EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES AWARENESS
Ayr College – Equal Opportunities Awareness
PAGE
The Legislation
3
Terminology
4
Definitions
6
The Bahá’I Faith
8
Braham Kumaris
10
Buddhism and the Chinese Community
12
Christianity
14
Hindus
16
Juddaism
19
Muslims
22
Paganism
26
Sikhs
28
Shintosim
31
Taoism
33
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Contents
The Legislation
Ayr College – Equal Opportunities Awareness
Race Relations
It would seem reasonable to assume that everyone should take their place in
today’s multi-ethnic society, with no one individual or group being treated
unequally or unfairly because of their creed, colour, sex, disability or age and
therefore be free from any harassment, discrimination or victimisation.
Over time, the importance of such issues has led to certain measures being
considered necessary, whether statutory or voluntary, to raise the level of
awareness and commitment to the action of individuals and organisations.
The first legislative measures to combat racial discrimination and to promote
racial integration, came in the shape of the Race Relations Acts 1965 and 1968
which prohibited discrimination in areas such as employment, housing and
commercial services. Both these Acts were consolidated by the most recent
and important legislation, the Race Relations Act of 1976 and Race Relations
(Amendment) Act 2000.
Applicable to all Britain (excluding Northern Ireland), the most important section
of the Act in respect of service provision is Section 20. This makes it unlawful
for anyone concerned with the provision of goods, facilities or service to the
public or a section of the public to discriminate on racial grounds by:
 refusing or deliberately omitting to provide them, or
 as regards their quality, or the manner in which or the terms on which
they’re provided.
The discrimination may be:
 direct (less favourable treatment) or
 indirect (applying a requirement or condition which has a
disproportionately adverse effect on a particular racial group and which
cannot be justified).
The Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) was established to help ensure the
legislation is put into practice effectively. Locally, the Central Scotland Racial
Equality Council helps to challenge racial discrimination and harassment, and
to promote equality of opportunity.
Other Legislation
Depending on the circumstances and place, certain conduct could also
contravene the criminal law or the legislation relating to different services such
as housing, social work, education, DDA and health & safety.
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Ethnic Minorities: Appropriate Terminology
People coming into contact with the police, courts, local authorities and other
statutory bodies may be offended or embarrassed if described or referred to in
inappropriate ways. The best way to describe members of minority ethnic
communities – or indeed any person – is, obviously, the way in which they
prefer to be described. Individual preferences may of course vary, but this
section aims to give some general guidance on the subject of appropriate
terminology.
Using words appropriately is not solely a matter of accuracy or political
correctness. Words also tend to express how we feel and think. Minority
ethnic people’s own history and background have often sensitised them to
notice how the use of some terms are exclusionary or demeaning.
Black
In the 1960s and 1970s the term “black” was used to bring together all those
groups liable to discrimination on racial grounds. Today it tends to be
restricted to those who are directly or indirectly of African origin.
In general, therefore, it is acceptable to describe people of Caribbean or
African origin as ‘black’. Some people from the Indian sub-continent and
some Chinese also accept this designation; others, however, do not, and may
indeed strongly object to it. It is therefore inadvisable to use the term ‘black’ to
refer collectively to people from Asian as well as Caribbean and African origin.
It would be preferable to refer to ‘black and Asian people’.
Coloured
The once commonly used term ‘coloured people’ is now generally disliked and
felt to be offensive or patronising, it should therefore be avoided.
The term ‘visible minorities’ whose scope is wider than ‘black’ has gained
ground in the last few years and is acceptable.
Asian
People in the Indian sub-continent do not consider themselves to be ‘Asians’,
this being a collective term which has been applied to them in Britain. People
identify themselves rather in terms of one or more of the following: their
national origin (‘Indian’, ‘Pakistani’, ‘Bangladeshi’); their region of origin
(‘Gujerati’, ‘Punjabi’, ‘Bengali’); or their religion (‘Muslim’, ‘Hindu’, ‘Sikh’).
The term ‘Asian’, however, is acceptable where the exact ethnic origin of the
person is not known, or as a collective reference to people from the Indian
sub-continent. Strictly speaking it would be more accurate to refer to such
people as being of ‘South Asian’ origin, so as to distinguish from those from
South Eastern Asia (e.g. Malaysian and Vietnamese) and from the Far East
(e.g. Hong Kong Chinese). The term ‘Oriental’ should be avoided as it is
imprecise and may be found racist or offensive. Some young people of South
Asian origin born in Britain may prefer to describe themselves as ‘black’ or as
‘British Asian’.
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Terminology
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Mixed-Race/Half Caste
The term ‘half-caste’ is offensive and should be avoided.
The term ‘mixed race’ is widely used and is acceptable. However, it is not liked
that much and carries negative connotations and it is preferable to refer to a
person as being of ‘mixed-parentage’ or from a ‘multi-racial household’.
Ethnic Minorities
The term ‘ethnic minority’ is widely used as the broadest term to encompass all
those groups who see themselves to be distinct from the majority in terms of
ethnic or cultural identity. The term is clearly broader than ‘black’ or ‘visible
minorities’ and includes such groups as Bosnians, Travelling people, Arabs,
Chinese and refugees from various parts of the world.
Some prefer to reverse the order of words and speak of ‘minority ethnic
communities’. This usage makes it clearer that it is not just the minorities, but
also the majority that has an ‘ethnic’ identity.
Reference to minority
communities as ‘ethnics’, an exclusionary expression should therefore be
avoided.
The description of all people of minority ethnic origin as ‘immigrants’ is also
highly inaccurate, exclusionary and liable to give offence. Except in reference
to ‘immigrants’ in the strict, technical sense, this term should be avoided.
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Understanding Race Issues: Some Definitions
1. Prejudice
1.1. An unfavourable opinion or feeling formed beforehand without
knowledge, thought or reason.
1.2. Unreasonable feelings, opinions or attitudes, especially of a hostile
nature, directed against a racial, religious or national group.
2. Stereotype
2.1. Whether positive or negative, a stereotype is a rigid, over-generalised
belief about a particular group or category of people.
2.2. We use stereotypes to help predict and handle the unexpected and
unknown, and thus to feel more comfortable with people we do not
understand.
3. Discrimination
3.1. Action or practices carried out by members of majority ethnic groups
or their representatives which have a different and harmful impact on
members of a minority ethnic group.
3.2. Can either be direct against a group or individual or indirect by
affecting a group negatively as a consequence of practices or
activities (i.e. direct v indirect discrimination).
