Introduction to World Religions and Belief Systems Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the key terms, elements, characteristics, and differences between world religions and belief systems based on the lecture notes.

Religion

An organized system of beliefs and practices focused on a deity or deities.

Spirituality

A personal connection to something greater, often internal and individual.

Worldview

A collection of beliefs about life and the universe.

Theology

The study of religious faith, practice, and God’s relation to the world.

Monism

A belief system where there is no distinction between god and the universe.

Monotheism

The belief in only one god.

Polytheism

The belief in many gods.

Atheism

The denial of god's existence.

Agnosticism

The belief that god cannot be known.

Religare

The Latin origin of the word religion, meaning "to bind."

Creed

A characteristic of religion that acts as a summary of beliefs, such as the Ten Commandments.

Cult

A characteristic of religion involving worship practices and rituals.

Code

A characteristic of religion involving moral and ethical guidelines.

Eight Elements of Religion

Belief system, Community, Central stories, Rituals, Ethics, Emotional experiences, Material expressions, and Sacredness.

Western Beliefs

Belief systems characterized by monotheism, holy books, and linear time.

Eastern Beliefs

Belief systems characterized by polytheism, reincarnation, cyclical time, and a focus on meditation.

Ecumenism

The promotion of interfaith dialogue and unity among different religions.

Goal of Religion

The achievement of salvation.

Goal of Spirituality

The achievement of inner peace.