Characteristics of religion Flashcards
What are beliefs in religion?
Beliefs are the doctrinal (set of religious ideas) or philosophical (system of thought) aspects of a religion. They form the paradigm, which is the core belief shaping all other religious aspects.
Why are beliefs important in religion?
Beliefs provide the foundation of a religion and influence how followers live, worship, and interpret their faith.
What is a paradigm in religion?
A paradigm is the central core belief of a religion that influences all other aspects.
Give an example of a core paradigm in Judaism.
The Covenant – the belief that Jewish people have a special agreement with God to serve Him in exchange for His protection and blessings.
Give an example of a core paradigm in Christianity.
Jesus as the Son of God and Savior – the belief that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ.
Who are believers?
Believers are people who follow and practice a religion. They may have different interpretations of the same core beliefs.
Give an example of differences in belief within a religion.
In Judaism: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jews all interpret the Covenant differently, affecting their religious practices.
What are sacred texts?
Sacred texts are religious writings, scriptures, or books that contain divine teachings and wisdom. They guide religious beliefs, ethics, and worship.
Do all religions have written sacred texts?
No, some religions rely on oral traditions, art, or storytelling instead.
Give an example of a sacred text for four different religions.
Christianity → The Bible
Islam → The Qur’an
Judaism → The Torah
Hinduism → The Vedas
What is the Qur’an in Islam?
The Qur’an is the central religious text of Islam, believed to be the literal word of Allah revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
What is the Hadith in Islam?
The Hadith is a secondary sacred text in Islam containing sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, recorded by his followers.
What are ethics in religion?
Ethics are the moral principles and guidelines that govern believers’ actions based on religious teachings.
Where do religious ethics come from?
Ethics are derived from sacred texts, traditions, and religious leaders.
How do ethics shape religious practice?
Ethics guide how believers live virtuously, interact with others, and fulfill spiritual duties.
What is the ethical paradigm in Christianity?
Jesus’ commandment of love (Matthew 22:37-40), which teaches compassion, justice, and service.
How do ethics contribute to a dynamic, living religion?
Ethics evolve to address modern moral and social issues, ensuring that religious teachings remain relevant.
What are rituals and ceremonies?
Rituals and ceremonies are physical expressions of religious beliefs, including prayers, celebrations, rites of passage, and religious observances.
What is the purpose of rituals?
Rituals help believers connect to their faith, strengthen community bonds, and provide a structured way to practice religion.
Give examples of religious rituals from different traditions.
Christianity → Baptism, Communion, Christmas, Easter
Islam → Hajj (pilgrimage), Ramadan fasting, daily prayers
Hinduism → Puja (worship), Diwali, Holi
Buddhism → Meditation, Vesak festival
What is an example of a public ritual in Judaism?
Bar/Bat Mitzvah – A coming-of-age ceremony where Jewish children read from the Torah in the synagogue, signifying their entry into Jewish adulthood.
What is an example of a private ritual in Judaism?
Shabbat – A weekly Friday night meal that focuses on family, prayer, and scripture reading.
What is a dynamic, living religion?
A dynamic, living religion is one that adapts and evolves over time while remaining true to its core beliefs.
What are the four characteristics that contribute to a dynamic religion?
Beliefs & Believers – Core teachings shape how followers practice their faith.
Sacred Texts – Teachings are reinterpreted to address modern issues.
Ethics – Religious morality adapts to changing social values.
Rituals & Ceremonies – Practices evolve while keeping traditions alive.
How do sacred texts contribute to a dynamic, living religion?
Sacred texts provide a framework for beliefs but can be interpreted in new ways to remain relevant.
How do ethics contribute to a dynamic, living religion?
Ethics evolve over time to help believers respond to moral challenges in changing societies.
Give an example of how Christianity remains a dynamic, living religion.
The ethical principle of love and justice is applied to modern social issues like human rights and social justice.
Give an example of how Judaism remains a dynamic, living religion.
The practice of Shabbat continues, but observance may change depending on modern lifestyles.
