Buddhism and Bahá'í Faith

Select one of the following religions to research. Select a religion that reflects the population that you may serve. What you select should be different from what you did in Topic 4:
• Buddhism
• Bahá'í Faith
• Islam
• Judaism
• Atheism
• New Thought
• Mormon
• Jehovah's Witnesses (USE THIS RELIGION PLEASE)
• Native American (pantheism)
• Zoroastrianism
• Hinduism
• Sikhism
Your research should focus on views of suffering and grief from the selected religion.
In 500-750 words, address the following:

  1. Describe the view of suffering for your selected religion (source and cause of suffering).
  2. Explain the grieving process for your selected religion. If one is not prescribed by the religion, do your best to explain how that religion might deal with the grieving process.
  3. Identify the customs practiced by your selected religion to deal with suffering and grief.
  4. Compare the similarities and differences between your selected religion and Christianity's approaches to suffering and grief.
    Support your position by referencing three to five sources

Full Answer Section

     

Furthermore, they believe that Satan, "the ruler of this world" (John 14:30), actively promotes suffering and injustice. He is seen as the instigator of persecution against true worshippers and the source of many of the world's problems. While God permits suffering for a time, Jehovah's Witnesses believe He does so for a greater purpose, ultimately to vindicate His sovereignty and prove the righteousness of His rulership. They find comfort in the promise that God will eventually end all suffering and establish a righteous new world (Revelation 21:3, 4).  

2. The Grieving Process:

Jehovah's Witnesses do not have a prescribed, formal grieving process with specific rituals. However, their faith provides a strong framework for coping with loss. They encourage reliance on Jehovah God through prayer and study of the Bible. They view death not as an end but as a sleep, awaiting a future resurrection (John 5:28, 29; 1 Thessalonians 4:13). This belief in the resurrection provides a powerful source of hope and comfort during bereavement.  

While expressing grief is natural and accepted, Jehovah's Witnesses emphasize maintaining a positive spiritual outlook. They find strength in associating with fellow believers at Kingdom Halls (their places of worship) and sharing their faith with others. This communal support and continued engagement in their religious activities are essential components of their grieving process. They may also draw comfort from focusing on the positive memories of the deceased and the hope of seeing them again in the resurrection.  

3. Customs for Dealing with Suffering and Grief:

Jehovah's Witnesses actively support one another during times of suffering and grief. When a member is ill, others in the congregation often visit, offer practical assistance, and pray for them. When a death occurs, the congregation provides emotional support to the bereaved family, often organizing meals and helping with funeral arrangements.

Funerals for Jehovah's Witnesses are typically simple and dignified affairs held at a Kingdom Hall or funeral home.

The focus is on honoring the deceased's life and highlighting the Bible's hope of the resurrection. A talk based on the Bible is usually given, offering comfort and encouragement to those in attendance. Mourning is expressed, but excessive displays of grief are discouraged, as they are encouraged to focus on the hope of the resurrection

Sample Answer

       

Jehovah's Witnesses: Views on Suffering and Grief

Jehovah's Witnesses, a Christian denomination with a distinct theology, hold specific beliefs regarding suffering and grief. Their views are deeply rooted in their interpretation of the Bible, which they consider the ultimate authority. Understanding these beliefs is crucial for healthcare professionals seeking to provide culturally sensitive and appropriate care to Jehovah's Witness patients and their families.  

1. View of Suffering:

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that suffering originates primarily from two sources: human imperfection and Satan's influence. They acknowledge that humans inherited imperfection and sin from Adam and Eve, leading to physical and emotional suffering, including sickness, old age, and death (Romans 5:12). This suffering is not seen as divine punishment for individual sins but rather as a consequence of the inherited imperfection affecting all humanity.