The Children of Abraham The Holy Way of Life Palm Sunday, April 1, 2007 10 to 10:50 am, in the Parlor. Everyone is welcome!

The Children of The Children of AbrahamAbraham

The Holy Way of LifeThe Holy Way of Life

Palm Sunday, April 1, 200710 to 10:50 am, in the Parlor.

Everyone is welcome!

Primary ReferencesPrimary References Three Faiths, One God: The Formative Faith and Practice Three Faiths, One God: The Formative Faith and Practice

of Judaism, Christianity, and Islamof Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, Jacob Neusner, Bruce , Jacob Neusner, Bruce Chilton, William Graham. Brill Academic Publishers, 2002Chilton, William Graham. Brill Academic Publishers, 2002

The Sacred Paths: Understanding the Religions of the The Sacred Paths: Understanding the Religions of the WorldWorld, 3rd Edition, Theodore M. Ludwig. Prentice Hall, , 3rd Edition, Theodore M. Ludwig. Prentice Hall, 2000. ISBN: 013025682X2000. ISBN: 013025682X

A History of the World's ReligionA History of the World's Religion, 10th Edition. David S. , 10th Edition. David S. Noss, John Boyer, Prentice Hall, 1999. ISBN: 0130105325Noss, John Boyer, Prentice Hall, 1999. ISBN: 0130105325

Religions of the WorldReligions of the World, 8th Edition. Lewis M. Hopfe, Mark , 8th Edition. Lewis M. Hopfe, Mark R. Woodward, Prentice Hall, 2000. ISBN: 0130282545R. Woodward, Prentice Hall, 2000. ISBN: 0130282545

We gratefully thank You, We gratefully thank You, for it is You Who are the LORD, for it is You Who are the LORD, our God and the God of our forefathers for all eternity; our God and the God of our forefathers for all eternity; Rock of our lives, Rock of our lives, Shield of our salvation are You from generation to generation. Shield of our salvation are You from generation to generation. We shall thank You and relate Your praise – We shall thank You and relate Your praise – for our lives, which are committed to Your power and for our lives, which are committed to Your power and for our souls that are entrusted to You; for our souls that are entrusted to You; for Your miracles that are with us every day;for Your miracles that are with us every day;and for Your wonders and favors in every season – evening, and for Your wonders and favors in every season – evening,

morning, and afternoon.morning, and afternoon.The Beneficent One, for Your compassions were never The Beneficent One, for Your compassions were never exhausted,exhausted,And the Compassionate One, for Your kindnesses never And the Compassionate One, for Your kindnesses never ended –ended –Always have we put our hope in YouAlways have we put our hope in You

Thanksgiving Prayer (Thanksgiving Prayer (ModimModim) for ) for PesachPesach (Passover), (Passover),Jewish Service Book (Jewish Service Book (SiddurSiddur), translated by Rabbi ), translated by Rabbi

Nosson Scherman, ArtScroll Mesorah Series, p. 669Nosson Scherman, ArtScroll Mesorah Series, p. 669

The Holy Way of LifeThe Holy Way of LifeIntroductionIntroduction


General note:General note: JudaismJudaism and and IslamIslam are alike in that both tend to emphasize are alike in that both tend to emphasize

orthopraxyorthopraxy = “right practice” = “right practice” ChristianityChristianity on the other hand, tends to emphasize on the other hand, tends to emphasize

orthodoxyorthodoxy = “right belief” = “right belief”


1. The View of This Life1. The View of This Life. How does a Jew, . How does a Jew, Christian, or Muslim see this life as a manifestation Christian, or Muslim see this life as a manifestation of God’s purposes?of God’s purposes?

2. Determining How To Live2. Determining How To Live. How does a Jew, . How does a Jew, Christian, or Muslim figure out what is the holy or Christian, or Muslim figure out what is the holy or correct way of living?correct way of living?

3. The Rhythms of A Holy Life3. The Rhythms of A Holy Life. What are the . What are the “rhythms” – the rituals, traditions, the feast days – of “rhythms” – the rituals, traditions, the feast days – of holy living for a Jew, Christian, or Muslim?holy living for a Jew, Christian, or Muslim?

The Holy Way of LifeThe Holy Way of LifeJudaismJudaism

JudaismJudaism1. The View of This Life1. The View of This Life

““You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am Holyam Holy” (Leviticus 19:2 NRSV)” (Leviticus 19:2 NRSV)

The purpose of life is to become The purpose of life is to become God’s holy peopleGod’s holy people by:by: accepting the kingship of God accepting the kingship of God valuing all of God’s creaturesvaluing all of God’s creatures

JudaismJudaism1. The View of This Life1. The View of This Life

Human beings are created in the “image of God,” just Human beings are created in the “image of God,” just “a little lower than God,” and are partners with God “a little lower than God,” and are partners with God in this life for the fulfillment of God’s willin this life for the fulfillment of God’s will

God created all things good, and therefore a holy life God created all things good, and therefore a holy life includes the obligation to enjoy and enhance life:includes the obligation to enjoy and enhance life: good food, wealth, sexual pleasure are all gifts of God to be good food, wealth, sexual pleasure are all gifts of God to be

enjoyedenjoyed actions which degrade life are forbiddenactions which degrade life are forbidden

JudaismJudaism1. The View of This Life: 1. The View of This Life: SinSin

SinSin is is averahaverah = transgressing God’s will = transgressing God’s will ““any act or attitude, whether of omission or any act or attitude, whether of omission or

commission, which nullifies God’s will, commission, which nullifies God’s will, obscures His glory, profanes His name, obscures His glory, profanes His name, opposed His kingdom, or transgresses the opposed His kingdom, or transgresses the MitzvotMitzvot [commandments] of the Torah” [commandments] of the Torah” (Milton Steinberg)(Milton Steinberg)


There is no such thing as “original sin” or There is no such thing as “original sin” or “fallen humanity” in Judaism (that is “fallen humanity” in Judaism (that is exclusively a Christian idea)exclusively a Christian idea)

