Cha,+Dong+MinF2011

F Cha Dongmin Daniella Ancient History III

**Christianity in Korea**
Oct. 11, 2011

The first time Christianity entered Korea, it attracted no converts and didn't have much influence on the Korean society because they weren't interested in monotheistic beliefs and religions. Also, as Christianity originated from a Western culture, it may have seemed unfamiliar to the Koreans.
 * 1. Why do you think the first time Christianity entered Korea, it attracted no converts and had basically no influence on the Korean people or society?**

The first Christian church was established in Korea was unique in comparison to the formation of early churches in other parts of the non-western world because the Church wasn't immediately formed by ethnically different people. It was Lee Sunghun(Peter), a Korean man who introduced Christianity after adapting it from China. This differs from the early churches established elsewhere, as those churches gained influence from outsiders, instead of from people who had the same country. The unique start may have continued to influence how Christianity is regarded in Korea, in terms that it was first introduced by a Korean. Therefore, it would be considered as a religion or belief that was in Korea since the very beginning.
 * 2. What is unique about how the first Christian church was established in Korea as compared to the formation of early churches in other parts of the non-western world?**
 * 3. How might this unique start have continued to influence how Christianity is regarded in Korea?**

-by David A. G. Johnson //Document 1// __Group 1__
 * The Role of Shamanism & Fortune-Telling in Korean Culture**=

A mudang is a someone who has received spirit from the supernatural world. They claim themselves as fortune tellers. They are also known as shaman, and they communicate with God. Kut is a ritual, or religious ceremony where the mudang performs with some musicians, who play instruments like the ching, changgu, and chengum.
 * 1.Define mudang, ritual, shaman, kut.**

Many Koreans believe in Shamanism. Koreans are able to form a community together through Shamanism, which gives them a sense of unity. In times of war and suffering, Shamanism enabled Koreans to cure diseases and lead to good fortune and success.
 * 2.How has Shamanism influenced Korea? List three ways.**

The mudang leads the rituals along with the musicians. They are mainly women because there a very few male (paksu) practices. Men have yin, while women have yang. Men receive energy from the sun, while the women get ki from the moon.
 * 3.Describe the role of a mudang or shaman in the kut ceremony. Why are mudang mainly women?**

Music and dance is important because it helps the people become a mudang when receive the spirit from the supernatural world.
 * 4.Why are music and dance an important part of Shamanism’s rituals?**

Members of an organized religion would use Shamans because modern day Buddhism and Christianity have affected numerous ideas of Shamanism. People in Korea regard it as a traditional religion and they still respect and believe in the ideas.
 * 5.Why would members of an organized religion (Buddhists, Catholics, and Protestants) use a shaman? Why do shamans still exist in modern Korea?**

An Introduction to Korean Shamanism and Fortune Telling Document 1

Oct. 10, 2011
 * Shintoism Chart**




 * Legalism Questions for Analysis**

1. In Han Fei's ideal state what is the supreme governing authority, the will of the ruler or the law?
 * In Han Fei's ideal state, the supreme governing authority is the will of the ruler or the law. Han Fei discusses about the importance of a ruler and states that a ruler is a “right” ruler only if he enforces the law. He also mentions “the intelligent sovereign makes the law select men,” meaning that the laws are not made for the government officials but for the men who follow the laws and become part of the political society.

2. What are the "Two Handles" and how important are they to a legalist state? Why must the sovereign never surrender control over the two handles?
 * The “Two Handles” are chastisement punishment and commendation. Those who do not follow the laws are "handled" with discipline (chastisement), and those who do are given a commendation, a reward. The laws of the Legalist state apply to the citizens, as well as the ministers of the government. If the ruler gains control over the “Two Handles,” then it promises the ministers’ pledge to the ruler, and enforces liberality and justice in law. When the sovereign surrenders control over the “Two Handles,” then the ruler will lose his power, and the ministers who do not have justice, will gain control over the people.

3. What roles do individuality and private initiative play in Han Fei's ideal state?
 * Han Fei’s ideal state deals with the enforcement of law under any individuality or private initiative play. In contrast to a Confucian society, Han Fei's ideal state would recognize that individuality is not so praised, as the society is maintained through the law, and not the people themselves, in a Legalist society.

