Ancient Asian Civilizations

Describe Siddhartha’s early life. What made him leave? Bellwork block 2 Read about Buddhism on pages 112-115 and answer the following: Describe Siddhartha’s early life. What made him leave? What happened as a result of Siddhartha’s meditation? What is nirvana? In your own words, summarize The “Four Noble Truths.” In your opinion, which aspect of “The Middle Path” is most important? Why? How did Siddhartha challenge Hinduism? THINKER: Why is Buddhism classified as a philosophy and NOT a religion?

Venn Diagram: India vs. China CHINESE CIVILIZATION INDIAN

Government was based off land ownership Shang Dynasty 1750BC – 1045BC Government was based off land ownership King appointed leaders to rule local territories (aristocracy) Religion: Believed in the afterlife and worshiped ancestors; believed priests could communicate with gods (oracle bones) Used large armies, bronze weapons and chariots to conquer territory Cultural achievements: bronze objects, ivory, pottery, and the creation of cities.

Zhou Dynasty In 1045BC, the Shang king was killed (tyrant!) and a new dynasty came to power, the Zhou. (JOH) Ruled by the Mandate of Heaven Priests had the authority to call upon the gods and predict the future Agricultural system: nobles owned the land and peasants worked it. Technological advances: roads, horses, cross-bow, iron plows, irrigation & expanded foreign trade (silk) Under the Zhou, China became the most populated country in the world. After 800 years of rule, internal violence & civil wars challenged the king’s rule.

Egypt Egypt Mesopotamia China India India China

DISCUSSION THINKER: Today we will begin our study of the Israelites who were unique in their practice of monotheism. Make a prediction  How will other empires interact with the Israelites based on their religious beliefs? Why? Explain!

The Israelites The Israelites were another early civilization who lived in the Middle East & Asia. Eventually, they permanently settle in Israel, but it was a difficult journey. Although they did not make large contributions to politics, their religion influenced Christianity and Islam. In this period, history intertwines with religion – do not make judgments!

Israelites & Judaism The teachings of the Israelites exist as Judaism today. The Israelites’ history/beliefs are outlined in the Hebrew Bible, or the Torah (Christians = Old Testament) Disclaimer: This history is from a religious text!

Abraham: A herder/trader who lived in Mesopotamia Origins Abraham: A herder/trader who lived in Mesopotamia Prophet: holy messengers who received commands from God God (Yahweh) made a covenant, or agreement, with Abraham. In 1900BC, he left Mesopotamia and settled in Canaan.

Move to Egypt Causes: Effects: Severe drought and famine in Canaan Pharaohs enslaved them

Exodus out of Egypt Moses was an Israelite leader in the 1200’s BC. He led his people out of Egypt in an exodus across the Sinai desert.

The Ten Commandments On the trek across the Sinai, Moses and the Israelites pledged to reject all other Gods. Also promised to obey God’s laws, or the Ten Commandments. Influenced modern laws and religion.

Creating a Kingdom David, a military leader, became King of the Israelites in 1012B.C - united the kingdom & organized a government. His son, Solomon, set up a capital at Jerusalem, expanded the army and encouraged trade.

The city of Jerusalem has been occupied continuously for centuries The city of Jerusalem has been occupied continuously for centuries. According to tradition, King David built the city in 1000BC. This section of Jerusalem (known as the City of David) is where Jerusalem was believed to be founded.

Under King Solomon, ancient Israel reached the height of its power.

The First Temple built by King Solomon was viewed as the symbolic center of their religion. (It was destroyed in 587BC during a siege….)

HOMEWORK Finish your Venn Diagram!