
More informationHinduism and the goddess Lakshmi
Post-visit Activity: Enrichment Reading Hinduism and the goddess Lakshmi Hinduism is considered to be one the major world religions. It originated on the Indian subcontinent and is comprised of several
More informationEaster! Memories of the Resurrection Selected Scriptures
Easter! Memories of the Resurrection Selected Scriptures This lesson is geared for elementary aged students who are already familiar with the Resurrection story. For a more traditional Easter story lesson
More informationWho Hindus Worship. Trideva
Who Hindus Worship Many Hindus understand God to be Brahman or the Absolute -- an ever-present, all-powerful presence beyond form and comprehension. Brahman has no attributes, whether physical characteristics
More informationOur Risen Lord Provides. John 21:1-14. The Holy Spirit, through the apostle St. John, has a specific lesson to teach us in
Our Risen Lord Provides John 21:1-14 by Michael G. Lilienthal He is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia! The Holy Spirit, through the apostle St. John, has a specific lesson to teach us in this recorded
More informationHinduism: A Christian Perspective
Hinduism: A Christian Perspective Rick Rood gives us an understanding of this major world religion which is becoming more a part of the American scene with the growth of a Hindu immigrant population. Taking
More informationSermon : Final Hope Page 1
Sermon : Final Hope Page 1 Our Final Hope Text : I Corinthians 15: 35-53 S#1. S#2. A. We have been considering the most important events in all of human history. 1. The sacrifice of the Son of God on the
More informationOrigins. Indus River Valley. When? About 4000 years ago Where?
Origins When? About 4000 years ago Where? What modern day countries make up where the Indus River Valley civilization once thrived? Indus River Valley Origins How? Who? It is widely believed that there
More informationFrom Sorrow to Joy! From Jeremiah to Jesus!
From Sorrow to Joy! From Jeremiah to Jesus! Sermon Transcript March 13, 2016 New Covenant Joy! A New Heart Jeremiah 31:31-34 This message from the Bible was addressed originally to the people of Wethersfield
More informationLesson 16 - Learning About World Religions: Buddhism Section 1 - Introduction
Lesson 16 - Learning About World Religions: Buddhism Section 1 - Introduction These young Buddhist monks stand in the large window of a Buddhist monastery in the nation of Myanmar, in Southeast Asia. Hinduism,
More informationAffirmations: EGYPTIAN MANTRAS
EGYPTIAN MANTRAS Egyptians prayed to the Nile god and thanked him for all the blessings that he bestows upon the people, especially during the festival of the inundation, or flooding. Also there were prayers
More informationBuddhism. Section One Introduction
Buddhism Section One Introduction Hinduism, which developed in ancient India, is the oldest of the world s major religions. In this chapter, you will learn about Buddhism, another religion with roots in
More informationJnana, Dharma and Bhakti. The Hindu Way of Life and Three Paths to Moksha
Jnana, Dharma and Bhakti The Hindu Way of Life and Three Paths to Moksha Hindu way of life u Three paths to moksha: 1. The path of knowledge (jnana-marga, jnana yoga) 2. The path of action (karma-marga,
More informationGOD WORKS THROUGH HIS CHURCH IN TIMES OF POPULARITY AND PERSECUTION ACTS 5:12-42
GOD WORKS THROUGH HIS CHURCH IN TIMES OF POPULARITY AND PERSECUTION ACTS 5:12-42 INTRODUCTION Luke shows us that God advances the Gospel through seasons of both favor and trial. God is faithful to empower
More informationAM. Acts 5:12-42 READING: Acts 5:12-17 & 34-39
4-19-15 AM Acts 5:12-42 READING: Acts 5:12-17 & 34-39 Our God is a saving God, a God of deliverance. The Bible is filled with examples of Divine Deliverance. When the wickedness of the world became so
More informationLife After Death: Timeless Teachings
Life After Death: Timeless Teachings Michael Jones Author Modern Day Messenger, Spiritual Teacher, Healer Website: www.michaelkjones.net Facebook: www.facebook.com/michaeljones.spiritsource Twitter: http://twitter.com/rev_michael
More informationWhat Does It Mean To Preach Christ?