4. Why do you think Legalism appealed to some people?
 * Legalism appealed for some people because it gives equality and fairness. It will not judge the person by their background, and punishment will apply the same way depending on the crime. Also, the commendation goes to people of a higher social hierarchy. This gives the lower class a chance of gaining a reward by following the law.

5. Imagine a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucian, and a Legalist. How would each respond on the following issues: What is the purpose of good government? What role does morality play in formulating law? What are the qualities of a superior ruler? The proposition "Might makes right."
 * **Daoist:**
 * A Daoist would believe that the purpose of a good government is to bring peace. Morality is not such a major factor to consider when formulating law, because a Daoist government is unlikely to enforce any, whether it is based on morality or not. Daoists would believe that a superior ruler is one who does not take action in order to enforce anything, but leaves the natural world to work out in its own pure way. Daoism is clearly the opposite of the statement: “Might makes right” as they believe that it is unnecessary force anything to happen.


 * **Confucian:**
 * A Confucian would believe that a good government will be the role model of the people. Therefore, they have the responsibility to do moral things in order to lead the citizens to be moral as well. Also, the laws should be based on morality, but the enforcement of law will depend on the relationships of people. A superior ruler should be a intelligent and people should be able to look up at him. A Confucian does not believe that social status is more important than talent and intelligence, so “Might makes right” would not be an inaccurate description of their society. Nevertheless, the government officials are still the ones who make the laws.


 * **Legalist:**
 * A Legalist would state that the purpose of a good government is to enforce laws and make a justice society. Legalism will depend on morality, and morality will be what creates laws, rewards, and punishments. A superior ruler would be one who has control over the “Two Handles” and recognizes the way in which they can enforce the laws with them. They should be a strict figure who will match the quote: “Might makes right.”

Oct. 6, 2011
 * Essential Quotes of Taoism**
 * 1) In //Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching//, Lao-Tzu says, that, "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels". Does this quote have an equivalent to in Christianity? Are there other parts of the Tao Teh Ching that remind you of Christian ideals?

This quote has an equivalent to Christianity in the way that the "mystery of the Mysterious" assimilates to the idea of heaven and hell in Christianity. The "indescribable marvels" would probably be equivalent to heaven in the Christian belief. Other parts that remind me of Christian ideals include the line "That which has no name is the origin of heaven and earth" which shows us that Tao understands the distinction between "heaven" and "earth". It also shows us that God is a figure in which we cannot describe in words or name. Another example would be "the tao that can be said is not the everlasting Tao" as "the Way" is not so easily understood or followed by. Also, words like "mysterious" and "indescribable" gives us the impression of something that hard to identify, just like the Christian belief of Heaven.

2. See Passage 2, "Not honoring men....Not wanting rare things...Not paying attention..." How are does this help one understand how Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems? Passage 2 helps us understand how Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism are similar in the way that the first line "not honoring men of worth" gives us the common idea of Confucianism which is that we should value natural intelligence rather than judging others depending on their social status or how much power they possess. The quote "Not wanting rare things" the Buddhist ideal idea that it is important to lose all desires and experience suffering and reach the state of Nirvana. "Not paying attention to the desirable" also links to a belief of Taoism that it is important to rid the mind of paltry matters and maintain it in the empty state, to keep it from being complex.

3. In Passage 2, what do you think is meant by the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones"? The lines "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones" portray the links between Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. The "relaxing the mind" most likely refers to the idea of Inner Peace and emptying of the mind of complex and unnecessary things. Also, "Reinforcing the abdomen" shows the importance of the core which is the Confucius idea of strengthening the inner mind and gaining knowledge, as well as learning to respect others. "Gentling the will" relates to the idea that we must get rid of the mind of paltry things and release the desire. Also, the "strengthening the bones" is related to all three ideas in the way that we must focus on the inner body, instead of the outside. It is also important to understand oneself and clear the mind and body in order to succeed.

