In every major city and town throughout the United States, you will find many different
types of religions. In fact, thousands of different religions have been created throughout the
world today. As we become a more culturally diverse world, it is only natural that many different
religions evolve from this unity. This unity requires that we develop a broader understanding of
the many similarities and differences each religion is composed of. A better understanding will
allow us to have a deeper appreciation for the uniqueness that encompasses each religion thus
broadening our lives as a whole. For this enrichment to take place, we much educate ourselves
on the core dynamics of the different world religions. Only then can we acknowledge and respect
the differences and embrace the similarities between each one.
It can be argued that the world is only comprised of two religions, those that believe in a god
and those who do not. Even though each religion may believe in a different god, gods, or no god
they still share similarities. As stated in the textbook Ways of Wisdom, "What they have in
common is that they think that existence precedes essence, or, if they prefer, that subjectivity
must be the starting point." (p. 234) For the religions that believe in a supreme bring, there is a
common belief this being also has some guidance in our existence. Another similarity is most
religions consider worshipping and praising their supreme being the most important duty. This
also includes giving thanks to their supreme being usually in the form of prayers. This prayer or
praise is seen as their connection to their god. The ...