3.3. Deprives individuals or groups of their rights because of their race,
national origin, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age or
disability.
4. Ethnocentrism
4.1. A view of things in which one’s own group is the centre of everything,
and others are scaled and rated with reference to it.
4.2. The tendency to view the beliefs and customs of other cultures only
through one’s own cultural experience.
5. Racism
5.1. A belief that human races have distinctive characteristics that
determine their respective cultures, usually involving the idea that
one’s own race is superior and has the right to rule others.
5.2. A belief or assumption that all members of a racial group are of the
same kind or act in a particular way, as against seeing them as
individuals.
5.3. Racism in general terms consists of conduct or words or practices
which disadvantage people because of their colour, culture or ethnic
origin. ‘In its more subtle form it is as damaging as in its overt form’
(Stephen Lawrence Inquiry).
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Definitions
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5.4. Institutional Racism ‘consists of the collective failure of an organisation to
provide an appropriate and professional service to people because of
their colour, culture or ethnic origin. It can be seen or detected in
processes, attitudes and behaviour which amount to discrimination
through unwitting prejudice, ignorance, thoughtlessness, and racist
stereotyping which disadvantage minority ethnic people’. (Stephen
Lawrence Inquiry).
6. A Racial Incident
6.1. As a result of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry a new definition of a racial
incident has been widely adopted. This definition states that ‘A racist
incident is any incident which is perceived to be racist by the victim or
any other person’.
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Background
The Bahá’i Faith began in Persia in the middle of the last century, since which
time it has established itself throughout the world. Its founder, Bahá’u’lláh (a
title meaning ‘Glory of God’) lived from 1817-1892, and is regarded by Bahá’is
as a Messenger of God. His teachings centre on the unity of mankind and of
religions, and include the harmony of religion and science, the equality of men
and women, and the abolition of prejudice.
There are a small number of people who subscribe to this faith in Central
Scotland who come from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Beliefs
The basic principles of the Bahá’i Faith include:
 The oneness of humanity
 The foundation of all religions is one
 Religion must be the cause of unity
 Religion must be in accord with science and reason
 Independent investigation of truth
 Equality between men and women
 The abolition of all forms of prejudice
 Universal peace
 Universal education
 A universal auxiliary language
 An international tribunal
Worship
Bahá’is are required to pray at least once every day. Every 19 days Bahá’is
meet to socialise, eat together, pray and discuss community business.
Members of the Faith observe a period of fasting each year: invalids are
exempted from this, as are children, the elderly, and expectant and nursing
mothers.
The Bahá’i Community
The Faith has no clergy and its affairs are in the hands of elected
administrative bodies known as ‘Spiritual Assemblies’. At present there are
some 200 of these in the United Kingdom, and they can usually be found by
referring to the telephone book under ‘Bahá’i Faith’. Although there are
significant numbers of Bahá’is in this country of Persian (Iranian) origin, the
majority of members here are of British background and their cultural
approach and needs are basically the same as those of other citizens.
Marriage
The Bahá’i marriage ceremony is recognised in Scotland. Bahá’is have their
own marriage officers who are empowered to carry out marriages by law. A
distinct feature of Bahá’i marriage is that the consent of parents must be given
before a couple can be married.
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The Bahá’i Faith
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Education
Bahá’is believe very strongly in the principle of universal education. Bahá’u’lláh
said that if a family has to choose between educating a son or a daughter, then
the daughter should be chosen as women are the first educators of the child.
Diet
Under normal circumstances Bahá’is abstain from alcohol as from other
harmful or habit-forming drugs, but it is permitted where prescribed as a bona
fide part of treatment. Narcotics would similarly be permitted for control of pain
as prescribed. There are no special requirements as far as food and diet are
concerned except that the abstention from alcohol extends to cooking as well,
so that wine sauces, sherry trifle, etc. are forbidden.
Health and Healing
There is no objection to the giving or receiving of blood transfusions or of organ
transplants; donation or organs after death for transplanting to others is
regarded as praiseworthy. Termination of pregnancy is permitted only where
there are strong medical grounds such as risk to life and health of the mother.
It is not regarded lightly and is not permitted as a social or contraceptive
measure.
Death
Bahá’is believe that after death the body should be treated with respect.
Cremation is not permitted and burial should take place as near as reasonably
possible to the place of death, certainly within the distance of an hour’s
transport. There is no objection to necessary post-mortem examination
provided these stipulations can be met.
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Introduction
The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University (BKWSU) works in 84
countries around the world. It operates through more than 5,000 centres
including three in Scotland (Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow), and over
30 in the rest of the UK. The world headquarters is in Mt Abu, Rajasthan,
India. The BKSWU was founded in 1937 in Karachi by Brahma Baba, a
businessman and philanthropist, who dedicated the remaining 33 years
of his life to its formation and growth. On nearing retirement age, he had
a vision of how people of all cultural backgrounds could come together
to rediscover and develop the spiritual dimension of their lives.
Brahma Baba set up a trust of twelve women to run the organisation and this
system has continued with mainly women running its centres around the
world, The current administrative heads of the BKSWU are both founding
students and are women now aged in their 80’s: Dadi Prakashmani, a
president of the Parliament of the World’s Religion in 1993, and Dadi Janki,
one of an eminent group “Keepers of Wisdom”, convened by the United
Nations, to advise political leaders on world wide issues.
Basic Beliefs
The University’s core curriculum is offered in the form of a foundation course
in meditation, based on the teachings of Raja Yoga. This is the path of
understanding and knowing one’s identity as a spiritual being. Students study
Raja Yoga meditation, the linking of the soul with Supreme soul through the
power of pure and elevated thinking.
Places of Worship
Classes are held at the University’s learning centres and people from all
backgrounds and cultures attend. There are currently around 500,000 regular
students worldwide who attend meetings daily in the early morning before
work time, for meditation and spiritual study.
Community Activities
The main activity of the BKSWU is to provide a service to local communities of
a variety of educational programmes and courses at no cost to the
participants, with an emphasis on meditation and personal spiritual
development. The individual learns to develop a sense of self-worth and
respect for others, which helps to bring greater peace of mind and happiness
in life. The BKSWU also runs activities both independently and with other
organisations to explore the spiritual dimension in different areas including:
youth, women, men, inter religious dialogue, business, prison life, education,
science, social work and health care.
Main Festivals
In honour of its founder Brahma Baba, the BKSWU celebrates the 18th
January as a special day of silence and meditation experience, dedicated to
world peace.
