Custom: Marriage traditions

Definition: Marriage traditions are the customs and rituals associated with marriage in a particular society. They can include everything from the way couples meet and court to the wedding ceremony itself and the expectations for married couples.

Comparison and contrast:

• Ancient Greece: Marriage in ancient Greece was a social and economic arrangement, and it was typically arranged by the parents of the bride and groom. The wedding ceremony was a simple affair, and it was followed by a feast. After the wedding, the bride moved into the groom’s household, and she was expected to bear children and manage the household.
• Christianity: Christian marriage is a sacrament, and it is seen as a holy union between one man and one woman. The wedding ceremony is typically performed by a priest or minister, and it includes vows of love, fidelity, and obedience. After the wedding, the couple is expected to build a life together, raise a family, and serve God.
• Islam: Islamic marriage is a contract between a man and a woman, and it is witnessed by two Muslim witnesses. The wedding ceremony is typically simple and straightforward, and it includes the groom giving the bride a mahr (dowry). After the wedding, the couple is expected to build a life together, raise a family, and live according to Islamic teachings.

Influence on society:

Marriage traditions play an important role in all three of these societies/religions. They help to define the roles and responsibilities of married couples, and they provide a framework for raising children. Marriage traditions also help to strengthen social bonds and promote community stability.

Primary sources:

• Odyssey by Homer (ancient Greece)
• Bible (Christianity)
• Quran (Islam)

Value: Compassion

Definition: Compassion is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It is often characterized by empathy, kindness, and a desire to help others.

Comparison and contrast:

• Ancient Greece: Compassion was an important value in ancient Greece, and it was often associated with the gods and goddesses. For example, the goddess Demeter was known for her compassion for her daughter Persephone. Compassion was also seen as an important virtue for individuals, and it was encouraged by philosophers such as Aristotle and Plato.
• Christianity: Compassion is a central value in Christianity, and it is taught by Jesus in the Gospels. For example, in the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus teaches that we should have compassion for all people, even those who are different from us. Compassion is also seen as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, and it is encouraged for all Christians to strive for.
• Islam: Compassion is also an important value in Islam, and it is emphasized in the Quran. For example, the Quran states that “Allah is the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.” Muslims are encouraged to show compassion to all people, regardless of their race, religion, or social status.

Influence on society:

Compassion is a value that is shared by many different societies and religions, and it has a positive impact on society. It can help to reduce conflict, promote cooperation, and create a more just and equitable world.

Primary sources:

• Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle (ancient Greece)
• Gospel of Matthew (Christianity)
• Quran (Islam)

Belief: Afterlife

Definition: The afterlife is the belief that there is some form of existence after death. This could include heaven, hell, reincarnation, or something else entirely.

Comparison and contrast:

• Ancient Greece: Ancient Greeks believed in a variety of different afterlifes. Some believed in a place called Hades, where the dead went to live after death. Others believed in reincarnation, where the soul would be reborn into a new body after death.
• Christianity: Christians believe in an afterlife where the soul will be judged after death. Those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior will go to heaven, while those who have rejected Him will go to hell.
• Islam: Muslims believe in an afterlife where the soul will be judged after death. Those who have lived a good and righteous life will go to heaven, while those who have lived a bad life will go to hell.

Influence on society:

The belief in an afterlife can have a significant impact on society. It can provide comfort to people who are grieving the loss of loved ones. It can also motivate people to live good and moral lives.