The beliefs and practices that were prevalent in ancient cultures are commonly called "old religion". Although the definition of "old religion" is somewhat arbitrary it usually includes Christianity as well as various forms Islam. It also includes the religions in India and Arabia. While they may not be fundamentally distinct, they do share some common characteristics. While they rely heavily on reason, the old religions can also rely upon revelation or intuition to construct a belief system.
Religions of the past
The ancient world was permeated with religious practices and beliefs. The charismatic practitioners of these religions criss-crossed the Mediterranean and travelled along itinerant routes. They were the primary determinants of human culture and life. Religions were common and widespread in antiquity.
These beliefs are rooted within diverse cultural traditions. The Ancient Religions MA course explores these cultures from ancient China to modern day Europe and provides new insights into ancient religions. You can tailor the MA program to your research interests.
Hinduism
Hinduism is an ancient religion that has many traditions. Its beliefs center on the sanctity of life and the concept of Brahman, the supreme soul. Hindus believe strongly in karma (rebirth) and salvation. Hindus are very religious.
Hinduism has no historical founder. However, it has developed over the centuries through periods of ritual and enlightenment. The tradition of Hinduism is not based on a single text.
Buddhism
Buddhists believe in the eternality of life and that it is subject to suffering. They seek the truth within themselves and seek out Buddha's teachings. They are constantly reborn and can relive their past lives. Their lives are continuously improved as a result. Buddhism doesn't have one answer.
Buddhism is a major world religion with 376 million adherents around the world. Its origins are in India, around the sixth century B.C.E. The religion spread to Southeast Asia as well as China, Korea and Japan. Buddhists are found today in over 170 countries.
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism can be considered an ancient religion. Avesta was one of the earliest texts. The Avesta contains sacred verses called Gathas. They were written by Prophet Zarathushtra to be orally transmitted and recited to his followers. The Avesta consists of five Gathas, each containing seventeen hymns. Scholars of Zoroastrianism stress the centrality of the Gathas. Gathic principles caution against ritualism, and stress human reason and ethical behavior in co-work with God.
Zoroastrianism could be as old at 4,000 years. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Persia. During the Persian dynasties, Zoroastrianism was the state religion. Many Zoroastrianism followers fled Iran to India where they practice it as a minority. Zoroastrianism today has between 100,000 and 200,000 followers all over the globe. It has a rich history that has been influenced by many religions.
Maya
The ancient Maya religion considered earth and sky two distinct entities. Maya believed that the earth was the back of an enormous crocodile while the sky was a doubleheaded serpent. The sky is named after the word for serpent, and the constellations can be identified with cross-bands. Maya people also considered the sun and moon to be symbolic of the celestial bodies.
Maya art features many symbols related to death and underworld. Some of their symbols and glyphs include crossed bones, disembodied eyes and defleshed jaws. They also had gods like Pawahtun, who was the patron of scribes. Ix Chel (a Maya goddess for childbirth and healing) was one of the other Maya deities. Chak Chel was her sister and was a weaver. She was also the patroness for the Cozumel islands.