________________
CONCLUDING REMARKS
The religions considered in the present thesis are categorised on a simple understanding of the terms 'God', 'divine intervention', 'soul', 'life' and 'body'. Despite differing with each other on the reason behind the creation and existence of the universe, most religions agree to the existence of the above elements.
To develop a clearer understanding of these differences, I developed a questionnaire consisting of basic but fundamental questions to be asked of practising scholars of the 5 religions mentioned in this chapter. I have stated their answers as they were told to me.
In order to imbibe a nuanced understanding of the similarities and differences between these religions, let us collate the information and draw conclusions on its basis.
First of all, let us classify religions based on their origin and central tenet.
Three major world religions - Judaism, Christianity and Islam - originated from the Middle East. All three are Abrahamic religions, believing in monotheism. This supreme deity, this one God sent his messenger on earth to preach his message to mankind. This messenger could either be his prophet, (like Moses and Mohammed) or his son, (Jesus).
All three Abrahamic religions believe in a scripture known as the 'Torah' (Old Testament). Since the Torah outlines the major principles and the underlying philosophy behind the religion, the fundamental concepts followed by the three Abrahamic religions are similar. Hence, they have a great deal in common with each other, not only in terms of philosophy and theology, but also in terms of secular practices, mythology, shared history, common geography, etc.
in
India.
Unlike these three religions, Jainism, Hinduism and Buddhism originated Their understanding is significantly different from the trio of Abrahamic religions.
Hinduism accepts the existence of more than one God. Buddhism accepts the Buddha as the ultimate master and some even as a supreme being. Jainism believes that every soul is capable of apotheosis.
Now, let us compare the answers given by practising scholars of these religions:
Question 1: Does your religion believe in the soul?
Summary of Answers to Question 1: Judaism, Christianity and Islam are aligned in their understanding of the soul. They believe that every soul is created by the direct intervention of God. They are clear that although souls have been created by God, they are not a part of God and cannot ever become one with God. Nor can they become Gods themselves.
388
