Religion in American Literature: Puritanism to Dickinson
Religion’s Role in American Literary Tradition
Religion is a central topic in many different literary works in the American tradition, but different authors approach it from distinct perspectives.
Puritan Literature Perspectives
Religion is essential to Puritan literature. A central tenet of their belief system is predestination: everything is determined by the will of God. They can also be considered fundamentalists, believing that social life should be organized according to religious principles.
Read MoreSephardic Jews: History and Culture in Medieval Spain
Jews in Sepharad: A Historical Overview
According to some accounts, the arrival of Jews in the Iberian Peninsula (Sepharad) occurred after the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. From the third century onward, Jewish communities existed in this territory, considering Toledoth (city of generations) as their cultural and religious center.
Jews and Visigoths: A Complex Relationship
The relationship between Jews and Visigoths was generally respectful, though not always cordial. Discrimination against
Read MoreChristian Living: Union with Jesus Christ Through Sacraments
Living United to Jesus Christ
Early Christians lived in the presence of Jesus Christ. Initially, they were baffled, but felt Pentecost. Everyone felt that Jesus wished them to live together in union with Him. This union is expressed not only in personal prayer but also in moments of assembly with other Christians.
A Natural Process
The process of prayer and celebration is natural. Jesus himself was baptized and sent his disciples to baptize all who wanted to convert.
The Liturgy
- The Weekly Rhythm: Focus
St. Augustine: Knowledge, Truth, and the Path to God
St. Augustine on Knowledge
According to St. Augustine, truth brings true happiness to man. Even skeptics can be sure of something: their doubt gives evidence of their existence. Man can know the truth. In knowledge, there are three hierarchical levels, from lowest to highest:
- Sensitive Knowledge: Perceives objects and their modifications through the senses. This is not true knowledge due to the potential deficiencies of the senses.
- Rational Knowledge: Makes judgments about objects and compares them
St. Augustine: Man as Image of God and the Trinity
Abstract
Man is an image of God, reflecting the Trinity. Although not of the same nature as God, man is the most similar of all creatures in God’s creation. We can resemble Him because we exist, we know ourselves, and we love existence and knowledge. There is no falsehood in these three aspects, as they are not perceived through the senses or imagination.
Analysis
The image of God in man is not equal to God, nor of the same substance or co-eternal. However, humans are the species most similar to God,
Read MoreUnderstanding Biblical Baptism: Purpose and Requirements
The Significance of Baptism
Introduction:
A. In the religious world, there are many forms of baptism, each with different purposes depending on the religion.
B. The Bible, as the holy word of God, defines what is right and wrong, specifically regarding baptism. (Eph. 4:5) states, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” There is only one correct baptism: the baptism of Jesus Christ.
C. Let’s consider some questions about baptism in light of the Bible.
What is Baptism?
A. Baptism comes from the Greek root “
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