Report on Religious Field Research

Report on Religious Field Research

Introduction

Religion of many individuals in the world is not just about worship, traditions or religious practices. In fact for many individuals, it is a complete code of life. It is how, and with what principles, humans are supposed to lead their lives. Religion, for many, defines the reason for their existence. However, while practicing one's own religion, various misconceptions or curiosities regarding various other religions is inevitable. However, it is up to an individual to decide if he wants to search and analyze the respective religion for better understanding and fairer judgment.

Discussion

Judaism, also known as Yahadut, Judah or Yehudah, is the religious theory, practice, belief and philosophy of the Jewish People. By nature a monolithic religion, Judaism is the expression that explains God's relationship with the Children of Israel. With Moses as their messenger and Torah as their main religious book, Jews claim to earn a history span around 3000 years old and currently holds the position of being one of the most major religions in the world. Yet there are various misconceptions regarding Jews and Judaism (Isaacs, 2011).

My Misconception Regarding Judaism

There have been a number of films made on the religion of Judaism or aspects related to the religion or its followers. Various numbers of documentaries have also been made from time to time regarding various Jewish practices, believe or issues. A number of articles, books and writings have also been written by various authors in whom a certain image of the religion Judaism is portrayed and maintained, directly or indirectly. Therefore, being addicted to Television and having a chance of watching various films and reading certain material regarding Jews, I too had formed an image in my mind regarding the Judaism. Moreover, influenced by the content of the material, I started to believe that Judaism promotes the idea of Jews being “the Chosen One” and Judaism being the best and most superior religion.

I started to believe that Judaism teaches and encourages its followers to look down upon every non Jew with disrespect and disregard. Moreover, I used to believe that because of this very reason, Judaism also does not give its followers the necessary teachings and guidelines to not just respect other religions and its followers but also recommend others to do the same. Hence, Judaism in my image became a very arrogant religion including misguiding and misleading preaching with very little amount of tolerance, patience and considerations for other religions and its followers.

For me, a religion be it any, may emphasize or focus on its main basic distinguishable patterns from other religions that includes worship principles and ways, religious events, religious myths and traditions, religious practices and other aspects. However, the religion must also teach its followers the message of tolerance kindness and charity towards other religions and their followers. I also believe that there may be basic differences that distinguishes and differentiates between many individuals. However, the basic common aspects that should be shared by ...