Religious groups

Animism

Belief that everything that exists has both a material and a spiritual essence.

Polytheism

Belief in many Supreme Beings, each having areas of dominion.

Monotheism

Belief in a single Supreme Being, creator of the universe.

Anthropomorphism

Belief in a Supreme Being with human qualities, involved in human affairs.

Reincarnation

The belief that it takes many life attempts to reach Nirvana.

Nirvana

A state of liberation and freedom from suffering in Buddhism.

Judaism

Religion exemplifying mankind's living under God's law until the coming of the Messiah.

The Torah

The law revealed by God through the Prophets, contains the Ten Commandments.

Christianity

Belief in redemption from inherent sin through faith in Christ.

Covenant

An agreement between God and His people, found in both Judaism and Christianity.

Protestantism

Branch of Christianity that emerged prior to 1830, characterized by the Bible as central.

Parochial schools

Schools established by Catholics to provide education separate from public schools.

Endogamous marriage

Marriage restricted to members of the same religious or social group.

Mormon Church

Founded by Joseph Smith, known for its unique beliefs and practices.

The Quran

The Holy book of Islam, containing the truth revealed by God through the prophet Mohammed.

Muslim community

A religious group following Islam, with a significant history in the U.S.

Celibacy

The practice of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations.

Equality of all members

A core belief in Shaker communities, promoting equal status for men and women.

Confucianism

A philosophy emphasizing ethics, moral values, and social harmony.

Buddhism

A religion founded on principles of meditation, enlightenment, and compassion.

Jainism

A religion focused on non-violence and truth, emphasizing the harm caused by injury.

Zoroastrianism

An ancient religion centered on the dualism of good and evil.

Classical Paganism

Ancient religious practices centered on multiple gods and nature.

Hinduism

A major world religion characterized by a variety of beliefs and practices.

Rabbi Hillel's teaching

What is hateful to yourself, don't do to your fellow man.

Scientific method

An empirical method of acquiring knowledge involving observation and experimentation.

Religious faith

A belief system based on spiritual conviction rather than empirical evidence.

Materialism

A tendency to prioritize material possessions and physical comfort over spiritual values.

Religious leader

A person who guides and advises a community in spiritual matters.

Secularism

The principle of separating religion from political, social, and educational institutions.

Ethnic heritage

Cultural heritage based on shared ancestry and traditions.

Interfaith marriages

Marriages between partners of different religious beliefs.

Skilled workers

Individuals with specialized training and expertise in a specific field.

Cultural patterns

The shared behaviors and norms of a group that shape their identity.

Moral values

Guidelines for how individuals should behave ethically and responsibly.

Aesthetic views

Perceptions and ideals surrounding beauty in art, nature, and culture.

Divine authority

The belief that certain moral principles are sanctioned by a higher power.

Education in Religion

The influence of religious beliefs on the teaching and learning processes.

Community obligations

The responsibilities individuals have to support and care for their community.