Module 1: Introduction to World

Religions and Belief Systems

 OBJECTIVE
• define religion
• discuss the concepts, elements, and
characteristics of religion
• illustrate one thing that religion has
brought in to your life
 Religion
an organized system of beliefs,
ceremonies, and rules used to worship a
god or a group of gods” Merriam-Webster
Dictionary 2014)
Latin word religion refers to something
done with overanxious or scrupulous
attention to detail” (Bowker 1997).
derived from the latin verb religare which
means “to tie together”, “to bind fast.”
 Religion
religion refers to expression of proper
piety, that is, binding to god ,Grassie
(2010)
religion may be universal in all stages
of human history, it does not follow
that all individuals are religious or
even religious to some degree
( Parrinder 1971).
DEFINITION FROM SOME SCHOLARS
 Friedrich
Schleiermacher
1768-1834

The essence of
religion consists
in the feeling of
absolute
dependence
 James Martineau
1805-1900

Religion is the belief

in a Divine mind and
will ruling the
universe and holding
moral relations with
mankind
 C. P. Tiele
1830-1902

Religion is that pure

and reverential
disposition or frame
of mind which we call
piety
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

F. H. Bradley
1846-1924
Religion is the attempt
to express the complete
reality of goodness
through every aspect of
our being
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

James Frazier
1854-1941
Religion is a
propitiation or
conciliation of powers
superior to man
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

Emile Durkheim
58-1917
Religion is a unified
system of beliefs and
practices relative to
sacred things which
unite into one single
moral community
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

Rudolf Otto
1869-1937
Religion is that which grows out
of, and gives expression to,
experience of the holy in its
various aspects.”
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

John Hick
1922-2012
Religion constitutes
our varied human
response to
transcendent
reality
 Ninian Smart
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

1927-2001

The six characteristics

or dimensions of religion
are: “the ritual, the
mythological, the
doctrinal, the ethical,
the social, and the
experiential
 Peter Berger
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

1929-

Religion is ... the

establishment through
human activity of an all-
embracing sacred order,
that is, of a sacred
cosmos that will be
capable of maintaining
itself in the ever-present
face of chaos
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

James C. Livingston
1930-

Religion is that system

of activities and
beliefs directed
toward that which is
perceived to be
sacred in value and
transforming power
 Roy A. Clouser
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

1937-

A religious belief is
any belief in
something or other as
divine. ‘Divine’ means
having the status of
not depending on
anything else.
 Roland Robertson
f-h-bradley-3.jpg

1938-

Religion pertains to a
distinction between an
empirical and a super-
empirical, transcendental
reality: the affairs of the
empirical being
subordinated in
significance to the
nonempirical
KEY ELEMENTS OF RELIGION
 A. Religion contains a worldview

• A worldview is a complete and

organized set of beliefs, forming a
comprehensive belief system. It
encompasses coherent ideas that
shape how one perceives and
understands the world.
 A. Religion contains a worldview
EXAMPLE
Imagine someone who holds a worldview based on
environmentalism. They believe in the
interconnectedness of all living things, the importance
of preserving nature, and the responsibility to address
climate change. This set of beliefs forms a
comprehensive belief system that influences their
decisions, behaviors, and perspectives on various
issues, such as consumption habits, political choices,
and support for environmental policies.
 B. Sacredness
• Religion regards certain things as sacred
• Sacred thing either has its own (intrinsic or inherent)
value or it derives its value from association with a
sacred thing which has value on its own
 B. Sacredness
• We hold deep reverence for the inherently sacred due
to its inherent worthiness of respect, and we extend
this reverence to the derivatively sacred, recognizing
its sacredness through its association with the
inherently sacred.
• Sacred things one must not understand simply those
personal beings which are called Gods or spirits; a rock,
a tree, a spring, a pebble, a piece of wood, a house—in
a word, anything can be sacred. Durkheim (1915, 52),
 B. Sacredness

• We respect the inherently sacred for its

intrinsic worth and extend this respect
to the derivatively sacred through their
connection.
 B. Sacredness
Consider a centuries-old tree in a community park. The
tree itself (INHERENTLY SACRED) is revered for its
age, beauty, and historical significance. People show
respect for it because of these qualities alone.
Now, imagine that under this tree, there is a small shrine
built by the community to honor their ancestors
(DERIVATIVELY SACRED). The shrine derives its
sacredness from its association with the inherently sacred
tree. People respect and revere the shrine not only for its
construction and purpose but also because it is intimately
linked to the revered tree.
 C. Ethical Codes

