sundiata discussion post
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Clayton State University *
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2111
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Philosophy
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Dec 6, 2023
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docx
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Uploaded by SargentTitaniumSquirrel26
In 2-3 well-developed paragraphs discuss the topic listed
below. After you have posted your discussion, respond in
detail to the Discussion Topic posts of at least two other
classmates.
Syncretic religious practices as found in
Sundiata
:
Many characters in
Sundiata
simultaneously follow both
traditional African and Islamic tenets of faith; that is, their
beliefs are syncretic. Discuss how one character from this epic
combines different religious traditions. Be specific. In what
ways is this character successful or unsuccessful at doing so?
Are there deeper values common to both faiths? Where might
these beliefs conflict? More generally, where else have you
seen syncretic religious practices (perhaps other books you
have read, TV shows, movies, etc)?
In the epic Sundiata, there are themes and examples of a difference in religion such as Islamic
and African beliefs. Each religion is different in its beliefs and practices but blends in an epic
that is structured and detailed to each character. In Sundiata, the character Sogolon Kedijou
exemplifies great belief in religion by practicing characteristic traits of traditional Islamic and
African beliefs. Sogolon
combines several religious traditions while maintaining her Muslim
faith and accepting African spiritual customs.
Sogolon Kedijou's religious practices can be seen as successful as well as unsuccessful.
Sogolon relied heavily on her religious beliefs when her son's development was behind. Her
husband began to lose faith but she remained steadfast for a miracle. “Her son's infirmity
weighed heavily upon Sogolon Kedjou; she had resorted to all her talent as a sorceress to give
strength to her son's legs, but the rarest herbs had been useless. The king himself lost
hope”(Sundiata 16). Sogolon's obedience to Islam gives her a sense of understanding and a
connection to God of ethical principles shown through her hurt and determination. “Sogolon
became pregnant again. The king hoped for a son, but it was a daughter called Kolonkan. She
resembled her mother and had nothing of her father's beauty. The disheartened king debarred
Sogolon from his house and she lived in semi-disgrace for a while,”(Sundiata 16).
Yes, there are deeper values that are common to both Islamic and African faiths. Each religion
has common structural values such as monotheism, family and community importance,
respect and honor for elders, hospitality, sacred practices, and moral values.
Syncretic
Religious beliefs can be seen throughout other contexts as well. We often see a difference in
practices in different areas of the world. Gnosticism is a belief that salvation is a revelation of
knowledge by the divine, humankind, and spiritual nature. A conflict of beliefs often ties into
relationships. I recently watched a movie “Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret. The movie
was centered around eleven-year-old Margaret who struggles to fit into society and find who
she was as a person. Margaret's main worry in finding herself was her religion. Her dad was
Jewish while her mom was catholic. Her parents decided it was best for Margaret to decide
what religion meant for her on her terms. She wanted to please both parents. She dove
insensibly into both religions to see what better fit her.
Margaret's parents expressed their
insights into their religion and the cultural beliefs that make them who they are.
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