Believe
A comprehensive picture of the faith of mankind – this series features the origins and mutual impact of 5 world religions, and gets behind their festivals, traditions and the challenges of today.
The 5-part documentary series tells the fascinating story of the most important spiritual revolutions in world history that have been of central influence to humanity ever since. Prejudice and false shame may not allow people to inform themselves outside their own religion, but this series offers a remedy. Each episode focuses on the history of one of the five world religions. The show discovers how the respective religions came into being and how they shaped society, or what influence historical events had on the religion itself and its tradition. The series explains in detail what the followers of each religion believe and how they are practiced in the present.
Episodes
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Christianity
This captivating documentary provides a fascinating insight into the rich world of Christianity. Experts provide vivid and informative commentary to illuminate the multi-layered history of this important religion. Special emphasis is placed on the moving life story of Jesus as well as outstanding personalities such as Peter and Paul. The narrative highlights significant events and guides the audience through the fundamental practices of Christianity from the solemn baptism to the profound Eucharist.
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Islam
The documentary provides a comprehensive insight into the world's fastest growing religion. With expert commentary, the captivating panorama of Islam is revealed, particularly through the portrayal of the life and work of the Prophet Mohammed. The two main currents of Islam, Sunni and Shia, and their differences are discussed. The five pillars of Islam are explained, as well as the controversy surrounding Sharia law and the significance of the hijab. This captivating exploration of history and faith offers insights into the architecture of magnificent mosques, the meaning of the Koran and customs such as Ramadan. It also emphasises the golden age of Islam, which was a golden age of science, culture and art.
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Judaism
The documentary takes viewers on a fascinating journey into the world's oldest monotheistic religion. Experts provide insights into the history of Judaism, starting with the story of Abraham, who is considered the father of the faith. The importance of tradition in Judaism is emphasised, while the story of Moses and the tradition of the Torah, the Talmud and the Tanakh are highlighted. Important holidays such as Passover, Yom Kippur and Hanukkah are explained, as well as the construction of the first temple by David and Solomon and the emergence of synagogues and rabbis. The Babylonian captivity and the significance of Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah are also covered, as are the initial conflicts with Christianity. The documentary also highlights the sad history of genocides suffered by the Jewish people, as well as the Reform movement and the differences between Orthodox and Reform Jews. Despite the persistent existence of anti-Semitism, the documentary paints a picture of hope by drawing attention to understanding and respect for one of the world's most fascinating and resilient cultures.
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Hinduism
The documentary takes viewers into the multi-layered world of Hinduism, which is one of the oldest and most multifaceted religions in the world. The history of the Vedic forms the origin of this faith, which is strongly characterised by rituals and spiritual practice. The importance of fire in Hinduism is examined, as is the worship of numerous deities in polytheism, including Brahman, Vishnu, and Shiva, as well as Ganesha. This inspiring exploration of spiritual paths and traditions provides a comprehensive insight into Hinduism and emphasises its rich cultural and religious diversity.
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Buddhism
The documentary introduces viewers to the fascinating world of one of the most important spiritual traditions. Beginning with the life story of Siddhartha, the later Buddha, his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree and his confrontation with the demon Mara are illuminated, as are his death and the attainment of Nirvana. The central Buddhist concept of dukkha, suffering, as well as the concepts of samsara, eternal rebirth, and nirvana, liberation from suffering, are explained, as is the meaning of karma.
Facts
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Original TitleWeltreligionen
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Year2023
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Length5 × 52', 84' (ENG, GER)
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ResolutionHD, 4K
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Film byDaniel Oron
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Produced by
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Partners