Definitions
What is the definition of "religion"?
A set of beliefs that a group of people has about a god, along with ceremonies, customs, and rules.
What is one chief characteristic of religion?
Belief in a deity or in a power beyond the individual.
What do atheists believe about deities?
They believe that no deity exists.
What is the highest goal of Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism?
Salvation.
What is a common ritual performed in many religions?
Prayer.
What does "faith" mean in the context of religion?
A religion, especially one of the large important world religions, such as Christianity, Judaism, or Islam.
Name two types of religious beliefs regarding deities.
Theism (belief in deities) and atheism (belief that no deities exist).
Describe the belief of agnostics.
Agnostics state that the existence of a deity cannot be proved or disproved.
How do different religions define salvation?
It varies, but generally as release from danger or a state of eternal happiness.
What is the significance of the Ganges River in Hinduism?
It is considered sacred, and bathing in it is a ritual for purification.
What is the difference between "religions" and "religion"?
"Religion" refers to the concept in general, while "religions" refers to specific organized systems of beliefs.
What is a doctrine of salvation?
A belief that individuals are in danger and require saving, which varies by religion.
Which religions are considered monotheistic?
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Explain the concept of reincarnation.
The cycle where the soul is reborn in another body after death.
Describe a pilgrimage in religious practices.
A journey to holy sites or places of significance in one's faith.
Define "beliefs" as it pertains to religious practices.
All the ideas that someone believes because of their religion.
What role do sacred stories play in religion?
They dramatize the teachings of the faith and explain sacred powers' influences.
What is polytheism?
The belief in multiple deities.
What does "karma" signify in religions that believe in reincarnation?
A person's actions, thoughts, and words influence their future reincarnations.
What are some key events that rituals commemorate?
Birth, marriage, and death.
What is the significance of scriptures in religion?
They are writings accepted as sacred that provide authority and guidance for followers.
Explain the concept of religious rituals.
Acts and ceremonies by which believers appeal to and serve deities or sacred powers.
Provide an example of a henotheistic religion.
Hinduism, which acknowledges a supreme deity while also worshiping other gods.
How is the concept of a savior viewed in different religions?
It varies; some view it as a divine figure whose teachings and actions provide salvation.
What is the importance of baptism in Christianity?
It is a ritual that signifies acceptance into the faith and the cleansing of sin.