Key Terms
A belief that souls exist in nature, such as in animals, plants, or objects.
Animism
Holy books like the Bible or Quran belong to this category.
What are Sacred Stories / Sacred Scripture?
Someone unsure whether God exists or can be known.
What is an Agnostic?
Belief based on personal opinion or feelings rather than facts.
What is Subjective?
Burning herbs in Indigenous traditions for cleansing purposes.
What is Smudging?
A set of repeated, meaningful actions often done in a religious setting.
What are Rituals?
Prayer positions, fasting, or ceremonies fit into this element.
What are Sacred Beliefs, Actions, and Rituals?
A person who believes in one god.
What is a Monotheist?
Information that can be proven and is fact-based.
What is Objective?
A ceremony marking a transition from childhood to adulthood.
What is a Coming-of-Age Ritual?
Something beyond human understanding that inspires awe or wonder.
What is Mystery?
A holiday such as Ramadan or Easter is an example of this.
What are Sacred Times?
Animism
Personal trust or belief vs. organized system of beliefs and practices.
What is Faith vs Religion?
An event that appears impossible and reflects divine power.
What is a Miracle?
A group often centered around strong leadership and strict control, sometimes secretive.
What is a Cult?
A church, mosque, or temple would be part of this category.
What are Sacred Places?
A person who does not believe in any god.
What is an Atheist?
Difference between someone who denies God and someone who is unsure about God.
What is Atheist vs Agnostic?
Kneeling or bowing during worship is an example of this element.
What are Sacred Actions/Rituals?
A worldview that does not rely on religion or spirituality.
What is Secularism?
A community gathering to share stories and teachings belongs to this element.
What is Sacred Stories, Scripture, and Community?
A belief system with many gods.
What is Polytheism?
An organized system of beliefs vs a tightly controlled and often secretive group.
What is Religion vs Cult?
A repeated religious action done with symbolic meaning.
What is a Ritual?