• Religions prescribe moral codes

outlining how individuals should
interact with the divine, treat
fellow humans, and behave
towards God, gods, and respected
spiritual figures
 C. Ethical Codes

EXAMPLE
In Christianity, the Ten
Commandments represent a
prominent set of moral guidelines.
They instruct believers on how to
relate to the divine.
 D. Community
• Religions foster communities bound by
shared beliefs and practices, nurturing
a collective faith experience.
• These communities often take the form
of organized structures with
hierarchical authorities guiding their
spiritual journey.
 D. Community
EXAMPLE
In Islam, the global Muslim community,
known as the Ummah, is a profound
example of a religious community.
Muslims around the world share common
beliefs and practices, such as the belief
in the oneness of Allah (God) and the
practice of daily prayers.
 E. Sacred Writings
• Religions treasure sacred scriptures
that encapsulate their core teachings,
essential narratives, moral principles,
and prophetic insights.
• These sacred texts are regarded as
divine revelations, conveying profound
spiritual wisdom.
 F. Central Stories
•We often refer to these narratives
as 'myths,' but because the term
'myth' can carry the connotation
of being purely imaginative or
historically untrue, we will instead
use the more neutral term 'story.
 F. Central Stories
• The pivotal stories within religious traditions
encompass various themes, including the origins
of the world and humanity (or a chosen group),
the manifestation of the divine in the world, the
revelations received by great teachers, the
significant events in their lives, and the
exemplary actions of devoted followers, which
may include acts of martyrdom. These narratives
serve as sources of religious inspiration and
guidance.
 F. Central Stories
Example:
In Hinduism, the story of the "Bhagavad Gita" is a central
narrative. It recounts the dialogue between Lord Krishna
(an incarnation of the divine) and the warrior prince
Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. This
conversation explores profound philosophical and ethical
themes, teaching important lessons about duty,
righteousness, and the nature of the self. The Bhagavad
Gita is considered a sacred text that provides spiritual
guidance and is revered by Hindus as a source of
profound wisdom and moral principles
 H. Rituals
Religions encompass rituals that
encompass ceremonial re-enactments of
sacred narratives, alongside a multitude
of activities such as songs and dances.
These rituals serve as expressions of
praise and gratitude to the divine, be it
God, gods, or a venerated teacher or
prophet
 H. Rituals
Example:
In Christianity, the Eucharist (Holy Communion) is a
significant ritual. During this ceremony, believers re-enact
the Last Supper, a sacred story from the New Testament
where Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples,
symbolizing his body and blood. Through the Eucharist,
Christians express their praise and thanksgiving to Jesus
Christ, whom they believe to be the Son of God and their
Savior. The act of taking communion and singing hymns
during this ritual is a way for Christians to express their
devotion and gratitude to Jesus for his sacrifice.
 I. Artistic Expression
• Religions embrace a rich tapestry of
artistic expressions that convey their
beliefs. These artistic forms encompass
music, dance, architectural design,
sculpture, poetry, drama, and more.
Numerous globally acclaimed
masterpieces find their roots in religious
inspiration.
 I. Artistic Expression
Example:
The construction of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is a
remarkable expression of religious-inspired architecture.
This Gothic masterpiece, built in the 12th century,
showcases intricate stained glass windows, imposing
spires, and detailed sculptures. The cathedral's design was
motivated by the Christian faith, serving as a place of
worship and reflection for generations of believers. Its
awe-inspiring beauty and religious symbolism have made
it not only an architectural wonder but also an enduring
symbol of Christian spirituality and artistic achievement.
 UNDERSTANDING BELIEFS AND WORLDVIEWS