What Does It Mean To Preach Christ? Introduction: II Corinthians 4:5 For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus sake. In the beginning, this was generally
More informationLinking of Rivers in India: Myths and Realities
Linking of Rivers in India: Myths and Realities P. V. Krishnan New Delhi, India Hindu Invocation Water is everything; Elements of the world is Water, air is Water, Living beings are Water, food is Water,
More informationWe Beheld His Glory.
File: S12CMAS.DOC, Date: 25/12/2012 Text: John 1:1-5, 14 Suggested Hymns: 633, 623, 19, 27, 33 We Beheld His Glory. 1) The glory of Jesus Christ 2) The glory of the work of Jesus Christ The grace of the
More informationOrigins of two belief Systems. Hinduism and Buddhism
Origins of two belief Systems Hinduism and Buddhism Hinduism: INtro Hinduism is an ancient religion whose origins predate recorded history. It has no single human founder, and it has developed over thousands
More informationWhy study the Apostle s Creed?
Why study the Apostle s Creed? Many churches recite the Apostles Creed each week. The phrases are familiar, not only to committed Christians, but also among the wider population who grew up attending church
More informationEaster Grammar Mark 16:1-8. Easter: A proper noun. Borrowed from the Teutonic goddess of spring and light Eastre. In the 8 th
Easter Grammar Mark 16:1-8 1 Easter: A proper noun. Borrowed from the Teutonic goddess of spring and light Eastre. In the 8 th Century Easter transferred to the Christian festival commemorating the resurrection
More informationThe Quest For Rest Message by DD Adams Providence United Methodist Church Easter Sunday April 20, 2014
The Quest For Rest Message by DD Adams Providence United Methodist Church Easter Sunday April 20, 2014 The gospel lesson for today is taken from the book of John, chapter 20, verses 1 through 18. I ll
More informationWelcome to the Ancient Civilizations 70 s Dance Party!
Welcome to the Ancient Civilizations 70 s Dance Party! Ancient Civilizations 70 s Dance Party! We need 2 Big Groups and 2 small groups (The Movers & the Shakers) within the big group. Form 2 lines that
More informationChapter 16 Learning About World Religions: Buddhism. What are the main beliefs and teachings of Buddhism?
Chapter 16 Learning About World Religions: Buddhism What are the main beliefs and teachings of Buddhism? 16.1. Introduction Keith Levit Photography //Worldofstock.com These young Buddhist monks stand in
More informationThe Nile River flows North
Ancient Egypt The Nile River The Nile River Egyptian civilization began along the Nile River the Nile is the longest river in the world (4,145 miles!) it begins in central Africa, and flows North, emptying
More informationThe Holy Spirit s Interpretation of Acts
The Holy Spirit s Interpretation of Acts NTI Acts, Chapter 1 (v 1 11) 1 The power of all truth is within you. 2 The story of Jesus is helpful to you as a guide, a tool, and a symbol, but the answer for
More informationMatthew 28:1-15 New American Standard Bible April 21, 2019
Matthew 28:1-15 New American Standard Bible April 21, 2019 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, April 21, 2019, is from Matthew 28:1-15. Questions for Discussion
More informationFor the Love of Gaia!
For the Love of Gaia! (Version 2a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented in Observance of Earth Day April 24, 2016 at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
More informationThe Pagan Connection: Did Christianity Borrow from the Mystery Religions?
The Pagan Connection: Did Christianity Borrow from the Mystery Religions? Dr. Pat Zukeran examines the myths from mystery religions which are sometimes argued to be the source of our Gospel accounts of
More informationIn this chapter, you will learn about the origins and beliefs of Hinduism. Hinduism is the most influential set of religious beliefs in modern India.
1. Introduction This statue represents Rama, who is a role model as both a man and a ruler, in the way to live by the rules of dharma. In this chapter, you will learn about the origins and beliefs of Hinduism.
More informationDid Jesus really. rise from the dead? Condensed Edition
Did Jesus really rise from the dead? Condensed Edition Condensed Edition Did Jesus really rise from the dead? Did Jesus really rise from the dead? For most of us in the church, the initial answer to this
More informationWhat Does Faith Mean in a Rational World? (Version 2a)
What Does Faith Mean in a Rational World? (Version 2a) A Sunday service led by the Reverend Michael Walker, Interim Minister Presented on October 2, 2016, at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
More informationChapter 2. The First Complex Societies in the Eastern Mediterranean, ca B.C.E.
