1. What is your Religion (“your Religion” meaning the one you signed up for)?
y
The Amish
2. Approx. how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion? In which countries is this religion most common? Is this
religion growing or shrinking? When was it founded?
y
y
y
y
198,000 people in the United States and Canada
United States, especially Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland and Wisconsin; Canada, especially Ontario.
This religion is staying constant because Amish families marry within the Amish community and keep the traditions alive.
The Amish movement was founded in Europe by Jacob Amman (~1644 to ~1720)
3. Describe some of the important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion. Do they have special religious texts? Holidays? Do followers
of this religion dress, act, or appear in certain ways?
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
Maintain an existance outside of our modern technological world.
Do not use electric power, as they feel this would connect them to the outside world.
Do not drive cars, or make use of the modern appliances.
Reject involvement with the military or warfare.
The Ordnung is an oral tradition of rules which regulates how the Amish way of life should be conducted.
Family life has a patriarchal structure but roles of women are considered equally important to those of men. They are very unequal in terms
of authority.
Unmarried women remain under the authority of their father. Wives are submissive to their husbands.
Only males are eligible to be become Church officials. Their faith forbids the swearing of oaths in courts; they make affirmations of truth
instead.
Women wear calf-length plain-cut dresses in a solid color such as blue, aprons, and a bonnet. Buttons are not allowed, only hook & eyes.
Men wear dark-colored trousers and a dark vest or coat, suspenders, broad-rimmed straw hats in the warmer months and black felt hats in
the colder months. Single Amish men are clean-shaven and married men grow a beard.
4. Does this religion consider women and men to be equal? Can women hold positions of power/special positions (can they be ordained as priests,
ministers, holy-persons, authorities or leaders)? Are women allowed to or forbidden to take part in special rituals or services? Can women be
punished for breaking rules that do not apply to men? if so, give some examples. Does this religion have women deities (goddesses, saints, etc.),
if so, give examples. Are there any famous women who were/are members of this religion?
y
y
y
y
y
y
Family life has a patriarchal structure but roles of women are considered equally important to those of men. They are very unequal in terms
of authority.
Unmarried women remain under the authority of their father. Wives are submissive to their husbands.
Women can work outside the home before marriage, but once married they work at home. Being a Wife and Mother is the Only Career.
"Cleanliness is next to Godliness," is a credo to the women who clean their homes thoroughly every spring and fall.
She is respected for the work she does, and she has built in recreation. These are work frolics where the women gather to make quilts, or
make cookies.
Amish women can have their babies at home with a midwife or they can go to the hospital.
5. How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? (in other words, how might they go about being both a follower of
this religious tradition and a feminist at the same time?)
y
I don’t believe that men or women in the Amish culture can be feminists because they lives in a patriarchal society. The men and women
who might have feminist beliefs probably choose to leave the Amish community and integrate with the normal society so that they can
pursue higher education and a career. These people most likely will be shunned by the Amish community, which means that they are no
longer considered Amish, or able to come back to practice their previous beliefs.
1. What is your Religion (“your Religion” meaning the one you signed up for)?
Baptist
2. Approx. how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion? In which countries is this religion most common? Is this
religion growing or shrinking? When was it founded?
The Baptist religion was founded in America in 1639 by Dr. John Clarke and Roger Williams in Providence, Rhode Island. Approximately over
100 million people are members of the Baptist faith, making it the second fasted growing faith in the world. There are over 47 million members
in the United States, 2.4 million in India and 2.3 million in Nigeria. The largest Baptist association in the United States is the Southern Baptist
Convention which was started in 1967. The second largest Baptist in the United States is the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc. with 7.5
million members.
3. Describe some of the important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion. Do they have special religious texts? holidays? Do followers
of this religion dress, act, or appear in certain ways?
Some important values and practices of the Baptist religion (which are common to most Christian religions) are the belief in: one God, the virgin
birth of Jesus, leading a sinless life, that miracles do exist, the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, and that Jesus will return “in the glory of
the earth” and that the dead will rise again. Some important holidays for Baptist include Christmas, Easter (Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, etc.)
Palm Sunday, Lent, and most importantly that every Sunday should be a day of rest and going to church are a requirement on that day. Followers
of the Baptist religion do not appear to dress any different than everyday people, most Baptist have a reputation for having a strict household and
raising their children with strict guidelines about what is and is not acceptable.
4. Does this religion consider women and men to be equal? Can women hold positions of
power/special positions (can they be ordained as priests, ministers, holy persons, authorities or leaders)? Are women allowed to or forbidden to
take part in special rituals or services? Can women be punished for breaking rules that do not apply to men? if so, give some examples. Does this
religion have women deities (goddesses, saints, etc.), if so, give examples. Are there any famous women who were/are members of this religion?
There are some Baptist religion sections that do not consider women to be equal to men in all aspects. The Southern Baptist and others are a more
fundamental group of Baptist, which ultimately prohibits women from becoming pastors of deacons. This decision comes from the interpretation
from the Timothy chapter which states that women are not allowed to be ordained. Although the Baptist Churches in Germany and Switzerland
do ordain women along with the American Baptist Churches USA and The Progressive National Baptist Convention. The same rules that apply to
men (ie: being faithful, honest, etc.) apply to women, and although divorce is looked down upon but it is accepted if the result is from infidelity,
abuse, or abandonment. This religion since it is apart of the Christian religion does have women saints such as St. Mary the mother of Jesus. A
few famous Baptist women of mention are Shirley Chisholm, the first black woman elected to the U.S House of Representatives, Ava Gardner
(actress), Aretha Franklin (singer), Diana Ross (singer), and Bette Davis (Actress).
5. How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? (In other words, how might they go about being both a follower of
this religious tradition and a feminist at the same time?)
I think that someone who believes in a religion that denies equal rights to not only women, since they can not be ordained, but also to
homosexuals (believing that it is a sin) would have a hard time following both their religion and their feminist beliefs at the same time. I think
that a person would have to take the good from their religion while still believing that everyone deserves equal rights no matter what their own
personal religious beliefs are. As far as I am concerned what one religion believes does not constitute what the entire country believes, so keeping
that in mind, I think that knowing equality is really the Christian (or in this case Baptist) way and to “treat others as you would want to be treated)
would make it easier to maintain a feminist viewpoint while believing in a religion that often times does deny people equal rights.
1. The religion I chose is Roman Catholic.
2. According to http://www.wholesomewords.org/missions/greatc.html#religions website regarding Catholic statistical information,
approximately 1.2 billion people in the world identify as a member of the Catholic religion. A country that is most known for it’s Catholicism, is
most popularly known, and is the country where Catholicism is most common is Italy, according to
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Catholicism_by_country. This growing religion was founded during the times of Jesus Christ.
3. This religion believes in worshipping and celebrating Mary, the mother of Jesus. Some things they do in their ceremonies include prayers that
everyone recites, kneeling for prayer at their seats, communion, creeds – lengthy summaries of Christian belief, rosaries, and they also believe in
the pope. Overall the followers of this belief do not dress different or weird. They dress normally, or as society would consider normal. They do
not appear different from any other person. But they are to carry themselves in a clean, Christian manner.
4) As far as Catholic views toward women, for starters they praise Mary, a woman, and mother of Jesus Christ. During the early church times,
they supported a woman’s prominent status and role within the church. They had female servants but the female servants were also leaders,
mostly in art. Art was the place where women held most leadership roles. Presently, women are seen as equals. Biblically speaking the woman is
supposed to stand by the side of her husband but at the same time each person is supposed to give the other their conjugal rights; f or we are all
one in the body of Christ.
Some famous women who were and are followers of this faith are, Joan Crawford, Madonna, and Anne Rice.
5) Someone of this religion would not find it difficult to support feminism at the same time as following their catholic beliefs. Referring to my
answer in #4, biblically, Catholic’s believe and read that women are seen as equals and should be seen as equals because it says in the bible that
we are all one in the body of Christ. We are all going to receive our judgment when we pass away. To reiterate, men and women both are
supposed to receive their conjugal rights. Thus this is an idea of feminism so it would not be difficult for a Catholic follower to also support
feminism; Feminism is equal rights and treatment toward all man-kind.
1. What is your Religion (“your Religion” meaning the one you signed up for)?
-Lutheranism (Christianity)
2. Approx. how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion? In which countries is this religion most common? Is
this religion growing or shrinking? When was it founded?
-Approximately 82.6 million Christians belong to the Lutheran churches. (or, 1 in 25 Christians are Lutheran).
