Old religion is often used to describe the beliefs and practices of ancient cultures. It is hard to define, but often includes Christianity and other forms of Islam. It also includes Indian and Arabian religions. These are not fundamentally different, though they have distinct characteristics. While they rely heavily on reason, the old religions can also rely upon revelation or intuition to construct a belief system.
The ancient religions
Religious beliefs and practices were prevalent in the ancient world. These religious leaders were charismatic and traveled along many different routes. They were the most important determinants human culture. Religions were common and widespread in antiquity.
These beliefs are rooted deep in cultural traditions. The Ancient Religions MA course explores these cultures from ancient China to modern day Europe and provides new insights into ancient religions. You can tailor the MA program to your research interests.
Hinduism
Hinduism is an ancient religion with many traditions. Its beliefs revolve around the sanctity, or the supreme life, and Brahman. Hindus believe strongly in karma (rebirth) and salvation. Hindus are extremely religious.
There is no historical founder of Hinduism, but it has evolved over the centuries, experiencing periods of ritual, enlightenment, and reformations. Since there is no central text to Hinduism, the tradition is a mix of different religions.
Buddhism
Buddhists believe that life is eternal and subject to suffering. They seek truth within their own lives and the understanding of Buddha's teachings. They are continually reborn and relive past lives. Because of this, they constantly strive to improve themselves. Buddhism has no one-size fits all approach.
Buddhism is a major worldwide religion, with 376 millions followers. Its origins are in India, around the sixth century B.C.E. The religion spread to Southeast Asia as well as China, Korea and Japan. Today, Buddhists may be found in more 170 countries.
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism can be considered an ancient religion. Avesta is one of the earliest texts. The Avesta is composed from sacred verses known as Gathas and was composed by Prophet Zarathushtra. These were orally passed to his followers. Each Gatha contains seventeen hymns. The Avesta is made up of five Gathas. Zoroastrian scholars emphasize the centrality of Gathas. Gathic principles caution against ritualism, and stress human reason and ethical behavior in co-work with God.
Zoroastrianism could be as old at 4,000 years. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Persia. During the Persian dynasties, Zoroastrianism was the state religion. Many followers escaped from Iran to India and now practice the religion as a minority. Zoroastrianism is a worldwide religion with 100,000-200,000 followers. It has a rich history that has been influenced by many religions.
Maya
Earth and sky were considered two opposing entities in ancient Maya religion. Maya thought of the earth as the backbone of a giant Crocodile and the sky a double-headed serpent. The name for the sky is similar in meaning to the word "snake", and the constellations have cross-bands. Mayas also considered the sun or moon symbolic of the celestial bodies.
Maya art has many symbols that are associated with death or the underworld. Disembodied eyes, crossed bones, cross bones and marks of putrefaction are some of the symbols they used. Pawahtun was also a patron of scribes. Ix Chel was a Maya goddess of childbirth, healing and other deities. Chak Chel, her sister, was a weaver and was patroness to the islands of Cozumel.