Human beings have two basic inclinations:Human beings have two basic inclinations: good inclination (good inclination (yetver hatovyetver hatov)) evil inclination (evil inclination (yetver harayetver hara))


The evil inclination (The evil inclination (yetver harayetver hara) drives ) drives human beings to gratify their instincts and human beings to gratify their instincts and desires. Includes appetite for food, sexual desires. Includes appetite for food, sexual drivedrive

The evil inclination (The evil inclination (yetver harayetver hara) is ) is necessarynecessary and therefore and therefore goodgood: : “if it were not for the evil “if it were not for the evil inclination, man would not build a house, inclination, man would not build a house, or take a wife, or beget a child, or engage or take a wife, or beget a child, or engage in business”in business” (Gen. R. Bereshit, 9:7) (Gen. R. Bereshit, 9:7)


Life is a continuing struggle to use the evil Life is a continuing struggle to use the evil inclination (inclination (yetver harayetver hara) in a positive, life-) in a positive, life-affirming wayaffirming way

It was necessary for God to “wound” human It was necessary for God to “wound” human beings by giving them the evil inclination beings by giving them the evil inclination ((yetver harayetver hara), but God gives them ), but God gives them Torah Torah as as the “antidote”the “antidote”

JudaismJudaism1. The View of This Life:1. The View of This Life:

Redemption and SanctificationRedemption and Sanctification

God God redeemsredeems by calling human beings to be what by calling human beings to be what they were created to bethey were created to be

We can distinguish three redemptive “movements” of We can distinguish three redemptive “movements” of God:God: 1. God intervenes in human history with mighty acts of 1. God intervenes in human history with mighty acts of

salvationsalvation 2. God reveals 2. God reveals TorahTorah, including , including mitzvotmitzvot and and halakothalakot, as , as

“ways” to holiness“ways” to holiness mitzvamitzva (pl. (pl. mitzvotmitzvot): a law / commandment in the Hebrew Bible): a law / commandment in the Hebrew Bible halakahalaka (pl. (pl. halakothalakot) : a law / commandment in the Oral Torah) : a law / commandment in the Oral Torah

3. God shows mercy and forgiveness when human beings 3. God shows mercy and forgiveness when human beings repentrepent


Redemption and SanctificationRedemption and Sanctification RepentanceRepentance ( (teshuvahteshuvah) is the highest virtue in Judaism) is the highest virtue in Judaism It is a purely human act (no “grace” of God is involved). It is a purely human act (no “grace” of God is involved).

Requires:Requires: 1. acknowledging wrongdoing1. acknowledging wrongdoing 2. compensating for any injury done2. compensating for any injury done 3. resolving to not repeat sinful act3. resolving to not repeat sinful act

Only after performing 1, 2, and 3 can a sinner ask for God’s Only after performing 1, 2, and 3 can a sinner ask for God’s forgiveness and receive God’s mercyforgiveness and receive God’s mercy

Yom KippurYom Kippur (Day of the Atonement), one of the most holy (Day of the Atonement), one of the most holy days of Judaism, is for days of Judaism, is for repentance repentance ((teshuvahteshuvah))


Redemption and SanctificationRedemption and Sanctification SanctificationSanctification: the process of becoming holy: the process of becoming holy Path of sanctification (becoming holy) involves:Path of sanctification (becoming holy) involves:

1. repentance of sins (= transgressions of God’s will)1. repentance of sins (= transgressions of God’s will) 2. following the laws and commandments:2. following the laws and commandments:

MitzvotMitzvot (singular: (singular: mitzvamitzva): laws / commandments in the Hebrew ): laws / commandments in the Hebrew BibleBible

HalakotHalakot (singular: (singular: halakahalaka): laws / commandments in the oral ): laws / commandments in the oral Torah, derived from scripture or from tradition (“the Faith of the Torah, derived from scripture or from tradition (“the Faith of the Fathers”) by rabbis Fathers”) by rabbis


Estrangement of the Present AgeEstrangement of the Present Age

In the present age, In the present age, IsraelIsrael (the Jews, the (the Jews, the Chosen People of God) is estranged and Chosen People of God) is estranged and alienated from Godalienated from God

Israel’s alienation from God will end when the Israel’s alienation from God will end when the hearts and deeds of the Chosen People hearts and deeds of the Chosen People conform to God’s willconform to God’s will

JudaismJudaism2. Determining How to Live2. Determining How to Live

The way to live is found in the The way to live is found in the mitzvotmitzvot and and halakothalakot (laws / commandments) of (laws / commandments) of the the TorahTorah

TorahTorah = word used in both a = word used in both a narrow sense to mean:narrow sense to mean: “Written Torah”“Written Torah” = first five books of the Hebrew Bible = first five books of the Hebrew Bible

(= Pentateuch), where laws and commandment are principally found in the (= Pentateuch), where laws and commandment are principally found in the Hebrew BibleHebrew Bible

broad sense to mean:broad sense to mean: Jewish religious laws in general (includes Jewish religious laws in general (includes “Written Torah”“Written Torah” and and “Oral Torah”“Oral Torah”))

Oral TorahOral Torah = the interpretations of the written Torah by rabbis of every age, = the interpretations of the written Torah by rabbis of every age, past and futurepast and future MishnaMishna = collection of Oral Torah of 150 rabbis (220 AD) = collection of Oral Torah of 150 rabbis (220 AD) GemaraGemara = commentaries on the Mishna = commentaries on the Mishna TalmudTalmud = Mishna + Gemara = Mishna + Gemara

Palestinian Talmud (425 AD)Palestinian Talmud (425 AD) Babylonian Talmud (500 AD)Babylonian Talmud (500 AD)


MitzvotMitzvot (singular: (singular: mitzvamitzva): laws / commandments in ): laws / commandments in the Hebrew Biblethe Hebrew Bible There are 613 There are 613 mitzvotmitzvot or commandments in the Hebrew or commandments in the Hebrew