-The religion is practiced on all civilized continents but is most commonly found in North American (U.S. and Canada), Europe (especially
Scandinavian countries, Germany and England), Australia and Brazil.
-Worldwide the Lutheran religion is generally holding steady with their growth rates, with small yearly fluctuations of increases or decreases
depending on the country.
-The founding of Lutheranism and Protestantism can be traced to when Martin Luther posted his 95 theses, called “Reformation Day”. This
occurred on October 31, 1517. Lutheranism was defined as a separate movement after 1530 when a written summary of Lutheran beliefs, called
the Augsburg Confession, was signed.
3. Describe some of the important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion. Do they have special religious texts? holidays? Do
followers of this religion dress, act, or appear in certain ways?
-Beliefs: This religion believes in salvation by God’s grace alone, as well as original sin (that which all sin comes from). They believe
that Jesus Christ is God’s son, and that only through him can you seek salvation. Faith is seen as something that receives the gift of salvation, not
something that causes it.
They believe in predestination to salvation, but not to damnation. They see predestination not as a source of salvation but focus on Jesus death
and resurrection as the source. Their religious text is the Bible and they often use the Book of Concord (a series of confessions of faith from the
16th century) to expand upon it.
-Practices: Lutherans believe in and practice Holy Baptism (which can be in the form of infant baptism-a sprinkling of water) and the
Holy Communion. They believe that the bread and wine/juice in Holy Communion is the true body and blood of Christ. Their services (usually
held on Sundays) take a liturgical approach, or a prescribed ceremony. The services focus on music, prayer, a sermon, an offering, catechisms
(usually an oral explanation of doctrine, often using memorized answers) and Sunday school for children.
-There are various organizations representing the Lutheran denomination that Lutheran churches can affiliate with.
-They celebrate traditional Christian holidays such as Advent (period of preparation for the Nativity of Christ), Christmas (the birth of
Christ), Lent (the 40 day period before Easter), Good Friday (Jesus’ crucifixion) and Easter (Jesus’ resurrection).
-Congregation members where clothing typical of their culture. Pastors may or may not wear robes during the service.
4. Does this religion consider women and men to be equal? Can women hold positions of power/special positions (can they be ordained as
priests, ministers, holypersons, authorities or leaders)? Are women allowed to or forbidden to take part in special rituals or services?
Can women be punished for breaking rules that do not apply to men? if so, give some examples. Does this religion have women deities
(goddesses, saints, etc.), if so, give examples. Are there any famous women who were/are members of this religion?
-This religion does generally consider men and women to be equal. Depending on the Lutheran organization a church is affiliate with,
women are allowed and forbidden to be ordained. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has allowed women to be ordained since 1970.
More than 25% of the active ordained pastors are women. The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod is the second largest Lutheran body in the U.S.
and does not allow women to be ordained. Most Scandinavian countries allowed women to be ordained; in the rest of the world it varies.
-There is an organization in North America specifically for Lutheran women called “Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church”.
They do mission work, lead studies, organize events and provide resources for women in the church to take action.
-Lutherans do not believe in goddesses and while they recognize the saints of the Roman Catholic Church, they do not actively
celebrate or worship them.
-Some famous women include: Kirsten Dunst (actress), Sally Struthers (actress), Alexandra Nechita (artist), Margrethe II (current
Queen of Denmark), and Zoe Lofgren (U.S. State Representative).
5. How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? (in other words, how might they go about being both a
follower of this religious tradition and a feminist at the same time?)
-As stated before, the Lutheran church views men and women as equals. Especially as many of the Lutheran churches take on more
liberal views, and have “contemporary services”, there isn’t as much conflict between being a strong woman, feminist and Lutheran Christian. In
many places in the Bible, in fact, women are given positions of honor and equality. Jesus’ mother Mary is greatly honored, there were women
prophets and heroines, Jesus had women disciples, and it was women who discovered Jesus had risen from the dead. If attending a more
traditional church, these women and passages might not be taught often as more traditional masculine ones are. As a feminist, one can take the
time to research and read the bible to discover the role women play in the bible, and can then educate others about it. Through the practice of
many Christian principles such as “love your neighbor as yourself”, feminism and Christianity are reconciled through a desire for the equal
humane treatment of all people.
1.
Methodist
2.
Methodism is the name given to a group of Protestant churches that arose from the 18th century Wesleyan movement in England led
by John and Charles Wesley and George Whitefield. Through vigorous missionary activity, Methodism spread throughout the British
Empire, the United States, and beyond. Originally it appealed especially to workers, agricultural workers, and slaves. Although now
centered in the British Isles and North America, Methodism is practiced worldwide. The majority of members are Arminian.
According to 2006 statistics, Methodism claims close to 75 million members worldwide. The largest single group is the United
Methodist Church in the United States, with about 10 million members. The Methodist Church is facing a declining membership rate
of about one percent.
3.
Methodism is similar to other Protestant denominations. They affirm their beliefs through the sacred symbols of baptism and
communion. The official United Methodist doctrine is that Jesus was the Son of God, the child of the Virgin Mary and the Holy
Spirit, truly God and truly Man, who for humans’ salvation came down from heaven. He is the eternal Savior and Mediator, who
intercedes for us and by him all persons will be judged. Through baptism, they accept God’s gifts through Jesus. There is no strict
rule among Methodists about how baptism must be performed, although sprinkling water on the head of the person being baptized is
most common. Everyone is accepted and welcome at the communion table, whether members of the Church or not, kids or adults.
The official Methodist doctrine is that Jesus will judge the living and the dead. Those who have not accepted Jesus' offer of
4.
5.
forgiveness and new life are at risk of living apart from him for all eternity. Jesus Christ alone is empowered to judge one's eternal
destiny. Methodists celebrate Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter, and Christmas. They use the Holy Bible and the
United Methodist Book of Discipline as their texts. The dress attire of the Methodist church is casual in comparison to other religions
such as Catholicism. This religion is taken from a combination of many other religions and can be described best by saying it is more
formal than Baptists, and less formal than Catholics.
The Christian Methodist understanding of what it is to be human begins convicts that male and female together are created in the
image of God. In Christ, God's intentions for humanity are clearly declared and displayed as including justice, equality, and
inclusiveness. In Christ there is neither male nor female; all are one in Christ. Christians are called to live as Disciples of Christ,
following his example by offering dignity to all, empowering the weak, challenging injustice. In the Methodist religion today, it is my
understanding that women can hold any position. This includes positions of power and authority over men. Because of this tolerance
and equality, women are allowed to participate in all religious activities within the Church. Some famous women who are members of
the Methodist faith include Donna Reed(actress), Patricia Neal(actress), Kate Capshaw(actress), and Hilary Clinton(Presidential
Candidate).
It is my belief that Feminism and Methodism can live in peace with one another. I feel that it is very possible to be both a feminist
and a member of the Methodist Church/Religion. Because Methodists are strong believers in equality, it is easy for a person to
connect their religious beliefs with their gender beliefs. A follower of this religion would not have to change their beliefs to "fit" with
feminism or vice versa. Their beliefs would go along with one another so it makes it very easy to practice/exhibit both at the same
time.
1. What is your religion?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism)
2. Approximately how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion? 12 million members world-wide
In which countries is this religion most common? More than half of Church members live outside the USA. This is a big change; in 1960 90%
of Church members lived in the USA and Canada.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
United States-5,208,827
Canada-158,511
Mexico-884,071
Caribbean-115,610
Central America-472,038
South America-2,548,979
Europe-412,907
Asia-750,478
Africa-153,565
South Pacific-363,875
Is this religion growing or shrinking? Growing
When was it founded? The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded by Joseph Smith (left) in New York State in the USA in
1830.
3. Describe some of the important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion.
• Mormons believe that God has a physical body, is married, and can have children.
•
•
•
They also believe that humans can become gods in the afterlife.
•
•
•
•
The Holy Bible: (King James Version)
Mormons are strongly focused on traditional family life and values.
They oppose abortion, homosexuality, unmarried sexual acts, pornography, gambling, tobacco, consuming alcohol, tea, coffee, and the
use of drugs.
Do they have special religious texts? The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints uses four holy books.
The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ
Doctrine and Covenants: A compilation of revelations and writings given since the restoration of the Church began.
Pearl of Great Price: A selection from the revelations, translations and writings of Joseph Smith.
Holidays? Sunday: Like many other Christian churches Mormons regard Sunday as the day of rest and day of worship. Most Mormon families
will spend a substantial part of Sunday in meetings and worship with their community. Monday: Often reserved for Family Home Evening.