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Brahma Kumaris
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Food and Diet
All students are encouraged to eat a lacto vegetarian diet free from alcohol and
tobacco and to abstain from recreational drugs.
Concerns of the Community
As an international non-governmental organisation, the BKSWU holds general
consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations
and consultative status with UNICEF. It is a recipient of seven UN Peace
Messenger Awards. It continues to contribute to raising world awareness of
spiritual values through local national and international projects. These have
included Global Co-operation for a better world, 1989-1991 and worldwide
activities for 2000, the UN international Year for the Culture of Peace. The
BKWSU is also an active sponsor of Living Values, an education programme
which is a partnership amongst educators around the world, sponsored by
UNESCO.
The BKSWU provides a caring, co-operative and supportive environment that
allows personal growth, recognising that
“when we change
the world changes”.
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Buddhism and the
Chinese Community
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Introduction
The Chinese community is the second largest minority ethnic group in Central
Region. Most originate from Hong Kong, but there are also several families
from mainland China and Malaysia.
Religion/Buddhism
Religiously, most Chinese come from a background of ancestral worship and
lead a secular way of life. There are some Buddhist and Christian families in
Central Region.
Hundred of years after his death, the philosophy and teachings of Buddha
spread to China. Buddha spent many years deep in thought, searching for a
way that would heal the misery and suffering he saw in the world. He taught
people that much unhappiness was caused by their greed for the wrong things
in life, which made them selfish and dissatisfied. The Buddha’s prayers and
teachings encourage people to rise above such selfishness and behave kindly
and thoughtfully at all times.
Chinese traditional values include respect for elders and authority, reliance on
the family and hard work. They give high status to literacy and education.
Dress
Dress is western for all Chinese in Central Region. Traditional dresses such
as the cheong sum may be worn during festivals such as the Chinese New
Year, and on special occasions such as weddings etc.
Diet
There are no restrictions. Buddhists avoid intentional killing, thus many are
vegetarians, some of whom may eat fish or eggs.
Many Chinese do not like lamb, and dairy products are less prominent than in
most western diets.
Language
Cantonese and Hakka are the two main spoken Chinese dialects in Central
Scotland. Cantonese is a southern Chinese dialect widely spoken in
Guangdong and southern mainland China and in Hong Kong. Hakka is
originally a northern Chinese language spoken along parts of the eastern
coast. However, Mandarin or Putonghua, the official language of China, is
becoming more and more important since the return of Hong Kong to China in
1997 and many Chinese are learning it. It is important when using an
interpreter to establish the correct Chinese dialect.
There is only one form of written Chinese which is understood by all literate
Chinese regardless of their provincial background.
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Festivals
The Chinese calendar is based on the phases of the moon and consequently
no Chinese festival falls on the same date in successive years. The main
festival is Chinese New Year which usually falls in late January or early
February depending on the lunar calendar. Everyone wishes everyone else
prosperity with the words Kung Hei Fat Choy and children are given ‘Lucky
Money’ in red envelopes. Other traditional Chinese festivals are less widely
celebrated.
Chinese Names
Traditionally, the sequence of names for the Chinese is surname followed by
personal name e.g. Ng Sook Ming. The personal name may be up to two
Chinese characters, each of which appears as a separate word in English e.g.
Sook Ming. Women may change their surname following marriage but this is
not universal.
Some Chinese in the United Kingdom have adapted their names to the UK
system and put their surname last e.g. Sook Ming Ng. Sometimes the personal
names are hyphenated e.g. Sook-Ming.
To avoid confusion and
embarrassment, it is therefore important to use the correct name and style.
Many Chinese also have European names. For official documentation, it is
necessary to ask people for the correct spelling and how they wish their names
to be recorded.
Deaths
Funeral rites and mourning customs vary very widely in the Chinese tradition,
making it very difficult to generalise. In general, on the death of a child or infant
the burial takes place at once with a simple ceremony. In the case of adults,
the body is bathed. The custom was and still is, for some Chinese to dress the
body in the deceased’s favourite clothing. Relatives and friends may wish to
see the body before the coffin lid is closed. The Chinese community respects
both the legal and medical professions and is not likely to object to postmortems.
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Introduction
Christianity was founded in what is today modern day Israel and
Palestine around 2000 years ago. It is based on the teachings of Jesus
of Nazareth, known as Christ. This means “the anointed one”, and
Christians believe Jesus to be the Son of God.
Christians see
themselves as following in the way of Jesus who revealed the forgiving
love of God for all people and God’s concern for human beings.
Basic Beliefs
At the centre of Christian belief is Jesus who is regarded as the revelation of
God. For many Christians this revelation is such that he is understood to be
the very incarnation of God. In Jesus, Christians come to know something of
the nature of God who is seen as loving and forgiving. Jesus is regarded as
the one who has transformed human nature so that it need no longer follow its
sinful inclinations but rather lead a life of love and service. Their experience of
God in Jesus has led them to see God as a community of three persons,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, called the Trinity. Christians believe that the
world was created by God and will be brought to its fulfilment at the end of
time. In the mean time they believe in the presence and support of God’s
spirit among all.
The Christian holy book is called the Bible and is in two parts. The first
equates roughly to the Jewish Bible has been called the Old Testament. The
second is the New Testament which contains the Gospels (records of Jesus’
life and his teachings), the Acts of the Apostles, the writings of St. Paul and
some other works.
Customs and Practice
Individuals are admitted into the Christian Church through baptism which can
take place in childhood or adulthood. The central ritual of much Christian
worship is Holy Communion or Eucharist which is sharing of bread and wine in
memory of Jesus’ last supper with his disciples. This action unites Christians
in a symbolic or sacramental way with the death and resurrection of Jesus and
one another. It can also act as a recommitment to follow in the path set out by
Jesus’ life and example. Private prayer and meditation is important to
Christians in their daily life.
Places of Worship
The Christian holy day takes place on a Sunday when congregations gather in
churches to worship and celebrate Holy Communion. In the Catholic tradition
this takes place weekly and even daily while in some Protestant churches it
takes place on a monthly basis or even annually.
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Christianity
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Main Festivals
Important dates in the Christian Calendar include Christmas, the celebration of
Jesus’ birth (25 December), and the central Christian feast of Easter that
commemorates the death (on Good Friday) and resurrection (on Easter
Sunday) of Jesus. The exact dates for Easter vary from year to year but are
usually around the end of March or beginning of April. The forty days before
Easter are known as Lent and it is common for many Christians to make some
form of self-sacrifice during this time, such as fasting or going without
something for this period. It is also a time for increased prayer and helping
others. Pentecost, which celebrates the coming of God’s Spirit, and is thought
of as the birth of the Church, is also an important festival.