BibleBible 365 negative commandments 365 negative commandments 248 positive commandments 248 positive commandments

HalakotHalakot (singular: (singular: halakahalaka): laws / commandments in ): laws / commandments in the “Oral Torah,” derived from scripture or from the “Oral Torah,” derived from scripture or from

tradition (“the Faith of the Fathers”) by the rabbistradition (“the Faith of the Fathers”) by the rabbis


The The mitzvotmitzvot and and halakothalakot (Jewish religious laws (Jewish religious laws / commandments) are a revelation of God. / commandments) are a revelation of God. Their purpose is to create a kingdom of priests Their purpose is to create a kingdom of priests and a holy peopleand a holy people

TheThe mitzvot mitzvot and and halakothalakot are considered a gift, are considered a gift, a great joy, a sign of God’s lovea great joy, a sign of God’s love


As Christians, we tend to view religious As Christians, we tend to view religious commandments as a set of rules or standards by commandments as a set of rules or standards by which our “goodness” or “holiness” is judged or which our “goodness” or “holiness” is judged or assessedassessed

However, for Jews, the purpose of However, for Jews, the purpose of mitzvot mitzvot and and halakothalakot (laws / commandments) is (laws / commandments) is notnot to spell out the to spell out the rules by which a person’s holiness is judged. Instead, rules by which a person’s holiness is judged. Instead, laws and commandments are seen as the laws and commandments are seen as the recipes or recipes or prescriptions for how a person can become holyprescriptions for how a person can become holy (that (that is, sanctified)is, sanctified)

Following the Following the mitzvotmitzvot and and halakothalakot transforms a transforms a person inwardly, sanctifies them, makes them holyperson inwardly, sanctifies them, makes them holy


Abraham Heschel:Abraham Heschel: “The true goal for man is to be what he “The true goal for man is to be what he does… A does… A mitzvamitzva therefore, is not mere doing but an act that therefore, is not mere doing but an act that embraces both the doer and the deed. … It is a distortion to embraces both the doer and the deed. … It is a distortion to say that Judaism consists exclusively of performing ritual or say that Judaism consists exclusively of performing ritual or moral deeds, and to forget that the goal of all performing is in moral deeds, and to forget that the goal of all performing is in transforming the soul. Even before Israel was told in the Ten transforming the soul. Even before Israel was told in the Ten Commandments what to do it was told what to be: a holy Commandments what to do it was told what to be: a holy people. To perform deeds of holiness is to absorb the holiness people. To perform deeds of holiness is to absorb the holiness of deeds… Man is not for the sake of good deeds; the good of deeds… Man is not for the sake of good deeds; the good deeds are for the sake of man… The goal is not that a deeds are for the sake of man… The goal is not that a ceremony be performed; the goal is that man be transformed; ceremony be performed; the goal is that man be transformed; to worship the Holy in order to be holy. The purpose of the to worship the Holy in order to be holy. The purpose of the mitzvotmitzvot is to sanctify man” is to sanctify man”

JudaismJudaism3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: 3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: The YearThe Year

Judaic year follows the lunar calendarJudaic year follows the lunar calendar The new moon marks the beginning of a new The new moon marks the beginning of a new

monthmonth Period new moon to new moon: 29.530588 daysPeriod new moon to new moon: 29.530588 days

Two critical moments in the unfolding of a Two critical moments in the unfolding of a year (times of heightened celebration):year (times of heightened celebration): first full moon after autumn beginsfirst full moon after autumn begins first full moon after spring beginsfirst full moon after spring begins


Autumn Holy Days:Autumn Holy Days: New moon marking beginning of the month of Tishre (in September) New moon marking beginning of the month of Tishre (in September)

marks the New Year marks the New Year Rosh HashanahRosh Hashanah and beginning of the ten and beginning of the ten Days Days of Aweof Awe or or High Holy DaysHigh Holy Days

Rosh Hashanah:Rosh Hashanah: celebration of Creation and the first act of human celebration of Creation and the first act of human repentance (= repentance (= teshuvahteshuvah) by Adam and Eve) by Adam and Eve

Days of Awe / High Holy Days:Days of Awe / High Holy Days: time to engage in time to engage in cheshbon nefeshcheshbon nefesh (=“soul searching”) to right our relationships to God and others(=“soul searching”) to right our relationships to God and others

10 days later: 10 days later: Yom KippurYom Kippur (Day of Atonement, the “Sabbath of (Day of Atonement, the “Sabbath of Sabbaths”)Sabbaths”)

5 days later: the full moon and the beginning of the eight day Festival 5 days later: the full moon and the beginning of the eight day Festival of Tabernacles or Booths (of Tabernacles or Booths (SukkotSukkot))

Antiquity: the central pilgrimage festival to Jerusalem to celebrate the Antiquity: the central pilgrimage festival to Jerusalem to celebrate the harvestharvest

Festival ends with Festival ends with Shemini AsseretShemini Asseret (solemn) and (solemn) and Simhat TorahSimhat Torah (rejoicing in the Torah)(rejoicing in the Torah)


Spring Holy Days:Spring Holy Days: First new moon after the vernal equinox begins the month First new moon after the vernal equinox begins the month

of Nisanof Nisan Next full moon: Passover (Next full moon: Passover (PesachPesach))

Lasts for 7 daysLasts for 7 days 50 days after Passover: festival of Pentecost (50 days after Passover: festival of Pentecost (ShavuotShavuot))

Biblically: celebration of the harvest day for barleyBiblically: celebration of the harvest day for barley Rabbis: celebration of the “marriage” between God and the Jewish Rabbis: celebration of the “marriage” between God and the Jewish

people when God gave them the people when God gave them the TorahTorah The 49 days between Pesach and Shavuot is the The 49 days between Pesach and Shavuot is the OmerOmer

