The belief systems and practices of ancient cultures are often referred to as "old religion". Its definition is somewhat arbitrary, but it often includes Christianity and various forms of Islam. It also includes the Indian and Arabian faiths. Although they are not fundamentally the same, they do have some distinct characteristics. Although the older religions relied on reason and revelation to create belief systems, they could also use intuition or revelation.
An ancient religion
Religions and beliefs were a part of the ancient world. These charismatic followers of these religions traveled across the Mediterranean, often taking itinerant routes. They were the primary determinants of human culture and life. Religious beliefs were widespread and universalized in antiquity.
These beliefs have their roots in many cultural traditions. The Ancient Religions MA course examines these traditions, from ancient China to ancient Europe. It offers new insights into the function of ancient religions. The MA programme can be tailored to the research interests of individual students.
Hinduism
Hinduism is an ancient religion with many traditions. Its beliefs revolve around the sanctity, or the supreme life, and Brahman. Hindus believe both in rebirth and karma. They also believe salvation. Hindus are extremely religious.
Hinduism has no historical founder. However, it has developed over the centuries through periods of ritual and enlightenment. Hinduism does not have a single central text, so the tradition is a mixture of several religions.
Buddhism
Buddhists believe in the eternality of life and that it is subject to suffering. They seek the truth within themselves and seek out Buddha's teachings. They are continually reborn and relive past lives. This is why they strive to improve their lives. Buddhism is a philosophy that there is no single answer.
Buddhism is a major religion worldwide with 376 million followers. It was founded in India in the sixth century B.C.E. and spread to Southeast Asia and China, Korea, Japan, and Korea. Today, Buddhists can be found in more than 170 countries around the world.
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism has been around since ancient times. Avesta is the oldest text. The Avesta is made up of sacred verses called Gathas that Prophet Zarathushtra orally transmitted to his followers. Each Gatha contains seventeen hymns. The Avesta is made up of five Gathas. Zoroastrianism scholars stress the importance of the Gathas. Gathic principles forbid excessive ritualism and emphasize the importance of ethical behavior and human reason as co-workers with God.
Zoroastrianism is a religion that has roots in Persia, and could be as old as 4,000 years. Zoroastrianism used to be the state religion of Iran during the Persian Dynasties. Many of the followers fled Iran to India and practice the religion as a minority. Zoroastrianism is a worldwide religion with 100,000-200,000 followers. It has a rich and diverse history, and it has been influential by other religions.
Maya
In ancient Maya religion, earth and sky are considered two contrasting entities. Maya believed that the earth was the back of an enormous crocodile while the sky was a doubleheaded serpent. The sky is named after the word for serpent, and the constellations can be identified with cross-bands. Maya believed that the sun, moon and stars were symbolic of celestial bodies.
Maya art has many symbols that are associated with death or the underworld. Disembodied eyes, crossed bones, cross bones and marks of putrefaction are some of the symbols they used. They also had gods like Pawahtun, who was the patron of scribes. Ix Chel was a Maya goddess of childbirth, healing and other deities. Chak Chel, her sister, was a weaver and was patroness to the islands of Cozumel.