Defining Religion
Is it fair to define religion? Who has authority? Will there ever be one true definition? The mentioning of religion often sparks many questions, many questions that will forever go unsolved. The word religion is also associated with powerful words of relevancy. Faith, love, devotion, and sacrifice, these words are easy to apply to religion, but is it possible to conjure these words into a solid meaning?
Due to the fact there are so many world religions, it is imperative that religion is broadly defined in order to include the vast array of beliefs. Religion is the devotion to a set or path of beliefs, where faith is used as guidance, respect is used with practice, and love honors the higher and more worthy authority. As seen for thousands of years, religious prosecution has led to religious wars, all for the lack of respect and freedom. Religion, like those who choose to practice, is exceedingly diverse. One god, hundreds of gods, or no gods at all, freedom should be granted equally without judgment and jurisdiction to any persons who live their life accordingly.
Rituals play a part in life that nothing else can fill (Smith, P.300). A form of backbone and commonly practiced, rituals are unique in setting each religion apart.
Traditionally passed down, orally or through scripture, most rituals always involve the use of symbolic objects, words, and actions. The ethical teachings of Confucianism include the belief of Li, which stresses the importance of rituals and propriety. Hinduism, the predominant religion of India and oldest practiced religion of the world, is strongly structured around hundreds of ...