Semester 1 - Definitions

Question 1

Define Religion

Answer 1

A religion is a particular system of beliefs, values, rituals and worship shared by a number of people. Every religion centres it’s ideals and activities one the ‘other’ - A supernatural being, power or force and requires believers to give their loyalty to God or a number of divine being.

Question 2

Define Religious Belief

Answer 2

A religious belief is a conviction about an idea central to a religion that expresses a religious understanding about life. These find expression in a variety of religious teachings and practices. Hike these terms are related to other they also need some definition.

Question 3

Define Being Religious

Answer 3

When people seek, search, think about the meaning of life and the reality of God, they are being religious. How a person responds to this search and where they find support and answers to their questioning may lead a person to accept and follow a particular religion.

Question 4

Define Expression of Religious faith

Answer 4

Religious faith is often expressed and supported by a variety of practices, rituals, celebrations and events. All religions have a variety of preaches, rituals, celebrations and events. (True for Christians as well)

Question 5

Define Religious Teaching

Answer 5

Religious teaching guide and inform how people respond to belief. Eg. Catholic social teachings is a body of the important beliefs about God, creation ect. Both statement of the Catholic Church belief and teachings of the church are expressed in a variety of documents.

Question 6

Define Religious Practice

Answer 6

Religious practice are a recognised way of doing something religious. They refer to a broad range of experiences that relate to many aspects of religious life. Religious practices may be a range of ways of prayer, style of religious worship, religious way of doing something or how a place or time of year is issued. *They often use religious sign and symbols. Rituals are also an important part of the practice.

Question 7

Define religious signs and symbols

Answer 7

All religious signs and symbols represent and convey meaning about beliefs. Represent or point to something else. Symbols are tangible items that represent reality but they are more complex and can convey a number of meanings. In particular, symbols are a useful way to communicate. What is complex and difficult to fully comprehend. Essentially religious symbols convey meaning and help people to see beyond the surface of things.

Question 8

Define Religious Rituals

Answer 8

Using symbolic actions; movement, gestures and words to express and promote what is important about faith for Catholics; worship celebration.

Question 9

Define Religious Celebrations

Answer 9

Religious celebrations are special times when religious communities join together in worship, prayer or celebrate a religious festival.

Question 10

Define Religious Events

Answer 10

A religious event is similar to a religious celebration. It usually has a set time and a set place in which an important aspect of religious faith is celebrated.

Question 11

What are the Main Characteristics of Religions

Answer 11

• Beliefs and teachings
• Rituals, practices, events, celebrations
• Leadership and rules
• Customs and tradition