AOH :: RELIG2.TXT
Version 2.0 of RELIGION.ZIP (a description and comparison of the world's major religions)
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MAJOR RELIGIONS OF THE WORLD (version 2)
Author: Bryn Groves
Date : October 21st, 1992
The following is a list of the world's major religions, culled from various
sources. Although they are not religions, I have included Atheism and
Agnosticism as counterparts to the formal religions listed here.
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CHRISTIANITY
The historic religion derived from the teaching and life of Jesus Christ
(using the New Testament of the Bible as the guide). It was founded and
grew up amid the vigorous currents and cross-currents of religious thought
and practice in the Greco-Roman world of the 1st-century A.D. Arising as a
sect within Judaism, it had behind it a long and complex religious
development that culminated in the Hebrew prophetic movement and the deeply
laid hope of the coming of the Messiah (the "anointed one"), who would
establish the Kingdom of God on Earth. Christianity, in all its forms, is
distinguished from other religions by the belief in the gospel of Christ.
The major divisions of Christianity are as follows:
Roman Catholicism
The largest Christian church in the world (more than 900 million
followers), it claims direct historical descent from the church founded
by the apostle Peter. The Pope in Rome is the spiritual leader of all
Roman Catholics. He administers Church affairs through bishops and
priests. Members accept the gospel of Jesus Christ and the teachings of
the Bible, as well as the Church's interpretations of these. God's grace
is conveyed through sacraments, especially the Eucharist (or communion)
that is celebrated at Mass, the regular service of worship. Redemption
through Christ is professed as the sole method of salvation, which is
necessary to ensure a place in Heaven after life on earth. Roman
Catholics believe in the Holy Trinity, holding that there is only one God
in 3 persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, who are distinct
from and equal to one another.
Orthodox Eastern Church
The second largest Christian community in the world (more than 150
million followers), it split from the Roman Catholic Church in 1054.
The followers of the Orthodox church are in fact members of many
different denominations, including the Church of Greece, the Church of
Cyprus, and the Russian Orthodox Church. Orthodox religion holds
biblical Scripture and tradition, guided by the Holy Spirit as expressed
in the consciousness of the entire Orthodox community, to be the source
of Christian truth. It rejects doctrine developed by the Western
churches, such as the infallibility of the Pope and the Immaculate
Conception. In contrast to Roman Catholics, who hold that the Holy Ghost
proceeds from God and Christ, the Orthodox believe it proceeds from God
alone. Other Orthodox doctrines not subscribed to by Catholics are that
Christ is the sole head of the Church, and that its authority resides
within its members, "the totality of the people of God"; salvation is
possible only through the Church, good works, and belief in Christ; and
that Heaven and Hell are considered real places.
Coptic Church
A theological controversy in the 5th century led to the creation of the
Coptic Church, the native Christian church of Egypt. While the Catholic
Church held that Christ had 2 natures (human and divine), the Copts
maintained that Christ had only a single divine nature. Labelled as
heretics by the Church of Rome, they went their own way.
Protestantism
While there are many different divisions of Protestant faith, they are
bound by both a belief in the gospel of Christ and a renouncement of
Catholicism and it's more traditional teachings, as well as rule by the
Pope. It is a Western counterpart to the Eastern Orthodox religion,
which also split from Catholicism. All Protestant churches, as such, share
certain historic tenets and attitudes: they regard the Bible as the word of
God and the only source of revealed truth (as opposed to the Catholic
reliance on tradition and the authority of the church); they hold to the
principle of "private judgement" in the interpretation of the Scripture (as
opposed to the Catholic dogma that only the church can interpret the Bible
authoritatively); they subscribe to the principle involved in Luther's
famous doctrine of "justification by faith" (as opposed to any reliance
upon ceremonial observances as effective for salvation); and the church is
simply the "fellowship of believers" or "the people of God" (as opposed to
the idea of the church as an institution mediating salvation to its
adherents through the recurring resentation of Christ's sacrifice).
The various Protestant faiths are:
Anglicanism
A Protestant branch of Christianity with churches throughout the
world that have the same form of worship as the Church of England
(American adherents call their church the Episcopal Church).