4. Consider the last three entries from D.C. Lau's //Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching//, Lao Tzu describes government. How is this ideal different from Confucius' ideal? What present day system of government are you reminded of when you read this section? Do you think this is a good system? Explain. Confucius's ideal is that a government should demonstrate morality and set a good example for the people. Confucius believed that the government should lead the people to the right direction. In contrast, Lao Tzu states that the government should let "Things the Way They Are", which is the same ideal as a modern-day anarchy. He believes that a society shouldn't have any rules or regulations, as this will make peace for the society. His theory doesn't really coincide with the real government because the government structure results in chaos in society. Therefore, a society must have an organized and regulated government, instead of the one that Lao Tze proposed because it is idealistically good, but not entirely effective.

5. Regarding the third treasure that Lao Tzu describes, what do you think is his message? Do you agree? What does this say about people who are ambitious? Lao Tzu's message is that the one who is more modest will be able to easily succeed in being in a high rank in society. I would agree to this idea because someone who is greedy and selfish wouldn't be able to succeed and achieve their goal so easily. This is because people would not appreciate someone who is selfish, and tries to act like a superior power. However, I believe it is hard for us to say that we are entirely modest and selfless, and that slight greed may lead to competition, and later on, success. I also believe that ambition is required when trying to achieve a goal, but you should be careful not to try and beat others, but appreciate your competitors.

CHAPTER ONE THE HOW OF POOH? BY Peter Suh, Daniella Cha, Shelley Shim

F Block Asian Studies (Mr. Plouffe)

**I. PHOTO INTRODUCTION **



**II. SUMMARY** The chapter opens with a discussion between the narrator and Pooh where the narrator decides to explain __Taoism__ . The narrator introduces the topic by referring to a scroll called The Vinegar Tasters, which he finds in a small shop that “sells scrolls in a classic manner”. There are three men standing around a vat of vinegar and each dips a finger in the liquid and tastes it. Each of the three men have a unique reaction. The vinegar tasted here represents the “Essence of Life”, and the three men represent the “Three Teachings” of China. The three men are Confucius (K’ung Fu-tse), Buddha, and Lao Zi (Lao-tse). The first man, Confucius, has a sour look on his face when he tastes the vinegar because to him, life seemed rather sour. He believed that the present and past did not match each other and that the ways of men did not go according to the Way of Heaven. Therefore, he encouraged people to revere their ancestors by performing ancient rituals and ceremonies, and as Confucius said, “If the mat was not straight, the Master would not sit”.

The second man, Buddha, had a bitter expression when he tasted the vinegar because he believed that life was bitter. He thought that life was full of connections and desires that eventually led to suffering. Buddha believed that one’s goal in life would be achieving Nirvana by going through “the world of dust”.

The last man, Lao Zi (Lao-tse), smiled when he tasted the vinegar because he believed that there was a harmony that existed between heaven and earth from the very beginning. Being the creator of Taoism, Lao Zi also published a book called the Tao Te Ching, where he believed that the Heaven existed in the present time; he believed that Earth was an exact reflection of Heaven. Lao Zi also believed that the world was not a “setter of traps”, but a “teacher” of valuable lessons. Unlike Confucius, Lao Zi believed that people should enjoy the “dust of the world” instead of turning away from it, and he believed in “the Way” or “Dao”. Following the “Dao” is the prime principle of Taoism, a Way of the Universe that would initially be difficult to understand, but as its nature and meaning is slowly followed, Taoists would eventually be able to understand it. Taoists believe that the best way to live life is to live in happiness. That is why within the scroll, The Vinegar Tasters, Lao Zi is the only master out of the three who is smiling because he considers the best way to live life is to turn the sour and bitter parts into sweet parts. The only way to do this would be convert things that are unpleasant and negative into things that are positive, and ultimately try to achieve happiness.

** III. SUMMARY ANALYSIS ** I think that Benjamin Hoff decided to introduce Taoism by referring to The Vinegar Tasters because he wanted to create a comparison between the three masters (Confucius, Buddha, Lao Zi) by giving the individual reactions each had when they tasted the vinegar. By using this comparison, Hoff was able to easily show us that Taoism is focused on turning the negative factors of life into positive factors (which is the reason why he was the only man who was smiling). Hoff also proved to us that the most important quality of Taoism is to try to achieve happiness, which is the ultimate goal of life. This introduction to Taoism in the first chapter is clear and accurate, especially as it explains this system by comparing it with Confucianism and Buddhism, which most people are familiar with.

