Discussion # 4, Hist 1.1: Religion and Asceticism

Topic: Asceticism

Similar to other organized world religions, the Vedic religion (the original form of Hinduism) in India required proper worship, beliefs, behavior, rituals, and sacrifice. By the sixth century BC, a new form of religious expression was produced by ascetic thinkers that grappled with the great questions and mysteries of the universe--Buddhism and Jainism arose from this movement. They were perplexed by doubts in the power of the ancient gods and the strict demands of traditional religion. They each believed they had discovered the correct path to salvation. Some suggested new social organization and reforms to the codes of behavior and religious practice, while others argued that each person had to find their own salvation. These thinkers often wandered the countryside teaching their beliefs to those who would listen. They lived off the kindness of the people and spent their time and energy meditating and teaching.

Directions: Two points of view

Read your textbook and notes, do some careful research, and watch all videos. This involves some role playing: Pretend you are in ancient India and you are a priest from the main organized religion, Hinduism, and you are having a discussion with an ascetic religious thinker about the merits of your respective faith. A young person approaches and says that she/he wants to convert. Convince this young person that your faith and your structure are the right choice. What are the benefits of your faith? How can the life of the young person be improved by joining your religion?

This post should be your own words and there is no right or wrong answer. Your points will be based on completion of the assignment (based on the rubric) and whether you use support from the readings, lecture, or internet. 6 points total, 3 for your initial post and 3 for replying to someone's post. Your post should be about a paragraph long and your reply to someone's post should be a paragraph as well.

I recommend that you create your initial post by Feb 10 at 11:59 pm so that others may have an opportunity to reply.

You must also contribute a Response to 1 classmate's post: Read another student's post and pretend you are the ascetic religious thinker. Respond to the statement of the priest and explain why their religion does not offer true solutions to life's problems. Offer your reasons why the young person should become your student. What can you teach the person and how will this improve her/his life?

Posts can have more than one reply. Follow the netiquette guidelines below and use evidence to support or disagree with the original post. This is not a place for insults or arguments so use proper language such as "I understand your concerns, but..."

Your Response is due by Feb 11, at 11:59 pm. 

• Turning this assignment in late will result in the loss of 1 point per day, up to 3 points.
• Click on the reply button, below to get started.

Purpose:

To evaluate student's critical analysis of historical events.

Rubric:

To view the rubric attached to this discussion, click on the gear box in the upper right and select Show Rubric. 

Netiquette:

• Be kind and respectful to others
• Use full sentences
• Avoid jargon and acronyms
• Use language that supports others