Anglicanism began in England after Henry VIII declared that the King,
not the Pope, was the supreme head of the Church. The Archbishop of
Canterbury was made the head of the Church of England, which prepared
its own prayer books (the "Book of Common Prayer"), and statement of
doctrine (the 39 Articles). Sometimes called the "bridge Church",
Anglicanism agrees with Catholicism on most issues, but like other
Protestant groups, Anglicans reject the authority of the Pope. They
believe the Bible represents the final statement of life and
religion, but it is not always to be interpreted literally. In
general, Episcopalians do not believe in a physical heaven or hell,
and hold that God, after the Last Judgement, will re-create man with
a "spiritual body".
Baptists
The Baptists believe that only believers (and therefore not infants)
may be baptized and that baptism must be administered through full
immersion (rather than sprinkling). Baptists hold that the Bible is
the supreme authority in every manner of faith, and seek to follow the
New Testament as their only guide. Baptists also believe in a "gathered"
church, where each church is organized congregationally - independent of
all other Baptist churches. They affirm that Christ is the true head of
each local church, which is therefore autonomous under him. They also
put considerable emphasis on the Reformation doctrine of "the priesthood
of all believers", giving prominent place to the laymen in the life of
the church. They believe strongly in the separation of church and state,
resisting any kind of government control of churches.
Christadelphians
Founded by John Thomas in the USA, it claims to have returned to the
beliefs and practices of the original disciples. They accept the Bible
as infallible, and are particularly interested in the fulfillment of
prophecy. They reject the doctrines of the Trinity and Incarnation (the
idea that God became man in Christ, thus having both human and divine
natures) and have no ordained ministry.
Christian Churches (Disciples of Christ)
Grew out of the work of Barton W. Stone - a revivalist who broke away
from Presbyterianism in 1803 to form churches which claimed no other name
than "Christian" - and Thomas Campbell, who departed from a very
conservative Presbyterian body and organized his followers into the
Christian Association of Washington in an attempt to restore the
primitive apostolic pattern of faith. In 1832, these two factions merged
to form the Christian Churches, or Disciples of Christ. Their attitude
towards theology has been expressed historically in three familiar
slogans: "Where the Scriptures speak, we speak; where the Scriptures are
silent, we are silent." "In faith unity, in opinions liberty, in all
things charity" "No creed but Christ, no book but the Bible, no law but
love, no name but the divine." Christian Churches are missionary-minded
and deeply interested in the ecumenical (the recovery of unity among
churches) movement.
Christian Science
Christian Science is a system of spiritual healing and a religion
based on the principles of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910), who, while
suffering from an injury in 1866, experienced a remarkable recovery
which she declared came about after reading how Jesus healed in the
Gospel of St. Matthew. According to Eddy, belief in the truths of
the Bible makes it possible to heal the sicknesses of the body. God
is spirit, and humans created in his image are also spirit; matter
does not exist, nor illness, except as an illusion; a person can
overcome sickness if faith is strong enough. What others call
"death", Christian Science refers to as "only an incident in the
dream of mortality". Christian Science is a religion with no clergy
-- services and church government are conducted by lay members.
Church of the Bretheren
Founded in Germany in 1708, uniting the influences of Pietism (which
sought to complete Luther's reformation of doctrine with reformation of
life, stressing personal regeneration and piety) and Anabaptism (which
held that infant baptism is invalid). Bretheren tend to be conservative
in life-style, but liberal in social outlook. They have traditionally
rejected military service, and are active in relief, rehabilitation, and
disaster reconstruction.
Churches of Christ
A group of autonomous churches which have separated from the Christian
Churches. Believing that the Christian Churches were moving away from a
rigorous New Testament Christianity (through such things as the use of
the organ in public worship and the utilization of Sunday schools and
missionary societies), the Churches of Christ requested to be listed
separately in the federal religious census of 1906. Churches of Christ
regard Jesus Christ as the founder, head, and saviour of the church.
They contend that the Word of God is the seed of the church and that,
when the Word is preached without any admixture of human opinions, it
will produce Christians, or a church of Christ. These churches hold to a
strict congregational independency, and have no general organization.