** IV. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ** 1. What does The Vinegar Tasters represent, and why would the shopkeeper describe the scroll as something humorous, or perhaps with some sort of Timeless Meaning?

2. What is “the world of dust”, and why would Lao-tse advise others to “join the world of dust”?

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">3. Who were the three masters in the book The Vinegar Tasters? What does the masters represent?

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">4. Why did K’ung Fu-tse have a sour life, compared to Lao-tse, who had a sweet life?

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">5. What is the “Tao Virtue Book”? What does it emphasize?

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">6. Compare and contrast between the three masters. What are some similarities and differences?

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">7. Why do you think that Benjamin Hoff decided to explain the principle of Taoism by referring to the story of the vinegar tasters and by comparing Lao Zi to Confucius and Buddha?

<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 14.6667px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">** V. THEME ANALYSIS ** <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The three important themes that arise in ‘The How of Pooh’ are Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">They are discussed as the “Three Teachings”, and the sample vinegar in which they test is represented as the Essence of Life.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Confucius (K’ung Fu-tse) has a sour look on his face. This shows that life seems rather sour. The major beliefs are that the government of man on earth was out of harmony with the Way of Heaven, the government of the universe. Also, there is a great emphasis on reverence for the Ancestors, as well as for ancient rituals and ceremonies in which the Son of Heaven, the emperor, acts as an intermediary between the limitless heaven and limited earth.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">On the other hand, Buddha has a bitter expression, which shows that life on earth is bitter, and filled with desires that lead to sufferings. According to the Buddhist belief, the world is seen as ‘a setter of traps, a generator of illusions, and a revolving wheel of pain for all creatures.’ Therefore, the goal is to find peace, and thus, it is necessary to transcend “the world of dust” and reach Nirvana, literally a state of “no wind”.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The most important theme is Taoism. Lao-tse (the author of the oldest existing book of Taoism) is smiling. This shows that the harmony in which nature exists between heaven and earth from the very beginning can be found by anyone at any time. Also, as stated in Tao Te Ching, The “Tao Virtue Book”, earth was in essence of a reflection of heaven, run by the same laws - not the laws of men. The more man interferes with the natural balance produced and governed by the universal laws, the farther away the harmony retreats. Everything has its own nature already within it, which cannot be violated without causing difficulties. The world is not a setter of traps, but a teacher of valuable lessons, and these lessons must be learned, just as its laws need to be followed. Then, all would go well. The natural result of the harmonious way of living is happiness, and that happy serenity is the most noticeable characteristic of the Taoist personality. It is also stated that sourness and bitterness originates from interference and the unappreciative mind. Therefore, when life itself is understood and utilized for what it is, it will be sweet.

<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 14.6667px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">** VI. PHOTOS (URL) ** <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1) Taosim: Yin-Yang Symbol <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000099; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline;">[|__http://taoism.about.com/od/visualsymbols/ig/Taoist-Symbols/Yin-Yang-Symbol.--jj.htm__] <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">2) The Vinegar Tasters <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000099; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline;">[|__http://www.edepot.com/taoism_3-vinegar-tasters.html__] <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">3) The Essence of Life <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000099; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline;">[|__http://newgenerationcoaching.blogspot.com/__] <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">4) Confucius <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000099; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline;">[|__http://www.historyforkids.org/learn/china/philosophy/confucius.htm__] <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">5) Buddha <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000099; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline;">[|__http://buddha-meditation.org/9/buddha-meditation.html/gautam_buddha_in_meditation__] <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">6) Lao Zi <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000099; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline;">[|__http://www.discoverthefire.com/blog/emptiness-lao-tzu/__]

Chuang Tzu And The Butterfly Analysis Response
 * <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Sept. 30, 2011 **

The author chooses a butterfly because it is a creature that generally symbolizes freedom. Also, it may relate to the butterfly effect which is an effect where a small factor eventually leads to something much greater.
 * 1) //Why does the author choose a butterfly?//

The importance of the water cycle is that it starts as ice in the mountains, and flows down into the river as a liquid form. Then it goes to the sea, and eventually evaporates back up into the sky, as a form of gas. This cycle represents the author's idea of a constancy of change in everything.
 * 1) //What is the importance of the water cycle?//

