Anthropology of Religion Virtual Conference Spring 2021

ANTHROPOLOGY OF RELIGION VIRTUAL CONFERENCE SPRING 2021 PHOTOS BY NATALIE DOWNE, HOWARD G. CHARING, MARC VERAART, RAPHAEL FAUVEAU, AJMER DARGAH, ALEKSANDER DRAGNES, RUSTY STEWART, MCKAY SAVAGE, AND SEIER+SEIER

A Word from the Conference Chair Congratulations on being participants at the annual Anthropology of Religion virtual conference.

Thank you for your many wonderful presentations and for providing all of us the opportunity to learn a little about your fascinating work on a vast range of religious beliefs and practices and the complicated ways that religious ideas shape our varied realities..

As scholars in an Anthropology of Religion course (a GE course with majors from all disciplines) we have been able to undertake both group and individual research, explore our interests and grapple with the issues involved in ethnographic representation. Each scholar has been forced to confront how to present a critical glimpse of an aspect of a religious belief system, embedded in a particular culture, and raise questions about the relationship between the two.

Please enjoy this opportunity for intellectual engagement and thoughtful reflection on the cultures and religions here represented in the work of your colleagues.

TABLE OF CONTENTS SPRING 2021

1

CHRISTIANITY

5

ASIAN

7

BUDDHISM

9

PAGANISM & WICCA

11

HINDUISM

13

ISLAM

14

THE AMERICAS

15

OTHER

17

CHRISTIANITY

sectarian movement, many sacred rituals were never explicitly seen by outsiders, as the sect was labeled demonic and a danger to the Orthodox Church of Russia.

HOW CATHOLICISM WAS AFFECTED BY NATIVE AMERICAN RELIGION Citlaly Davalos ABSTRACT

GOD IS DEAD, AND NOBODY CARES. Zane Brotherton ABSTRACT This presentation will focus on the changing attitudes towards property and materialism, specifically in the United States. The Rise of secular attitudes in America have diminished the relevance of Judeo-Christian values, and this presentation will advance the opinion that the non-secular idea of God has been destroyed by materialism. This is an important and interesting topic because the most prevalent views within a society underpin how we relate and interact with the world.

Ownership vs stewardship, private vs public, these concepts might seem very simple, but a closer examination reveals our own nature and our destiny.

HOLY ORGIES AND SANCTAMONIAL FLAGELLATION: A STUDY OF THE KHLYSTS Jaiden Clark ABSTRACT In this presentation we will explore the concept of the Russian Orthodox sect that has come to be known as the Khlysty. While "Khlysty" is a vague term that has been used over the centuries to describe a small grouping of sectarian cults in Russia, in this presentation we examine the origins and progression of the main sect most commonly referred to as such. It was a secret cult shrouded in mystery which deified individual "Christs" and practiced extreme sin and extreme penance in attempt to become as close to God as one could achieve. One of the most fascinating sects to result from the Russian

This presentation discusses Catholicism in Mexico.Catholicism covers almost the totality of religious beliefs in Mexico with 85.6% of the total population.

Colonization was a traumatic event, full of confusion and above all of changes in a culture that was forced to abandon its culture and receive another one. this new religion called Catholicism was also transformed and adopted ideas from the previous religion of the Indians, which were mostly polytheistic religions where their gods were the corn, the sun, etc. in this presentation we will study how this transformation took place and we will have a deeper study of how colonization affected social behaviors that still exist today.

THE MISSION OF THE MISSIONARIES Emilio Medina ABSTRACT Since the Spanish colonization that brought Catholicism to what is California today, Catholicism and their missionaries have played a significant role in the culture of the people of California. Be those people the native Americas who were first in the region to the settlers who came after them. To the Native Americas the colonizers looked liked aliens who were taking people and killing them due to the viruses in the holy water. In the early 1900 soon after California became a state, people in southern California would romanticize the missions stories. The culture that came with Catholic missionaries would change California forever as even names of Cities would be influenced

CHRISTIANITY AND THE DEVIL Tania Ordaz Mendoza ABSTRACT Growing up in the Christian church there was a lot of talk about the good and the bad in the world. Everything bad like drugs, alcohol, murder, gossip, lust, thievery, etc., is

associated with Satan or the devil. There are also deeper things like mental illness, doubting if there is a God that the paster would associate as the enemy wanting to creep into your mind and start separating you from God. I would like to look into why Christians give the devil so much power like he's everywhere and ready to put obstacles in their life. For my presentation, I will look into the origins of the devil within Christianity and the Christian church and how people perception of the devil in the church has changed over time.

MEDIEVAL NUNS AND THE INTERSECTION OF DEVOTION AND ART Sophie Reich ABSTRACT Many medieval monastic orders operated on the principle of “ors et labora”- prayer and labor. For monks, this was typically hard physical labor, but that wouldn’t do for women! Instead, nuns spun, sewed, embroidered, scribed, wove, and painted. This kind of devotional labor created a strong relationship between their religious belief and practices and various forms of art.

THE APOSTOLIC PENTECOSTAL FAITH David Rodriguez ABSTRACT The Christian bible has had many interpretations and as a result many branches of Christianity have resulted. One main aspect of Christianity is the trinity, that being: The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Though some Christians have interpreted the trinity as separate entities that are not one and the same, there is a specific branch of Apostolic Pentecostal Christians that have adopted a view that the three are one. The lives of Apostolic Pentecostal Christians revolve around their interpretation of the trinity which can be seen in the way they conduct their lives.