Jews are commanded to count each day leading to ShavuotJews are commanded to count each day leading to Shavuot 1212thth day of the Omer: day of the Omer: “Day of Catastrophe and Heroism”“Day of Catastrophe and Heroism” or or

“Holocaust Memorial Day” (established 1951) “Holocaust Memorial Day” (established 1951)


Some minor festivals:Some minor festivals: HanukkahHanukkah (Feast of Lights) (Feast of Lights)

Eight day holiday based on the Maccabean revolt against the Eight day holiday based on the Maccabean revolt against the Syrian Greeks from 168 to 165 BC, leading to a free Israel from Syrian Greeks from 168 to 165 BC, leading to a free Israel from 165 BC to 63 BC165 BC to 63 BC

Celebrates the purity of living a lifestyle dedicated to God amidst Celebrates the purity of living a lifestyle dedicated to God amidst the impurity of one’s culture (in Maccabean times: Hellenistic the impurity of one’s culture (in Maccabean times: Hellenistic sexual and religious practices)sexual and religious practices)

Purim Purim (Lots)(Lots) Celebrates the turning of the tables on Celebrates the turning of the tables on HamanHaman (see book of Esther) (see book of Esther) Talmud: one should overindulge until one can no longer Talmud: one should overindulge until one can no longer

distinguish between cursed distinguish between cursed HamanHaman and blessed and blessed MordechaiMordechai..

JudaismJudaism3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: 3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: The WeekThe Week

SabbathSabbath (Saturday) marks the movement of time (Saturday) marks the movement of time through the weekthrough the week sanctification of the Sabbath is one of the Ten sanctification of the Sabbath is one of the Ten

CommandmentsCommandments devoted to sacred activities: synagogue worship, Torah devoted to sacred activities: synagogue worship, Torah

study, eating, drinking, enjoying oneselfstudy, eating, drinking, enjoying oneself song for the Sabbath: Psalm 92: song for the Sabbath: Psalm 92: ““11A song; for the

sabbath day. 2It is good to praise the LORD, to sing hymns to Your name, O Most High, 3To proclaim Your steadfast love at daybreak, Your faithfulness each night …” …” (JPS Tanahk) (JPS Tanahk)

JudaismJudaism3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: 3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: Person’s LifePerson’s Life

Rites of Passage:Rites of Passage: birthbirth pubertypuberty marriagemarriage deathdeath


Birth:Birth: Covenant of circumcision (Covenant of circumcision (brit milahbrit milah): the ): the

covenant is engraved on the flesh of every male covenant is engraved on the flesh of every male Jewish childJewish child

Takes place 8 days after birthTakes place 8 days after birth Requires quorum of 10 adult malesRequires quorum of 10 adult males A chair is set aside for Elijah A chair is set aside for Elijah Circumciser: Circumciser: mohelmohel


Puberty:Puberty: bar mitzvahbar mitzvah or or bat mitzvahbat mitzvah (son/ daughter of the (son/ daughter of the

commandments)commandments) Acceptance of the full responsibility of the Acceptance of the full responsibility of the Yoke Yoke

of the Torahof the Torah Young person pronounces a benediction over a Young person pronounces a benediction over a

portion of the Torah; reads a prophetic passageportion of the Torah; reads a prophetic passage


Death. The Confession before death:Death. The Confession before death:My God and God of my fathers, accept my prayer…My God and God of my fathers, accept my prayer…

Forgive me for all the sins which I have committed in my Forgive me for all the sins which I have committed in my lifetime…lifetime…

Accept my pain and suffering as atonement and forgive my Accept my pain and suffering as atonement and forgive my wrongdoing for against You alone have I sinned…wrongdoing for against You alone have I sinned…

I acknowledge that my life and recovery depend on You.I acknowledge that my life and recovery depend on You.

May it be Your will to heal me.May it be Your will to heal me.

Yet if You have decreed that I shall die of this affliction,Yet if You have decreed that I shall die of this affliction,

May my death atone for all sins and transgressions which I May my death atone for all sins and transgressions which I have committed before You.have committed before You.

Shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.Shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.

Grant me a share in the world to come.Grant me a share in the world to come.

Father of orphans and Guardian of widows, protect my Father of orphans and Guardian of widows, protect my beloved family…beloved family…

Into Your hand I commit my soul. You redeem me, O Lord Into Your hand I commit my soul. You redeem me, O Lord God of truth.God of truth.

Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord alone.Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord alone.

The Lord He is God.The Lord He is God.

The Lord He is God.The Lord He is God.


burial the day of death or the following dayburial the day of death or the following day broken pottery is laid on eyes and mouths as signs of broken pottery is laid on eyes and mouths as signs of

vanityvanity a handful of dirt from Land of Israel is laid under the a handful of dirt from Land of Israel is laid under the

headhead family recites family recites QaddishQaddish (prayer of sanctifications of (prayer of sanctifications of

God’s name that looks forward to the Messiah and God’s name that looks forward to the Messiah and the resurrection of the dead)the resurrection of the dead)

mourners remains at home for 7 days, recite the mourners remains at home for 7 days, recite the Quaddish for 11 monthsQuaddish for 11 months

The Holy Way of LifeThe Holy Way of LifeChristianityChristianity

ChristianityChristianity1. The View of This Life1. The View of This Life

God created the world and all that is in it as goodGod created the world and all that is in it as good matter, food, drink, play, bodily appetites, sex, are goodmatter, food, drink, play, bodily appetites, sex, are good

Humans are made in the image and likeness of God Humans are made in the image and likeness of God and are the children of Godand are the children of God

Purpose of life is to love and serve God, to love all Purpose of life is to love and serve God, to love all our brothers and sisters in Christ, and help fulfill our brothers and sisters in Christ, and help fulfill God’s purposes for creation God’s purposes for creation which includes the fulfillment of all other humans.which includes the fulfillment of all other humans.