Each person perceives and interprets

the world uniquely, shaped by their
individual perspective. This holistic
outlook is often referred to as a
'worldview,' comprising a set of
personal beliefs about life and the
universe that individuals hold.
Monotheistic Religions
Monotheistic religions believe
in the existence of a single,
all-powerful, and all-knowing
deity or God. Examples
include Christianity, Islam,
and Judaism.
 Monotheistic Religions
These religions emphasize
the oneness of God, moral
codes, and the importance
of worship and faith.
 Polytheistic Religions
Polytheistic religions believe
in multiple deities or gods
and goddesses. Examples
include Hinduism, Ancient
Greek religion, and Shintoism.
Polytheistic Religions
These religions often
incorporate a pantheon
of gods, each with
specific attributes and
roles in the universe.
 Atheism
Atheism is the absence of
belief in any gods or deities.
It is not a religion but a
worldview that rejects the
existence of the divine.
 Atheism
Atheists rely on empirical
evidence and reason to
explain natural phenomena
and do not subscribe to
religious doctrines.
 Agnosticism
Agnosticism is characterized by
uncertainty about the existence
of deities. Agnostics claim that
the existence or non-existence
of God is unknowable or
beyond human comprehension.
 Agnosticism
Agnostics are often
skeptical of religious
claims but do not
outright deny the
possibility of the divine.
 Monism
A philosophical concept
that posits the
fundamental unity or
oneness of all things in
existence
 Monism
There is no real
distinction between
god and the
universe.
Exploring the Relationship Between
Spirituality and Religiousness
In large-scale studies conducted
by Zinnbauer and Pargament
(2005), respondents categorized
themselves into three main groups
regarding their perception of the
relationship between spirituality
and religiousness.
Exploring the Relationship
Between Spirituality and
Religiousness
These findings illuminate the
intriguing distinction between
spirituality and religiousness,
sparking important questions
about their compatibility and
individual significance within the
context of belief systems
Exploring the Relationship
Between Spirituality and
Religiousness
69% of respondents considered
themselves both religious and spiritual

21% identified as spiritual but not

religious.

4% identified as religious but not spiritual.

Concept of Spirituality
Definition
Spirituality is a deeply personal
and individualistic quest for
meaning, purpose, and connection
with the transcendent or the
divine. It focuses on inner
experiences, self-discovery, and
personal growth.
Key Aspects
Spirituality involves practices
like meditation, mindfulness,
self-reflection, and exploring
questions about the nature of
existence and consciousness
Personal Nature
Spirituality is highly
subjective and can manifest
differently for each person,
emphasizing personal
experiences and inner
journeys.
Concept of Religion
Definition
Religion refers to organized
systems of beliefs, practices,
rituals, and institutions that
revolve around a shared faith in a
deity or deities. It often involves a
structured community and specific
doctrines.
Key Aspects
Religions typically have
established doctrines,
religious texts, places of
worship, clergy, and
prescribed rituals and moral
codes.
 Meaning and Purpose
The primary purpose Religion provides a
of spirituality is structured framework
personal growth, self- for understanding the
discovery, and divine, moral
finding meaning in principles, and a
life. It often seeks to sense of purpose. It
address questions often offers answers
about existence and to fundamental
the self. questions about life
and death.
 Comparison
Overlap: There is significant
overlap between spirituality and
religion. Many individuals find
spiritual fulfillment within
religious contexts. Religious
traditions often incorporate
spiritual practices like prayer and
 Comparison
Shared Values: Both
spirituality and religion
may emphasize values
such as compassion,
kindness, and love for
 Comparison
Community: Both can
provide a sense of
belonging and community.
Religious congregations
often offer a supportive
social network.
 Contrast
Structure: Religion is
typically organized with
specific doctrines, rituals,
and institutions.
Spirituality is more
individualistic and lacks
 Contrast
Dogma: Religion often
requires adherence to
specific dogmas and
beliefs, while spirituality
allows for more diverse
and flexible personal
 Contrast
Exclusive vs. Inclusive:
Religion can sometimes be
exclusive, emphasizing one
faith as the "true" path, while
spirituality tends to be more
inclusive, respecting various
 Conclusion
Spirituality and religion
are interconnected yet
distinct aspects of human
belief and experience
 Conclusion
•Individuals can choose
to be spiritual within a
religious framework or
pursue spirituality
independently.
 Conclusion
Recognizing their
similarities and differences
enhances our
understanding of how
people seek meaning,
connection, and purpose
1. ARE YOU SPIRITUAL
OR RELIGIOUS OR
BOTH? WHY?
2. HOW CAN YOU
ACHIEVE SPIRITUALITY?