Basics of World Religions

World Studies

What is religion?

Religion is very hard to define, most definitions are too narrow Example of one definition:

a strong belief in a supernatural power or powers that control human destiny.

What questions does religion answer?

Origins

Purpose/meaning

Destiny

Who are we?

Who/what is god?

Monotheism v. Polytheism

Monotheism

Belief in ONE god.

Examples: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

Polytheism

Belief in TWO or MORE gods.

Examples: Hinduism

Elements of Religion

All religions share these common elements except for a few exceptions:

Founder

Text/book

Places of pilgrimage

Sacred days of celebration

Ceremonies

Morality

For each region listed tell me what the prevailing religion in that area is.

1. North and South America2. Northern Africa3. Southern Africa4. Middle East5. East Asia

Answer the following questions in your notes:

1. What are the FOUR largest practiced religions?2. What is the percentage of followers of Judaism?3. What religion has the most followers?

Homework

Left Hand Column

You must have at least 3 questions and 3 main ideas

Summary

D – What did you do?

L – What did you learn?

I – What did you find interesting?

Q – Write a question