Characteristics of Religion (P2)

Beliefs & Believers

refers to doctrinal or philosophical aspects of a religion. This creates a core paradigm of a religion that branches out to secondary beliefs, other characteristics and interpretation

Sacred Texts & Writings

Are extremely sacred and are where core paradigms in which believers can learn about them and utilise them like an instruction manual.

Ethics

are codes of behaviour which dictate between right or wrong - provide people directions for how they should act (Beliefs → Sacred Texts → Ethics)

Rituals & Ceremonies

are the lived expression of a religion: how beliefs are experienced by people in society. They reinforce the core belief of the religion

Types of Rituals

Public and Private Rituals

Interaction of these Characteristics

The four characteristics of religion closely interact with each other through their interrelation and link back to Sacred Texts and Writings

Contribution to Society

Contribute to art, architecture, hospitals, charities & non-profits, Answers existential questions, Can lead to extreme conflict, Sense of belonging in society, Interaction between culture, Progressive influence on society, Conservative influence

Contribution to Individuals

Personal Search for meaning, Ethical Guidance, Sense of belonging, Ritual meaning