Introduction to Comparative Religions

Definition of Religion = a system of social coherence based on a common set of beliefs or attitudes concerning an object, person, unseen being or system of thought considered to be supernatural, sacred, divine or highest truth and the moral codes, practices, values, institutions, and rituals associated with such belief or system of thought

Common Elements within religions Beliefs Seen in teachings and actions of a religious community Usually passed down through the generations – 4 Noble Truths and 8-fold Path = Buddhist doctrines – Apostles Creed = Christianity – Generally enumerated and clearly expressed – Often seen in actions of followers – When Muslims faces towards Mecca in Saudi Arabia in daily prayer tells us that prayer and the city of Mecca are important in the Islamic faith – Catholic serving the poor tells us that the dignity of every human person is important in Christianity

Aspects of Authority Sacred space and time Space = holiness or religious significance of a location Time = specific days observed as holy or sacred, usually marked with certain performances or celebrations

Ritual Behavior Ritual actions create dimensions of space and time as different from the world of ordinary Ethics and Moral Systems Discriminates between acceptable and unacceptable Many religions share primacy moral principles Frequently religious traditions connect rewards and punishments with good and bad conduct