"Old religion" is often used as a term to describe beliefs and practices from ancient cultures. Although the definition of "old religion" is somewhat arbitrary it usually includes Christianity as well as various forms Islam. It also includes the Indian and Arabian faiths. These are not fundamentally different, though they have distinct characteristics. While most religions are based on the power and logic of reason, there is also the possibility that they may rely on revelation or intuition in order to form a belief structure.
Ancient religions
The ancient world was permeated with religious practices and beliefs. These religions' charismatic leaders traveled extensively across Europe and along itinerant routes. They were the major determinants in human culture and life. Religious beliefs were widespread and universalized in antiquity.
These beliefs have their roots in many cultural traditions. This MA course, Ancient Religions MA, explores these traditions from ancient China and the Mediterranean, providing new insights into how ancient religious systems functioned. You can tailor the MA program to your research interests.
Hinduism
Hinduism is an ancient religion with many traditions. Its beliefs centre on the sanctity or life and Brahman as the supreme being. Hindus believe in the concept of karma and rebirth, and they also believe in salvation. As a result, Hindus are very religious.
Hinduism has no historical founder. However, it has developed over the centuries through periods of ritual and enlightenment. Because there is no one central text for Hinduism it is made up of many religions.
Buddhism
Buddhists believe that the life of the Buddha is both eternal and subject to suffering. They seek to find truth within and through Buddha's teachings. They are constantly reborn. As a result, they are constantly striving to improve their lives. Buddhism is a philosophy that there is no single answer.
Buddhism is a major worldwide religion, with 376 millions followers. It originated in India around the sixth century B.C.E., and it spread to Southeast Asia, China, Korea, and Japan. Buddhists are found today in over 170 countries.
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism has been around since ancient times. Avesta is one of the earliest texts. The Avesta contains sacred verses called Gathas. They were written by Prophet Zarathushtra to be orally transmitted and recited to his followers. The Avesta contains five Gathas containing seventeen hymns. Zoroastrianism scholars stress the importance of the Gathas. Gathic principles advise against excessive ritualism. They also stress the importance human reason and ethical behaviour as co-workers with God.
Zoroastrianism is a religion that has roots in Persia, and could be as old as 4,000 years. Zoroastrianism served as the state religion during the Persian monarchies. Many Zoroastrianism followers fled Iran to India where they practice it as a minority. Zoroastrianism today has between 100,000 and 200,000 followers all over the globe. It has a rich and varied history. Zoroastrianism has also been influential in the development of other religions.
Maya
In the ancient Maya religion, earth is considered to be two different entities. Maya viewed the earth as a back of a huge crocodile and the sky as a double-headed serpent. The sky's name is similar the word for snake. Also, the constellations are marked by cross-bands. Mayas also considered the sun or moon symbolic of the celestial bodies.
Maya art is full of symbols associated with death and the underworld. Their glyphs and symbols include disembodied eyes, defleshed jaws, crossed bones, and marks of putrefaction. Pawahtun, patron of scribes was one of their gods. Ix Chel (a Maya goddess for childbirth and healing) was one of the other Maya deities. Chak Chel, Chak's sister, was a weaver who was also patroness on the Cozumel Islands.