ChristianityChristianity1. The View of This Life: 1. The View of This Life: SinSin

Something happened however to God’s good creation Something happened however to God’s good creation and to human beings:and to human beings: the very nature of human beings fracturedthe very nature of human beings fractured the tendency to sin became part of the nature of human the tendency to sin became part of the nature of human

beings, alienating them from Godbeings, alienating them from God creation itself became broken, no longer a paradise, only a creation itself became broken, no longer a paradise, only a

shadow of what God intended. Pain and suffering entered shadow of what God intended. Pain and suffering entered creationcreation

The “something” was “the Fall” (the rebellion of Adam The “something” was “the Fall” (the rebellion of Adam and Eve) and “Original Sin,” transmitted to every and Eve) and “Original Sin,” transmitted to every human being sincehuman being since

ChristianityChristianity1. The View of This Life: 1. The View of This Life: SinSin

The sinfulness of the fallen human nature is so The sinfulness of the fallen human nature is so profound that (unlike in Judaism and Islam), it profound that (unlike in Judaism and Islam), it cannot be overcome by human will alonecannot be overcome by human will alone human beings are literally enslaved to sinhuman beings are literally enslaved to sin

ChristianityChristianity1. The View of This Life: 1. The View of This Life:

Redemption and SanctificationRedemption and Sanctification Redemption cannot come from following the Redemption cannot come from following the

commandments, for human being are commandments, for human being are incapableincapable of of following the commandmentsfollowing the commandments

The redemption of humanity required a new and The redemption of humanity required a new and sacrificial act of love from God:sacrificial act of love from God: “…“…God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in

this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. … he loved us and sent his we might live through him. … he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.”Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John (1 John 4:8-10 NRSV)4:8-10 NRSV)

ChristianityChristianity1. The View of This Life: 1. The View of This Life:


We begin to live through Christ with hope of We begin to live through Christ with hope of redemption through the redemption through the gracegrace (includes both the (includes both the presence of God within us = presence of God within us = uncreated graceuncreated grace, and a , and a divine infusion or “medicine” = divine infusion or “medicine” = created gracecreated grace) of the ) of the sacrament of baptismsacrament of baptism

The coming of Christ also inaugurated a “new age” or The coming of Christ also inaugurated a “new age” or “new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17) which has not yet “new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17) which has not yet reached fulfillmentreached fulfillment the Kingdom of God on this earth has begun, is Now, but the Kingdom of God on this earth has begun, is Now, but

also Not Yetalso Not Yet

ChristianityChristianity2. Determining How To Live2. Determining How To Live

When Jesus was asked by the Pharisees what was the When Jesus was asked by the Pharisees what was the greatest commandment, he answered (like a good greatest commandment, he answered (like a good Rabbi) by citing two (Matthew 22:37-40 NRSV):Rabbi) by citing two (Matthew 22:37-40 NRSV): ‘‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your You shall love the Lord your God with all your

heart, and with all your soul, and with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the law and the commandments hang all the law and the prophets.prophets.


How does one love God and one’s neighbor? How do How does one love God and one’s neighbor? How do we put love in action?we put love in action?

There is a tension in Christianity between the There is a tension in Christianity between the lawlaw and and the the freedom of lovefreedom of love we value the gift of written Torah (Old Testament) and its we value the gift of written Torah (Old Testament) and its

guidance on how to love God and neighborguidance on how to love God and neighbor But what about situations not covered by Torah and the But what about situations not covered by Torah and the

Commandments?Commandments? And does merely “obeying” the letter of a commandment And does merely “obeying” the letter of a commandment

fully satisfy God’s desire for us to love God and others?fully satisfy God’s desire for us to love God and others?


We also value the rightness of actions that We also value the rightness of actions that spring from love. St. Augustine, 354-430 AD spring from love. St. Augustine, 354-430 AD wrote:wrote:

““Love, and do what you will... Let love’s Love, and do what you will... Let love’s root be within you, and from that root root be within you, and from that root nothing but good can spring.”nothing but good can spring.”


Paul: we need both Paul: we need both lawlaw and and lovelove. God’s will for . God’s will for us to love means freedom from the literal form us to love means freedom from the literal form of law, but not from the “spirit” of the law, that of law, but not from the “spirit” of the law, that is, God’s will for creationis, God’s will for creation “…“…love is the fulfilling of the law”love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans (Romans

13:10, NRSV)13:10, NRSV) ““For the whole law is summed up in a single For the whole law is summed up in a single

commandment, ‘You shall love your commandment, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”neighbor as yourself.’” (Galatians 5:14, NRSV) (Galatians 5:14, NRSV)

ChristianityChristianity3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: 3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: The WeekThe Week

One of the earliest Christian practices was One of the earliest Christian practices was communal worship and sharing of communal worship and sharing of EucharistEucharist on on SundaySunday (the day of Jesus’ Resurrection) (the day of Jesus’ Resurrection)

There is however no “divine law” for a There is however no “divine law” for a particular worship practice (unlike Judaism particular worship practice (unlike Judaism and Islam), so there is wide variation:and Islam), so there is wide variation: ““liturgical” versus “non liturgical” churchesliturgical” versus “non liturgical” churches ““high” church versus “low” churchhigh” church versus “low” church

ChristianityChristianity3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: 3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: Person’s LifePerson’s Life

Seven Sacraments (means of grace)Seven Sacraments (means of grace) 1. Baptism1. Baptism 2. Eucharist2. Eucharist 3. Confirmation3. Confirmation 4. Penance or Confession4. Penance or Confession 5. Marriage5. Marriage 6. Holy Orders6. Holy Orders 7. Anointing of the Sick / Extreme Unction7. Anointing of the Sick / Extreme Unction

ChristianityChristianity3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: 3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: The YearThe Year

Major Festivals and Holy Days:Major Festivals and Holy Days: Lent and EasterLent and Easter Advent, Christmas and EpiphanyAdvent, Christmas and Epiphany Pentecost and the Season of the ChurchPentecost and the Season of the Church

