CHARACTERISTICS OF RITUALS Religious Studies 3 CHARACTERISTICS OF RITUALS

JOURNAL QUESTION: At most religious ceremonies, it is usually expected that people do the same actions at the same times (standing up, sitting down, etc.). Do you personally prefer to do these actions together, or do you think everyone should be free to “pray how they like?” Is there any benefit of everyone doing the same movements? Are there any limitations?

1. Movements & Meaningful Gestures Rituals involve movements and gestures that convey meaning They have meaning beyond the literal actions Examples:

2. Repeated Actions Rituals are often repeated The RITUAL is repeated, not necessarily the SAME PEOPLE do it every time Examples: Visiting a gravesite Anniversaries

3. Symbolic Celebrations The celebration is symbolic, all of which include the following: MUSIC PHYSICAL SYMBOLS ENVIRONMENT Example: Running water to symbolize rebirth

4. Connected to Important Events Rituals celebrate special occasions Usually connected to our “firsts” Examples: Birthdays Anniversaries

5. Include Significant Words Words usually support the action Too many words detract from the ritual Examples: Toasts Prayers

6. Links to the Past Rituals link people with the past Links to the past remind people of who they are Examples: Fourth of July Thanksgiving

7. Communal Actions They involve a whole group of people at once People celebrate a common identity Example: Mass The Pledge of Allegiance

8. Require Participation The people make the ritual happen Participation increases when understanding is high Example: Doing “The Wave” Singing “Happy Birthday”