tribes, especially in ancient civilizations, are important for families and neighbors to grow close, and for communities to protect each other. But their are downsides to this idea of the tribe. tribes are not very connected with other tribes, they have not alot of skills for working with each other. they all have different customs, different beliefs, and different opinions. because of this, when islam brings these tribes together, they can't communicate because of their differences. Also many lower tribes were looked down upon by higher ones, and this went against Muhammad's teachings. when Muhammad's power needed to be passed on, these different opinions flared up, and fights broke out. Muslims broke up into the Sunnis and the Shiites, who still fight today. The Sunnis believe that the power should go to whoever was taught by Muhammad, and the Shiites think that the power should go through his bloodline. This idea also relates back to one of the tribes traditions which is that many small fights will elevate and last for generations. In conclusion, because of tribes and the concept of the tribe in islamic history, the muslim people are broken in two.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
India is a very peaceful place. There are many reasons for why they are so peaceful, but in my opinion, it is mainly its rich Hindu and Buddhist history. The powerful empire of the Guptas was Hindu, and the empire of the Mauryas, ruled by Ashoka, was Buddhist. At many times, there were Buddhists, Hinduism and Jainists living right next to each other. Because of this, they were forced to be accepting of each others opinions. These religions focused on self control, living without desire, and peace. All three of these religions became popular throughout the world and are still today. An example of one who practices Hinduism, is Ghandi. He believed in standing up for what you believe for, but to use nonviolence. He spread his teachings throughout the world. he protested the apartheid in south Africa, and he peacefully fought for India's independence. Ghandi said,"There are many causes that I am prepared to die for, but no cause that I am prepared to kill for." If Ghandi wasn't From India, and didn't practice Hinduism, then he wouldn't be a person who is as insightful and peaceful as he was, and India wouldn't be as peaceful as it is today.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Yes, migration can definitely have a positive impact on both the natives and their land. There is a chain reaction that occurs when two cultures or peoples move into the same land. Let's use the example of the population of a city that runs out of food and is forced to migrate. They combine with another city where resources are less scarce. When people are near each other, population increases. This leads to expanding cities and trade routes. As more people and cultures flow into this city state, it becomes more and more developed and will soon turn into an empire. When cultures come together, art, technology, and science are all enhanced. Monks, traders, and missionaries travel to the city and spread religion, which unites the people, and starts the cycle over again. Although this seems like a great system, it does have some drawbacks. Overpopulation can mean not enough food to go around, deforestation, and quickly spreading diseases. These things can lead to quickly collapsing empires like the Mongols. However, overall, migration is a positive thing that helps cultures and cities thrive and expand.
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