Festivals: Mormons really only celebrate two religious festivals: Easter and Christmas.An additional festival is Pioneer Day, on 24 July. This
celebrates the arrival of the first Latter-day Saint pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847.
Do followers of this religion dress, act or appear in certain ways? Dress modestly—no tight clothing, don’t reveal too much skin,
4. Does this religion consider women and men to be equal? Mormons believe that men and women are fully equal as the spirit children of
God. Mormon women have the specific responsibility to be righteous daughters of God; good, faithful wives; and loving mothers.
Can women hold positions of power/special positions? Only a male Mormon can (and should) take on the duties of the priesthood
Are women allowed to or forbidden to take part in special rituals or services? Although women can't be ordained to the priesthood, the
Church has several organisations that are directed by women, and whose leaders regularly sit in council with priesthood leaders.
Does this religion have women deities? No
•
God is an exalted, perfected man
• God has a physical body
•
•
•
There is more than one God
Human beings have the potential to become like God
The Godhead consists of 3 separate and distinct beings, united in purpose
Are there any famous women who were/are members of this religion?
Martha Hughes Cannon - first woman elected as a state senator in the United States
Paula Hawkins - first woman senator from Florida
Ivy Baker Priest - U.S. Treasurer, whose signature appeared on U.S. currency from 1953 to 1961
5. How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? One could be a follower of this religion and a feminist by
ensuring the equality between men and women is actually followed. Someone would have to get a good education in order to ensure the same
opportunities as a man. Also, one must not devote a life simply to family and motherhood if that is not their choice. One must make their own
decisions regarding their body, family, education and lives. This task would probably be very difficult, depending upon how religious or feminist
a person is. It is very unlikely for one to be both feminist and Mormon.
1. Pentecostal
2.
There are 150 million people in this religion and this religion is most common in America. The Pentecostal religion was founded in
around 1867 and is growing by 19 million per year.
3.
“Pentecostals believe that one must be saved by believing in Jesus as Lord and Savior for the forgiveness of sins and to be made
acceptable to God. They also believe in the bible. They believe in Speaking in Tongues and raise their hands while singing and praying. They are
very vocal in prayer.”
4.
No, does not consider women and men as being equal. There were two famous women, Maria Woodworth and Kathryn Johanna
Kuhlam, in this religion years ago. Between 1844 and 1924, “Maria Woodworth was a famous evangelist in the founding years of the
Assemblies of God. Between 1907 and 1976, Kathryn Kuhlam was a 20th century American faith healer and she wear part of the Pentecostal arm
of Protestant Christianity.” According to the Pentecostal Women in Columbia journal, “All Pentecostal women surveyed read the Bible at least
once a week and usually more. Women make up more of the Pentecostals, although women are admitted to lower ranks of official church
“workers.” They do not reach high positions of “pastor” and “minister.” They can be active evangelist, but they can not own their own church.”
6.
Since Pentecostal women can not be pastors or ministers and are put in lower positions, it would be hard for them the get their voices
heard as feminists. As a feminist in this religion, a woman or a man would have to work with the people in higher positions so that
they could get their work to the people or get the attention of the people.
1. Presbyterian
2. Presbyterian churches have a worldwide membership of about 75 million. They are found mostly in the United States, England, Wales,
Scotland, Ireland and France. In 2005 in the U.S., membership in the Presbyterian Church had declined by more than 2 percent. The
Presbyterian Church began in 1536 during the Reformation led by John Calvin.
3. Beliefs and Practices
•
•
•
•
The Authority of Scripture - Our knowledge of God and God's purpose for humanity comes from the Bible, particularly what is
revealed in the New Testament through the life of Jesus Christ.
Justification by Grace through Faith - Our salvation (justification) through Jesus is God's generous gift to us and not the result of our
own accomplishments.
The Priesthood of All Believers - It is everyone's job - ministers and lay people alike - to share this Good News with the whole world.
The Presbyterian church is governed at all levels by a combination of clergy and laity, men and women alike.
The Sovereignty of God - God is the supreme authority throughout the universe.
So, their religious text would be the Bible. Holidays celebrated are the Christian holidays, including Christmas, Good Friday, and Easter.
4. Some of the churches ordain women as ministers, elders, or deacons, while others do not. So, in this capacity, men and women are not
necessarily treated as equals. There are no rituals or services other than this that women are not allowed to and there are no specific rules directed
solely at women, whereby if they were to violate them, they would be punished. Presbyterians do not have any women deities. Jessica Simpson
is a Presbyterian. So was Jane Addams, who was a social reformer, settlement house founder and the author of Twenty Years at Hull House.
5. One might reconcile their religion with feminism by making sure that women have an equal position in their own particular church. Since
some churches allow women to become ministers while others don’t, in order for someone to be a feminist and a religious follower, they would
need to be at one of the churches that allows women ministers, deacons, and elders.
1.
2.
My religion is Scientology.
a. There are many estimates as to how many people actually consider themselves Scientologists. The Church of Scientology has claimed 10
million members as of 2006. Other estimates have ranged from less than 100,000 to 500,000, according to Wikipedia.org. However, aside
from the church directly there are also outside groups that practice Scientology. The Church of Scientology does not support this.
b. The main location for Scientologists is in the United States. The first Church of Scientology was incorporated in Camden, New Jersey.
There are 3 major Scientology centers located in the U.S. There is one in Clearwater, Florida, another is in Hollywood, California and the
third is in Gilman Hot Springs, California. There are also centers located in Sussex, England, Trementina, New Mexico, and there is a
cruise ship that sails the Caribbean which is used for the highest level of training and other courses in Scientology.
c. The United States can not require an answer to religious based questions, therefore the actual number of Scientologists is unknown.
Other countries, such as Europe refused to allow Scientology to register as a religion until 2007 when Europe ruled it was a violation of EU
law not to accept them. Despite the skewed numbers it is believed that Scientology is growing as a religion.
d. The first Church of Scientology was founded in December of 1953.
3.
a. Scientologists believe that all human beings are immortal spiritual beings. They believe anyone can reach a god-like state through
Scientology practices. Another belief is in a silent birth, one in which there is minimal noise and/or talk in the birthing room. This is
because they believe that words spoken during pain and unconsciousness have effects later in life. A silent birth gives the baby the best
possible start on life. They also believe a person’s spirit has been through many past lives, and continues to live long after the body has
died. Psychiatry and Psychology are considered evil practices as well as abusive. The main goal is to return a persons spiritual being, or
thetan, to total freedom. Total freedom can only be achieved once the thetan has “knowing and willing cause over life, thought, matter,
energy, space and time.”
b. Scientology does have its own holidays. In fact, there is at least one every month except for July. Some holidays include the founders
birthday, Freedom Day which is recognition of the first time Scientology was recognized as a religion in the United States, and Integrity
Day, which is a day to contemplate Scientology ethics.
c. I did not find anything to suggest that Scientologists dress any particular way. They do tend to use different speech patterns. For
instance, instead of saying they “talked” to someone, they would say they “conversed” with them. Other words such as “thetan” were
created by the founder of Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard. There are a few writings Scientologists refer to for guidance. The main book is
“Dianetics” which was written by Hubbard. One is the Scientology glossary, another is the Scientology handbook, and there is
“Scientology 0-8 the book of basics”. The Church of Scientology also has a magazine called “The Auditor”.
4.
The Scientology website claims that they support programs which “promote and
protect the human rights of all men and women and decry the violation of human rights in all forms”. However, right above that it states
that We of the Church believe:
“That all men of whatever race, color, or creed were created with equal rights;” Not all people, not all beings... but all men. Futhermore,
there is a section in Scientology called “The parts of a man” which describes his mind, body and then thetan. The thetan, which is
considered the most powerful being in Scientology is also referred to as a man, as well as the source of all creation and life itself. Women
are allowed to be ministers of the Church. Scientologists claim gender is not an issue, it is the spiritual being that is the only concern.
Women are allowed to partake in all rituals and “cleansing” ceremonies. There are not any goddesses, saints or any other higher being that
is directly referred to in the church of Scientology, neither male nor female. However, mostly all gender specific terms are masculine.
When referring to a person, or their thetan, they are referred to as “he”. I did not come across any gender-specific rules for men or women.