Food and Diet
In Christianity, all is seen as a gift of God. This means that no food is seen as
unclean but everything is to be enjoyed in moderation and gratitude. Fasting
on particular days and at particular times of the year is also common.
Concerns of the Community
Christians are concerned about working for the values of God’s kingdom on
Earth: justice, peace and reconciliation. They are concerned for justice for all
people and so are involved with justice, peace and development issues.
Working together with others for the common good of the nation and the world
is important for them.
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Background
The majority of Hindus come from India, East Africa, Malawi and Zambia.
Others are from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Mauritius and Trinidad.
It is estimated that between 800,000 and 1 million people in the United
Kingdom believe in Hinduism.
Language
The spoken language of Hindus depends on which part of the world they
come from. The most common languages used by Hindus in Central Scotland
are Punjabi, Bengali, Gujerati and Tamil. Generally most Hindus should
understand Hindi.
Religion and Worship
The word ‘Hinduism’ is used to describe a way of life which is shaped by the
many ancient religious traditions of India.
Hindu understandings of God are complex. God being worshipped through
three main images:BRAHMA - the Creator
VISHNU
- the Preserver
SHIVA
- the Destroyer
Statues and pictures of these deities are often seen in Hindu temples and
homes.
Hindus believe in reincarnation or rebirth. The life that a person leads now
determines the next life that he or she will lead. It is important to lead a good,
positive and fruitful life and to progress, the ultimate aim being to be released
from the cycle of birth, death and rebirth and to be united with God.
Worship (PUJA) can be conducted at home or in the temple (MANDIR). Many
homes will have pictures and statues of Hindu deities and there may be a
corner of a room, or a small room, set aside as a shrine for worship. When
entering the Mandir, all should remove their shoes and women should cover
their heads. The part of a home set aside for worship should not be entered
without an invitation. Despite its association with Hitler and the Nazi party, the
Swastika is in fact a very ancient Indian symbol of good fortune. It is often
found in Hindu homes on entrances to buildings to protect against evil. When
leaving, a visitor may be offered a piece of fruit or a few sweets. It is good
manners to accept. The most important festivals in the Hindu calendar are:DIWALI - in October/November celebrating the New Year;
and
HOLI - the Spring Festival
MAHA SHIVARATRI - in February
RAM NAVMI - in April/May
JANMASTMI - in August/September
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Hindus
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Social Life/Marriage
The caste system is still important to Hindu custom and it restricts intermarriage for some people, who may also object to socialising with caste groups
other than their own. However, many Hindus consider that the caste system is
outdated and do not adhere to its requirements. Marriage is often arranged
with a dowry offered. Astrology frequently dominates the choice of wedding
date.
Diet, Taboos and Etiquette
The majority of Hindus are vegetarians who do not even eat eggs or fish. They
require cheese which is vegetarian and many avoid meals cooked with onions,
garlic or vegetables that grow under the ground. Plain water is essential with
any meal to wash down food. When offering food to a Hindu it is good practice
to ask first what can be eaten. Many Hindus avoid alcohol and smoking. Upon
entering a Hindu home, do not offer to shake hands. An acceptable greeting is
the ‘Namaste’ (hands raised palm to palm and slight bow of the head). Shoes
must be removed in the area of the house which accommodates a shrine.
When Hindu women are addressed by a man, another family member should
be present.
Most Hindus would prefer to shower rather than bathe. If a shower is not
available a bucket and a cup would be an acceptable arrangement for use in
the bath. In terms of cleanliness, flowing water is more satisfying. Similarly,
toilet paper is not considered enough for cleansing purposes. A jug of water
near the W.C. itself is adequate. The washing of one’s hands before and after
meals is a common practice.
Dress
Men are usually in trousers and shirt. Women are usually dressed in a Sari,
which is a one piece garment wound/folded around the lower body in different
styles to suit the occasion and tradition from which the individual comes. A
petticoat (worn under the Sari) and a blouse (to cover the upper body) are also
worn with a Sari.
Women may also wear a Punjabi Suit which is a two piece outfit, the top being
a dress and the bottom a baggy shalwar (trouser). In general, Hindus tend to
be more liberal in their attitude to western dress than Muslims.
Hindu Names
All Hindus have a first name followed by the father’s name and ending in the
surname. Therefore a common name would be:
Male:
AMUL
First Name
RAKESH
Father
MUNSHI
Surname
NADITA
First Name
RAKESH
Father
MUNSHI
Surname
Female:
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The titles Shri (Mr) and Shrimati (Mrs) can sometimes be used formally before
the name.
On marriage the girl adopts the husband’s name and surname, i.e.
NANDITARA
First Name
RAMESH
Husband’s first name
PATEL
Surname
Some married women wear a red spot on the forehead and some may wear a
streak in their hair parting.
NOTE: If doubt exists always ask the appropriate form of address.
Medical Treatment
Hindu women required to undergo medical examination may not agree to
being examined by a male, and thus a female doctor must be requested. To
save a life a Hindu is permitted to receive blood and organ transplants and
medicines of all types.
Death
A dead body should be placed in such a way that the head is towards the
North and the feet towards the South. The arms should be placed to the sides
and the legs should be straightened. The face should be pointed upwards
with eyes closed ant the whole body covered with a white cloth. Any detached
part of the body should be treated with the same respect as if they were a
complete body. Hindus believe in cremating the body as this quickly releases
back to nature the five elements i.e. water, earth, fire, wind, and sky. Postmortems are permitted, preferably with agreement with immediate family.
Funeral Arrangements
Hindus believe that death is the final Sanskara of all 16 Sanskaras (stages) in
a life of a person. As the final Sanskara, this is the most important. Dead
bodies are taken to the home and special ceremonies are performed which
will help the soul on its journey and the family to heal.
All unclaimed Hindu bodies are entitled to the above. These could be
provided and performed with the help of a local Hindu Centre or Hindu temple.
Family Support
Most Hindus pray with the aid of a Mala (rosary) and derive comfort from the
possession of one.
Hindus generally live in extended families and therefore, requests to convey
messages of death or injury to the head of the family should be met where
possible. For the same reason, every effort should be made to re-unite
victims of accidents and other traumatic events with their families.
