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Rise of Religion in Southwest Asia/ North Africa. World Studies Mr. Szyzdek. Religious complexity. This region is the birthplace of the three great modern monotheistic religions of the world: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Monotheistic religions profess belief in only one God.
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Rise of Religion in Southwest Asia/ North Africa World Studies Mr. Szyzdek
Religious complexity • This region is the birthplace of the three great modern monotheistic religions of the world: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Monotheistic religions profess belief in only one God. • Jerusalem is the most sacred city to Jews and Christians; it falls behind only Mecca (Makkah) and Medina in sacredness for Muslims. • Cannan- ancient term for region of modern day Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and parts of Egypt.
Beginnings of Judaism • Judaism is the oldest surviving monotheistic religion. • Began about 1800 BCE • Abraham is traditionally considered to be the first Jew and to have made a covenant with God. • Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all recognize Abraham as their first prophet • These are called the Abrahamic religions.
Diaspora • Due to Roman brutality toward the Jews, many were displaced. • Diaspora - from the Greek word meaning "dispersion," the term often refers to the communities of Jews living outside the region of Palestine and Israel. • Most Jews then lived in Diaspora, as minorities in their communities, until the founding of the state of Israel in 1948.
Major Beliefs • Monotheistic • Call their god Yahweh • Special respect to Moses • Do not believe in: - Jesus or Muhammad - Original sin - Hell
Origin of Christianity • Started as an offshoot of Judaism in the first century C.E. • Jerusalem is the known place of origin. • Gregorian Calendar starts with the birth of Christ. • Early Christian communities were often persecuted.
Dominance of Christianity • Roman Empire becomes predominantly Christian. • In 324 C.E., Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity. • The Roman Empire became the Holy Roman Empire. • The capital was moved from Rome to Constantinople (now Istanbul). • Crusades (1095-1291) • Invasion of the Muslim Armies of Constantinople.
Major Beliefs • Monotheistic • Follow the teachings of Jesus Christ • Believe that God is revealed through the Holy Trinity :Jesus, Holy Spirit, God. • Believe in the Virgin Birth. • Believe in Heaven and Hell. • Does not accept Muhammad as prophet.
Reflection • Based on the information that was presented to you, write down three questions that you might have about Judaism or Christianity? • Describe one fact that you found interesting.