The Holy Way of LifeThe Holy Way of LifeIslamIslam

IslamIslam1. The View of This Life: 1. The View of This Life: Role of HumansRole of Humans

God created everything to serve God, and the God created everything to serve God, and the worth of creation lies in its servanthood to the worth of creation lies in its servanthood to the CreatorCreator The whole of nature is “The whole of nature is “muslimmuslim,” submitting to the ,” submitting to the

laws of the Master, serving God by conforming to laws of the Master, serving God by conforming to the laws of their beingthe laws of their being

muslimmuslim = one who submits = one who submits

IslamIslam1. The View of This Life: 1. The View of This Life: Role of HumansRole of Humans

Human beings are God’s special creation, higher than the Human beings are God’s special creation, higher than the angels, and have the special role of exercising dominion over angels, and have the special role of exercising dominion over creation as the “caliphs” of Godcreation as the “caliphs” of God

Goal of human beings is to submit to God (become perfect Goal of human beings is to submit to God (become perfect MuslimsMuslims))

Our bodies already largely submit to God by nature (breathing, Our bodies already largely submit to God by nature (breathing, heartbeat, genetics)heartbeat, genetics)

Our task in life is to direct our reason, free will, and speech to Our task in life is to direct our reason, free will, and speech to follow God’s design (given in the follow God’s design (given in the Qur’anQur’an and God’s law = and God’s law = the the Shari’aShari’a) and by so doing, completely and perfectly submit ) and by so doing, completely and perfectly submit to Godto God

IslamIslam1. The View of This Life: 1. The View of This Life: SinSin

Human beings are “muslim” by nature (and Human beings are “muslim” by nature (and not not fundamentally sinful or fallen)fundamentally sinful or fallen)

But human beings tend to be “forgetful” and But human beings tend to be “forgetful” and “negligent” of their true “muslim” nature. They “fall “negligent” of their true “muslim” nature. They “fall asleep,” forgetting how they must fulfill their true asleep,” forgetting how they must fulfill their true nature through submission to Godnature through submission to God

Because human beings are “muslim” by nature, it Because human beings are “muslim” by nature, it isis possible to be perfect: God does not require what is possible to be perfect: God does not require what is beyond our capabilitiesbeyond our capabilities

IslamIslam1. The View of This Life:1. The View of This Life:


Muslims do not speak of being “saved” or Muslims do not speak of being “saved” or “redeemed,” but rather of achieving a “life of “redeemed,” but rather of achieving a “life of felicity,” which we are fully capable of by our naturefelicity,” which we are fully capable of by our nature

The path of transformation to a “life of felicity,” = a The path of transformation to a “life of felicity,” = a life of submission (= life of submission (= islamislam) to God’s design, is ) to God’s design, is achieved through:achieved through: imaniman: a belief in the truth of the Qur’an, achieved through : a belief in the truth of the Qur’an, achieved through

free use of our intelligencefree use of our intelligence molding our lives to God’s design through the practice of molding our lives to God’s design through the practice of

Shari’ahShari’ah, the Way, the Way

IslamIslam1. The View of This Life:1. The View of This Life:


The path of transformation is a continuous struggle with the The path of transformation is a continuous struggle with the tendency to forget or neglect our true tendency to forget or neglect our true muslimmuslim nature -- to nature -- to submit to God’s designsubmit to God’s design

JihadJihad: the struggle to establish God’s design in the world. : the struggle to establish God’s design in the world. May be:May be: an outer struggle, a holy waran outer struggle, a holy war an inner struggle (an inner struggle (the greater jihadthe greater jihad))

Life then is a continual Life then is a continual jihadjihad against unbelievers, evildoers, against unbelievers, evildoers, and in particular (the and in particular (the greater jihadgreater jihad) against our own ) against our own forgetfulness and neglectfulness of our true forgetfulness and neglectfulness of our true muslimmuslim nature nature

IslamIslam2. Determining How to Live2. Determining How to Live

Shari’ahShari’ah literally: “watering place, way to water”literally: “watering place, way to water” = divinely revealed Islamic law= divinely revealed Islamic law

God’s total design for human life. The divine law established by God’s total design for human life. The divine law established by God for human lifeGod for human life

The way to salvationThe way to salvation


Four methods accepted for determining Four methods accepted for determining Shari’ahShari’ah:: 1. the 1. the Qur’anQur’an 2. the 2. the SunnaSunna (the example or custom of the (the example or custom of the

Prophet Muhammad, documented in the hadith)Prophet Muhammad, documented in the hadith) 3. consensus of the faithful (3. consensus of the faithful (ijmaijma))

in practice, the agreement of the majority of the in practice, the agreement of the majority of the ulamaulama (those learned in Islam; analogous to Jewish rabbis)(those learned in Islam; analogous to Jewish rabbis)

4. analogical reasoning (4. analogical reasoning (qiyasqiyas))


Different “schools” of law have emphasized the four Different “schools” of law have emphasized the four methods to varying degrees, leading to different methods to varying degrees, leading to different Shari’ahShari’ah

The four major Schools of Law in Sunni Islam:The four major Schools of Law in Sunni Islam: 1. 1. HanifiteHanifite: (1)Qur’an + (4)Analogy (Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, : (1)Qur’an + (4)Analogy (Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,

India, Central Asia)India, Central Asia) 2. 2. MalikiteMalikite: (1)Qur’an + (2)Hadith + (3)Consensus (North : (1)Qur’an + (2)Hadith + (3)Consensus (North

Africa, upper Egypt, eastern Arabia)Africa, upper Egypt, eastern Arabia) 3. 3. Shafi’iteShafi’ite: All four sources (East Indies, lower Egypt, : All four sources (East Indies, lower Egypt,

eastern Africa, southern Arabia, southern India)eastern Africa, southern Arabia, southern India) 4. 4. HanbaliteHanbalite: (1)Qur’an only (Saudia Arabia): (1)Qur’an only (Saudia Arabia)