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Judaism
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Background
The origins of Judaism, the religion of the Jewish people, lie in the Middle East
and date back over 4000 years.
There are approximately 15 million Jews world-wide, with the greatest
proportion in Israel. An estimated 300,000 live in the UK, with the majority
living in London, but with sizeable numbers in Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool
and Glasgow and smaller communities in other towns.
Jewish religion and culture are inextricably linked. After many centuries of
dispersal from their land of origin, Israel, Jews have maintained their traditions
and customs, such as the dietary laws proscribed in the Bible.
Beliefs
Judaism is based on the Ten Commandments and on the Torah, the five books
of Moses. The most important law is the belief in only one God. It has a strong
moral and ethical code based on the commandment, ‘Love your neighbour as
yourself’.
The idea of the Jews as the ‘chosen people’ is a much misunderstood concept.
It refers to the code of law that they were ‘chosen’ to obey. If they keep to the
law they will be rewarded, if not they will be punished. They respect other
religions and believe that the righteous of all nations will share in God’s future
kingdom.
Worship
The Jewish Sabbath begins before nightfall on Friday afternoon and ends at
nightfall on Saturday. Orthodox Jews will not write, travel or work, switch on
electrical appliances or cook on the Sabbath which is a ‘day of rest’. Formal
communal worship is conducted in the synagogue on week days and on Friday
evenings and Saturday mornings.
To visit a synagogue it is recommended that a visit is pre-arranged and once
there to cover your head at all times.
Rites and Observances
All male babies require to be circumcised on the eighth day after their birth and
the naming ceremony takes place during the circumcision procedures. Girls
are named in the synagogue on the first Sabbath after their birth.
Jewish education is paramount in the Jewish religion and Jewish parents are
expected to send their children to a Jewish school or religion classes if
possible. The family is of great importance in the Jewish religion. Girls reach
their religious majority at 12, boys at 13, when they are expected to keep the
commandments.
Although Jews tend to adopt the naming of the country of birth, babies are all
given a Hebrew name.
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Divorce is permitted. In addition to the civil divorce it is essential for the
husband to give his wife a Jewish divorce, a ‘get’, which is the legal annulment
of the marriage contract. The wife must also accept it. Without a ‘get’ the
couple are not free to marry again in Jewish law.
Dress
Modes of dress tend to reflect current fashion but very religious women will
keep their hair covered at all times with a hat or wig. Woman are expected to
dress modestly. Many religious women will not wear trousers, short sleeved
garments or short skirts.
Ultra-orthodox men, including those known as ‘hasidic’ are distinguished by
their dark clothes, wide brimmed hats, long coats, beards and sidelocks.
Modern orhodox men usually wear a knitted kippah at all times and many
wear a fringed garment under their shirt, often with the fringes showing.
Main Festivals
The Hebrew calendar is based on the cycles of the moon and each new day
begins at nightfall. Jewish festivals begin in the evening at sunset and end the
following evening at nightfall. Most festivals last for more than one day and do
not usually occur on the same English date every year.
The main festivals are:
Rosh Hashana – the Jewish New Year which takes place in
September/October and consists of a ten day period of prayer and penitence
at the end of which is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur, the
Day of Atonement. On this day which begins in the evening, no food or drink
is consumed for twenty five hours. Most of the time is spent in the synagogue.
Sukkot – a harvest festival, held in September/October, which commemorates
the 40 years the Jews spent in the wilderness.
Chanukah – Held in December, this festival celebrates the history of the small
band of Maccabees against the Greeks, together with the miracle of the oil
which was enough for one night but burned for eight nights.
Purim – Held February/March, this one day festival celebrates the story of
Queen Esther who saved the Jews from being exterminated by the wicked
Hamam in Shushan, Persia.
Pesach – the Passover, held in March/April, it celebrates the exodus of the
Jewish people from slavery in Egypt.
Shavuot – Receiving of the Torah. Held in May/June, it commemorates the
giving of the Torah to Moses on Mount Sinai.
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Marriage
Jewish marriages take place under a canopy. The marriage is sanctified by the
blessing of wine, with a little sip taken by the bride and groom. The bridegroom
places a ring on the bride’s finger and he makes a declaration in Hebrew. The
marriage contract is read out in Hebrew and English. The groom then stamps
on a glass to signify the destruction of the Temple and the fragility of much in
human life.
Diet
The Jewish dietary laws are called kashrut and only kosher food is allowed.
Permitted animals are those which chew the cud and have cloven hooves.
They must be slaughtered by a trained Jewish ritual slaughterer to ensure the
animal is dispatched quickly and painlessly. The method of slaughter ensures
that as much blood as possible is drained from the animal, and the meat is
further soaked and salted to ensure all blood has been drained from it.
Separate utensils are used for milk and meat dishes, as they cannot be used
together at the same meal. Most Jewish homes have two sets of dishes, pots
and pans, cutlery, washing up basins and tea towels.
Eggs and fish may be eaten, but shellfish and other aquatic animals which do
not have both scales and fins and birds of prey are all forbidden.
Many observant Jews will only eat food which has been supervised and
prepared in separate dishes. It is therefore difficult for Jews to eat meals in
hospital and many hospitals keep sealed, pre-packed food for Jewish patients.
Medical Treatment
In practice, the Jewish Community, like the indigenous population, treat the
medical profession with great respect. There are no religious objections to
blood transfusions and transplants.
Death
Most Jewish communities have a burial society which arranges the burial
according to Jewish rites. If a Jewish person dies in hospital it is very important
that no washing takes place and the body should simply be covered with a
sheet. No mutilation of the body is allowed unless there is a legal requirement
for a post-mortem; cremation is forbidden; burials should take place as soon as
possible, preferably within 24 hours of death. It is important to be aware that
the Jewish period of mourning after the funeral is seven days, Jewish mourners
welcome callers to their home during that period.
Local Contacts
Glasgow Jewish Representative Council
Jewish Community Centre
222 Fenwick Road, Giffnock
GLASGOW G46 6UE
Tel: 0141 577 8200
Fax: 0141 577 8202
e-mail: [email protected]
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Background
Muslims follow the religion of Islam which is world-wide and embraces nearly
one seventh of the world’s population. Muslim originated from numerous
countries, nationalities and ethnic groups. In the United Kingdom there are
approximately 1.5 million Muslims and Islam is the fastest growing religion in
the country.
Most Muslims living in Scotland are descendants of immigrants from India and
Pakistan and they constitute the largest ethnic minority population in central
Scotland.
