Carrie "Shellie" Cobbs
University of Phoenix
World Religious Traditions I
REL 133
Robert Mossman
June 29, 2014
Common Practices in Religion
Religious belief and practices are deeply rooted in traditions and teachings from sacred scriptures and texts. Indigenous religions are specific to a tribe, region, and cultures that have had various influences in their core religion. Religion is a very personal issue for most people and therefore closely guarded. Studying religion is necessary to have an understanding of the connections and foundations that have been built throughout its history.
Definition
Religion as defined by Merriam-Webster is, “the belief in a god or in a group of gods; an organized system of beliefs, ceremonies, and rules used to worship a god or a group of gods; an interest, a belief, or an activity that is very important to a person or group” ("Religion," 2014, p. 1). However, throughout history different people have had different views and influences that have shape their definition of religion. Most religions have leaders, organized practices, holy places, and holy books or scriptures that are followed. Religions can also include mythology, dance, festivals, death ceremonies, gods, goddesses, idols, and prayer.
Common Practices
Religions across the world share common threads of thought. Although they may focus stronger on one commonality than others most religions are based on and follow some level of love, faith, forgiveness, and humility. The stories, or parables, teach the followers about how to help others, love, do unto others, and faith in a higher presence that is not physically obtainable in our world. Religion gives people a commonality in their journey through life and what to expect in death. When people have a shared common belief through religion that affords them the ability to bond and grow by sharing the same ideals.
Indigenous religions
Encyclopedia.com states that, “indigenous
References: Indigenous Religions. (2014 ). Retrieved from http://www.encyclopedia.com/article-1G2-3448400023/indigenous-religions.html Religion. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/religion