From the way they dress to medical practices they undertake; an apostolic interpretation of the bible is always focused while always emphasizing a strong connection with God through the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit. These miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit include: speaking in tongues and having the ability to prophesize among other things. This connection with the Holy Spirit, and continued practice of good will as Christ did who is both the Father and the Son, help show the Apostolic Pentecostal relationship with the Holy Trinity.

THE HOLY TRINITY OF CHRISTIANITY Anahi Valdes ABSTRACT This presentation examines the religion Christianity, and more specifically focuses upon the representation of the Holy Trinity in the Bible and in the religion in general (the belief in the Trinity, the Christian Doctrine). The Holy Trinity symbol often illustrated and visualized by the three circles, shields, or rings, is a representation of three divine beings that exist within God and is central to Christian affirmations of the relationship of God and Jesus. The Son, the Father, and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Trinity is used to reference God as a sort of three in one, a triune God since the Christian Bible teaches that there is one God. Where the Father is the creator/originator of all, the Son is an image of the father and what he expresses, the Spirit is the guider. This is an interesting topic because Christianity is a monotheistic religion, yet there are three divine beings, the Holy Trinity, that adds up to one, God. By understanding what the Holy Trinity constitutes, we can get a brief understanding of the history of Christianity in that regard, and the meaning of the Christian Doctrine/a Triune God.

ASIAN

THE LONGEVITY OF SHINTO BUILDINGS AND HOW THEY ARE CONSTRUCTED. Darian Francki ABSTRACT In this presentation I will be focusing on the architecture and use of shrine in the Shinto religion along with the traditions and practices that go on in the shrines and temples. A major part of this presentation will be focused on the difference between these shrines and other places of worship or sites that are used for a ritual. The other part of the presentation will focus on the unique building techniques used in some of these buildings along with the reasons for that style, which have started to become more prevalent due to their longevity and strong resistance to natural disasters.

THE COMPARISON OF THE RELIGION TAOISM AND NEW AGE TECHNOLOGY Gabriela Gomez ABSTRACT

Photo by Topinambour DOMINATION OF THE HUMAN BODY THROUGH NATURAL WORLD WORSHIP, A STUDY ON SHINTOISM. Grace Caswell ABSTRACT In this essay, I examine Shintoism, considered Japan’s origin and oldest religion, and how it interferes with individual liberty by valuing the natural and spiritual plane over human existence. The human body is viewed as an accessory to the greater pursuit of honoring the Kami, Japanese spirits of Shinto relation, through the preservation of nature. Individual willpower is deemed inferior and diminished by the superior need of fulfilling Kami wishes; minimizing its followers, believers and practitioners to the demise of the spiritual plane. In this essay, I will utilize Shintoism’s beliefs of the natural and spiritual domain in correlation with the human body to propose an interference between honoring nature and individual willpower.

The Chinese religion of Taoism, has long known about the art of living peacefully in a world full of chaos. Since the beginning of the 21st Century, many people, including children, have experienced and thrived in the technological advancements. However, scientist have concluded that more and more adolescents have increased anxiety and depression due to being lonely, with mostly technology to be their only sense of social comfort. In the religion of Taoism, a major component is finding prosperity and liberation in being alone. It is every human beings nature to socialize but with increased technological advancements, its becoming difficult to focus on oneself.

THE “BARDO THODOL”AND LIBERATION THROUGH THE INTERMEDIATESTATE Aren Page ABSTRACT It is human nature to be fascinated by the curiosity of life-after death. Many religions and spiritual practice center their teachings around living with virtue, so that life beyond death is possible–it is a common thread that

relates religious practices together. This paper looks deeper into the Tibetanbook of the dead(Bardo Thodol), its relation to bridging the process of life to death, and the liberation sought after by the transition. In this ancient religious text, it is stated that the death transition can be done consciously, to forgo the process of reincarnation and guide the soul through the “intermediate state”to liberation-or breaking of the cycle. We will also investigate the explanation of near-death-experiences(NDE)and how the Bardo Thodol builds understanding of religious values through this experience of the “intermediate state”as well as the therapeutic benefit that the reincarnation theory offers for the processing of grief.

SHINTO: THE WINDING WAY OF THE GODS Group 7 ABSTRACT This presentation explores the major practices and developments of Shintoism throughout time. Shinto is oriented around the worship of kami (spirits that reside within nature) and strict beliefs that define humanity's relationship to kami and the natural world that they are responsible for. Shintoism transitioned through three major periods, each with a defining moment that will be a focus of this presentation: a period when Shinto coexisted with Buddhism, a period when it was codified as a state religion, and a period when Shintoism was rebranded as a nature religion in a time of growing concern for the environment. Shinto's storied past exemplifies how a religious practice can adapt to the ever-changing social and political landscapes it is situated within.

TAOIST ETHICS, APPLICATION AND INFLUENCE ON CHINESE CULTURE Group 8 ABSTRACT This essay will provide an overview of Taoist ethics, how they are applied to in everyday life, what benefits this application is purported to offer, what scientific research can tell us about these benefits, and how it may have impacted Chinese cultural development. Our introduction of Taoist ethics will cover the core concepts of the Tao and Te, and wu wei, as well as the “Three Treasures.” We will then discuss some ways in which the Taoist ethics are applied in everyday life, and how certain activities associated with Taoism are connected to these ethical principles. We will then investigate what the claimed benefits of following and applying these principles and

see which of these have been affirmed or brought into doubt by scientific research. Finally, we will look at some ways in which all these elements of Taoism have affected Chinese cultural development throughout history.

