sundiata discussion post
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Clayton State University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
2111
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
2
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)?
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)?
One character who successfully combined different religious traditions was Sundiata.
Sundiata grew up in places that observed both islam and local religion which allowed him to
obtain a balance between the two religions and their traditions. We see in the story that
throughout many battles, Sundiata was found sacrificing animals to win the jinns favor.
However, we also see him pray to god when he knew his mother was drawing close to death
(Sundiata 26). Sundiata was successful in combining different religious traditions because he
was able to unite many peoples under one kingdom. His reign was peaceful and drastically
different from the one of the Sorcerer king Soumaoro. I think it is reasonable to attribute the
difference between these two rulers to the way they followed religious practices. Sundiata
followed Islam but it is important to note that the way he practiced local religion was even
different from Soumaoro. Soumaoro used many evil talismans and dark magic which
ultimately led to his downfall (Sundiata 22).
There definitely are deeper values that are common to both religions. Following a natural
order is common to both religions. In Islam you must follow the command of Allah to be
deemed worthy of salvation. Similarly to gain power in witchcraft you must honor spirits and
work to earn their favor. Stepping outside of this “natural order” has grave consequences in
both religions. For example, Soumaoro completely ditched this natural order and went down a
power hungry sadistic path which ultimately led to his demise. Islam and local african
religions would have major conflicts on the use of witchcraft. We see in this epic that calling
upon jinns or other spirits is a normal practice in local religions, however Islam considers this
practice as forbidden and punishable. The most notable place I have seen syncretic practices is
Haiti. Many haitians practice Vodou, which combines Yoruba religion with Catholicism.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help