Diverse Dimensions
Asynchronous Session
Semen est Sanguis Christianorum: Coptic Spirituality of Martyrdom
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Miloš David
The Coptic Church is generally called the Church of Martyrs. Martyrdom has played a major role in Coptic Spirituality for almost two thousand years. My research is based on Christian primary sources such as early Christian writings or lives of saints and secondary sources from Coptic ecclesiastical milieu which reflect the notion of Martyrdom and so that way helps new generations of Copts to understand this phenomenon in their spiritual life. The cult of martyrs is ubiquitous in the Coptic Orthodox Church, especially in a calendar of martyrs which accompanies believers during the whole liturgical year. Egyptian Christians martyrdom has been representing one of the most significant virtues since the first centuries of Church history. Copts believe that the first martyr who laid down own life for faith in Jesus Christ was an Egyptian called Eudaemon. According to local tradition, he already received the crown of martyrdom during the stay of the Holy Family in Egypt. The beginnings of Christianization in Egypt are interwoven with martyrdom. For Copts the era of martyrs did not end in 313 but it goes on until present days. The crown of martyrdom symbolizes the greatest reward not only for the sole Christian but for the whole community. Martyrs as saints become mediators between seen and unseen world and they intercede with God for Christians and help them to fulfill their pleas. The paper deals with the importance of this phenomenon for Coptic identity in the present day.
Featured Commemoration of Ashura: Shiite Community Experience in the Islamic Republic of Iran
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Maritza Eridania Espejel Pineda
In the year 680, Imam Hussein and his followers were massacred by the army of Yazid I, in the context of their confrontation for the leadership of the Umma (Islamic Community). Derived from this event, known as the Battle of Kerbala, emerged one of the most important traditions to the Shiism Community, the Ashura. Because of its relevance, for being the historical moment that confirmed the division of Islam into two large currents, the objective of this study is to review a set of characteristics of Ashura (including the history of its emergence); how it is experienced in the context of the Islamic Republic of Iran; and the political and identity implications that accompany this religious holiday. This research is based on the importance of a tradition that is still in force today and seeks to contribute to the field of studies of religious traditions and its links with politics. For this paper it has been necessary to have a documental revision related to the subject and an interpretation of this material. Finally, and preliminary, it is possible to say that the commemoration of this event is one of the best signs of identity among the Shiites in Iran and, also, the best representation of a government considered by itself as the protector of the Umma.
A Consideration on the Truth of Origin in Tenrikyo and the Origin of Human Beings in Science
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Jessica Diniz
Human existence is not a mere coincidence but holds profound intention and meaning. By exploring God's role in our lives, I hope to find insights into the purpose of our own existence. Additionally, I seek to understand the differences between the teachings of Tenrikyo and Darwin's theory of evolution. Evolutionary theory, one of the most widely accepted scientific explanations for the origin of species, describes the processes of natural selection and genetic variation as mechanisms through which life evolves and adapts over time. In contrast, Tenrikyo teaches that the origin of this world began in a muddy ocean from which humans were created. According to Tenrikyo, this creation occurred entirely through the thoughts and workings of God the Parent. While evolution and the teachings of Tenrikyo fundamentally differ, comparing the two can lead to a deeper understanding of the essence of life. I am particularly driven to investigate the similarities and unique features between the "Truth of Origin" and the processes described in evolutionary theory. For example, while both address the changes in life over time, evolutionary theory primarily explains biological diversity from a scientific perspective, whereas Tenrikyo emphasizes God's intentions and purposes. Understanding our origins is crucial because it helps us comprehend who we are, where we come from, why we exist, and how we connect with the world.This understanding significantly influences our worldview, beliefs, and interactions with others and the environment. By understanding our origins, I believe we can better understand ourselves and build stronger relationships with others.