The point about the 'man raising melons' shows that we shouldn't judge another person too quickly, because it turns out that the man raising the melons was actually a prince. It gives us the message that we shouldn't arrive at our conclusions too fast, because you never know.
 * 1) //What is the point about the 'man raising melons'?//

The author is trying to convey the point that when people interact with each other throughout life, we shouldn't judge others too quickly. Also, it also tells us that one cannot choose their own fate because nature will decide our fate for us. We should remember not to let our ego go over our essential self (childlike-ness).
 * 1) //What is the author attempting to convey to the reader?//


 * <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Tao of Pooh Questions **
 * <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Sept. 29, 2011 **
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the significance of the painting Hoff describes named The Vinegar Tasters? (2) The painting Vinegar Tasters expresses the different beliefs of the Three Teachings. You can identify the differences through the facial expressions of the three.
 * 2) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the theme of life according to Hoff’s interpretation of Taoism? (5-6) Hoff’s interpretation of Taoism is that the harmonious way of nature and letting things be as they are is the way to make a happy life.
 * 3) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">How does Hoff explain the “uncarved block” metaphor? (10) The ‘uncarved block’ maintains its power through the original state of simplicity, and is changed when the simplicity is lost.
 * 4) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the secret message of the “uncarved block?” (2) The message is that without complexity in life, one can remain natural, plain, and even child-like, and be able to spontaneoulsy have things work out.
 * 5) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What was the main conflict between the Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff? (24) To the Taoists, Confucianists were busy scholars trying to learn everything and become wise, unlike the Taoists who enjoyed and learned from the natural way of life.
 * 6) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Which of Milne’s characters represent Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff? Pooh represents the Taoists, and the Owl represents the Confucianist.
 * 7) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is Hoff’s opinion of Confucianist scholars? (26) Hoff believs that Confucianist scholars, or ‘desiccated scholars’, ‘studies Knowledge for Knowledge’ and writes pompous, abstract essays rather than trying to spread enlightenment to others.
 * 8) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What does Hoff say about knowledge vs. experience? (29) Hoff says that knowledge and experience cannot necessarily be compared for they are two different things, but knowledge that comes from experience is more valuable than plain knowledge.
 * 9) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What do most scholars blame for problems in the world? Why isn’t it justified? (32) Most scholars blame the ‘uncarved blocks’, whom they think are ignorant. It isn’t justified because the problem is often indirectly or directly caused by the scholar’s limitations and nearsightedness.
 * 10) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the difference between “cleverness” and “Inner Nature?” (38)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Cleverness refers to the knowledge while inner nature is basic knowledge which cannot be measured.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Why is it important to discern your own Inner Nature? (41)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">It is important because you can find out where you belong in the world and make right or wrong judgements.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Explain Hoff’s interpretation of the Chinese quote: “One disease, long life; No disease, short life.” (48)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> In his quote, Hoff is stating that one who acknowledges their own problems and try to solve them in some way, will have a longer life. He also says that those who avoid their problems instead of trying to solve them, will live a more shorter life because they will not learn how to look after themselves.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What does Hoff mean when he states that we must learn to “work with Things As They Are?” (50)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">He means that we should deal with and adjust to things in their pure form, instead of trying to change them or find new ways.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What happens to people who do not listen to their Inner Nature? (57)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The people who don’t listen to their Inner Nature will easily lead them to the wrong path because they won’t be able to understand themselves.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the Way of Self-Reliance? (57-8)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The Way of Self-Reliance is one in which starts with recognizing who we are, what we’ve got to work with, and what works best for us.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">How can we change ourselves effectively through the principles of Taoism? (58)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">We can change ourselves through the principles of Taoism by making a good use of the benefits by getting rid of the negatives and try to search for the path which suits us.