There was discussion about how homosexuality and lesbianism was wrong, however Hubbard revised his views stating that he had no right
to prevent someone from reaching total happiness. Marriage is still defined as a union between a man and a woman however. There are
famous women who are Scientologists. Katie Holmes is probably the most famously noted Scientologist. Others include Kirstie Alley,
Juliette Lewis, Erika Christensen, Lisa Marie Presley, Kelly Preston, Laura Prepon, and Leah Rimini just to name a few. Scientologists
actively seek out celebrities because of their belief in the importance of arts and expression. However, celebrities also get special treatment
that ordinary members do not.
5.
Scientology and feminism actually have many ideals in common: to be self-reflexive and improve yourself and your acceptance of
others. However, feminism does a much better job of actually abiding by that belief. Scientology has a rule that if someone leaves
their religion they are fair game for punishment and harsh treatment by any means, any Scientologist deems fit. That hardly falls
under “acceptance” of others. Feminism and Scientology also believe knowledge is larger than life. The pursuit of knowledge is
partially what frees the thetan. However, feminism focuses on pursuing gender equality whereas Scientology is more concerned with
spiritual cleansing. Another point is that Kate Bornstein discussed how she was a Scientologist and described the awful treatment she
received from her religious community. Therefore, just because Scientology claims its ideals are pure and “equal” does not mean that
is what is actually practiced. I do believe a person could be a feminist and a Scientologist. However, I do not believe they could be
both equally because certain ideals do clash. Both Scientology and Feminism are ways of life. Scientology is not so much a belief, as
it is a way to act and conduct oneself in social situations.
Shi*ite Islam
-Shias follow the teachings of Muhammad and the religious guidance of his family.
-There are about 130 to 190 million Islam’s who declare themselves Shias
-Most of them reside in Iran, Pakistan, India, Azerbaijan, and Afghanistan
-This religion was founded in 622
-Shias believe that Muhammad is the last prophet of Allah sent to teach this religion to mankind. Their teachings include monotheism, belief in
Allah’s justice, belief that Allah chooses prophets and that the prophets elect successors, and also the belief in judgment day.
-The Qur’an is Shias sacred text. The Quran provides principles and guidelines that were incorporated into Islamic law through selection and
interpretation
-Holidays celebrated include:
Eid ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the fasting during Ramadan
Eid-ul-Adha, which marks the end of pilgrimage
- One of the doctrines demands that shias wear a Hijab. In some Arabic-speaking countries and Western countries, the word hijab primarily refers
to women's head and body covering, but in Islamic scholarship, hijab is given the wider meaning of modesty, privacy, and morality. The modesty
in Qur'an concerns men's and women's gaze, gait, garments, and genitalia. The clothing for women involves khumūr over the necklines and jilbab
(cloaks) in public so that they may be identified and not harmed.
The basic requirements are that when in the presence of someone of the opposite sex (other than a close family member - mahram), a woman
should cover her body, and walk and dress in a way that does not draw sexual attention to her.
- In theory though not in practice, the Qur'an maintains women's religious and moral equality. In practice women in Islam are subordinate to men
in their family. They receive less inheritance and their testimony is also considered half.
-The problem of subordination of women and gender inequality in Islam is due to the Islamic laws eradicated based on cultural views not the
teachings of the Qu’ran.
-The teachings of Islam actually allow women to reconcile their religious beliefs with those of the feminist but the problem is that the male
dominate culture in which this religion is practiced wont allow for such reconciliation to take place.
1.
2.
What is your religion?
a. The religion I chose is Orthodox Judaism
Approximately how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion? In which countries is this religion most
common? When was it founded?
a.
Approximately 2 million people identify with Orthodox Judaism
b.
The main regions where Judaism is found are Europe, Israel (the “Homeland”), and the United States (largest population).
c.
3.
It was founded in 13th century BC.
Describe some important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion. Do they have special religious texts? Holidays? Do
followers of this religion dress, act, or appear in certain ways?
a.
4.
Adheres to a very strict interpretation and application of the laws an ethics from the Talmud. They believe that the Torah
and its pertaining laws are Divine, were transmitted by God to Moses, are eternal, and are unalterable. They believe in
adherence to the code of Jewish law (Halakha) and follow Rabbis. They believe in the thirteen Jewish principles of faith, as
stated by the Rambam. They advocate increased integration with non-Jewish society, regard secular knowledge as
inherently valuable, and are somewhat more willing to use Talmudic arguments to revisit questions of Jewish law. They
feel that they are the only true heir to the Jewish tradition.
b.
There are many special religious texts such as the Torah, the Tanakh, the Talmud, Zohar, Kuzari, Chumash, Siddur,
Mishneh Torah, Tur Shulkhan, Tosfeta, Mishna Brura Rabbinic works, Tanya, Midrash, and Piyutim.
c.
Special holidays (and some of the most popular) include: Shabbat (celebrated weekly), Rosh Chodesh, Rosh Hashanah,
Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Hanukkah, Tu Bishvat, Purim, Pesach, etc.
d.
There are certain articles of dress for this religion and that includes the tallit, tefillin, kipa, sefer torah, tzitzit. All of which
are used for prayer. For everyday life, there are certain forms of dress. For example, the men wear black and white suits
with top hats (or kipa), tzitzit under their clothes, and they have peyos (long ringlets in the front of their head coming out
from under their hats.
Does this religion consider women and men to be equal? Can women hold positions of power/special positions? Are women allowed
to or forbidden to take part in rituals or services? Can women be punished for breaking rules that do not apply to men? If so, give
some examples. Does this religion have women deities? If so, give some examples. Are there any famous women who were/are
members of this religion?
a.
In this section of Judaism, women and men are not equal. This idea stems from the belief that men and women are
inherently different in nature, with different respective strengths and weaknesses. In the area of education, women were
historically exempted from any study beyond an understanding of the practical aspects of Torah, and the rules necessary in
running a Jewish household – both of which they have an obligation to learn. Some Orthodox synagogues do not allow a
woman to become the president of a congregation, or to give the customary d'var Torah (brief discourse, generally on the
weekly Torah portion) after or between services. However, some synagogues allow women to assume a variety of nonritual leadership positions within the congregation, including that of synagogue president. Some synagogues also allow
women to give a dvar Torah, as well as to participate in other ways that does not violate their understanding of Halacha. A
few Modern Orthodox synagogues include greater ritual participation for women as well, such as all-women's prayer
groups and women's Torah-reading. These particular innovations are not accepted by all Orthodox rabbis or synagogues. In
fact, some synagogues still have women sit in another room or in a different section than the men. Women also cannot read
from the Torah because that is the men’s job.
How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? (In other words, how might they go about being both a
follower of this religious tradition and a feminist at the same time?)
As time goes on, Orthodox Jews are trying to become more modern and let women be involved more in the synagogue. While there are still many
sexist issues at hand, a difference is being made so that women can finally be more actively involved with their faith. The way to go about being a
feminist, as well as a follower, would be to hold strong to their beliefs and try to help keep with the change. Although it may be a slow change,
any change that can help women better show their faith is a good change.
1. What is your Religion (“your Religion” meaning the one you signed up for)?
Jewish Renewal
2. Approx. how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion?
Statistics on the number of Jews who identify themselves as "Renewal" are not readily available.
5.
(Judaism 101) The NJPS found that 35% of American Jews identify themselves as Reform, including 39% of those who belong to a synagogue.
There are approximately 900 Reform synagogues in the United States and Canada.
In which countries is this religion most common?
Nevertheless, the movement has had a significant impact on the other, non-orthodox streams of Judaism within the United States and by the close
of the century, has established communities in Canada, Latin America, Europe and Israel.
Is this religion growing or shrinking?
The religion is not really a sect but its influence is growing within other sects.
When was it founded?
Late 1960s and early 1970s
3. Describe some of the important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion.
-Strive to create Jewish paths of prayer and meditation, study, communal life--practice, and public action that embody this outlook.
-In order to heal the world, they seek to re-balance the power relationships among human beings and all other species and aspects of the Earth, as
well as among races, peoples, faith-communities, classes, genders, age groupings, and other human groups so that each can live in shared peace
and dignity.
-They treat with respect and open-mindedness those who belong to other peoples and walk other paths than their own, even if they feel compelled
to oppose their actions in the world. These efforts they view as integral to Jewish spirituality and action.
-They believe that the healthy expression of Jewish people requires a vital self-governing Jewish community in the Land of Israel (Zionist).