Language
Many Muslims in Central Scotland speak English and depending on their
origin, will speak a variety of languages. Muslims of Pakistani origin may
speak various languages including Urdu, Punjabi and Pashto and use the
written language, Urdu.
Religion and Worship
Islam was founded in the early seventh century by the Prophet Muhammad,
who was born in Makka (Mecca). Islam originated in Arabia from which it
spread to the rest of the world. Islam is a monotheistic religion and God is
known in Arabic as ‘Allah’. God is in control of all events past, present and
future including the Day of Judgement. Thus an individual’s goal in life is to
accept the fact that on that day they will be held to account for their actions.
This imposes a responsibility on Muslims and they are required to adhere to
the Qur’an (Koran).
The Qur’an is viewed as the actual word of God. It is written in Arabic (right to
left) and Muslims learn and recite from it. Thus it is imperative that Muslims
are taught Arabic at an early age. Central Scotland Arab Community runs
Arabic language classes every Saturday for 3 hours during the school year.
Reading classes for the Qur’an are also held at Stirling and Falkirk mosques.
The Qur’an represents a source of guidance covering ethics, law, human
relationships, justice and all other aspects of human life – social, moral,
intellectual economical and political. In short, Islam is not only a religion, it is
a way of life offered to all humanity.
Seven articles of faith constitute the Muslims’ creed: God, Angels of God,
Books of God, Messengers of God, the Day of Judgement, Predestination,
and Life after Death. The oneness of God (Tawhid) is the key concept in
Islam. It sums up the Islamic way of life and presents, in a nutshell, the
essence of Islamic civilisation.
Five Pillas of Islam
The five pillars of Islam are prescribed in order to help a Muslim develop
his/her spiritual experience through physical practice.
1. Shahadah – Declaration of faith: To become a Muslim, one must
declare and confess, ‘I bear witness that there is no god but the God
and Muhammad is his messenger’.
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2. Salat – Mandatory prayers of worship: Muslims must pray five times a
day facing towards Makka and the forehead must touch the ground.
Hygiene is very important and ablution (washing) of specific parts of the
body before prayer is essential. Prayers may be performed anywhere,
providing the place is clean.
3. Fasting – The month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic
calendar) is a period of time where an individual’s piety is heightened
through spiritual discipline. Individual adults abstain from food, drink,
sex and immoral thoughts from one and a half hours before sunrise until
dusk.
4. Zakat – Welfare contribution: 2.5% of a Muslim’s savings is donated to
the needy.
5. Hajj – Pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime if a Muslim is fit to do so
and can afford it.
The Mosque
The Mosque is the centre of religious and community life. The Mosque may
range from a covered building to a domed building with a minaret from which
Muslims are called to prayer. Congregational worship takes place on Friday
afternoons in three places in Central Scotland: Central Scotland Islamic Centre
in Burghmuir Road, Stirling; Falkirk Islamic Centre in 8 Burnhead Lane, Falkirk;
and the Chaplaincy at the University of Stirling during the academic year.
The main room of the Mosque tends to be empty apart from a pulpit ‘Mihrab’
which marks the direction of Makka and sometimes a gallery for women.
Anyone entering a Mosque must remove their shoes. No animals are permitted
in the building. The man who leads the prayers is called the Imam who cannot
act as intermediary between humans and God; nor is he considered to be
entitled to accept or reject acts of worship on behalf of God. His function is
merely to guide people in the right direction according to the Qur’an and Sunna.
Festivals
Muslims use a lunar calendar which results in variations in the exact dates of
festivals from year to year (lunar year is about 10 days shorter than the Solar
calendar). The two main festivals are:
1. Eid al-Fitr: This occurs at the end of the fasting month and Muslims
celebrate by wearing new clothes, feasting and visiting relations and
friends.
2. Eid al-Adha: A three day festival which marks the end of the Hajj. It
also commemorates the sacrifice of the ram sent by God to Abraham for
sacrificial purposes in lieu of his son Isma’il.
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Marriage and Family
Marriage is the only means to establish a family in Islam. It is a solemn free
civil contract between the man and the women but not a sacrament. Marriage
is regarded in a very positive light by Muslims due both to the teaching of the
Qur’an and the example of Muhammad whose life Muslims seek to emulate.
Marriage ceremonies take the form of a registry office wedding and a religious
ceremony, known as ‘Nikkah’. The religious ceremony is performed either at
home, community hall or in the Mosque by the ‘Qadi’.
Muslims may have large extended families. On visiting a Muslim home it is
important to observe traditions and recognise that women may not feel
comfortable in the company of male visitors and one should not offer to shake
hands. Should one be offered refreshments it is polite to accept. Divorce is
allowed but it is regarded as the last resort.
Circumcision
Muslim baby boys must be circumcised as soon as possible but before
puberty. This practice is still strictly observed.
Food and Diet
A number of dietary restrictions are observed by Muslims, various types of
food are prohibited such as: swine in all forms, flesh of animals which died of
natural causes, animals which are killed contrary to Islamic law, carnivorous
animals and blood of animals. Islam specifies that animals should be
slaughtered in a certain way. This is known as ‘halal meat’. Furthermore
Muslims should also avoid food containing non-halal animal fat. Muslims are
not allowed to drink, carry or sell alcoholic drink as it is strictly forbidden. It is
considered correct etiquette to eat with the right hand and one should eat
without stretching. Hands should be washed before and after the meal.
Hygiene
Muslims attach great importance to cleanliness. They need water in toilets
(toilet paper is not considered adequate); if a bedpan has to be used, a
container of clean water should accompany it. Muslims prefer to wash in free
flowing water, rather than sit in a bath. Ablution before each prayer is
necessary.
Modesty and Dress
Islam decrees modesty in dress for men and women. Women should
endeavour to cover their whole body except face and hands (long dresses)
which is known as Hijab.
Medical Treatment
Modesty is extremely important to Muslims and they may strongly prefer to be
examined or treated medically by a person of the same sex and may also
prefer to expose only the part of the body being treated.
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Muslim Names
The naming system used by the Muslims from Arab countries is very simple.
Most names are basically taken from the Qur’an. The naming system used by
Muslims from Pakistan, Bangladesh and India is complex with many variations.
Males and females have different naming systems. This, and the fact that
women do not always adopt the husband’s name on marriage, can mean that
members of one family may have different names. The religious name is never
used as a personal name (e.g., Allah, Abdul). If there is any doubt, always ask
the person: what do they use as their personal name? what do they use as
their surname in the UK? and what do they want to be called?