“A RELIGION OF SUGGESTION BY INTROSPECTION”, HOW SHINTOISM DOMINATED JAPANESE WAY OF LIFE AND THE SYMBOLISM BEHIND IT. Group 9 ABSTRACT This essay examines Shintoism, as a religion as well as a way of life and being. The focus in this essay is on the symbolism within Shinto shrines and rituals, the relationship of goodness to cleanliness, and the way the architecture brings it all together. Shintoism is considered the oldest Japanese religion, practices ancestor worship, and revolves around Kami, the divinity that is manifested in not only humans, but animals and other forms of the natural world. In understanding how practicers of Shintoism define, organize and represent kami, we can find additional understanding and perspective of ourselves and our natural world.

IMMORTAL TAOISM Jamie Clough ABSTRACT aoism is an ancient Chinese religion that began as a philosophy and way of life for the common folk and was later adopted as the state religion under the Tang Dynasty.

The founding of the religion as well as its main book, the Tao-Te Ching, was originally credited to a monk named Lao Tzu. The Tao-Te Ching is a collection of verses and poems urging the reader to live in harmony with the world around them, to forget themselves and join the balance of the Tao and yin and yang. By becoming one with the Tao, it would be possible to reach immortality. It was a long process but achievable so long as they remained in balance with the world around them through various meditation practices. Once reaching immortality they would be able to shed their physical bodies and live as pure spirits and able to take on any form they so desired or required. They would be able to fly over mountains, control the seas and the winds, and ultimately be able to sit beside the Jade Emperor in heaven.

SHINTO: AN INDIGENOUS JAPANESE RELIGION

Julie Ambrose, Danielle Glasgow, Manny Flores, Ana Sammel, Tielor Stanger-Lopez ABSTRACT Shintoism is often referred to as an indigenous religion of Japan because it is centuries old.

Shinto is oriented around the worship of various kami (spirits that reside within nature) and strict beliefs that define humanity's relationship to kami and the natural world that they are responsible for. Shintoism has gone through three major transformations where it once coexisted with Buddhism, then became a state religion, and was eventually rebranded into a nature religion. This photo essay highlights some of the traditions in Shinto such as ritual purification as well as discussing Shinto beliefs such as kami and the importance of nature and how these beliefs manifested in Japanese history. Since Shinto has such deep roots in Japanese history, it is crucial to study Shinto when analyzing Japanese culture.

BUDDHISM

THE CYCLE OF REBIRTH IN BUDDHIST PRACTICES

Ally Donoghue ABSTRACT Rebirth in Buddhism is a core teaching that relates actions done in one life to their existence after death and in the next. There are six realms of existence that you can be reborn into, however which one is determined by your karma in your current life. A main goal of Buddhist practices is gaining merit so that you will be reborn into a good realm instead of an evil one. Buddhism teaches that rebirth is a cycle that continues until you reach nirvana or Buddhahood, depending on which teachings are followed, and you are released from the suffering of life forever.

EXPLORING BUDDHIST COSMOLOGY AND PRACTICES Group 4 ABSTRACT This essay explores the world of the Buddhist religion.

Specifically, it will focus on the cosmology and beliefs of Buddhists as well as some of their practices. These beliefs include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which are central to this religion. It will also examine some of the history of Buddhism and where it originated as that will provide context into how the beliefs and practices of this religion were developed and shaped into what they are today.

BUDDHISM: THE DISCOURSE ABOUT GENDER ROLES Jane Olshefsky ABSTRACT Photo by Aleksander Dragnes

This presentation examines the religion of Buddhism and more specifically, the gender roles within Buddhism. This topic is interesting, because for a religion to have their central teachings, the Dhamma, to be gender-less but have deeply rooted patriarchal hierarchy seems very unorthodox. However, by breaking down the historical

and cultural context behind Buddhism, we can come to understand these attitudes and how they tie into the roles that women played

THE ZEN BUDDHIST TRADITION OF RAKUSU Cherokee Roth ABSTRACT A rakusu is a robe that a Zen Buddhist sews for oneself when she is ready to fully commit herself to the dharma.

The rakusu is sewn to symbolize Buddha's robe which holds the meaning of Buddha himself and his teaching, Buddha-dharma, first created to distinguish Zen Buddhists from non Zen Buddhists. If one truly understands the practice of zazen, however, the rakusu is not a symbol at all, for emptiness is form and form is emptiness. This paper will further explain the rakusu with its receiving ceremony; its sewn rice field pattern of the formless field of benefaction; type of fabric and sewing stitches; its guidelines on wearing and taking care of it.

This paper will also touch on Dogen Zenji, the person who brought Zen Buddhism from China to Japan in the mid-1200s.

BUDDHISM AND BUDDHIST PILGRIMAGE Zachary Sattler ABSTRACT This presentation explores what Buddhism is and how it came to be. More specifically the importance of the Buddist pilgrimage and what each destination means to the Buddhist culture. The Buddist pilgrimage consists of four main destinations: Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar. This is an interesting topic because these are heavily visited tourist spots for the amazing architecture. Tourists are unaware of the meaning that these sacred destinations have to the Buddhist culture. By understanding the true meaning of these destinations we can begin to not just enjoy the architecture but the rich history of Buddhism.