Dukhobors
Pacifist Russian sect which appeared in the mid-eighteenth century. They
called themselves the "People of God", or true Christians, but their
opponents gave them the name "dukhobor" ("spirit-wrestlers"): those that
fight the Holy Spirit. They accepted the name, but gave it a new
meaning: those who fight with the Spirit dwelling in each person. They
rejected doctrines such as the Incarnation (Jesus as the incarnation of
God) and the Holy Trinity, believing that each generation has its own
mortal Christ, a moral teacher. The only symbols of their faith are
bread, salt and a water jug kept on the table in the centre of their
meeting place. They are agrarian (farmers) and hold property in common.
Hutterite Brethren
Founded in 1528, they believe that true Christianity can be practiced
only in communal living. Like the Mennonites, they originated as a
branch of the Anabaptists, believe in common ownership of goods, and are
pacifists.
Jehovah's Witnesses
The Witnesses believe that Christ became King of Heaven in 1914 and
cast out Satan, thus beginning great troubles on Earth which will
climax in the Battle of Armageddon and the destruction of Satan.
They believe that exactly 144,000 people will go to heaven, but that
the rest of humanity will live in a paradise on Earth. Jehovah's
Witnesses believe that theirs is the only true faith and the only way
to salvation. All members are ministers who proselytize their faith
with door-to-door missionary work; members refuse service in the
armed forces, will not salute national flags, or participate in
government, will not accept blood transfusions, and discourage
smoking, drinking, card-playing and dancing.
Kimbanguism
The Church of Jesus Christ on Earth by Prophet Simon Kimbangu - the most
influential independent church in Africa. In 1918, Simon Kimbangu was
said to have a visitation from Christ, telling him to spread His word.
Kimbanguists believe that the Holy Spirit has come to them in a special
way through the life of the twentieth century Zairean prophet.
Lutheranism
The largest branch of the Protestant Church, growing out of the
teachings of Martin Luther. The basic Lutheran principle is
"justification through faith" - that man's faith in God, rather than
man's good works, will bring about his salvation. Lutherans regard
the Bible as their sole guide -- although they employ ordained
ministers, they believe that every person is a priest and can
approach God directly. In connection with the emphasis upon the real
presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper (in, with, and under the bread
and wine) as it was implied in Luther's doctrine of the omnipresence of
Christ, Lutheran theology has always been marked by a sense of the
in-dwelling of God in all life and of the nearness of Christ, the
incarnate God, to all men of faith. Thus Lutherans tend to identify
religious faith with love and providence.
Mennonites
Stemming from the 16th-century Anabaptists (who regarded infant baptism
as invalid), Mennonites faithfully adhere to the principles of their
forefathers, practice adult baptism, observe a strict Biblicist piety,
reject the oath and use of violence, and strongly advocate the separation
of church and state.
The Old Order Amish is a small conservative branch of the Mennonite
faith which shuns worldly ways and modern innovation (education and
technology). For the Amish, the church is a voluntary brotherhood of
obedient Christians, following the narrow way of the New Testament, aided
by mutual admonition and support. They permit elementary education,
preferably with teachers of their faith, but reject schools of higher
learning.
Methodism
The name derives from the founders' desire to study religion "by rule
and method" and follow the Bible interpreted by tradition and reason.
Although Methodists accept the Trinity and practice baptism, they
hold that individual love for God and individual religious experience
mean more than formal doctrine. Salvation is achieved by a life of
holiness, repentance, and faith, and is available to everyone. Most
believe in judgement after death, in which the morally good are
rewarded and the wicked punished.
Mormons (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints)
Founded by Joseph Smith when he declared, in 1827, that a vision led
him to dig up golden plates covered with sacred writings. Translated
by him, they were published as "The Book of Mormon". Mormons believe
in a purposeful universe in which humans have been placed to make
themselves more like God by faith and works. They hold that God was
once a man, and that humans, too, may one day become gods. They
believe in the Trinity as three distinct personages, and they
practice baptism. Missionary work is important (all male Mormons have to
spend two years between the ages of 18 an 25 in spreading the faith), and
abstinence from tea, coffee, and alcohol is considered important.