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way” according to Hoff? (67-8)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">According to Hoff, Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way” means without doing, causing, or making. But in practical speaking, it means without meddlesome, combative, or egotistical effort.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">How does the quote, “Tao does not do, but nothing is not done,” explain Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way?” (70)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">It means that things just happen by nature, without meaning it to happen. Tao doesn’t try to do things, but things just happen and end up in with a positive result.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">How does Tai Chi reflect Wu Wei or Taoism as a martial art? (87-8)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Tai Chi reflects Wu Wei/ Taoism as a martial art which involves wearing your component down by deflecting his way.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Are you a Bisy Backson? (94)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">No, because Bisy Backson is very active, and wastes time by trying to save it. I don’t tend to do that but rather, look ahead and deal with things ahead of me.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the Bisy Backson view of American history according to Hoff? (103-104)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Bisy Backson believes that he has to overcome things in order to progress and make changes to everything.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">How does the Bisy Backson waste time by trying to save it? (108-109)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">As the Bisy Backson trying to save every bit of it, he ends up wasting the whole thing. And sine he has practically no time at all, he was too busy wasting it by trying to save it.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the Youthful Immortal? (108-9)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Youthful Immortal is the idea that is been made when Taoist discovered the Secrets of Life and it is divided into three things: a long life of youthful appearance, outlook, and energy.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What makes us happy in life the goals or the process we go through to reach the goals? Why? (111)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Accomplishing the goals or processes we go through in life makes us happy. This is because the sensation of actually finishing something gives you great happiness and a feeling to do better. However, it’s also important to have further future goals, not to just be satisfied.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the significance of The Stonecutter? (118-9)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The Stonecutter is significant because it’s actually the most important, strongest character. It’s just easy for people to disregard or not consider it as that. In the cycle he was the first, and in fact he goes through changes until he is finally a rock.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Explain the significance of the following line from the Tao Te Ching: “From caring comes courage.” (128)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">This line is important in which shows how human psychology sort of works. People receive kindness, they tend to appreciate it and therefore give it back. Kindness gives them more courage to give kindness in return as well.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Where does one find Wisdom, Happiness and Courage? (137)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">One finds wisdom/happiness/courage from a variety places, but it must be in the regular whole cycle.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the “Great Nothing?” (143)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The Great Nothing is the main theme of Taoism, where having nothing is actually something; doing nothing is actually something.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Why is an “Empty sort of mind” so valuable according to Taoism? (146-7)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">An Empty sort of mind is valuable in Taosim since it enables to think from a more objective perspective. In contrast, a filled, stuffed mind won’t be able to focus or concentrate as much. Also, being empty is being pure and innocent - better than knowing everything.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Interpret the following quote: “To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day.” (148-9)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">This is a hard quote, where it shows that wisdom and IQ(knowledge) aren’t so much related. In fact, the quote basically means that they are inversely related. In order to gain knowledge, you just learn and learn, but there’s a certain limit. However, wisdom is perpetual, and an everlasting thing. It’s only obtainable when you’re in an open mindset, where you are in an objective view and accept things, and see everything in a wider view.
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Why is the child the highest stage of development? (151)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The child is the highest stage of development since a child is innocent and pure, which means they have an empty mind (not stupid!). When they age, they lose wisdom, and gain knowledge due to nurturement,
 * 1) <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Why may knowledge and cleverness destroy life as we know it? (154)