ANCIENT CONFLICTS REVIVED: THERAVADA BUDDHIST EXTREMIST VIOLENCE AGAINST MUSLIMS Tielor Stanger-Lopez

ABSTRACT This presentation covers the rise of nationalist, extremist Buddhism in Southeast Asia in response to the conflict in the Rakhine State of Myanmar. Theravada Buddhist movement Ma Ba Tha, the Protection of Race and Religion, uses the recently liberalized government of Myanmar to espouse nationalist far-right ideology to radicalize Buddhists to organize, protest, and in some cases attack and kill Muslims. This presentation examines some of the history of Muslim and Buddhist interaction, the role of the state in enabling this violence, and the counter-movement which tries to promote peace between religions using social media, legislative reform, and activism.

PAGANISM & WICCA

magic, and tendency towards polytheism. Often, communities of disparate orders and sects, convene at events (Reclaiming witchcamps) and hold rituals at the same locales – as is the case with the Medway Megaliths, a series of seven historical monuments located in Kent, UK dating back to the Early Neolithic period that have become a sacred site for many neo-pagan groups. However, their unity also reveal some of their differences.

STORIES IN GREEK RELIGION Panda Gomez ABSTRACT This presentation examines the Greek Religion, it will mostly focus on the beliefs and how this intertwines with mythology. When it came to Greek religion this was mostly concentrated with mythology and how they used the Olympian’s as their Gods. I thought that this was going to be interesting for a research project because I always had an interest in greek mythology and religion since they have a different form of gods that are Olympian’s. Especially growing up going to the Griffith museums and watching the stars' consolations speaking about Greek mythology and its origins. So I would like to speak about the impact that Greek religion had passed on as well.

Photo by MarcelGermain THE PLURALITY OF NEO-PAGAN RELIGIONS: WHERE THEY INTERSECT AND DIVERGE. James Broaddus ABSTRACT Modern paganism or neo-paganism is a general term applied to many new-religions influenced by pagan, pre-Christian, and ancient belief systems. Religions that fall under the neo-pagan umbrella include Druidry, Heathenry, Wicca or Pagan witchcraft (and its various forms), Hellenismos, and general non-aligned pagans.

Many of these religions and belief systems share many aspects: animism, belief in spirits and communication with such spirits, practice of

SOLITARY WICCA Ariadne Lugo ABSTRACT Within this presentation, the religion Wicca will be introduced and discussed. Specifically, how Wicca is an evolutionary witchcraft and how it is inspired by and takes traditions from several religions, such as Paganism and Feri tradition. One of the key points of this religion is that there are no specific rules or ways to practice it.

Wicca can be practiced alone or with a coven, it can be practiced with tools or without, and you can choose what gods or deities to worship. There is a major emphasis on the self-practice of Wicca and witchcraft and how it can be executed.

A PAGAN CHRISTMAS: PRE-CHRISTIAN RITUALS AND THE ORIGINS OF YULETIDE. Brooke Morrow

HELLENISM AND PANDORA’S BOX Danielle Glasgow

ABSTRACT

Hellenism is a polytheistic religion that originated in ancient Greece and has been practiced by its people for centuries.It’s more commonly known today as Greek Mythology, and saw its height of practice from 323 BC –33 BCduring the Hellinistic period. Some of the practices of Hellenism were focused on making offerings to their deities in the hopes of gifts or good fortunes. They believed there was a connection between humankind and the gods and that they were able to reach out to them through these acts.

Christmas is an annual festival that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Celebrated by billions across the globe, December 25th is not only a religious holiday, but is also a cultural and commercial phenomenon. It is the time of gift-giving, feasting with family, and decorating with lights and evergreen. However, the celebration of light and birth during the darkest days of winter was honored long before Jesus arrived. From Christmas trees to Santa Claus, nearly all modern rituals and symbols associated with Christmas are pagan in origin. This presentation will examine the various pagan rituals at the heart of the biggest holiday of the year.

THE ELEMENTAL SYMBOLS OF THE WICCA RELIGION AND HOW THEY ARE REPRESENTED. Kieran Siman ABSTRACT This presentation dives into the Wicca religion, and how the four basic elements along with a fifth spiritual element create a foundation for manifestation. Fire, water, earth, and air are the cardinal elements, each representing a natural force on earth. These elements together create the different energies that make up our human existence, and our relationship with that is revered as the fifth element, spirit. Spirit is less tangible than the other elements, but perhaps the most important. This is an interesting topic because Wicca and witchcraft, in general, is a very misunderstood practice. The 5 elements are a great starting point for education on this religion because they are commonplace elements in many cultures and that makes them more relatable.

SHAMANISM Mia Sunderland ABSTRACT I will be taking an anthropological look into the realm that is Shamanism. Delving into regions where the religion was most commonly used. I will also be delving into what kind of impact that this religion played on the communities that practiced. I plan to delve in a bit more with my research and reach some more conclusive information as well.

ABSTRACT

HINDUISM

analyzed in-depth to provide a better understanding of the significance of it all.

THE BIG SEVEN: A LOOK INTO HINDU GODS AND GODDESSES Rebekah Rubio ABSTRACT In this project I will be exploring the seven Hindu Gods.

There are three male figures and three females. Because Hinduism focuses on balancing things, the three and three split, is a balance of energy between the six. Each one of the Gods has its specific equal in order to balance each other out. I will also touch on a seventh Goddess figure who commonly “replaces” Brahma known as Mahadevi.

This goddess acts as a balance of Trimurti gods Shiva and Vishnu. Mahadevi takes on many forms including the three I will be touching on; Lakshmi, Parvati, Saraswati.

These are all a part of the Tridevi.