Pentecostal
A group of independent religious bodies originating in the United States,
the name derives from the doctrine that all Christians are to reproduce
the experience of the original disciples on the first day of Pentecost
following Christ's ascension. This involves being baptized in the Holy
Ghost, speaking in tongues, and faith healing. Services feature
enthusiastic sermons and hymns.
Presbyterianism
The basis of the Presbyterian creed is the Westminster Confession
(1644-1647), the most famous statement of English Calvanism. They
believe that the Scriptures are "the only infallible rule of faith
and practice". Its main features are the right of every member to share
in the government of the local church (which is exercised through elected
or approved elders); a single order in the Christian ministry, in which
all ministers are of equal status; and the governing of the national
church through a graded arrangement of ecclesiastical courts composed of
equal numbers of ministers and laymen.
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
Reliance is on the Inner Light (the voice of God's Holy Spirit
experienced within each person) which, if followed, can lead to spiritual
truth. The Quakers believed that the Scriptures were a true Word of God,
but that revelation was not confined to them. They rejected the
Calvanistic concept of man's total depravity, insisting that there is a
seed of God in every soul. Emphasizing the inward nature of religion,
the Quakers reacted against outward ceremonies. As such, meetings are
characterized by quiet meditation without ritual or sermon. Quakers are
active in peace, education, and social welfare movements; they refuse to
bear arms or take oaths.
Seventh-Day Adventists
Its distinguishing feature is the observance of Saturday, rather than
Sunday, as the Sabbath. Otherwise, it is orthodox Protestant and
evangelical, baptizes by immersion, and operated on a modified
congregational basis. They require a lifestyle of strict temperance.
Swedeborgianism (Church of New Jeruselam; New Church)
Based on the writings of the Swedish scientist Emmanuel Swedenborg, it
teaches belief in progress in spirit worlds after death; in "correspon-
dences" or affirmation of direct causes in the spiritual world for
terrestrial events; in an elaborate allegorical method of interpreting
scripture; and an unusual doctrine of the Trinity which holds that Christ
is himself the one and only God, Father (as divine essence), Son, and
Holy Spirit being embodied in him. Worship is simple, but dignified.
Swedeborgians believe that the Bible, expressing the divine mind, in some
sense *is* God; a gesture is made toward the open scriptures on the altar
at certain points in the service when the name of God is mentioned.
Unitarian Universalist Association
Members profess no creed; strong social, ethical and humanitarian
concerns are manifest in the search for religious truth through
freedom of belief; theists, humanists and agnostics are accepted in
religious fellowship; efforts are aimed at the creation of a
worldwide interfaith religious community.
United Church of Christ
One of America's newer Protestant churches, formed the union of the
Congregational Christian Churches (rooted in congregationalism, they
believed that the true visible church is manifest in a local
congregation rather than in lager units) and the Evangelical and
Reformed Church (composed primarily of a previous union of German
Lutherans and Calvanists). Their belief in the Bible is guided by the
"Statement of Faith" (written in 1959). The church is organized by
congregations, which are represented at a general synod that sets
policy; infant baptism and communion are practiced. The majority of
followers do not believe in the "virgin birth", holding that what Jesus
taught and how he lived, rather than the manner of his birth, is of prime
significance. While believing that death is not the end of life, members
do not regard Heaven and Hell as places, but conditions of either eternal
presence with or separation from God.
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JUDAISM
Stemming from the descendants of Judah in Judea, Judaism was founded by
Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. It is one of the oldest of the monotheistic (one
God) religions, and both Christianity and Islam are based upon its principal
beliefs. Judaism believes in a God, who is the creator of the universe and
who leads His people, the Jews, by speaking through prophets. His word is
revealed in the Hebrew Bible (the Old Testament), especially in that part
known as the Torah (the first five books of the Bible, also known as the
Pentateuch). Jews believe that the human condition can be improved, that
the letter and the spirit of the Torah must be followed, and that a Messiah
will eventually bring the world to a state of paradise. The basic beliefs of
Judaism are a love of learning; the worship of God out of love, not fear; and
the performing of heartfelt good deeds without concern about rewards. Pork
and shellfish are prohibited.