(Judaism 101) Reform Judaism does not believe that the Torah was written by G-d. The movement accepts the critical theory of Biblical
authorship: that the Bible was written by separate sources and redacted together. Reform Jews do not believe in observance of commandments as
such, but they retain much of the values and ethics of Judaism, along with some of the practices and the culture. The original, basic tenets of
American Reform Judaism were set down in the Pittsburgh Platform. Many non-observant, nominal, and/or agnostic Jews identify themselves as
Reform simply because Reform is the most liberal movement, but that is not really a fair reflection on the movement as a whole. The NJPS found
that 35% of American Jews identify themselves as Reform, including 39% of those who belong to a synagogue. There are approximately 900
Reform synagogues in the United States and Canada.
Some religious syncretism. Jewish Renewal has infused Judaism with meditation, chanting, and other popular elements of contemporary
spirituality and kabbalah (Jewish mysticism).
Do they have special religious texts?
Torah
Holidays?
Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Chanukkah are the main ones observed by American Jews. Other holidays include Sukkot, Shemini
Atzeret, Tu B'Shevat, Purim, Yom Ha-Shoah, Yom Ha-Atzmaut, Shavu'ot, Tisha B'Av, and other minor fasts.
Do followers of this religion dress, act, or appear in certain ways?
Renewal Jews have no special requirements for dressing but must act kindly and passively and must respect the earth and all its creatures.
4. Does this religion consider women and men to be equal?
Yes
Can women hold positions of power/special positions (can they be ordained as priests, ministers, holy-persons, authorities or leaders)?
Yes, Women can be Rabbis. Rabbis are no more than people who are knowledgeable about the Torah.
Are women allowed to or forbidden to take part in special rituals or services?
Completely allowed and encourages participation.
Can women be punished for breaking rules that do not apply to men? If so, give some examples.
No
Does this religion have women deities (goddesses, saints, etc.), if so, give examples.
(Judaism 101) “Judaism, unlike Christianity, G-d has never been viewed as exclusively male or masculine. Judaism has always maintained that
G-d has both masculine and feminine qualities. As one rabbi explained it to me, G-d has no body, no genitalia; therefore the very idea that G-d is
male or female is patently absurd. We refer to G-d using masculine terms simply for convenience's sake, because Hebrew has no neutral gender;
G-d is no more male than a table is.”
Are there any famous women who were/are members of this religion?
(Judaism 101) “Many of the important feminist leaders of the 20th century (Gloria Steinem, for example) are Jewish women, and some
commentators have suggested that this is no coincidence: the respect accorded to women in Jewish tradition was a part of their ethnic culture.”
5. How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? (in other words, how might they go about being both a follower of
this religious tradition and a feminist at the same time?)
Third Wave Feminism goes hand in hand with Jewish Renewal. Equality and respect for all are the basic principles so there is no friction there.
1. My religion is Hinduism.
2. There are about 837 followers of Hinduism today-13% of the world’s population. The US alone has about 1.1 million Hindus. It is the
dominant religion of India, Nepal, and certain groups of people in Sri Lanka. It’s a very fast-growing religion, whose followers numbered at
227,000 in 1990, and increased to 766,000 Hindus in 2001. Hinduism differs from Christianity and other Western religions in that it does not
have a single founder, a specific theological system, a single system of morality, or a central religious organization. It is considered to consist of
thousands of different religious groups that have evolved in India since 1500 BC. Hinduism is generally regarded as the world's oldest organized
religion.
3. Hindus recognize three principal gods: Brahma, who creates the universe, Vishnu, who preserves the universe, and Shiva, who destroys the
universe. The Vedas are the most ancient religious texts, which define truth for Hindus. The Vedas are made up of four compositions, and each
Veda in turn has four parts which are arranged chronologically. The Samhitas are the most ancient part of the Vedas, consisting of hymns of
praise to Brahma. The Brahmanas are rituals and prayers to guide the priests in their duties. The Aranyakas concern worship and meditation.
The Upanishads consist of the mystical and philosophical teachings of Hinduism. Mahashivratri (also known as Shivaratri) is a Hindu festival
dedicated to Shiva. Devotees of Shiva observe a fast during Mahashivratri and stay up all night at a place of worship. A Hindu woman's dress is
the full Maratha sadi of nine yards, draped around her, concealing her body. Women go bare-footed, but sometimes have sandals. They also must
keep their faces covered at all times.
4. The role of women in Hinduism is often disputed, and positions range from fair to extremely intolerant. Shiva and Vishnu are also described
as possessing feminine qualities. In modern times the Hindu wife has traditionally been regarded as someone who must at all costs remain chaste
or pure. Women are allowed to hold property in two ways: through money or land given by the husband, and anything else like ornaments given
to her by her family, husband, in-laws and the friends of her husband. Several women sages are mentioned in the Upanishads, and in several
schools for Vedic priests, many graduates are women. Amma is considered by Hindus to be a divine saint, as is Savata Mali. Indira Gandhi was
the daughter of the former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. She served as the PM of India from 1966-1977, and is loved and respected by
many Indians. In line with Hindu customs, many Hindus even bow down to an image of her or shower her images with flowers to show their
respects.
5. As shown above, there are many ways to express feminism and still be in line with Hindu tradition. In today’s world, many believe that
woman have rights and the ability to take a fairly active role in society and tradition, even outside the home and family. I’m sure that there are
many Hindu women trying to break the stereotype of the typical wife role, but empowering woman like Indira have surely helped to show both
men and woman that Hinduism can welcome them as equals.
1.
Jainism
2.
Jainism originated in Ancient India in the 6th century BC. With 10 to 12 million followers, Jainism is among the smallest of the major
world religions, India has the largest concentration of Jain followers There are 85 Jain communities in different parts of India and
around the world. Outside India, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda) have
large Jain communities today. Jainism is spreading.
3.
Jains believe all souls are equal because they all possess the potential of being liberated and attaining Moksha . Tirthankars and
Siddhas are role models only because they have attained Moksha. Jains believe that every human is responsible for his/her actions and
all living beings have an eternal soul, jīva. It insists that we live, think and act respectfully and honor the spiritual nature of all life.
Jains view God as the unchanging traits of the pure soul of each living being, chiefly described as Infinite Knowledge, Perception,
Consciousness, and Happiness (Anant Gyän, Anant Darshan, Anant Chäritra, and Anant Sukh). Jains do not believe in an omnipotent
supreme being, creator or manager (karta), but rather in an eternal universe governed by natural laws and the interplay of its attributes
(gunas) and matter (dravya). Jain scriptures were written over a long period of time, but the most cited is the Tattvartha Sutra, or Book
of Reality written by the monk-scholar, Umasvati almost 1800 years ago. The primary figures are Tirthankars. There are two main
sects called Digambar and Shvetambar, and both believe in ahimsa (or ahinsā), asceticism, karma, sanskar, and jiva. Compassion for
all life, human and non-human, is central to Jainism. Human life is valued as a unique, rare opportunity to reach enlightenment. It is
the only religion that requires monks and laity, from all its sects and traditions, to be vegetarian. Anekantavada, a foundation of Jain
philosophy, literally means "Nonsingular Conclusivity", or equivalently. it stresses looking at things from others' perspectives.
According to Jain beliefs, the universe was never created, nor will it ever cease to exist. Jain monks walk barefoot and sweep the
ground in front of them to avoid killing any insect. While performing holy deeds, Svetambar Jains wear cloths (Muhapatti) over their
mouths and noses to avoid saliva falling on texts or revered images.
Holidays:
o
Paryushan Parva, 10/8 (Digambar/Shwetambar) day fasts, and for observe, 10/8 important principles.
o
Mahavir Jayanti, Lord Mahavir's birth.
o
Diwali, commemorates Lord Mahavir's attainment of nirvan.
o
Kshamavaani, The day for asking everyone's forgiveness.
o
Shawani Hirshnadi, The celebration of Hirsh's triumph over evil.
4.
Because of Jainism’s strict belief of non-violence, no woman would ever be harmed for not following a rule of the religion; it would
only hinder her own religious journey. Jainism is devoted to recognizing the rights of all living creatures. Recognizing these rights is
what affords women many of their freedoms in Jainism, most importantly to female followers is that women are able to play their part
on the road to liberation, the goal of the followers of the faith. Although Jainism is dedicated to equality, for some Jains a woman's
very femaleness creates spiritual inequality. According to the BBC, the reasoning behind the attitudes to female Jains is as follows:
The Digambara Jain sect believes that women cannot achieve liberation without being reborn as men first. The Svetambara sect
disagrees. Digambara Jains hold this view because they believe that nakedness is an essential element of the road to liberation.