HINDUISM: AN ANALYSIS WITHIN THE STATE OF HIMACHAL PRADESH Group 2 Photo by Graham Hills HINDUISM AND DEATH: A NEW BEGINNING Travis Allen ABSTRACT Death is a shared universal process that occurs regardless of culture, religion, or belief. It is also one of the most fundamental aspects of Hinduism that has guided its belief system. This presentation examines death and the afterlife through Hinduism. An introductory overview will explore major concepts and ideologies to provide foundational information associated with the religion.

This will include topics like samsara, the four Puruṣārthas, sacred texts, and the atman. While many people have familiarized themselves with the concepts of reincarnation and karma, many might not realize all the rituals, customs, and practices associated with death in the religion. Furthermore, pre/post-death rituals, funeral rites, burial customs, and other various practices will be

ABSTRACT This essay examines the Hindu religion in Himachal Pradesh and its major concepts including: Puruṣārtha, the doctrines of samsara, and its caste system. A historical overview examining the origins of the religion provides a background into the practice. Principal deities are discussed which distinguish between the Vedic and Puranic Gods. We also look deeper into the caste systems that arose through religious practice along with how these organizational systems can be recognized through rituals and religious texts. Utilizing academic resources and contemporary outlets we analyse the expansion and regulation of caste systems within the state. Furthermore, we explore the four main goals of mankind referred to as Puruṣārtha and how these goals contribute to the overall or ultimate goal of the Hindu religion known as liberation (moshka) and also offer insight into the doctrines of samsara and how that impacts Hindu life.

HINDUISM TO BUDDHISM: THE ROAD TO ENLIGHTENMENT Jeremy Dixon

ISLAM

ABSTRACT Hinduism and Buddhism are two of the most well known religions in the world especially in the Far East. It might be common knowledge to some that Buddhism was actually founded and created off the basis of Hinduism.

With that said, it is safe to also say that Buddhism has a lot of the same aspects and core beliefs that Hinduism has. The purpose of this paper is to take a look at aspects of Hinduism and Buddhism and compare and contrast them. There is one particular aspect of both that this project would like to focus one and that is the cycle of reincarnation and the concept of enlightenment.

"REINCARNATION AND TRANSCENDENCE, A STUDY OF THE HINDU CYCLES OF LIFE" Group 5 ABSTRACT In this essay we explore the beliefs and practices of the world's third largest religion, Hinduism. More specifically, we focus our research on the concepts of Samsāra and Moksha. Samsara is the Hindu cycle of life, death, and rebirth or reincarnation, followed by the ultimate goal of transcending through Moksha, the breaking of this cycle. Hinduism is known as one of, if not the most ancient religion still in practice today, dating back more than 4,000 years. Moksha is achieved by going through the cycles of life building karma through virtue of the life lived. In this essay we discuss the origins, cosmology, rituals, and effects today of these two of the four major Purusārthas (goals or objectives) of human life.

Photo by seier+seier RITUALS AND PRACTICES OF ISLAM Wendi Albarran ABSTRACT No Abstract

DOES ISIS HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH ISLAM? Alyssa Buie ABSTRACT This presentation analyzes the religion of Islam, most specifically on what being a Muslim entails. I contrasted this with why Islamophobia is so present in the world currently, and whether ISIS, the cause of much Islamophobia, has any connection with people who practice Islam. This was a topic I felt compelled to examine after all the recent political circumstances centered on Muslims and their religion, and wanted to

shed light on the realities of what the religion of Islam actually believes versus what the world at large thinks they believe.

THE AMERICAS

DEATH IN HIGH PLACES: A DETAILED LOOK AT THE RELIGIOUS REASONING AND INTERPRETATION OF AZTEC SACRIFICE RITUALS Shea Daly ABSTRACT Despite the recent archeological surge of interest in the ancient civilizations of the Yucatan peninsula, very little evidence is left of the civilizations that lived there especially the Aztec culture. Most evidence and first-hand accounts of the Aztecs is found in the catholic friars and monks that accompanied the Spaniards in their conquest of South America and the lands of now- known Mexico where the Aztecs people were found. The issue with the accuracy of these accounts is that, in meaning to justify their conquering of new lands, the account paints the Aztec People as warring savages that only know violence and cannibalism and need to be saved through the sacred teachings of the Catholic faith. This means that the records are often exaggerated and do not depicted the culture in an accurate light. Through the essay I wish to explore the culture and religious nature of the Aztecs and what the sacrifices they made to their gods really meant.

A HAITIAN CULTURE IN NEW ORLEANS Jason Martinez ABSTRACT Photo by Drew Zanki PAIN OF A BULLET: FROM CHILD TO WARRIOR Cherie Bell ABSTRACT Abstract: In this presentation I will be discussing the Sateré-Mawé tribe who are found in the Amazon in Latin America. I will be providing a brief history of the tribe itself, but my main topic for the presentation will be discussing their rite of passage for boys turning into men.

This ceremony is called the Tucandeira Ant Ritual, tucandeira is the name the tribe provides for bullet ants.

Bullet ants contain a toxin that when injected into someone, feels like being shot by a bullet and these boys, usually around 10-11 must wear gloves teeming with them in order to be considered a warrior.

For this presentation, the focus was to understand the history of how Haitians adapted and have integrated within the society of America, and more in New Orleans.

Aside from that it will be portraying an overview of how the natives of Haiti had to leave their homeland and move into the states for a chance of a better life and freedom.

This presentation will also introduce how their Creole religion brought more perspective and culture to America, and especially in New Orleans.