Shari’ahShari’ah specifies requirements for: specifies requirements for: 1. interactions with God, “acts of worship/service” (1. interactions with God, “acts of worship/service” (ibadatibadat)) 2. interactions with other human beings, “social 2. interactions with other human beings, “social

interactions” (interactions” (mu’amalatmu’amalat)) All acts are classified into 5 groups:All acts are classified into 5 groups:

1. Required (1. Required (fardfard)) 2. Recommended, but not required. Are rewarded2. Recommended, but not required. Are rewarded 3. Indifferent. Neither rewarded or punished3. Indifferent. Neither rewarded or punished 4. Disapproved, but not forbidden or punished4. Disapproved, but not forbidden or punished 5. Strictly Forbidden (5. Strictly Forbidden (haramharam))

IslamIslam3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: 3. Rhythms of a Holy Life: Five PillarsFive Pillars

Interactions with God, “acts of worship/service” (Interactions with God, “acts of worship/service” (ibadatibadat) are ) are broken down into 5 major categories:broken down into 5 major categories: ritual purity or purificationritual purity or purification ritual prayer and worship (ritual prayer and worship (salatsalat)) almsgiving (almsgiving (zakatzakat)) fasting (fasting (sawmsawm)) pilgrimage (pilgrimage (HajjHajj))

The latter four, plus the The latter four, plus the ShahadaShahada (the Confession or (the Confession or Witnessing) make up the Witnessing) make up the Five Pillars of IslamFive Pillars of Islam ( (arkanarkan = = “limbs, members”): the essential requirements for religious “limbs, members”): the essential requirements for religious practice or orthopraxypractice or orthopraxy

IslamIslam3. Rhythms of a Holy Life3. Rhythms of a Holy Life

First Pillar: First Pillar: ShahadaShahada ShahadaShahada = the Confession or Witnessing = the Confession or Witnessing

There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the messenger of Godmessenger of God ( (la ilaha illa Allahla ilaha illa Allah…)…)

Shi’ites add: Shi’ites add: “And Ali is the friend of God”“And Ali is the friend of God” Ali: the first Imam, Muhammad’s rightful political and religious Ali: the first Imam, Muhammad’s rightful political and religious

successor (according to the Shi’ites)successor (according to the Shi’ites) The “foundation stone” of the Five Pillars of IslamThe “foundation stone” of the Five Pillars of Islam First thing whispered in a baby’s ear at birthFirst thing whispered in a baby’s ear at birth Last utterance a Muslim should have on their lips at deathLast utterance a Muslim should have on their lips at death The formula by which one converts to Islam (some say The formula by which one converts to Islam (some say

merely uttering the merely uttering the ShahadaShahada makes one a Muslim) makes one a Muslim)


Second Pillar: Second Pillar: SalatSalat SalatSalat (ritual prayer / worship) should be performed five times (ritual prayer / worship) should be performed five times

a day (dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, evening)a day (dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, evening) Purity (which is both physical and symbolic) is essential for an Purity (which is both physical and symbolic) is essential for an

act of act of salatsalat to be valid to be valid “God loves those who seek to purify “God loves those who seek to purify themselvesthemselves” (Qur’an 9:108)” (Qur’an 9:108)

HadithHadith (accounts of the customs of Muhammad) defines: (accounts of the customs of Muhammad) defines: how to hold one’s hands & bodyhow to hold one’s hands & body what and how to recite from the Qur’anwhat and how to recite from the Qur’an how to dresshow to dress when to do itwhen to do it acceptable modifications when travelingacceptable modifications when traveling


Third Pillar: Third Pillar: ZakatZakat ZakatZakat (ritual almsgiving): formalized system of taxation of (ritual almsgiving): formalized system of taxation of

wealth for public welfare, payable once a yearwealth for public welfare, payable once a year about 2.5% of one’s capital assets over a defined minimum. Personal about 2.5% of one’s capital assets over a defined minimum. Personal

possessions such as cars, clothing, houses are excludedpossessions such as cars, clothing, houses are excluded

““Whatever you lend out in usury to gain value through Whatever you lend out in usury to gain value through other people’s wealth will not increase in God’s eyes, but other people’s wealth will not increase in God’s eyes, but whatever you give in charity (whatever you give in charity (zakatzakat), in your desire for ), in your desire for God’s approval, will earn multiple rewards.”God’s approval, will earn multiple rewards.” (Qur’an (Qur’an 30:39)30:39)


Third Pillar: Third Pillar: ZakatZakat ZakatZakat should be given to the poor, the needy, new should be given to the poor, the needy, new

converts, debtors, for ransom of slaves, those doing converts, debtors, for ransom of slaves, those doing good works, travelers (Qur’an 9:60)good works, travelers (Qur’an 9:60)

Should not be given to Christian or Jews; they should Should not be given to Christian or Jews; they should be given other aid be given other aid

Cannot be used for building Mosques or for burying Cannot be used for building Mosques or for burying the deadthe dead


Fourth Pillar: Fourth Pillar: SawmSawm SawmSawm (Fasting). Nothing can be taken into the body during the daylight (Fasting). Nothing can be taken into the body during the daylight

hours during the entire lunar month of hours during the entire lunar month of RamadanRamadan (no eating, drinking, (no eating, drinking, smoking, or sexual activity)smoking, or sexual activity) Fast broken at sunset: breakfastFast broken at sunset: breakfast Note: Islam, like Judaism uses a lunar calendar. Unlike Judaism, Islam does Note: Islam, like Judaism uses a lunar calendar. Unlike Judaism, Islam does

not add a 13not add a 13thth month every so often to keep pace with the solar calendar. month every so often to keep pace with the solar calendar. Islamic months therefore shift 11 days each successive solar yearIslamic months therefore shift 11 days each successive solar year

