Chapter 6: Religion Objective: How can religions be classified and grouped?

2 Language & Religion Two most important forces that bond and define human cultures Two most important factors defining culture regions

Monotheism Belief in one god Examples: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Zoroastrianism

Polytheism Belief in multiple or many gods Examples: Hinduism, Greek and Roman mythology, many traditional religions, Wicca, forms of Buddhism, Shintoism

Animism Belief in divine forces/spirits in nature Traditional religions are often animistic

Perspective?

Religion Regions

9 Where are religions distributed? Classification and Distribution of Religions –Universalizing: Christianity, Islam, Buddhism all proselytize –Christianity is the most widespread –In Africa, Islam is the fastest growing In SubSaharan Africa - Christianity

–Ethnic: Judaism, Hinduism, Shintoism Tribal (traditional) – small-size ethnic Shiva devotees in India

11 Major Religions: Commonalities Religions have a tendency to splinter Have a founder or key figure Have scriptures Have rituals Have structures for prayer or religious rituals Teach a form of the Golden Rule Prize Peace

Hinduism

Judaism

Buddhism

Confucianism

Christianity

Islam

4 Minute Quick Write How are religions similar? How are religions different? Write in complete sentences, be specific, and elaborate!