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Knowledge and cleverness can destroy life as we know it since it creates chaos in which people aren’t unique, and are unable to share thoughts or collaborate. Also, it would destroy the wisdom since it affects how you view things; in other words, you get biased.

Sept. 23, 2011
 * Jigsaw Activity**

__**Part II: Reading - Confucius' Ideal Government (Discussion questions**__ Sept. 21, 2011
 * 1) //If you were a ruler during the time of Confucius, would you have accepted his advice about government? Why?//
 * 2) If I were a ruler during the time of Confucius, I would not have accepted his advice about government because during the Zhou Dynasty, the rulers were concentrating more on internal warfare and stability. Therefore, military and survival must have been more important to them than gaining confidence.


 * 1) //Do you think any of Confucius's thoughts about government could be useful to government leaders today? If so, what do you think could be helpful? If not, what are some of the most important problems involved in his perspective?//
 * 2) I think Confucius's thoughts about government could be useful to the government leaders today because his main idea is that the leader should set a good example for the citizens. If so, then the people will follow and respect the leader who is setting a good example. Also, if the leader is wise enough, then the people will respect his opinions and methods of governing, as well as following his example.

Sept. 21, 2011
 * __What would Confucius do?__**

__**Notes of Confucius and Confucianism**__ Sept. 20, 2011

Sept. 20, 2011
 * __Reading Karma in the Jakatas - Haven't I seen you before__**



Sept. 9th, 2011
 * __Comparison of Ch'an and two other schools of Buddhism__**



Confucianism


 * Sept. 9th, 2011**

__Cha´an Buddhism Video__ Daniella and James P.

media type="youtube" key="VCU0Rcy-hQo" height="345" width="560"

__Script:__

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Ch'an Buddhism, also known as Zen Buddhism in Japan, is a major sect of Chinese Mahayana Buddhism, that originated from China, during the Song Dynasty around 6th century CE. It is traditionally said to be a Chinese adaptation of the Indian Dhyana meditation and is greatly influenced by Daoism. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">It was first introduced by an Indian warrior and monk, Bodhidharma, who traveled from South India to China, and taught at the first Shaolin monastery. According to Bodhidharma’s teachings, Ch'an was a reaction to imbalance in Chinese Buddhism towards the blindness of textual scholarship and emphasized on the practices of meditation.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The followers of Ch'an Buddhism believe that enlightenment can be attained through different methods of meditation, self-contemplation, and intuition instead of through their direct faith and devotion. Ch'an Buddhism is practiced mostly in regions of China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. They teach that the contemplation of one’s nature to the exclusion of all others is the one and only way in which they can achieve pure enlightenment. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Ch'an Buddhism differs from other schools of Buddhism in the way that they concentrate more on meditation and emphasizes the meditative state. Ch'an follows the belief that meditation is the way of gaining self-knowledge, and therefore, does not concentrate much on theoretical knowledge, philosophical discussions or the studying of writing, in contrast to the traditions of different Buddhist schools. Enlightenment cannot be achieved through good deeds because all thoughts are illusory, including the study of the sutras, or the cultivation of morality.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">There exists six different variations within Ch’an Buddhism. The first, is double truth, which states that there are two kinds of truths - a common one and a higher one. This examines the relationship between existence and non-existence. Ch’an was also influenced by Daoist beliefs that a good deed entails no retribution, meaning that action without effort does not reach Karma or future retribution. The main method of attaining Enlightenment is by living naturally. Ch'an believes that Enlightenment is not a gradual process, but a sudden one. Also, the state of Enlightenment cannot be described. Last, but not least, they believe that there exists no reality except the phenomenal world. The Enlightened ones may seek Buddha’s nature within the phenomenal world. These six variations are all influenced by the strong beliefs of Daoism in China.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">There are different methods of meditation in Ch'an Buddhism, such as the sitting meditation, intensive group practices, and more. Sitting meditation is the main practice where one holds the Lotus position and directs the mind by regular in and out breathing.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Followers of the Ch'an school believe that scriptural authority as an inadequate method of expressing religious truth, which can only be realized by the mind. Therefore, it emphasizes the emptying of the mind. This state can be achieved by meditation practice, in order to seek one’s true nature. Every thought that an individual makes can lead them to have a brighter future result, Karma. This will decide the form in which one will appear in his or her next life.

<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The mind-to-mind transmission of this wisdom is the unique aspect of Chan Buddhism that happens between the teacher and the practitioner. The main difference between Ch'an and the other schools of Buddhism is that Ch'an emphasizes on meditative practices, in order to achieve their main goal - Enlightenment.

__Citations:__ MLA (Web resources):

" ChÃ¡n and Zen Buddhism." SodaHead - Ask or Answer Questions, Discuss News, Express Opinions, or Create Polls. N.p., n.d. Web. 8 Sept. 2011. <http://www.sodahead.com/living/chan-and-zen-buddhism/question-1304593/>.

Deters, Ray. "Chan Buddhism." Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism: Thai Exotic Treasures - Gifts and Information. Web Ring., n. d. Web. 8 Sep. 2011. <http://www.thaiexotictreasures.com/chan_buddhism.html>.

"Puji Temple - Chan Temple of Universal Salvation." Cultura China.Cultura China, n.d. Web. 8 Sep 2011. <http://history.cultural-china.com/en/169History8327.html>.

