Questions (Begin Notes) How do you define “religion”? What does religion mean to you?

Ch. 14 - Religion

Religion and the Meaning of Life Religion seeks to answer important questions such as why we exist, why people suffer and die, and what happens when we die. Religion seeks to explain suffering, death, and injustice in the realm of the sacred. Things that people do not set apart as sacred are referred to as profane—the everyday, secular or “worldly” aspects of life.

Sociological Meaning of Religion Religion – a unified system of beliefs and practices concerned with sacred things. Every society distinguishes between the sacred and the profane. Sacred – holy; set apart and given a special meaning that goes beyond, or transcends, immediate existence. Profane – nonsacred or secular

What are things that are sacred to you? What is profane? Can profane things become sacred and vice versa?

Sociological Study of Religion A sociologist only studies things it can see. Therefore, they stay away from the spiritual side of religion They focus on social aspects of religion.

Polling Question How important would you say religion is in your own life? Very important Fairly important Not very important No opinion

Major World Religions Christianity Islam Current Followers 1.7 billion Founder Jesus Muhammad Date 1st century C.E. ca. 600 C.E

Major World Religions Hinduism Buddhism Current Followers 719 million Founder No specific founder Siddhartha Gautama Date ca. 1500 B.C.E 500 to 600 B.C.E.

Major World Religions Judaism Confucianism Current Followers 18 million 5.9 million Founder Abraham, Isaac, Jacob K’ung Fu-Tzu Date ca. 2000 B.C.E. 500 B.C.E