Chapter 2 The First Complex Societies in the Eastern Mediterranean, ca. 4000-550 B.C.E. p26 p27 The Emergence of Complex Society in Mesopotamia, ca. 3100 1590 b.c.e. City Life in Ancient Mesopotamia Settlers
More informationLighthouse: GET SOME GLORY!
Lighthouse: GET SOME GLORY! Matthew 17:1-9 The Transfiguration can be a mountaintop experience for our faith. A sermon preached by Rev. Dr. William O. (Bud) Reeves First United Methodist Church Fort Smith,
More informationSermon : Thanksgiving Baskets Page 1
Sermon : Thanksgiving Baskets Page 1 Thanksgiving Baskets Text : Deuteronomy 26: 1-17 ; Colossians 3: 15-17 S#1. A. We are approaching a fantastic holiday Thanksgiving. S#2. 1. The giving of thanks is
More informationLiturgy for Winter. Music: The Cloud s Veil
Liturgy for Winter Music: The Cloud s Veil Liam Lawton Leader: The leaves which once were green are now withered, fallen to the ground. They are still a part of God's plan, containing within them food
More informationHINDUISM. By: Alex Chartrand, Sona Bavaria, Tvisha Baxi
HINDUISM By: Alex Chartrand, Sona Bavaria, Tvisha Baxi ORIGINS OF HINDUISM: INDO-EUROPEAN SOURCES Brahmanism and Vedism Developed in India among Indo-European speaking peoples The original two religions
More informationSTATE OF THE DEAD WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE DIE? By George Lujack
STATE OF THE DEAD WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE DIE? By George Lujack Do the souls of the righteous go to heaven upon death, or are the dead saints awaiting the resurrection as they rest in peace unconsciously
More informationEntrance Antiphon Everyone welcome to our opening school mass at St. Monica Church. Please stand as we begin our celebration together. ENTRANCE HYMN (Morning Has Broken/Annie s Song) Morning has broken
More informationHinduism 4: Vedantic Hinduism
Eastern Religions Hinduism 4: Vedantic Hinduism 1. Trimurti and Brahma 2. Vishnu 3. The Avatars 4. More Vedantic Philosophy 5. Shiva Note: Gold and White 1 trimurti and brahma The 3 Faces of God Trimurti
More informationFOUR SEASONS HERA PATH
A Goddess Journey of Soul FOUR SEASONS OF THE HERA PATH KAREN CLARK CONTENTS AUTHOR S NOTE: A PATH OF SHE HERA TALE THE HERA PATH A GODDESS INVITATION TO THE HERA PATH RECLAIMING THE HERA PATH A MODERN
More informationBrahman, Atman, and Moksha: The Supreme Spirit, the True Self, and Liberation
Brahman, Atman, and Moksha: The Supreme Spirit, the True Self, and Liberation Brahman-the Supreme Spirit Many people think of God as being up there in heaven. We are down here in our world and God is elsewhere.
More informationActs Lesson 10 Handout
Acts Lesson 10 Handout Acts 2:12 And they all continued in amazement and great perplexity, saying to one another, What does this mean? 13 But others were mocking and saying, They are full of sweet wine.
More informationRom. 3:23 all have sinned Luke 1:47 in God my Savior. Matt. 1:24-25 Matt. 13:55
VIRGIN MARY Throughout the world centuries before the Christian era, the heathens had mother and child gods they worshipped under numerous names. The names Mary and Madonna (the name of a pagan goddess),
More informationTokin Women. A 4000-Year Herstory. by Nola Evangelista. Copyright 2015 Evangelista Sista Press
Tokin Women A 4000-Year Herstory by Nola Evangelista Copyright 2015 Evangelista Sista Press The goddess Ishtar, whose aromatic herb was qunnabu (cannabis) (2300 B.C.E.) ii In ancient Sumeria, Ishtar was
More informationPsalm 90 (verses 1-12, adapted)
Service for *name* date Opening Words Our gathering here this afternoon -- the family and friends of -- *name* is for the purpose of paying tribute to his life and mourning his death. Life, as we see clearly
More informationActs 8: The Odd Couple: Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch.
