Comparative Religion

Comparative Religion Final Essay

By Rev. Patricia Buben

The course in Comparative Religion was very interesting and had a huge amount of information. I came out of it having a much better understanding of religion as a concept as well as amazed at how many similarities there are between religions and their stories. Most religions have associated with them sacred texts, some type of sacred space or church, stories, prayer, invocations/evocations and practices that do not change.

Many religions have very similar stories – such as the birth of Jesus and Krishna – even being similar to the point of them both having to escape from the clutches of an evil ruler. Many have the concept of a “golden rule” even though they may be worded a little bit differently. I think it is important for all of us to find and appreciate the similarities in religions rather than exploit the differences—especially as ministers.

It has always been my belief that there is truth in more than just one religion. Almost every culture on earth believes in a power larger than they are. Everyone has at least a concept of God. Therefore, I believe that there are many religions because there are many cultures. It only makes sense, but it doesn’t make one right and another wrong. Everyone needs to decide what works best for them.

I really enjoyed going through the comparisons and being exposed to so many rich faith traditions, their stories, architecture, similarities and differences. The bibliography for this course is one of the most extensive I’ve seen so far. Kythera Ann must have done a tremendous amount of research and study to put this course together. I would definitely take more courses written by this author if they were made available.

There is nothing that I did not enjoy about the course. It is very scholarly and requires a lot of concentration to get through it, but the ability to understand so many different traditions, how they came into existence and the history of each is very worthwhile.

This course could be enjoyed by anyone that has an interest in religious traditions outside of their own. I think everyone should be encouraged to understand as many religions as possible. It would encourage cooperation, collaboration and understanding among countries and possibly even prevent wars.

This course addressed many areas that I have always wondered about. I have a strong interest in other faiths and find a different perspective from each new one that I learn about.

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