The main denominations of Judaism are:
Reform Judaism
Arose in the 19th century in response to the changing conditions of
emancipated Jews in Germany. A doctrine of "progressive revelation" was
adopted, maintaining only such traditional ceremonies as were meaningful to
the modern Jew. The outward forms of religion are always changing, and the
"spirit of the times" is also God's revelation.
Orthodox Judaism
In opposition to the newly-formed Reform Judaism, the Orthodox Judaic
movement also was formed in the early 19th century. It views the Torah as
derived from God, and therefore absolutely binding. It rejects the
findings of higher criticism of the Bible, and upholds (as against the
Reform Judaic rejection of these beliefs) the doctrines of the personal
Messiah, the resurrection of the dead, and the ultimate restoration of the
sacrificial service in the Jerusalem Temple. The worship service is
conducted entirely in Hebrew, men and women sit in separate parts of the
building, there is no instrumental music, head coverings and prayer shawls
are worn by the men, and the service is usually of considerable length,
since respect for the entirety of the accumulated tradition precludes any
conscious process of selection.
Conservative Judaism
A modern interpretation of Judaism which tries to combine adherence to the
traditional forms of the faith with concessions to modern conditions of
life. It stands midway between Reform and Orthodox Judaism.
Hasidism
Religious movement in Judaism founded in Eastern Europe in the 18th
century, Hasidism stresses joy in the worship of God and the mystical idea
that the world of the senses is a veil concealing the essence of reality,
which is the divine spark of holiness in everything. It thus exalts
religious melody and dance. They are an ultra-orthodox form of Judaism
that lives in isolation from the Gentile world, and maintains a strict
commitment to the Law in every phase of life.
Reconstructionism
Founded by Mordecai Kaplan who stressed Judaism as an evolving religious
civilization. It gives equal importance to religion, ethics, and culture.
Falasha
An Ethiopian sect which bases its religious beliefs on the Bible and certain
Apocryphal sources, accepting little of post-biblical Judaism, though
rabbinic traditions are found within their literature.
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HINDUISM
Hinduism is a term used to broadly describe a vast array of sects to which
most Indians belong. It has no particular ecclesiastical structure, nor set
creed -- the emphasis is on the way of living, rather than on a way of
thought. Hindu beliefs include the acceptance of the caste system, which
ranks people from birth based on religious practice, employment, locale and
tribal affiliation, among other categories. Society at large is classified
into four groups (or castes), each created from a different part of Brahman,
who pervades all reality: the Brahmans (priests and intellectuals),
Kshatriyas (rulers and warriors), Vaisyas (farmers, artisans and merchants),
and Sundras (peasants and labourers). Far beneath the four castes are the
pariahs, or "untouchables". The goals of Hinduism are release from repeated
reincarnation through the practice of yoga, adherence to Vedic scriptures,
and devotion to a personal guru. Like the Buddhists, Hindus also believe in
reincarnation -- that the soul takes up a new life when the individual dies.
Whether it will be worse or better than the previous one depends upon
"karma" (one's actions). Hindu hope is for release ("moksha") from this
cycle.
Various deities are worshiped at shrines; the divine trinity, representing
the cyclical nature of the universe, are Brahma the creator, Vishnu the
preserver, and Shiva the destroyer.
The main denominations of Hinduism are:
Vaishnavas (Vishnuism)
Followers of the Hindu god Vishnu, forming one of the main branches of
Hinduism. Most Vaishnavas are especially devoted to one of the 10
incarnations of Vishnu, now usually to Rama or Krishna.
Shaivas
Members of that branch of Hinduism which looks on the god Shiva as ultimate
and accepts him as the chief object of worship. They demand blood
sacrifices and a religious attitude of childlike surrender, as opposed to
an attitude of love and offerings of devotion given to the incarnations of
Vishnu by his followers (Vaishnavas).
Shakti (or Sakti)
Shakti is the mother goddess and manifests herself in many different forms.
Theologically, Shakti is conceived as the active, powerful component of the
universe, while her husband Shiva (who holds the power of destruction)
rests in deep contemplation. Thus, the cults of Shaivas and Shakti are
closely related, and the demands (sacrifices, and religious attitude) are
similar.
