The nature of Religion

Supernatural Dimension

The belief that a divine being or power is greater than humankind and the natural world.

Worldview

How an individual sees the world around them, their beliefs that allow them to sense their experiences.

Transcendent worldview

Belief that a divine being is beyond the human.

Immanent worldview

Belief that a divine being dwells within the human spirit or natural world.

Beliefs and believers

Adherents that follow a particular religion, necessary for all religions.

Sacred texts and writings

Important religious documents that convey beliefs and teachings.

Ethics

The religious reflection of moral beliefs, clarifying what is right and wrong.

Rituals and ceremonies

Systems of beliefs/actions linked to superhuman forces, serving as personal reminders of faith for adherents.

Contribution to individuals

Answers to life's profound questions and identity as a believer within a tradition.

System of ethics

A framework to guide behavior based on religious beliefs.

Ways to celebrate significant life events

Religious practices that mark important milestones in life.

Role Models

Figures within a religion that exemplify ways of perfection.

Contribution to society

Religion's role in maintaining order and wellbeing within communities.

Basis of ethical systems

Religion as a foundation for laws and moral guidelines.

Importance of education

Religion's influence on educational values and practices.

The Dreaming

The worldview of Aboriginal people, describing events when ancestral beings inhabited the land.

Diversity of the dreaming

Recognition of the variation of knowledge, values, and beliefs within each ‘country’.

Origins of the universe

Diverse stories passed down by ancestors through oral tradition regarding the universe's creation.

Sacred sites

Places of spiritual significance and resting places of ancestral beings.

Stories of the dreaming

Orally passed down narratives expressing creation, customs, and reasons for being.

Symbolism and art

Art that assists with oral heritage and conveys knowledge and teachings.

Inextricable link

The inseparable connection between land, dreaming, and identity.

Ancestral beings

Natural symbols from the land that connect individuals to their heritage.

Kinship

The organization of family groups connected to specific areas of land.

Importance of birthplace

Identifying oneself as part of the land where they were born.