Mahavira himself, whose life shows Jains the way to liberation, set an example of total nudity that Digambaras believe monks should
follow. Since women are not allowed to be naked in public they cannot achieve liberation directly, and so are seen as second-class
citizens. This ban on female nakedness is partly intended to protect both men and women. If women went around naked it would cause
men to experience sexual desire and the desire produced would hinder the man's progress to liberation. Naked women would feel
ashamed of being naked and the feeling of shame would hinder their progress to liberation.
A follower of this religion must respect not only their religion but their beliefs on feminism. Because Jainism sees everyone as equals and worthy
of life Feminists must ‘take what they can get’ when it comes to Jainism because they can fulfill what is most important for them on an individual
basis, liberation, but they cannot be leaders because of their inability to be able to achieve this without a priest.
1. Scientology
2. L. Ron Hubbard began Scientology in 1952. Third party estimates of Scientology's worldwide membership range from less than 100,000 to
approximately 500,000 According to a 2001 survey published by the City University of New York, 55,000 people in the United States would, if
asked to identify their religion, have said Scientology. It is most common in the United States. There exist many different opinions on whether
or not Scientology is growing so it is difficult to determine a concrete answer.
3. Some central tenets of Scientology:
•
•
•
•
•
•
A person is an immortal spiritual being (termed a thetan) who possesses a mind and a body.
The thetan has lived through many past lives and will continue to live beyond the death of the body.
Through the Scientology process of "auditing", one can free oneself of "engrams" and "implants" to reach the state of "Clear", and
after that, the state of "Operating Thetan". Each state is said to represent recovering the native spiritual abilities of the individual, and
to confer dramatic mental and physical benefits.
A person is basically good, but becomes "aberrated" by moments of pain and unconsciousness in his or her life.
What is true for you is what you have observed yourself. No beliefs should be forced as "true" on anyone. Thus, the tenets of
Scientology are expected to be tested and seen to either be true or not by Scientology practitioners.
Psychiatry and psychology are evil and abusive practices.
Scientologists celebrate L. Ron Hubbard’s birthday, local founding days of churches, the anniversary of Dianetics, Auditor’s day, and sometimes
other holidays like Christmas and Easter. Daily life for scientologists is not very restricted. They can dress, act, and appear how they see fit.
However, drug and alcohol abuse and psychiatry are frowned upon.
“Scientology, The Fundamentals of Thought” and "Dianetics" by L. Ron Hubbard are the main religious texts.
4. In the Church of Scientology’s Proclamation on Religion, Human Rights and Society it states, “…Every person, regardless of race, colour, sex
or ethnicity, is a spiritual being, worthy of respect and deserving of dignity…” and “…Racism, xenophobia, sexism, ethnic and ideological
inequality, and all forms of religious discrimination represent a scourge on society and must be condemned.”
However, some of the writings of L. Ron Hubbard suggest that women and men have different gender restricted roles. For example, one of their
wedding ceremonies includes these vows, "Now -----, girls need clothes and food and tender happiness and frills, a pan, a comb, perhaps a cat.
All caprice if you will, but still they need them," and to the bride: "Hear well, sweet -----, for promise binds. Young men are free and may forget.
Remind him that you may have necessities and follies, too."
Women are allowed to hold official positions in Scientology. Mary Sue Hubbard, the “first lady of scientology,” and Leisa Goodman, Human
Rights Director, Church of Scientology International, are two examples of women in high positions within the church. Other famous
scientologist women include Kirstie Alley, Jenna Elfman, Katie Holmes, Chaka Khan, Lisa Marie Presley, and even Kate Bornstein subscribed to
this religion at one time.
5. Many of the basic principles of Scientology fit in with those of feminism. The treating of every individual as a “spiritual being” regardless of
race, sex, or ethnicity allows for equality among men and women. However, the contradictions in some of L. Ron Hubbard’s writings make it
much more difficult to accept all of the different aspects of the religion. Also, referring to LGBTQ issues, Scientology and L. Ron Hubbard
himself have been accused of promoting homophobia. As LGBTQ and feminist issues often are related, this presents another difficulty in
becoming both a feminist and a scientologist. Many current followers of the religion discredit these accusations by holding the conservative time
that L. Ron Hubbard was raised responsible for his homophobic remarks, and choose to ignore those tenets.
1. What is your Religion (“your Religion” meaning the one you signed up for)?
My religion is Shinto.
2. Approx. how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion? In which countries is this religion most common? Is
this religion growing or shrinking? When was it founded?
About 4 million people identify with the Shinto religion. It is most common in Japan, where it is native to and of once was the state religion. It is
thought to date back to as far as the Neolithic Period (between 10,000-4,000 BC.) After WWII, the principle of separation of church and state
became indoctrinated into Japanese political ideology and since than the number of Japanese who identify as followers of Shinto has decreased.
However, many of the “new religions” that have popped up in Japan since Shinto lost its prominence are still based on Shinto, and it is thought to
still be a deeply engrained part of Japanese culture and tradition.
3. Describe some of the important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion. Do they have special religious texts? holidays? Do
followers of this religion dress, act, or appear in certain ways?
Shinto is a polytheistic religion that involves the worship of kami (gods) and cleansing oneself of impurity. In reference to its roots in an
agricultural society, Shinto ceremonies can be related to seasonal cycles and involve the bearing of food and symbolic offerings. Also marked by
Shinto ceremony are the stages of human life- birth, childhood (Seven-five-three festival on November 15, which involves five year old boys and
three and seven year old girls to visit shrines to pray for good health), and the traditional wedding ceremony. The religion is based more on fitting
into this world than the afterlife, and thus it emphasizes worshipping and doing good things for the sake of karma and to have a clean conscience.
As far as religious texts, Shinto believers do not have a text that is considered divinely inspired, and the major Shinto works are more
compilations of histories than they are meant to be sources of worship. The dress, ritual, etc, are thought more sacred in terms of
cultural/traditional enrichment than they are for spiritual reasons. Nonetheless, there are very rigid dress guidelines for men and women in many
of these ceremonies; there are particular types of robes to be worn, depending on the ceremony, and everything from a woman’s makeup to her
hairstyle, shoes, and undergarments are laid out.
4. Does this religion consider women and men to be equal? Can women hold positions of power/special positions (can they be ordained as
priests, ministers, holy-persons, authorities or leaders)? Are women allowed to or forbidden to take part in special rituals or services?
Can women be punished for breaking rules that do not apply to men? if so, give some examples. Does this religion have women deities
(goddesses, saints, etc.), if so, give examples. Are there any famous women who were/are members of this religion?
Both men and women can become Shinto priests, and they are allowed to marry and have children. Also, one of the most revered of spirits is
Amaterasu, the sun goddess. However, traditional Shinto text seems to have more disdain than respect for women, and while viewing them as
powerful, also sees them as less wise and less deserving of respect. In rituals, priests are assisted by young ladies (called miko) who must be
unmarried and are often priest’s daughters.
5. How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? (in other words, how might they go about being both a
follower of this religious tradition and a feminist at the same time?)
I think that in this day in age, it would be easy for a person to identify with Shinto and also be a feminist. While the traditions are rooted in an
agrarian society that had subjugated women, ritual that could be considered demeaning to women is seen nowadays by many as mere traditional
rite than anything else. A feminist Japanese person who practiced Shinto could believe in the principles of worshiping different spirits (which
belong to both sexes) and striving for a clean conscience (applicable to any gender) without demeaning women in any way. The rituals that could
be viewed as anti-female could easily be cut out of a person’s personal practice without abandoning the religion entirely.
1.My religion I signed up for is Taoism a.k.a. Doaism
2. approximitaley around the world identify as Toaist. Taoism currently has about 20 million followers, and is primarily centered in Taiwan.
About 30,000 Taoists live in North America; 1,720 in Canada (1991 census). Taoism has had a significant impact on North American culture in
areas of "acupuncture, herbalism, holistic medicine, meditation and martial arts..." and is growing.
3.Taoism is both a philosophy of life and an organized religion practiced by several hundred million people. Up until fifty years ago religious
Taoism was one of the largest, strongest institutions in China. During the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s, however, the Chinese government
attempted to stamp out non-communist beliefs by destroying Taoist temples and persecuting Taoist priests.
Although it has officially been prohibited on mainland China, religious, or "popular" Taoism is once again seeing a revival there. In the
meantime, it thrives abroad, mainly in Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and the Chinatowns of Western cities, where Taoists still observe its unique
rituals, festivals and beliefs.
