Origin of Christmas – The Biblical Account
Posted by the Speaker - 12/11/11 at 07:11:55 pm
The origin of Christmas is detailed in the biblical account in the book of Luke. We’ll discuss how the story came to be and how other traditions became associated with this holiday.
So most Christians, the origin of Christmas is tied directly with the birth of Jesus Christ as detailed in the bible. But there are a number of customs and traditions related to Christmas which have absolutely nothing to do with the celebration of the birth of Christ.
For example Dec. 25th is the Christmas day. However no one is actually sure exactly when Christ was born. It was most likely in late summer or early fall about 2,000 years ago. So the use of this date probably originated with the ancient birthday of the son god Mithra who was a pagan deity. The significance of this deity became widespread in the Roman Empire during the first few centuries after the birth of Christ.
This lead to a celebration of various Pagan deities around this time of year. Eventually Rome converted this Pagan celebration to a celebration of the god Saturn and the rebirth of the god during the winder solstice period. This winter holiday became known as Saturnalia and it began a week prior to December 25th. This festival was characterized by gift giving, feasts and merriment. It was a very joyous and festive time.
Variations of this holiday flourished during the first few centuries of the new millennium. But in 336AD, Emperor Constantine officially converted this pagan holiday into the Christian holiday of Christmas.
Facts About Barack Obama
Posted by the Speaker - 23/10/09 at 03:10:26 pm
There are many facts about Barack Obama that you did not know about. One of the things that most people wonder about this President is where he was born. Barack Obama was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on August 4, 1961. His mothers name is Stanley Ann Dunham and he is named after his father Barack Obama Sr. He is indeed a United States citizen as he was born in the United States.
Many people think that President Obama is Muslim, and while that may be part of his childhood, he has professed on many occasions that he does practice Christianity and has for at least 20 years. He says that he and his family regularly attend church and they use the Bible. He has stated this fact many times, but it is still widely reported that he is an avid Muslim which has turned out to be false information.
Many people also wonder about Michelle Obama. The First Lady is 5’11” tall which makes her one of the tallest First Ladies in history. She has reported this information herself on some of the most popular morning shows. She met Barack at a law firm where she was employed as a lawyer at the time and they were then married in 1992.
There are many facts about Barack Obama that are incorrect, and finding accurate information may prove to be a challenge. If you are looking for more facts about this interesting President you may have to do some looking to find the facts that are relative and true.
Wearing Hijab Banned in Uzbekistan
Posted by Robi - 28/08/09 at 05:08:37 am
On the ahead of security threat Uzbek administration has said any Muslim women in the state cannot wear the Islamic veil, or any type of hijab. The decision will be observed from 18th anniversary celebrations of Uzbekistan’s independence on 1st September.
Hijab wearing female in the country have told Radio Free Europe (RFE) that police have already initiated approaching them (women) for identity papers. The police have particularly said the women not to get the hijab on first September as their loose-fitting garments can be used by terrorists to hide explosives or their identities
Obama Wish to Muslims World
Posted by Robi - 22/08/09 at 06:08:32 amAhead of holy month Ramadan US President Barack Obama extended his greatest wishes to the Muslims world Friday. President Obama said again his yearning to restore relationship between the USA and Muslim world that have historically suffered. Former US President George W. Bush also sent similar messages in Ramadan. Earlier, Obama started effort on this purpose with an important speech in Cairo in June. The speech was designed to extend relations in the Islamic community.
In a video message, Obama said ‘These rituals remind us of the principles that we hold in common, and Islam’s role in advancing justice, progress, tolerance, and the dignity of all human beings.’ He told the US will keep on isolating violent extremists. He added ‘America will always stand for the universal rights of all people to speak their mind, practice their religion, contribute fully to society and have confidence in the rule of law.’
Learn Hindi to Know Hinduism
Posted by Robi - 22/08/09 at 06:08:11 amBy learning Hindi one can understand and practice Hinduism better – said an Indian diplomat. He told : ‘The study or the full appreciation of Hindi helps one to understand, practise and enhance Hinduism as one of the world’s most major and relevant religions today.’ The diplomat is Indian High Commissioner Malay Mishra.
The Indian High Commission makes a set-up all over Trinidad and Tobago to provide opportunities for everybody to learn, understand and practice Hindi. The diplomat was talking on Tuesday at the twenty-sixth anniversary celebrations of the Edinburgh Hindu Temple, Chaguanas. Mohan Persad, Leela Jugmohan, Indra Juman, and Suresh Jaisir were addressee of this temple’s anniversary awards. He said: ‘Its (Hinduism) teaching is universal and cuts across ethnic, cultural, social or geographical limitations. Hinduism in inclusive and welcoming.’ More than 24 percent in 1.3 million populations are practicing Hindus, and there are around 200 temples spread in the country.
Mishra said that Hinduism has three facets such as mythology, ritual and philosophy all which combined build it eternal and outstanding. He said ‘One must delve in Hinduism for self-discovery and the full meaning and interpretation of life.’
Spiritual leader, Pundit Ramesh Tiwari said the Edinburgh Hindu Temple always provides spiritual as well as social services to its devotees. Tiwari told ‘We have been able to do this with a dynamic team of Hindus. We understand that whatever education you might have acquired, if one does not have human kindness then all schooling and accomplishments amount to nothing. Service to humanity is one of the important virtues of a human being.’ Hinduism was appeared by immigrants who landed here between 1845 and 1917 to job on the sugar plantations.