Understanding Divine Concepts and Religious Foundations

Immanent Divine Presence

• Describes the divine as existing within and extending into all parts of the creative universe.
• In Buddhism and Hinduism, practitioners believe they can achieve unity with their supernatural being.
• Buddhists strive to follow Buddha's teachings to attain personal enlightenment (Nirvana), which liberates them from the world of pain and suffering.

Transcendent Divine Nature

• Embraces the ideology of a divine power existing beyond human capabilities and experiences.
• Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are considered transcendent religions.
• Jews believe that God is eternal, has always existed, and always will. God has provided laws for Jews to observe, which are found in the Tanakh.
• Adherence to God's instructions is seen as an expression of appreciation.
• Prophets like Abraham, Noah, and Moses entered into covenants with God, through which humanity received guidance on how to live.

Core Characteristics of Religions

Beliefs and Believers

• Beliefs form the foundation of any religion, sustaining its community and traditions.
• A guru is a spiritual teacher, often found in Buddhist and Hindu communities, who guides the spiritual progress of their students (shishya). Through a guru's spiritual, psychological, and practical insight, students learn and advance in their spirituality.

Sacred Texts and Writings

All religions possess oral or written texts. These sacred writings help believers gain a deeper understanding of their religion's origins and purpose.

• Christianity: The Bible is considered divinely inspired, documenting the relationship between God and humankind, and including holy writings related to Jesus. It is regarded by Christians as the inerrant Word of God.