Religion 101 terms

Sacred

that which inspires awe, reverence, deep respect based on socially defined values.

Profane

that which is ordinary and not to be revered.

Ritual

act(s) that are performed ceremoniously, regularly, or precisely; in accordance with custom or norms or religious laws.

Myth

a story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or an explanation of a natural or social phenomenon.

Simple supernaturalism

doesn't involve gods or identified spirits, but features a belief that there are impersonal forces in the universe which impact human experience.

Animism

active spirits found in the physical world. The spirits may be good or bad and they are recognized and interacted with but not worshipped as gods.

Theism

a belief that centers on a god or gods.

Polytheism

the belief in many gods

Monotheism

the belief that there is only one god.

Pantheism

the belief that the universe in its entirely IS connected and is ONE/GOD. All matter, forces, laws etc. is Divine and there's nothing apart from that.

Panentheism

the belief that everything in the universe is connected and is part of a ONE-GOD that is both immanent (in the universe) and also transcendent (something more than the universe).

Transcendent idealism

a way of thinking that focuses not on god(s) but sacred principles of thought and conduct.

Atheism

the absence of a belief in the existence of god(s).

Agnosticism

the belief that nothing can be known for certain about the existence or nature of god(s).

Substantive definition

one that describes with characteristics, beliefs, and practices. Might be helpfully specific but also too narrow and not inclusive.

Functional definition

one that describes with what something accomplishes, does, or fulfills. Can be very inclusive, but might overly so.

Social solidarity

feeling united with others as part of a group, having the strength of shared identity

Provision of meaning

giving answers to life's big questions

Social control

providing the values and norms for how people should behave

Psychological support

provides emotional strength during life's joyous and sorrowful moments

Functional equivalent

something that acts like something else but isn't.

Religion

** We learned that a good definition of religion is one that is specific, flexible, and free from prejudice. Be prepared to evaluate and choose a best definition for "religion."

Nihilism

the rejection of all religious and moral principles, in the belief that life is meaningless.