Acts 8:26-40. The Odd Couple: Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch. How would you know if God was speaking to you? If God spoke to you today would you be able to discern God s voice from the millions of random
More informationAn archetype can be thought of as a super symbol and can take on many forms:
Mythology: Archetype Class Notes Archetype is a term that was first used primarily in the analytical psychology of Carl Jung. Jung believed that all human beings share a universal, collective unconscious
More informationA Magi s Journey. January 2015 Page 1! of! 5 Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak
A Magi s Journey a sermon by the Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak preached on January 4, 2015 First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, a Unitarian Universalist congregation Tuesday is the 12th day of Christmas,
More informationBreath and Strength and Life by Rev. Sarah Stewart Sermon delivered at First Unitarian Church of Worcester June 4, 2017
Breath and Strength and Life by Rev. Sarah Stewart Sermon delivered at First Unitarian Church of Worcester June 4, 2017 Here at First Unitarian Church we know who we are. We are the free church on Court
More informationEnergy Healing Cleanse Workbook
Energy Healing Cleanse Workbook Detox your mind, body and spirit AN ONLINE COURSE with Deborah King Dear Course Taker, As a master energy healer, I practice the techniques of energy healing to keep me
More informationThe Miracle of Easter Lesson Aim: To learn God raised Jesus to life and Jesus lives forever.
Teacher s Guide: Ages 4-5 God of Wonders Part 1: Miracles of Jesus Unit 3, Lesson 14 The Miracle of Easter Lesson Aim: To learn God raised Jesus to life and Jesus lives forever. THE WORSHIP Who God Is:
More informationBefore your group study begins, share your first impressions on the message. Did the message raise any particular questions?
Sermon Series: Holy Crop Sermon Title: Promise Scripture: Mark 4:1-20 Speaker: Reid Robinette Before your group study begins, share your first impressions on the message. Did the message raise any particular
More informationVOL. VII, ISSUE 23/ SEPTEMBER 23RD, 2004 JOHN 20: THE RESURRECTION OF THE KING OF THE NEW CREATION REV. CHARLES R. BIGGS
WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT VOL. VII, ISSUE 23/ SEPTEMBER 23RD, 2004 JOHN 20: THE RESURRECTION OF THE KING OF THE NEW CREATION REV. CHARLES R. BIGGS INTRODUCTION In John 20, we have the phasing out of the old
More informationEarly Hinduism. Main trinity: Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver) and Shiva (the destroyer) o Vishnu:
Early Hinduism Early Hinduism 1200 BC the composition of the first book of the Vedas (Rig Veda) c. 700-500 BC - Main composition of the first book of the Vedas (Rig Veda) Collection of hymns mainly addressed
More informationWATCH AND PRAY! (Bro. Bakht Singh, Balance of Truth 1966, October)
WATCH AND PRAY! (Bro. Bakht Singh, Balance of Truth 1966, October) I believe the Lord has some thing to say to us from these simple and wellknown words. The message in Mark 13 was given just before the
More informationLast at the Cross, First at the Tomb John 20:1-18 Sermon by Joanne Gallardo April 1, 2018
Last at the Cross, First at the Tomb John 20:1-18 Sermon by Joanne Gallardo April 1, 2018 20Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the
More informationLife as a Growing Body
Life as a Growing Body (1 Cor. 12:1-14:1) Dr. Paulos Mar Gregorios I. Introduction We know, in our ordinary experience, of no life apart from a body. In fact body really means matter organized with a life-principle
More informationWORLD HISTORY 8 CH 5.2 ORIGINS OF HINDUISM
WORLD HISTORY 8 CH 5.2 ORIGINS OF HINDUISM 1. EXPLAIN THE ORIGINS OF INDIA S CLASS STRUCTURE. AS ARYAN SOCIETY BECAME MORE COMPLEX, THEIR SOCIETY BECAME DIVIDED INTO GROUPS BASE ON, FOR THE MOST PART,
More informationMARY S WAY OF THE CROSS
MARY S WAY OF THE CROSS 1 Foreword Is not the Way of the Cross the way of every person s life? Doesn t every life have suffering, falls, hurts, rejections, condemnations, death, burial and resurrection?
More informationGeneral Learning Outcomes: I will
General Learning Outcomes: I will Hinduism Video As you watch the video, write down 2 things you learned about Islam in each box. HISTORY OF HINDUISM BELIEFS AND ACTIONS CYCLE OF REBIRTH WORSHIP PRACTICES
More information