Death
In Islam it is a requirement to bury a body as quickly as possible, usually within
twenty-four hours. A delay in burial and/or a post-mortem examination can be
deeply distressing for a bereaved family. Anyone dealing with sudden death
should be alert to this. If a post-mortem is required, the family should be
assured that only what is absolutely necessary will be done at the post- mortem
and that where possible all the organs will be replaced to be buried with the
body. It will be necessary to alert the relevant duty Procurator Fiscal and
pathologist in such cases by reference to this in the sudden death
documentation/report.
For identification purposes prior to post-mortem, the body should where
possible have the eyes closed and the limbs straight, with the head turned
towards the right shoulder. The family will want to wash the body as part of the
burial rites and Muslims will express their emotion freely in bereavement.
Cremation is forbidden.
After cleaning the dead body, it is wrapped in a shroud, called a Kafan. Before
burial the body of the deceased will come home so that relatives and friends
may pay their last respects. The body is then taken to the Mosque for prayer.
On burial, the body should be placed facing the Holy Ka’ba in Makka.
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Paganism
Introduction
Paganism with its roots in the indigenous, pre-Christian religions of
Europe has evolved and adapted to the circumstances of modern life.
Its re-emergence in Scotland parallels that observed in other Western
countries, where it has been growing rapidly since the 1950’s. The
social infrastructure of Paganism reflects the value the community
places on unity in diversity, consisting of a polycentric network of interrelated traditions and local groups served by a number of larger
organisations. In Scotland the Pagan Federation acts as an educational
and representative body liaising with government and other relevant
bodies on behalf of the Pagan community.
Basic Beliefs
Pagans understand Deity to be manifest within nature and recognise Divinity
as taking many forms, finding expression in Goddesses as well as Gods.
Goddess worship is one of the primary characteristics of Paganism. Pagans
believe that nature is sacred and that the natural cycles of birth, growth and
death observed in the world around us carry profoundly spiritual meanings.
Human beings are seen as part of nature, woven into the great web of life
along with other animals, trees, stones, plants and everything else that is of
this earth. Most Pagans believe in some form of reincarnation, viewing death
as a transition within a continuing process of existence. In Paganism, spiritual
truths find expression in mythopoeic and symbolic forms rather than through
doctrine, and reflect a synergy of polytheistic, pantheistic and animistic
understandings of the divine.
Customs and Practices
Pagan ethics emphasise the responsible exercise of personal freedom in
trying to live in harmony with others, and with nature. Pagans frequently use
the phrase ‘if it harms none, do what you will’ to describe this approach to life.
Pagan worship seeks to honour the divine powers and to bring the participants
in harmony with them, to celebrate the turning of the seasons, and to mark the
transitions of human life with appropriate rites of passage. Rituals usually
begin with the creation of sacred space by the marking out of a symbolic circle
and the blessing of those within. They may involve meditation, chanting,
music, prayer, dance, poetry and the enactment of symbolic drama, together
with the sharing of food and drink.
Places of Worship
Paganism has no buildings dedicated as places of public worship. Instead,
Pagans hold their ceremonies in woods, on hilltops, along the seashore, at
standing stones, in parks, gardens and private homes.
Festivals
Nearly all Scottish Pagans celebrate a cycle of eight seasonal festivals known
as the Wheel of the Year. These are Samhain (31st Oct), Midwinter or Yule
(21st Dec), Imbolc (2nd Feb), Spring Equinox (21st Mar), Beltane (30th Apr – 1st
May), Midsummer (21st Jun), Lughnasadh (1st Aug) and Autumn Equinox (21st
Sept).
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Food and Diet
For ethical reasons, most Pagans have a strong preference for foods derived
from organic farming and free-range livestock rearing, while many are
vegetarian or vegan.
Concerns of the Community
Pagans regard nature as sacred and are deeply concerned by the damage
inflicted by modern, industrialised societies on the natural world. Many regard
environmental activism as a religious duty. Pagans honour Deity in female as
well as male forms and strongly uphold equality of the sexes. Women play a
very prominent role in Pagan religion. Pagans take it for granted that different
people will experience the divine in different ways, and are thus very tolerant of
other life-affirming religious beliefs. Proselytising is regarded as offensive and
ill-mannered.
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Background
Sikhism dates back about 528 years and was started by Guru Nanak in the
Punjab area of India. Sikhs have ten gurus and believe in one God who is
present in all people. World-wide there are about 20 million adherents, of
whom around 500,000 live in the United Kingdom. Sikhs are the third largest
minority ethnic population in Central Scotland.
Language
Punjabi is the mother tongue of most Sikhs although many speak English and
some may understand Hindi. Punjabi classes are currently available in
Falkirk. The written form is in the gurmukhi script.
Religion and Worship
A Sikh temple (or Gurdwara) is usually visible a long way off because of its tall
flagpoles, fully draped in yellow cloth and flying a yellow flag with the Sikh
symbol (quoit and dagger in the centre and two curved swords with their
handles crossing underneath). Devotees always take their shoes off before
entering the Gurdwara and cover their heads. All visitors should do likewise.
A number of feast days are held throughout the year to celebrate the birthdays
of the ten Gurus. These feast days called GURPURB are normally
accompanied by three days of celebration (AKHANDPATH). These feasts
could be held on Sundays.
A Sikh can at any time of the day or night (and in any place), carry out daily
observance of scripture reading or the saying of prayers. As part of their
religion, Sikhs are enjoined to have a bath early in the morning before morning
prayers. Toileting, the brushing of teeth and then bathing is the usual
sequence. If a shower is not available a large bowl or bucket with a cup will
be accepted for use in the bath. The use of toilet paper when using the W.C.
is not considered sufficient and a bottle or a jug full of water is used for
cleansing.
Social Life/Marriage
Arranged marriages are common. Some Sikh families follow the practice of
dowries. Extended family units are usual. Women have full equality. Divorce
is permitted but it is a rare occurrence and only as a last resort.
Diet, Taboos and Etiquette
Most Sikhs are vegetarian and abstain from alcohol and smoking. If they eat
meat, it will normally be chicken, lamb or pork. The meat must not be ‘Halal’.
(See Muslims: Food and Diet). Dairy products are permissible. Some Sikh
homes have a room set aside for devotion. Upon entering, shoes must be
removed and heads should be covered.
According to Sikh etiquette, comforting a member of the opposite sex by
physical contact e.g. touching or hugging, should be avoided unless the
persons are closely related – even then for instance a married couple will not
do so or display any affection in public.
