Seven Dimensions of Religion
Who developed the Seven Dimensions of Religion as a way to analyze religious traditions?
Ninian Smart
Which dimension includes physical objects and sacred symbols such as the cross or the Kaaba?
The Material Dimension
What response to religious diversity teaches that only one religion leads to salvation?
Exclusivism
What is one major strength of inclusivism regarding other religions?
It recognizes truth and goodness in other religions
What is the name of the Vatican II document addressing the Church’s relationship with non-Christian religions?
Nostra Aetate
Which dimension focuses on formal beliefs and theological teachings found in creeds and doctrines?
The Doctrinal / Philosophical Dimension
Which dimension is represented by sacred stories like the Exodus or the life of the Buddha?
The Mythological / Narrative Dimension
Which response to religious diversity teaches that one religion is fully true but others contain partial truth?
Inclusivism
What is one major weakness of exclusivism in a diverse world?
It can lead to intolerance or exclusion of others
According to Nostra Aetate, what do all humans share that makes them one community?
A common origin and a shared destiny in God
Which dimension provides moral laws and ethical guidelines such as the Ten Commandments or Five Precepts?
The Ethical / Legal Dimension
Which dimension includes practices like Salat, Sabbath observance, and puja?
The Ritual / Practical Dimension
Which response to religious diversity claims that many religions can be valid paths to ultimate truth?
Pluralism
Why is pluralism often praised for improving relationships between religions?
It promotes dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect
What does Nostra Aetate say about truth and holiness found in other religions?
The Church rejects nothing that is true and holy in them
Which dimension emphasizes religious institutions, leadership, and communal structures?
The Social / Institutional Dimension
Which dimension focuses on personal religious experiences such as enlightenment or mystical encounters?
The Experiential / Emotional Dimension
How does evangelical Christianity citing John 14:6 illustrate exclusivism?
It claims salvation comes only through explicit faith in Jesus Christ
Why do critics argue pluralism can weaken religious commitment?
It may reduce commitment to specific doctrines or truth claims
How does Nostra Aetate describe the Catholic Church’s relationship with Muslims?
Muslims worship one merciful God and value prayer, fasting, and charity
How do the doctrinal, ethical, and ritual dimensions work together to shape a religious worldview?
Beliefs shape moral laws, which are reinforced through ritual practice, forming a coherent way of life
Give an original example of one religious practice that expresses at least two dimensions of religion.
Example: Muslim fasting during Ramadan reflects ethical discipline and ritual practice
Compare exclusivism, inclusivism, and pluralism using examples from at least two religions.
Exclusivism: only one true path; Inclusivism: partial truth elsewhere; Pluralism: many valid paths
Which response to religious diversity best promotes peace, and what is one limitation of that response?
Pluralism promotes peace but can weaken clear truth claims
What is Nostra Aetateabout, and what does it reveal about the Catholic Church’s response to religious diversity worldwide?
It teaches respect, dialogue, and rejection of discrimination while affirming Christ as central