230 Early World Civilizations: Supplemental Guide 13A | Three World Religions
Presenting the Read-Aloud 15 minutes
Three World Religions
Show image 13A-1: Sky
Have you ever wondered how the universe came to be? Or
why the stars shine at night? Or what makes a rainbow? Perhaps
you’ve wondered what causes a thunderstorm or an earthquake,
or why the earth has more water than land. Well, you are not
alone. Lots of people have wondered about these same things for
thousands of years.
Show image 13A-2: Gods and goddesses of Mesopotamia
To fi nd answers to these questions, people looked at the natural
world around them. They were amazed by the power of the sun
and moon and stars. Some people believed some animals were
sacred, or holy, and they worshiped them.
The ancient Mesopotamians and Egyptians worshiped many
gods and goddesses whom they believed controlled everything
that happened on Earth. They made offerings to the gods and held
festivals and ceremonies in their honor.
People began following religions long, long ago. People have
always asked many questions: How did people come to live on
the earth? What are the stars in the sky? Who, if anyone, controls
everything that happens? Their explanations of all the mysteries
of the universe became stories that they told one another, long
before writing was ever invented.
Show image 13A-3: Three world religions 1
Not everyone in ancient times had the same beliefs or religions.
The same is true today. There are many different religious beliefs
and many different religions.^21 [Point to the image and explain
to students that these three
symbols are just three amongst
many religions and many religious
symbols in the world.]
2 [Refer back to the chart paper
where you recorded students’
previous responses, and ask if
anyone has another group that
they want to add to the list.]