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Dress
Sikh males are easily recognisable by the wearing of a turban, which
symbolises authority and responsibility. He must also be distinguished
by specific features of dress known as the Five ‘Ks’.
1. KESH – Uncut hair and beard to be kept clean and tidy.
2. KARA – A steel bracelet worn on the right wrist, signifies eternity and
brotherhood between Sikhs.
3. KIRPAN – Sword or Dagger – symbolises dignity and self respect.
4. KANGHA – The cord which keeps the hair in place.
5. KACHS – Short trousers (underwear) worn by men and women –
represents sexual morality and chasteness.
Sikh women will normally wear the salwar kameez (salwar - trousers,
kameez – shirt) or sari and a chuni or dupattah (long scarf). Wedding
bangles and rings have the same significance as British wedding rings
and should be treated accordingly.
Sikh Names
Sikhs are easily recognisable by the title SINGH (for males) and KAUR
(for females both married and single) attached to the name.
All Sikhs have a personal name, followed by Singh or Kaur which is
followed by the name of the subcaste borne by the whole family
(corresponding to our surname) – e.g. Mohinder Singh Sandhu, Gurmit
Kaur Sondh, Hardib Kaur Bassi. Sometimes, however, the subcaste
name is dropped so that the individual calls himself or herself simply e.g.
Mohinder Singh or Gurmit Kaur.
On marriage, a woman takes her husband’s subcaste name only if he
uses it. Otherwise she calls herself ‘Mrs Kaur’, instead of e.g. Mrs
Sondh. Most of the personal names can apply equally to women and
men, the title Kaur alone indicating that the name in question belongs to
a female.
The personal name corresponds to our Christian name, and the children
should be addressed by this. Adults should be addressed as Mr
Sandhu, Mrs Sondh, Miss Bassi etc. if they use their subcaste name;
otherwise as Mr Singh, Mrs or Miss Kaur.
The names of Sikhs and Hindus are not separate and distinct, and some
of the Hindu personal names may be borne by Sikhs as well.
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Medical Treatment
There are no religious objections to blood transfusions, blood products
or transplants. However, with regard to transplants, especially the
donation of organs, the decision rests with the individual and/or the
person’s family.
Sikh women are unlikely to agree to being examined by a male doctor.
Death
If death has occurred and identification has been established, the body
and/or parts of the body should be covered with a plain white sheet or
shroud. If the condition of the body permits, the eyes and mouth should
be closed and limbs straightened with arms extended beside the body.
Post-Mortem
Although there is no religious objection, some families may not like the
idea of a post-mortem and will only accept it if it is legally unavoidable.
If the state of the body permits, it is washed and dressed by family
members and friends before cremation. It is therefore important that
any incisions made during the post-mortem examination are carefully
sutured so that any wound dehiscence does not result.
Further, should post-mortem examination be necessary then it should
be conducted as soon as possible so that the body is released to the
family for the funeral to take place with the minimum delay.
Funeral Arrangements
It is normal for the deceased to be washed and dressed by their closest
kin and friends and to be given all the symbols (The Five K’s). All Sikhs
are cremated, not buried. Stillborn babies or babies who die within a
few days of birth may be buried. The ashes of a deceased are usually
scattered in a river or at sea or taken back home by a family member.
There is a mourning period of ten days.
Family Support
Depending upon the physical and mental state of a person who is
seriously ill/injured or dying, he/she may find solace in reciting or
listening to Gurbani – verses from the Sikh scriptures. If the person is
unable to recite the verses him/herself, then any other Sikh may do so
instead.
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Shintoism
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Shinto belief entails venerating nature and establishing communion
with the ‘Kami’ – its spirits and deities – through prayer and ritual,
to live harmoniously, peacefully and fruitfully with natural world.
While the origins of Shinto belief go back thousands of years, the most
revered is the Shrine of Amaterasu, the Kami of the Sun, was dedicated
at this time. Shinto worship takes place through matsuri (observation of
festivals) at a shrine. The way into a Shinto shrine is through a torii, a
gateway between the ordinary and the sacred.
Birthday of Confucius (September 28th)
Heeding a friend’s premonition, the scholar Huan Ching escaped death
by climbing to a high place on the ninth day of the ninth moon. The day
is spent climbing hills.
Shogatsu (January 1st)
Japanese New Year is both Solemn and joyful, welcomed in with a
special meal, and gifts of money for children.
Chinese New Year (January 9th)
In 2005 this will be the year of the Rooster. An important event in the
Chinese calendar, New Year is everyone’s birthday. The dragon of the
old year is driven out with cymbals and fireworks; houses are decorated
with paper and painted red for good luck. Celebrations end with the
Lantern Festival (March 2nd) with lanterns of all colours but white.
Setsubun, Spring Festival (February 3rd)
Last day of winter is a time to drive out evil spirits with a bean-throwing
ceremony. Beans are thrown into dark corners, with shouts of ‘Fortune
in, devils out’.
Dragon Boat Festival (June 11th)
In memory of the poet Qu Yuan (279 BC) who drowned himself to
protest against official corruption. Peasants raced to save him in their
dragon boats and fed fish with rice dumplings to stop them from eating
his body. During the festival, rice dumplings are eaten and the famous
dragon boat races are held.
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Tanabata, Star Festival (July 7th)
When the stars Vega and Altair have their annual meeting across the
Milky Way. During the evening, children greet the stars by putting
bamboo sprigs decorated with bells and wishes written in coloured
paper, in the garden .
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Taoism
Ayr College – Equal Opportunities Awareness
Taoists accept what is, without wanting to be different, and study
the natural order of things, working with this order rather than
against it. The way lies in ‘Tao’ (natural law).
Taoism (is) the way of man’s cooperation with the course or the end of
the natural world, whose principles we discover in the flow patterns of
water, gas, fire which are subsequent memorialised or sculptured in
those of stone & wood, and later, in many forums of human art.
For many, Taoism is but a religion different from others (such as
Christianity or Islamism) merely in a formal way. There is however a
small group of scientists & free thinkers who persist in seeing in Taoism
not religion, but the philosophy.
Lao Tzu, who wrote the Tao Te Ching, was born in China. Taoists study
the Tao Te Ching and religious ceremonies take place at a temple. An
ancient Chinese symbol encapsulates Taoist philosophy: the opposite
forces of ‘yin’ and ‘yang’ that are independent, each containing a part of
the other.
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