Images: __@http://www.allposters.com/-sp/Zen-Moment-Posters_i1121014_.htm__ __@http://students.ou.edu/M/Jonathan.D.Mc-Kay-1/buddhistphilosophy.html__ __@http://www.buddhistdoor.com/oldweb/bdoor/archive/nutshell/teach21.htm__ __@http://www.chanmeditationlondon.org/sample-page/what-is-chan/__ __@http://www.angelfire.com/electronic/awakening101/welter.html__ __@http://www.onmarkproductions.com/html/mahayana-buddhism.html__ __@http://www.kung-fu.se/orginalshaolin.htm__ __@http://www.aaa.com/?rclub=4&rurl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.calif.aaa.com%2fen-ca%2fexplore-travel%2fresearch-des__ __@http://photo-dict.faqs.org/phrase/1822/zen.html__ __@http://www.asia.si.edu/exhibitions/online/buddhism/japan4a.htm__ __@http://news.yourolivebranch.org/2011/02/28/practicing-the-zen-of-business-sustainability/__ __@http://terriszengarden.com/?page_id=19__ http://www.dia.org/exhibitions/tao/taoism/activity_art.asp http://www.sahajayoga.net.au/question-can-you-provide-the-definition-of-enlightenment/ http://spiritualnetworks.com/ehsanmeh/photo/view/enlightenment-21/ http://www.exoticindiaart.com/product/paintings/beauty-of-enlightenment-TC83/ http://www.worldofmaps.com/showitem.cfm?lcd=japan&pcd=japan_flag_patch_35_x_225&isbn=8586

Buddhism

 * Sept. 5th, 2011**

__Current Events: Ahn may run for Seoul Mayor__



__**Religion**__

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How does your religion impact your identity? Be sure to describe your journey (even if it is on-going). How does your religion impact your family? How does your religion impact your society (and even the world)?


 * Script:**

I was raised in a Christian family, so I attended church ever since I was born, and I was baptized as a baby. I still go to church with my family every Sunday and I think that my religious life hasn’t changed much since I was young. I learn different things from church and I am able to relate the verses of the Bible to my own life and everything I go through. Therefore, my religion has impacted me in many different ways.

Religion impacts my identity in the way that I was able to solve different problems and overcome hardships in many circumstances throughout my life. Whenever I felt sad or tired, I would pray and I believe that God gave me strength to overcome these hardships, and I also began to understand why such things happened to me. Also, praying really helps me to feel more comfortable when I’m in bad situations.

Religion has impacted my family because every Sunday we attend Church, and I think having a common belief has led us to understand each other and pray for each other in times of hardship and joy.

Christianity has greatly influenced the world as it is the biggest religion, but I also think it helps create a community within the religion where Christians can share their thoughts and experiences in life. <range type="comment" id="604223">Through Christianity, I have learned that it is important to love everyone around us. Therefore, Christianity has had a major impact in my life so far.

Although I am a Christian, living in Korea means that there are countless influences of Buddhism and Confucianism around me, because Korea's culture is based on Confucianism. I say "unni" and "oppa" to those who are older than me, which is one example of a practice of Confucianism, and I always spot Buddhist temples around my house. Whenever I climb a mountain, there's always a Buddhist temple at the top, in which people visit to pray. I respect these other religions, and I believe it is some sort of culture that should be respected by everyone.


 * Aug. 31, 2011**

On your own wikispace (see left margin for your respective class) find your name, and open the wiki. Click edit and answer the questions above in complete, well considered sentences.
 * WHAT DO RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY HAVE IN COMMON? And, WHY IS THE STUDY OF RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY IMPORTANT?**

Religion and Philosophy both have a system of values and beliefs in which they follow and reflect in society. They both shape the peoples' minds about the world and society, and different religious or philosophical views are shown differently in different societies. They both believe that we should all share the same world and property, and guide us with how to behave and live in this world. The study of religion and philosophy is important because we must be able to understand other religions and philosophies, in order to understand other people who have different beliefs. Religion and philosophy also shapes their lifestyle, beliefs, attitudes and other societal factors, so it is important to know the different views and beliefs of different people. Therefore, in a globalized world, we must be able to understand and acknowledge people with different beliefs in order to minimize conflicts and arguments that may occur due to lack of understanding.