1. CHARACTERISTICS OF RITUALS
Religious Studies 3
CHARACTERISTICS OF RITUALS

2. 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?

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

4. 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

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

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

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

8. 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

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

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