Jainism, Taoism, and the Native American Lakhota beliefs.

Subject  > Humanities Essays  > Religion & Faith

Jainism, Taoism, and Lakhota Beliefs Religion has had a profound impact on the history of nations and how their citizens conduct themselves. Religion has been the cause of wars while also creating a sense of unity. Three religions or beliefs that have influenced today's world are Jainism, Taoism, and the animistic beliefs of the North American tribe, Lakhota. Jainism originated in ancient East India. It is a syncretistic religion, which is very similar to Hinduism and Buddhism. A "Jina", or "those who overcome", was traditionally believed to have been a giant who lived approximately 8.4 million years ago. The world's 4 million Jains are almost entirely located in India. However, there are approximately 1,000 living in ...

... are encouraged to enter into a period of fasting and meditation. The Lakhota's also believed in Wakanpi who were invisible beings who exercised power and control over everything. It was essential that humans please these beings. The idea is much like the Christian belief of 'God.' These beliefs affected the Lakhota's daily life. The belief that every young man should make a vision quest in which he seeks a guardian spirit is with him every day as a close and supportive guide for the rest of his life. The belief of Wakanpi also affected the Lakhota daily life. To please the Wakanpi, the Lakhotas would do important rituals like the sacred

essay continues for another 100 words