Toleration, Acceptance?

This week, the second week of my World Religions class, we are learning about Hinduism and Buddhism. We are, obviously, learning the very basics of each. I don’t really feel qualified to tell anyone about anything having to do with either.

But I think I’ll do it anyway.

One thing that is interesting to me about Hinduism is that there are so many different types and sects of Hinduism. One can hardly even define Hinduism as a singular religion because of all the variations. Even in the midst of these variations and differences there is an overwhelming tendency to accept alternative, opposing views. According to my textbook:

“The coexistence of so many competing theologies and religious practices, and even the toleration of nonbelievers, have been based upon two notions. First, is the belief that a human understanding of the highest truth, whatever that is held to be, is never complete or perfect. Second is the expectation that as individuals learn and practice more deeply, they will see reality more clearly.”

Are those notions worth-while?

Update

I haven’t posted in a while because I’ve been busy settling into our new living arrangement. We’re living with G and T and their daughter K. We’re saving money and living in community. So far I’m really loving it.

I’m also working a new job. I’m working landscaping for the summer. It is hard work, but I’m liking it.

Next week G and I start class. We’re taking Introduction to World Religions. I’m really looking forward to getting a better look at different religions. Our professor is Buddhist so it will be nice to get to learn about Buddhism from someone who actually knows about it rather than someone who has only read about it.

Well, that’s all for now. Peace.