sor nature of religion and aboriginal spirituality

Supernatural dimension

Refers to a belief in powers/god apart from the natural physical world, relating to deities or miracles.

Transcendent dimension

Part of the supernatural dimension focusing on a divine being that is otherworldly and beyond this earthly world.

Immanent religious worldview

The part of the supernatural dimension where the supernatural exists within ourselves, down within earth and humans.

Characteristics of religion

Beliefs, believers, sacred texts, ethics, rituals, core beliefs (necessary), right and wrong.

Contribution of religion to individuals

Provides a sense of belonging (community), answers life's questions, provides a system of ethics, role models, guidance.

Contribution of religion to society and culture

Survival and development of humankind, preserves peace and harmony, influences society's laws, emphasizes the importance of education.

The Dreaming

Central concept in Aboriginal spiritualities, underpins all beliefs and practices, connects people to the spiritual world, determines relationships and responsibilities.

Ancestral beings

Spirits who formed the landscape, plants, animals, and peoples of the known world in Aboriginal beliefs.

Meta-temporal

A timeless concept incorporating past, present, and future as a complete reality.

Sacred Sites

Natural land formations where ancestral spirits interacted with creation in Aboriginal beliefs.

Totem

Embodiment of each individual in their primordial state, representing their connection with the Dreaming in Aboriginal beliefs.

Geocentric

Having the land/earth at the center, particularly in spiritual or philosophical contexts.

Secret-sacred

Reserved aspects of Aboriginal religion and spirituality for initiated Aboriginal persons.

Land rights

The inherent rights of Aboriginal people to their land.

Kinship

Highly sophisticated networks of relationships governing interactions between members of Aboriginal language groups.