“… “… fasting is prescribed for you, … so that you may be mindful of fasting is prescribed for you, … so that you may be mindful of God. Fast for a specific number of days, but if one of you is ill, or on God. Fast for a specific number of days, but if one of you is ill, or on a journey, [then fast] on other days later. For those who can fast a journey, [then fast] on other days later. For those who can fast only with extreme difficulty, there is a way to compensate – feed a only with extreme difficulty, there is a way to compensate – feed a needy person. …”needy person. …” (Qur’an 2:183-5) (Qur’an 2:183-5)


Fifth Pillar: Fifth Pillar: HajjHajj

Pilgrimage to Mecca (Pilgrimage to Mecca (HajjHajj) is required once in a lifetime if ) is required once in a lifetime if one is physically and financially able (cannot borrow money one is physically and financially able (cannot borrow money to go)to go)

Takes place during the last ten days of the 12Takes place during the last ten days of the 12thth lunar month lunar month (Month of Pilgrimage, (Month of Pilgrimage, Dhu’l al-HijjaDhu’l al-Hijja))

One walks in the footsteps of Abraham, Hagar, Ishmael and One walks in the footsteps of Abraham, Hagar, Ishmael and Muhammad: an intense spiritual and communal experienceMuhammad: an intense spiritual and communal experience

Muslims enter a special spiritual state Muslims enter a special spiritual state ihramihram Men all wear a two-piece white garmentMen all wear a two-piece white garment


Fifth Pillar: Fifth Pillar: HajjHajj Rituals of the Rituals of the HajjHajj include: include:

Circling (Circling (tawaftawaf): walking or trotting around the Kaba seven ): walking or trotting around the Kaba seven times counterclockwisetimes counterclockwise

trying to touch the trying to touch the Black StoneBlack Stone (given to Abraham by the Angel (given to Abraham by the Angel Gabriel and built into the Gabriel and built into the KabaKaba by Abraham and Ishmael) by Abraham and Ishmael)

Running (Running (sa’isa’i) between two hillocks ) between two hillocks SafaSafa and and MarwaMarwa seven times, recalling Hagar’s frantic search for water until seven times, recalling Hagar’s frantic search for water until she found the she found the Well of ZamzamWell of Zamzam (route now covered in an (route now covered in an air-conditioned gallery)air-conditioned gallery)

88thth day: pilgrims move out to tents in the desert day: pilgrims move out to tents in the desert


Fifth Pillar:Fifth Pillar: Hajj Hajj 99thth day: ritual of day: ritual of Standing (Standing (wuqufwuquf) on Plain of Arafat) on Plain of Arafat Ritual of Ritual of Stoning of the Three PillarsStoning of the Three Pillars representing the representing the

devildevil Ends on 10Ends on 10thth day with day with The Feast of SacrificeThe Feast of Sacrifice

animal sacrifice in commemoration of Abraham’s near sacrifice of animal sacrifice in commemoration of Abraham’s near sacrifice of IshmaelIshmael

Now done in large hygienic abattoirs; pilgrims purchase “sheep Now done in large hygienic abattoirs; pilgrims purchase “sheep certificates;” the meat is frozen and distributed to poor in Muslim certificates;” the meat is frozen and distributed to poor in Muslim landslands

Simultaneously celebrated by Muslims throughout the worldSimultaneously celebrated by Muslims throughout the world Second circling of the Second circling of the KabaKaba On return: pilgrim has a new title: On return: pilgrim has a new title: HajjiHajji


Yearly FeastsYearly Feasts Feast of SacrificeFeast of Sacrifice during the month of Pilgrimage during the month of Pilgrimage Feast of Fast-BreakingFeast of Fast-Breaking ( (id al-fitrid al-fitr) on first day of the month ) on first day of the month

following Ramadanfollowing Ramadan Birthday of the Prophet MuhammadBirthday of the Prophet Muhammad ( (mawlid al-nabimawlid al-nabi) on ) on

12th day of the 3rd month 12th day of the 3rd month Rabi’ al-AwwalRabi’ al-Awwal Martyrdom of Imam HusaynMartyrdom of Imam Husayn, son of , son of Imam AliImam Ali

Major festival for Shi’itesMajor festival for Shi’ites Lasts for 9 days during month of Muharram. Lasts for 9 days during month of Muharram. Remembers the assassination of Remembers the assassination of Iman AliIman Ali by the Ummyads at by the Ummyads at

Karbalah (in modern day Iraq)Karbalah (in modern day Iraq) 10th day: passion play the 10th day: passion play the taziyehtaziyeh or “consolation” or “consolation”

Primary ReferencesPrimary References Three Faiths, One God: The Formative Faith and Practice Three Faiths, One God: The Formative Faith and Practice

of Judaism, Christianity, and Islamof Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, Jacob Neusner, Bruce , Jacob Neusner, Bruce Chilton, William Graham. Brill Academic Publishers, 2002Chilton, William Graham. Brill Academic Publishers, 2002

The Sacred Paths: Understanding the Religions of the The Sacred Paths: Understanding the Religions of the WorldWorld, 3rd Edition, Theodore M. Ludwig. Prentice Hall, , 3rd Edition, Theodore M. Ludwig. Prentice Hall, 2000. ISBN: 013025682X2000. ISBN: 013025682X

A History of the World's ReligionA History of the World's Religion, 10th Edition. David S. , 10th Edition. David S. Noss, John Boyer, Prentice Hall, 1999. ISBN: 0130105325Noss, John Boyer, Prentice Hall, 1999. ISBN: 0130105325

Religions of the WorldReligions of the World, 8th Edition. Lewis M. Hopfe, Mark , 8th Edition. Lewis M. Hopfe, Mark R. Woodward, Prentice Hall, 2000. ISBN: 0130282545R. Woodward, Prentice Hall, 2000. ISBN: 0130282545

Documents

The Children of Abraham The Holy Way of Life Palm Sunday, April 1, 2007 10 to 10:50 am, in the Parlor. Everyone is welcome!