REGGAE AND RASTAFARIANS Shea Daly, Vanessa Carmona, Matt Estrada, Darian Francki, Rochell Sawye ABSTRACT Rastafarianism emerged in Jamaica in the 1930’s and the rastafain Movement as a religion lies of the beliefs in

coming of the single ceremonial called of the church. As the documented of rastafarian that originated for the caribbean Islands of Jamaica in the 1930s. Seeking of plants based upon changes in Material circumstances or the shifts of production. They appear to represent the Jah of the Rastafarians and that's how everything interacts with Rastafarianism. The point of their religion is to return to the road to Zion which means Mother Africa.

Religious symbolism presents an exercise of the theory of how they appear to use of plant based materials The experience of living the rastafarianism of life is that the logical theory of the process and of the circumstances and plant based and upon changes in the material.

Rastafarians appear to believe in smoking and of others and spirituality and context its more of a choice that people don't always smoke its used in women and bringing of biological research of knocking cases of smoking and colored and flavored breath unlikely that seems more cigarettes with teeth cannabis shouldn’t mess with your teeth. Cannabis is grown in the church of the Jah and of Rastafarianism.

Reggae artists are surely known or somewhat presented through the process of the rastafarianism of national culture being a part of their religion and effects of aim.

There are seemingly important music songs such as pass the dutchie, road to zion, and of course the most popular version of the Rastafarianism is called Three little birds and that is sung by Bob Marley and it seems to be known Bob Marley’s life he was a famous Musician and he was seemingly known to be a very famous Reggae Artist but somehow died from having foot Cancer when he got older. Bob Marley was seemingly loved by lots of people, a serious reggae artist and a serious Rastafarian loved by most. He told us don’t worry about a thing but sometimes that's not always true.

AZTEC MYTHOLOGY AND RITUAL VIOLENCE Kevin Nolasco ABSTRACT This presentation will study the Aztec myth as being polytheistic religion, by having more than one god and understanding the involvement in their violent rituals.

Aztec use their mythology as a way to help their society as each god they have has an important purpose. As for their ritual practices it is known in history that it is violent and gruesome. Which these rituals were used to give an offering to gods for crops and rain.However, the Aztecs viewed these sacrifices as an honor to the gods hoping to repay their debt. It also used as intimidation for the Aztec

empire as they performed these rituals on their enemy captives.

THE DAYKEEPERS ROLE IN THE INTERPRETATION OF DREAMS IN THE MAYAN RELIGION

Ricardo Sanchez ABSTRACT This presentation examines the Mayan religion and more specifically the concept of dreams within the mayan religion. Dating back to early civilization the Mayan have taken great importance in the significance of dream visions. Dreams are seen as the connection of one's spirit to the ancestors which are meant to show interpretation and literal explanations of current or future events.

Dreams are used as forms of communication and the translator between the natural and supernatural are specifically chosen Daykeepers. This Presentation will look at the importance of the Daykeeper and the training a Daykeeper must go through in order to interpret dreams.

AFRO-DESCENDENTS AND RELIGION IN MEXICO Neri Rodarte ABSTRACT This presentation focuses on the origins, spread and impact that African culture, Africa diaspora and African religions have in Mexico, as well as other Latin American and carribean countries. Santeria is the main religion in many southern Mexican states and that is where the origin of African influence started in Mexico, dating back to the 1500s during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. West African culture is prominent in these parts because that is where the majority of African diapora came from as a result of transporting people for unpaid labor through Spanish colonization. Culture is used as a tool for survival in this world and to help us (as an individual and a collective) move forward in life and succeed (reproduction). There are many aspects of life that we may not be aware of that come from African culture. There are many key components in culture and the biggest ones include religion, values and morals. The spread of African diaspora and Afro-Cuban religions such as Santeria have been around for centuries and its practices have been incorporated in many cultures, including Mexico.

JUDEAU CHRISTIAN HISTORY AND THE COLONIAL LEGACY OF AMERICA Andrew Hempstead

JAINISM- TIRTHANKARAS Juli Ambrose

ABSTRACT

Jainism is an ancient Indian religion focusing on spiritual contexts. The 24 'leaders' of Jainism are known by the name Tirthankaras which occupy different time cycles.

They guide the centuries through time which can be defined by the eternal dharma. Much research has been done on Jainism and their leaders. The book, A to Z Jainism has produced an infinite amount of information about this religion as a whole. Other articles have dug deeper into certain aspects of the religion providing intellectual research about the cultural components of these principles. Jainism is a very fascinating religion which contains many points of interest for research.

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THE RASTAFARIAN RELIGION Pheobe Topete ABSTRACT The Rastafarian religion began in Jamaica around 1930 when Haile Selassie was crowned emperor of Ethiopia.

He was believed to be the reincarnation of their god “Jah”. Although they reside mostly in Jamaica, they consider Ethiopia “Zion” the promised land.

This religion combines Protestant christianity, mysticism, and a pan-African political consciousness. The Rastas can be seen oftentimes wearing dreadlocks, facial hair, listening to reggae music, and smoking marijuana. There is more of a deeper meaning behind these practices that will be discussed in this presentation.

OTHER

ABSTRACT

JAINISM: AN ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL AND CULTURAL FACTORS DEVELOPED FROM THE RELIGION Myra Ballinger ABSTRACT This project aims to look deeper into the cultural factors that have developed from the practice of Jainism within the state of Maharashtra, where there is the highest population of Jainism practitioners geographically. This essay addresses factors and structures such as the six substances of Dravya that are separated as the living and the non-living, as well as the nine Tattvas that set the framework for salvation in order to develop an understanding of worldviews and social norms. Also included is a discussion of the commonalities and differences relating to Karma, Samsara, and the soul to other Dharmic religions. Academic sources, historical documentation, and contemporary outlets are utilized to outline and address various aspects of Jainism.

