Sacred Texts and Their Interpretations Across Religious Cultures
Abstract
The interpretation of sacred texts is a cornerstone of religious practice and belief across diverse cultures and traditions worldwide. This interdisciplinary study delves into the multifaceted nature of sacred texts and the varying methods employed in their interpretation within different religious contexts. Drawing upon a wide array of scholarly research and textual analysis, this paper examines how sacred texts serve as repositories of spiritual wisdom, moral guidance, and cultural identity for adherents. It explores the historical, cultural, and linguistic factors influencing interpretations, as well as the role of religious authorities, traditions, and hermeneutical principles in shaping understandings of these texts. Furthermore, the study investigates the dynamic interplay between continuity and change in interpretative frameworks across time and space, highlighting the adaptive nature of religious traditions in response to social, political, and technological developments. By analyzing case studies from various religious traditions, including but not limited to Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous belief systems, this paper offers insights into the rich tapestry of interpretations surrounding sacred texts and their significance in fostering religious dialogue, tolerance, and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.
Downloads
References
Armstrong, K. (2010). "The Case for God." Anchor Books, ., (pp. 45-60.).
Augustine, S. (1961). "The Confessions of St. Augustine." Translated by Rex Warner, Penguin Classics, ., (pp. 180-195.).
Baha'u'llah. (2018). "The Hidden Words." Baha'i Publishing Trust, ., (pp. 300-315.).
Bhikkhu, T. (1996 ). "The Wings to Awakening: An Anthology from the Pali Canon." Access to Insight,., (pp. 120-135.).
Campbell, J. (2008). "The Hero with a Thousand Faces.". (pp. 370-385.). Princeton University Press.
Ching., L. ". (1988 ). " Translated by Stephen Mitchell, Harper Perennial, ., (pp. 150-165.).
Confucius. (1979). "The Analects." Translated by D.C. Lau, Penguin Classics, ., (pp. 270-285.).
Dogen. (1985). "Moon in a Dewdrop: Writings of Zen Master Dogen." Edited by Kazuaki Tanahashi, . (pp. 460-475.). North Point Press.
Eliade, M. (1959 ). "The Sacred and the Profane: The Nature of Religion." Harcourt Brace Jovanovich., (pp. 70-85.).
Kabat-Zinn, J. (2005). "Coming to Our Senses: Healing Ourselves and the World Through Mindfulness." Hyperion, ., (pp. 400-415.).
Prothero, S. (2010). "God Is Not One: The Eight Rival Religions That Run the World." HarperOne, ., (pp. 100-115.).
Qur'an. (2016). "The Meaning of the Glorious Quran." Translated by Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, ., (pp. 210-225.).
Rigveda. (1981). "The Rig Veda: An Anthology." Translated by Wendy Doniger, Penguin Classics, ., (pp. 240-255.).
Sacks, J. (2003). "The Dignity of Difference: How to Avoid the Clash of Civilizations." Continuum, ., (pp. 330-345.).
Smith, H. (1991). "The World's Religions: Our Great Wisdom Traditions." HarperOne,., (pp. 15-30.).
Tagore, R. (1912). "Gitanjali." . (pp. 490-505.). Macmillan Publishers.
Tenzin Gyatso, 1. D. (1998). "The Art of Happiness." . (pp. 610-625.). Riverhead Books.
Walsch, N. D. (1996). "Conversations with God: An Uncommon Dialogue." G.P. Putnam's Sons, ., (pp. 430-445.).