Key Terms
What does the term "Religio" mean?
The Latin root of the word religion means “to bind.”
What is the Religious Impulse?
This universal human desire seeks meaning beyond ourselves.
These early beings demonstrated worshipping rituals, suggesting early religious behaviour.
Neanderthals.
Which "C" refers to laws, rules and holy books?
Code.
The belief in only one God.
Monotheism.
What does Secularism mean?
A worldview that finds meaning without reference to God or the sacred, i.e. separates religion from political and public life (relies on human reason, science, shared societal values).
This Canadian reality describes positive coexistence of many faiths.
Religious Pluralism.
According to the timeline of established authentic World Religions widely practiced on Earth today, it is considered the FIRST.
Hinduism
Which "C" refers to festivals, symbols, holidays and milestones?
A worldview that denies the existence of any deity.
Atheism.
This term refers to communication between people of different religious traditions.
Interreligious Dialogue.
ONE role of healthy religious communities.
One theory states that religion began as humans began to question life’s mysteries — this reflects which core concept?
The search for meaning (Religious Impulse).
Which "C" refers to beliefs and origins?
Creed.
The belief in many gods while choosing to worship one main God.
Henotheism.
A belief approach that views sacred texts as literal and unchanging truths.
Fundamentalism.
These foundational narratives provide identity, meaning, and moral guidance, despite not being “false stories.”
Sacred stories and/or myths.
This perspective of religion defines it as "a set of beliefs people use to understand life and the world" which does not necessarily involve institutions.
Worldview perspective
Which "C" refers to denominations, institutions, key figures and prayer leaders?
Community.
According to the 6 Common Elements, this is when certain actions are focused on scripture and rituals of a religion.
Sacred time.
The study of God/gods and religious beliefs which includes reflection on faith, scripture, and traditions.
Theology.
ONE difference that distinguishes religion from harmful cults and extremist groups.
Ethical accountability vs. manipulation; promotion of unity/community vs. isolation; allows for questioning vs. one leader demaning loyalty
Ancient religious groups that involve sacred places, sacred stories and ritual actions but lack formal institutions.
Indigenous traditions
The 10 Commandments is an example.
Code.
A small, tightly controlled group centered around a charismatic leader who demands loyalty.
Cult.