Before the formal religion was established in the 2nd century, A.D., the principles of Taoism had been articulated and refined for several
thousand years. Chang Tao-Ling, the scion of a clan of Taoists and alchemists, developed religious Taoism partly in reaction to the rampant
spread of non-indigenous Buddhism from India. He created a complex hierarchy of gods and goddesses, ritual libations and feast days which
appealed to many rural villagers and farmers as a homegrown alternative to Buddhism. Chang Dao-Ling's sect was called "The Way of the
Celestial Masters".
Taoists believe that happiness and peaceful coexistence can be achieved by following what they call The Tao, also known as The Way. The Tao
is a concept that cannot be fully understood; it is the mysterious way of nature that is inherently female, acting as a mother to all things. The
fundamental basis of this religion is built upon the supreme power of the female for creation and enlightened understanding. Therefore, it is no
surprise that women are treated with reverence and respect. Some important reading are from Lao Tse. "Be still like a mountain and flow like a
great river." -Lao Tse
*
"Different Chinese philosophers, writing probably in 5-4 centuries B.C., presented some major ideas and a way of life that are nowadays
known under the name of Taoism, the way of correspondence between man and the tendency or the course of natural world." Alan Watts, from
his book: "Tao: The Watercourse Way."
*
"We believe in the formless and eternal Tao, and we recognize all personified deities as being mere human constructs. We reject hatred,
intolerance, and unnecessary violence, and embrace harmony, love and learning, as we are taught by Nature. We place our trust and our lives in
the Tao, that we may live in peace and balance with the Universe, both in this mortal life and beyond." Creed of the Western Reform Taoist
Congregation 1
4.Hidden in misunderstanding and obscurity, the religion and philosophy of Taoism offers a refreshing change from the more traditional views of
women. Taoism originated in ancient China, and stemmed from shamanistic practices, ritual and myth. It was officially founded by the man Lao
Tzu in the sixth century B.C.E.Taoist theology focuses on doctrines of wu wei("non-action"), spontaneity and emptiness. This philosophical
aspect of Taoism emphasizes various themes found in the Tao Te Ching such as naturalness, vitality, peace, "nonaction" emptiness (refinement),
detachment, the strength of softness (or flexibility), and in the Zhuangi such as receptiveness, spontaneity, the relativismof human ways of life,
ways of speaking and guiding behavior.
5.This is the only religion I’ve ever heard of where women are worshipped. In most religions, the female is portrayed as the temptress, ensnaring
the hearts of men. This is not true in Taoism. Sex is used as a powerful force to better understand The Tao, as well as for prolonging life. It is not
an act tied with fear or guilt, but is used for spiritual transcendence. There are even texts explicitly detailing how to completely satisfy a women.
The female body is seen as beautiful, not something to be embarrassed by. "The Golden Lotus" and "The Vermilion Gate" are loving terms given
to female genitalia. Even menstruation (considered a polluting act in most religions) is viewed positively. Menstrual blood is the essence of a
woman, something she should nurture to increase her life span.
In Taoism, women could become ordained. They were equal with men for all ranks but the highest of Divine Lord. Goddesses populated the
Taoist pantheon, including the well-worshipped Queen Mother of the West, who could grant immortality.
The development of this unique religion in the heart of patriarchal China is amazing. Unfortunately, Taoism was never widespread. Like women,
Taoism was viewed with suspicion and given little credit in Chinese histories. As Confucianism grabbed hold through the centuries, its more
conservative values took away much of the sexual freedom experienced by Taoist women.
Taoism offers women positive body images and encourages them to see themselves as an important part of the cosmos. Ages ago, this religion
provided the groundwork for promoting the status of women. Sadly, this is a lesson that still remains unlearned in our modern world.
1. What is your Religion (“your Religion” meaning the one you signed up for)?
Taoism (dou-iz-uh m)
2. Approx. how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion?
Chinese folk religion includes Confucianist ceremonies, ancestor veneration, Buddhism and Taoism. It is one of 5 of the largest
world religions today. 6 % of the world population and 394 million people practice this religion. The number of Taoists is difficult to estimate,
partly for definitional reasons (who counts as a Taoist?), and partly for practical ones (it is illegal for private parties to conduct surveys in China).
Many Chinese people combine multiple beliefs, like those combined in Chinese folk religion.
In which countries is this religion most common? Is this religion growing or shrinking? When was it founded?
China. Once again, it is hard to say whether Taoism is growing or shrinking. However, it has been said that it has not been picked up
by other cultures until modern times. It can be traced back to 3rd or 4th century BCE, or to the activity of Zhang Daoling (2nd Century AD). These
dates, however, can all be argued…
3. Describe some of the important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion. Do they have special religious texts? holidays? Do
followers of this religion dress, act, or appear in certain ways?
Taoist theology focuses on doctrines of wu wei ("non-action"), spontaneity, humanism, relativism and emptiness. It emphasizes
naturalness, vitality, peace, "nonaction" (wu wei), emptiness (refinement), detachment, the strength of softness (or flexibility), and in the
Zhuangzi such as receptiveness, spontaneity, the relativism of human ways of life, ways of speaking and guiding behavior. The Daozang, is a
collection of Taoist beliefs in scripture. It was originally compiled during the Jin, Tang, and Song dynasties. Today’s version was published
during the Ming dynasty. The Ming Daozang includes almost 1500 texts. The Tao Te Ching, or Daodejing is considered the foundational text
for Taoism.
4. Does this religion consider women and men to be equal? Can women hold positions of power/special positions (can they be ordained as
priests, ministers, holypersons, authorities or leaders)? Are women allowed to or forbidden to take part in special rituals or services?
Can women be punished for breaking rules that do not apply to men? if so, give some examples. Does this religion have women deities
(goddesses, saints, etc.), if so, give examples. Are there any famous women who were/are members of this religion?
The Tao focuses on the mysterious ways that nature that is inherently female, acting as a mother to all things. The fundamental basis
of this religion is built upon the supreme power of the female for creation and enlightened understanding. Therefore, women are treated with
reverence and respect. Taoist women have the opportunity to be ordained and are seen as equal to men except for at the highest rank of Divine
Lord. There are also many goddesses in this religion, including the “Queen mother of the west,” who could grant immortality. There are even
loving ways to express the female genitalia, such as, "The Golden Lotus" and "The Vermilion Gate". Sex is used as a powerful force to better
understand The Tao, as well as for prolonging life. Even menstruation is viewed positively. Menstrual blood is seen as the essence of a woman,
and something that she should nurture to increase her life span.
5. How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? (in other words, how might they go about being both a
follower of this religious tradition and a feminist at the same time?)
Feminism and Taoism are not necessarily conflicting. Most Taoist beliefs see women equally and revere and respect them. The only
difference is that women cannot occupy the highest rank in Taoism. As a feminist, you could reject that one specific belief, seeing as all other
beliefs are parallel to those of feminism. Many modern environmentalist base their ethical policies in regard to nature on the beliefs of the Tao.
The beliefs of deep ecology are often times tied to Taoist beliefs as well as the women’s movement and ecofeminism. Deep Ecology claims that
all living things have the same right to live and flourish. Deep ecology describes itself as "deep" because its main concern is about the role of
human life as one part of the ecosphere, rather than with a narrow view of ecology as a branch of biological science, and aims to avoid merely
utilitarian environmentalism. Ecofeminism links environmentalism and feminism, and sometimes deep ecology with feminism on the basis that
oppression of nature and women has stemmed from the same place.
1. What is your Religion (“your Religion” meaning the one you signed up for)?
Native American
2. Approx. how many people around the world identify as a member of this religion?
As of 2000 Census estimates, 0.9 percent of the US population is American Indian and Alaska Native alone, 16% in Alaska and 10.2% in New
Mexico
In which countries is this religion most common? North America(U.S. and Canada)
Is this religion growing or shrinking?
Increased since 1990 census, but in 1990 respondents could only choose one race; over all numbers are shrinking
Shrinking; 80% of the native American pop. died due to European diseases. Since then, they were forced to leave their lands, and killed by
Europeans for land and religion.
More recently, native Americans have adapted to modern culture and so the traditions that accompany the religion has also dissipated, with 1%
U.S. pop of Native American descent, 8/10 of whom aren’t full-blooded Native American and don’t practice traditional Nat American ritual.
When was it founded? Native Americans will either tell you since humans have existed on earth, while others will say they crawled through a
hole in the ground.
First time Native Americans were discovered was 1492, so at least before then.
