Nature of Religion

Preliminary Studies of Religion I, Unit 1 'Nature of Religion'

What is central to all world religions?

Belief in the supernatural dimension

What is monotheism?

Belief in one God/divine power

What is polytheism?

Belief in multiple Gods/divine powers

What is a transcendent worldview?

A belief in divine power or powers beyond the human

The three main religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam emphasise what about God?

God being revealed to humankind from beyond the human spirit

What reveals the divine to humankind?

An intermediary, such as sacred people/objects

What is an immanent religious worldview?

The belief that a divine power or being dwells within an individual

Do immanent religions believe in prescribed paths? (True or False)

True

An immanent religion is a religion that believes in the divine on earth, whereas a transcendent religion believes that the divine is outside of earth. (True or False)

True

What are beliefs?

A belief is trust, faith, or confidence in someone or something

What is a believer?

An adherent of a particular religion

What are sacred texts?

Sacred texts are the most important beliefs of a religion written down

What do sacred texts contain?

Sacred stories

What is ethics?

The reason behind a moral decision

What are rituals and ceremonies?

Practical expression of aspects of a religion

What contribution has religion made to the lives of individuals?

Search for meaning, ethical guidance, sense of belonging, and ritual meaning

Is religion influenced by its cultural context? (Y/N)

Yes

What is culture?

Ideas, customs, and behaviours of a particular society