THE FORGOTTEN GODS & GODDESSES OF ANCIENT EGYPT Vanessa Carmona ABSTRACT Ancient Egyptians were polytheistic, and believed in a multitude of different gods and goddesses. From the sprawling temples to the complex hieroglyphs, Egyptians found a way for their gods and goddesses to always be worshipped. Even with that, certain gods and goddesses

were more popular throughout history. Certain literature or even media would focus on a few key gods and goddesses and forget that there are a multitude of others that the ancient Egyptians worshipped. The focus of this presentation will be to showcase a few of those forgotten gods and goddesses. While doing that, this presentation will also delve into just how these gods and goddesses were worshipped and perhaps even any sacrifices that took place.

DISCOVERING SACRED GEOMETRY Carlos Celaya

surround and encompasses our being an ancient Indian holistic preventative medicine its relatedness to Doshas(Prakruti and Vkruti) and the importance of rituals to balance ones constitution for better health. I will go in depth on the practice of Yoga, by defining its origin,the traditional purpose of this practice,examine chakras and asanas. Lastly, I will evaluate medical journals regarding Yoga’s potential benefits towards the treatment of noncommunicable diseases.

ABSTRACT In this paper, I will be studying Sacred Geometry.

Specifically how followers ascribe symbolic and sacred meanings (Links to an external site.) to certain geometric shapes and certain geometric proportions (Links to an external site.). The geometry used in the design and construction of religious structures (Links to an external site.) such as churches (Links to an external site.), temples (Links to an external site.), mosques (Links to an external site.), religious monuments (Links to an external site.), altars (Links to an external site.), and tabernacles (Links to an external site.) has sometimes been considered sacred. The concept applies also to sacred spaces such as temenoi (Links to an external site.), sacred groves (Links to an external site.), village greens (Links to an external site.), pagodas (Links to an external site.) and holy wells (Links to an external site.), and the creation of religious art (Links to an external site.). This is such an exciting topic as more people turn towards more inclusive religious beliefs. The concept of sacred geometrical proportions can accept a wide variety of ancient religions and cultures as sacred. This can perhaps bring the world a more universal understanding of our human urge to connect to the divine.

AYURVEDA AND YOGA FOR BETTER HEALTH Yolanda De la Torre Perez ABSTRACT This presentation examines Ayurveda,an ancient Indian holistic preventative medicine, and its interconnectedness with its sister science,Yoga.

I will briefly explain the concepts of Ayurveda Purusha and Prakutri which explain the creation of life .In addition the five elements(water,earth,space,air,fire) that

THE BEGINNING AND END: THE CELEBRATION OF NEW LIFE AND DEATH ACROSS THE WORLD Kayla Rodenburg ABSTRACT This presentation examines world culture, focusing on the celebration of life and death. The cultures shown are diverse, but the goal is the same: to analyze the rituals within them regarding new life and death. This is interesting, due to the vast array of cultures there are, it allows us to compare their outlook towards life and death: are they more positive and celebrational, or are they more mournful and dark? I am going to be focusing on these rituals, and contrasting them by these guidelines. By understanding this, we will gain new knowledge about more rituals than our own.

HERMETICA AND HERMETICISM Sean Fitzgerald ABSTRACT In this talk, I will introduce the Hermetica, the core writings of the Hermetic tradition, including some of their mythological background and historical context, as well as discuss the actual religio-philosophical traditions built around these writings, comparing the myths, cosmology, and ethics of Ancient Hermeticism with the later Western Esoteric tradition. I would also like to briefly discuss this tradition's relationship with Gnosticism, and go over some plausible reasons for why these traditions are so unknown to the typical educated person today.

RITES OF PASSAGE: A BRIEF EXAMINATION OF BAR & BAT MITZVAHS Manny Flores ABSTRACT This presentation examines the rites of passages that young men and women undergo in the religion of Judaism. It will cover the importance of becoming a man or woman along with the process it takes in order to achieve this initiation. Not many people know or truly understand the cultural significance of Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, so this presentation will shed light on this. By doing so, it will allow room for true understanding and follow the notion that we are all different and we should embrace those differences while at the same time become culturally competent.

JUDAISM IN THE DARK AGES Jake Kennealy ABSTRACT I will be focusing on the broader history of the Jewish people during the medieval/dark ages. History that is taught here in the US about the dark ages is predominantly about the Crusades and then the development of Europe, but little history of the Jewish people during these times is common knowledge. I am going to research the relationship between the Jewish people and the Christians and early Islamic people. I will also study the stories and written history of prominent Jewish peoples and rabbis. I want to know how the Jewish people endured these times with the fall of Rome, the Crusades, and rise of Islam.

of the roles and ideas laced within Satanism, we can identify key patterns, traditions and ideals held within this counter culture as well as fringe groups that may be integrated into more common culture.

THE RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS AND THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD Thomas Roberts ABSTRACT In the early 1800s, when slavery in the southern United States was at its peak, a group from The Religious Society of Friends, also known as Quakers, and their allies began to work to undermine the institution of slavery and attempt to bring enslaved people to the free states of the North. This presentation will explore the religious and cultural motivations of the Quakers that were involved in this movement, as well as discussing the division within the Religious Society of Friends over what, if anything, to do about slavery. While the Quakers as a whole did eventually get behind the movement, there was significant resistance within the institution for many years, with the arguments against Quaker involvement ranging from concern about hateful and violent feelings towards slavers, to outright racism and the belief that the enslaved people were perhaps not worthy of being freed. To discuss all of these topics, we will be heavily relying on autobiographies and biographies of those who were a part of the movement, as well as interviews with modern-day Quakers with knowledge of these events.