The oldest documented Indian cultures in North America are Sandia (15000 BC), Clovis (12000 BC) and Folsom (8000 BC)
3. Describe some of the important beliefs and practices of followers of this religion.
Beliefs vary across tribes
A strong bond with nature and the earth
Some infuse elements of Christianity
Argue that it is more a spirituality than religion; entirely cultural
Engage in pow wows and sun dance ceremonies
Some don’t believe in an afterlife, others do; There is no Heaven; earth is home and that is way they have a strong desire to take such good care
of it
Hunting ceremonies: these involve the ritual treatment of a bear or other animal after its killing during a successful hunt. The goal is to appease
its spirit and convince other animals to be willing to be killed in the future.
The Iroquois believe in a great spirit aided by invisible agents or lesser spirits; other tribes believe in a dual divinity- to creator and the spirit
involved in everyday life
Do they have special religious texts? Most stuff is passed down by word of mouth in each tribe
holidays?
12/21 to 1/9: Hopi & Zuni Soyala New Year Festival of purification and renewal. It concludes with dancing, rekindling of the chief kiva fire, and
distribution of its coals to all homes
Within that: 1/1 to 1/4: Tewa Turtle Dance--celebrating life and the first creation, when Sky Father embraced Earth Mother and all life was
conceived
/2 to 3/5: Iroquois Maple Ceremony--in thanksgiving for the Maple tree and its sugar. [Iroquois believe Awenhai/Sky Woman bore the twin
brothers Thahonhiawakon/Order and Tawiskaron/Chaos.]
4/1 to 4/4: Iroquois Thunder Ceremony--in thanksgiving for the rains. Iroquois believe Awenhai/Sky Woman descended from the Sky and created
Earth
4/26-5/3: Mayan Rain Festival--honoring Rain God Chac and His attendant Chacmool, and welcoming the fructifying rains
Lakota Sun Dance--Festival of prayer, fasting, dancing, and healing in honor of Sun God Wi; offerings are also made to Maka/Mother Earth and
Haokah/Father Sky. Lakotas believe all Deities are aspects of Creator Takuskanskan.
* 6/24 to 6/27: Zuni Corn Dance--for fertility and rains to aid the maize, bean, and squash crops. Prayer sticks are planted in the fields.
* 6/29 to 7/2: Iroquois Green Bean Ceremony--in thanksgiving for the bean harvest; celebrated with tobacco offerings, singing, drumming,
dancing, and feasting.
Also a strawberry festival for Iroquois
Do followers of this religion dress, act, Birth of the White Buffalo (1994), signaling the return of White Buffalo Woman (manifestation of
Star Goddess Wohpe) who gave the sacred peace pipe to the Lakota people. [Lakota rites include smoking the sacred pipe, purification in
the sweat lodge, and making a vision quest for wisdom.]
10/4 to 10/7: Tewa Deer Dance--celebrating the cosmic duality of feminine and masculine. The Tewa recognize gender equality and honor both
male and female ancestors.
or appear in certain ways? They are of native American descent; they wear clothes made of hides from animals or colorful robes, feather
headdresses, moccasins, dark skin and hair
4. Does this religion consider women and men to be equal?
Most Native American tribes took on traditional gender roles: men hunted, traded, and fought while women took care of the young/elderly, cured
meat, fashioned clothing.
But: Cherokee wives own family property
In some tribes, a kind of transgender lifestyle is accepted
Women also made weapons, repaired roofs and often helped hunt buffalo
In some instances, girls are trained to ride and fight, and in many cases fight alongside the men, especially when the survival of their tribe is
threatened
Can women hold positions of power/special positions (can they be ordained as priests, ministers, holypersons, authorities or leaders)?
Are women allowed to or forbidden to take part in special rituals or services?
Young boys before or at puberty are encouraged to enter into a period of fasting, meditation and physical challenge. He separates himself from
the tribe and go to a wilderness area. The goal is to receive a vision that will guide his development for the rest of his life. They also seek to
acquire a guardian spirit who will be close and supportive for their lifetime. Girls are not usually eligible for such a quest.
Can women be punished for breaking rules that do not apply to men? if so, give some examples.
Does this religion have women deities (goddesses, saints, etc.), if so, give examples. A native prophet of the Dakotas was the White Buffalo
Woman and there are some medicine women- in a tribe one woman was chosen to represent the buffalo woman- brought peace pipe and wisdom
to native americans
Mother earth vs. father sky
Are there any famous women who were/are members of this religion?
Maria Tallchief, world-renowned ballerina
Sacajawea- interpreter and only woman on Lewis and Clark Expedition
Wilma Mankiller- first woman elected chief of Cherokee nation of Oklahoma- 1985-95
Winona LaDuke- ran with Ralph nader for VP
5. How might someone of this religion reconcile their beliefs with feminism? (in other words, how might they go about being both a follower of
this religious tradition and a feminist at the same time?)
A person is born into a tribe, so if they do not agree with the beliefs they can’t just join another tribe, but would probably have to leave the tribe
altogether. That person can still practice the main beliefs of a connection with the land and belief in spirits, but the idea of the culture where
women take care of home and men hunt and fight would be lost
1.
Neo-pagansim
2.
It is estimated that there are nearly 1 million neo-pagans in the world today, but an actual number is unknown. There is no one country
that they mainly occupy, but they are very organized and stable in Central-Eastern Europe and all over the United Kingdom. Also,
Neo-pagans are scattered all over the U.S. Neo-paganism is up and coming, and is expected to continue to get larger and larger. Neopagans argue that paganism is the oldest religion on earth. It was the religion of the Romans in the 17th century. The word pagan was
first used to describe people who were not in a particular coven.
3.
Neo-paganism is not an organized religion and has no official set of guidelines. Pagans follow a wide variety of paths and may have a
variety of beliefs on religious questions like the divine, human nature and the afterlife. However, there are some common beliefs that
are held by most Neo-pagans. Neo-pagans do believe in deity, reincarnation, origin of universe and life, after death, evil, salvation,
and undeserved punishment. The most primary belief of Neo-paganism is the acknowledgment of the divine in nature meaning they
worship the cycle of the seasons. They think that the earth is sacred. They also believe in some ancient polytheistic religions such as
the pantheons of northern Europe and Britain, along with the gods and beliefs of ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian paganism.
Some pagans view there to be one particular god (or god and goddess pair) as the “supreme principle.” Yet, others say that all gods
are great and divine over all others. Nearly all Neo-pagans recognize other gods, meaning virtually no Neo-pagans are monotheists.
In company with the gods, Neo-pagans also worship spirits including dead relatives, local and national heroes and so on. The only
thing that they have that is close to a prayer book of some kind is the calendar which they call the wheel of the year. They celebrate
the cycles and seasons of nature through a festival calendar that honors these changes. They have something called eight festivals
which include Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Midsummer, Lughnasadh, and Mabon. There are no specific clothes that Neopagans wear, though it is common in pictures for them to be wearing hoods and long blankets over them.
4.
Neo-Paganism empowers women through fostering spiritual expression, encouraging personal development, and espousing a womanbased theology, it remains an essentially gendered religion.
Neo-Pagans often strive to break through typical gender role stereotypes, only to find themselves faced with the same old "man hunts
-- woman stays at home" imagery inherited from mainstream society. There are three times as many neo-pagan women than men.
Among many Neo-pagans, there is a strong desire to incorporate the female aspects of the divine in their worship and within their
lives, which can partially explain the attitude which sometimes manifests as the veneration of
women.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neopaganism - _note-5 Other Neo-pagans reject the concept of binary gender roles. There is a
branch of Neo-paganism called Wicca which has its own branch called Dianic Wicca (also known as Feminist Witchcraft and/or
Feminist Spirituality), practiced almost exclusively by women, most of whom are heterosexual, preferring to practice their spirituality
with other women in pursuit of Women's Mysteries. Some Dianics, of course, are lesbians, just as there are lesbians in other Wiccan
denominations. Dianic Wiccans worship a Goddess but no God, and form female-only covens, for the most part. There are some
mixed-gender Dianics, specifically the McFarland Dianics, who practice in either all female or mixed-gender circles, and who may or
may not include the god in their workings. There are women whom their worship, examples being Astarte, Artemis, Hestia, and
Athena. A few famous people who are/were Neo-pagans are Alice Walker, Virginia Woolf and there are rumors of Adrienne Rich
being a Neo-pagan.
5.
It is pretty easy to be both a feminist and a Neo-pagan since they respect the rights and equality of women so well. Also, as seen from
Dianic Wiccans, it is common to be both feminist and neo-pagan. They believe that if there is a God there is therefore also a Goddess.