FOLLOWERS OF THE 5 K Ana Sammel ABSTRACT

HOW SATANISM IS BROUGHT TOGETHER AND DIVIDED BY GENDER. Ernest Roberts ABSTRACT This presentation seeks to examine the religion of Satanism primarily in North America, to understand gender roles as well as sexuality and the balance within.

Satanism asks the practitioner to be introspective, looking within to find paths leading to equality. Satanism is a controversial religion both within and outside of the United States and North America, but however it can be looked at as another perspective into the way contemporary peoples view themselves, their religion, and their gender roles. By developing a greater understanding

This presentation examines what it means to be Sikh in regard to Khalsa and non-Khalsa Sikhs. Khalsa Sikhs are those have been baptized by amrit sanskar. In this initiation process, a sacred nectar stirred by a double edged sword is drank by the initiate. After baptism, Khalsa Sikhs adhere to the 5 Ks, a dress code that includes wearing uncut hair, a wooden comb, a steel bracelet, a sword, and short breeches. However, Sikhism believes that all people are created equal and so people who have been baptized, people who have not been baptized, and nonbelievers are all considered equals. This presentation will examine the relationship between these groups, the distinctions between them, and why Khalsa Sikhs choose to adhere to the 5 Ks.

IBOGA RITES OF THE BWITI RELIGION Nicholas Severin ABSTRACT Bwiti is ancestral religion and oral traditionthat has been practiced by many tribes in West Africa for hundreds of years. Known for its initiation rite, Bwiti uses ibogaine from the roots of the Tabernanthe iboga shrub as a plant medicine for healing people physically and spiritually. It is believed to have been passed on by the pygmies of the Congo to the Bantu and Fang tribes of Gabon. In this presentation I cover the iboga rite of the Bwiti religion, the history and belief system of the oral tradition as well as the transformations that have been made to accommodate a growing entheogenic tourism scene.

A BRIEF ANTHROPOLOGICAL EXAMINATION OF VOODOO, FROM ITS WEST AFRICAN ROOTS TO ITS HAITIAN IMPACT Group 3 ABSTRACT This essay explores the religion of Voodoo, from its birthplace of West Africa to its pervasiveness in Haitian society, while giving an abridged history of how the Western perspective has associated the religion with possession, hypersexuality, violence, and impoverishment. It will analyze the effects that Voodoo has had on societies that practice it, and some of the main tenets of the religion. These are important aspects of the religion and its consequences to evaluate, as they can give more perspective into what Voodoo is and teaches, and why it is fallacious to correlate these negativities to the religion itself.

THE FIERCE PEACE AND DEVOTION OF JAINISM Jamie Clough, Arleen P. Gomez, Jake Kennealy, Cherokee Roth, Phoebe Topete

to make the 5 vows which are Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (no stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/no sexual desires), Aparigraha (no emotional attachments/possessiveness).

ASATRU OF THE PAST AND PRESENT - “FAITH IN THE ÆSIR” Brooke Morrow, Aren Page, Thomas Roberts, Emilio Medina, Gabriela Gomez ABSTRACT Asatru is a polytheistic religion that involves worshiping a multitude of Germanic gods, goddesses and spirits.

Asatru was practiced primarily throughout Scandinavia during the pre-Christian era, although other Germanic tribes in the more southern areas of modern Europe practiced similar forms of the religion as well. During the forced Christianization of Germanic tribes following the expansion of the Roman Empire, other religions died out, but Asatru beliefs and practices survived. In recent times, it has been regaining popularity for those wishing to celebrate life and nature. There is variation in practices and beliefs between the many nascent groups as there is no central Asatru authority or set dogma.

However, despite these differences, at its core, Asatru is an inclusive and accepting religion that emphasizes the importance of doing right in this life, with little expectation of an afterlife.

GENDER SEGREGATION IN JUDAISM Noah Glick ABSTRACT Gender segregation in Judaism is an interesting anthropological topic because it delves into how a religion shapes gender roles, and how that religion has affected those roles throughout a religious community. There is no better example of a society where Judaism – and in particular orthodox Judaism – has affected day to day life than Israel, and as such will be examined.

ABSTRACT This essay examines Jainism, a religion that has resided in India since 500 BCE. Founded by Mahavira, Jainism is one of the most peaceful religions in the world. Jainists do not follow a god, but believe in the sanctity of all living creatures and in how karma is entangled with every aspect of this life and the next. When it comes to karma, it’s an impurity that is resulted from conscious actions, attached to the soul throughout life. When Jains have no karma they can be liberated from the cycle of life and death and once this is fulfilled Jains can become “Moksha.” To reach this goal of becoming a “moksha”, they would have

JAINISM: A RELIGION OF NON-VIOLENCE Nicole Perry ABSTRACT My name is Nicole Perry and my presentation is aboutJainism. Jainism is a religion native toIndia, but only a small minority of the populationare Jains. The majority of Jains live in India, butdue to immigration there are some small communitiesin other parts of the world like the UnitedStates and Europe.

Photo by Belgian Chocolate

You are searching the world for treasure but the real treasure is yourself If you are tempted by bread you will find only bread.

What you seek for you become.

Rumi - Hidden Music