Arya Samaj
Hindu reform organization formed in 1875, it sought to revive Vedism (the
ancient sacred language of the Hindus) and advocated the abolition of the
caste system, since it maintained that the Vedas, which it held to be
infallible, did not recognize caste. The society favoured mass education,
the emancipation of women, and the remarriage of widows. It opposed child
marriage and image-worship. Righteousness and service to humanity were
recommended as guides to proper conduct.
Brahma Samaj
Dedicated to nonsectarian worship of the Eternal, the sect promulgated a
reformed theistic Hinduism. Influenced by Christianity and Western ideas,
the movement advocated abolition of the caste system and child marriage and
favoured emancipation of women and remarriage of widows.
Hare Krishna (International Society for Krishna Consciousness; ISKON)
Derived from the Hindu sect of Vishnuism, it teaches that Krishna was the
chief God who had revealed himself at one time as Vishnu (the reverse of
Hindu teaching, where it is believed that Vishnu, the Supreme God,
manifested himself at one time as Krishna). Krishnaism was one of the
early attempts to make Hinduism appealing to the masses. While pure
Hinduism's god is impersonal and unknowable, Krishnaism (and other sects)
personalize god and promote worship of and interaction with the
personalized aspects of god, such as Krishna.
According to the faith, salvation must be earned by performing a series of
works. Shaven, yellow-robed devotees chant the mantra "Hare Krishna" as a
way of reaching ecstatic union with God.
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BUDDHISM
Grew out of the basic beliefs of Hinduism, but strongly rejected the Hindu
caste system. Teaches that meditation and the practice of good religious and
moral behaviour can lead to Nirvana, the state of enlightenment, although
before achieving Nirvana one is subject to repeated lifetimes that are good
or bad depending upon one's actions (karma). The doctrines of the Buddha
describe temporal life as featuring "four noble truths": existence is a realm
of suffering; desire, along with the belief in the importance of one's self,
causes suffering; achievement of Nirvana ends suffering; and Nirvana is
attained only by meditation and by following the path of righteousness in
action, thought and attitude.
The three schools of Buddhism are:
Hinayana ("the lesser vehicle")
Emphasizes salvation by objective attainment. It teaches that each
individual is responsible for his or her own salvation. It's only
surviving sect is Theravada ("Way of the Elders") which adheres strictly
to the Buddhist teachings and perceives the historical Buddha, Guatama,
as the supreme teacher among men (as opposed to the Mahayana's view of
Guatama as a deity).
Mahayana ("the greater vehicle")
Lays stress on universal salvation, saying that all beings are tied
together. Much more lenient than the Hinanyana school of thought, it
has produced a diversity of sects, including:
Jodo Shin Shu ("pure land true sect")
Japanese sect founded in 1224 by Shinran Shonin. Shinran taught that
salvation is attained by mere repetition of the name "Amida", the
Infinite (Buddha). In effect, death and Nirvana then become
synonymous, resulting unconditionally from the grace of Bodhisattva
(an Indian deity) who, out of compassion for the welfare of humanity,
renounced supreme enlightenment.
Kegon Shu (Hua-yen)
Founded in China and based on the Yogacara school of Indian Buddhist
idealism that taught that the entire objective world, composed of
Buddha-essence, is a manifestation of the Buddha-mind.
Nichiren ("sun lotus")
A native Japanese phenomenon, it was founded in an age when Japan was
ruled by feudal lords and adopted Buddhism to the Bushido warrior
cult by teaching that a state and religion should be a unity.
Distinctive to all the various sects of Nichiren Buddhism (as well
as its off-shoots) is their common reverence for the Lotus Sutra as
the supreme and sufficient Buddhist teaching, and the centrality of
the Gohonzon ("worship object"): a mandala which inscribes the words
of the Daimoku ("Hail to the wonderful truth of the Lotus Sutra").
Rissho Koseikai
Officially translated as "society for the establishment of
righteousness and security of the country as preached by Saint
Nichiren; interaction and harmony to completion", it is an off-shoot
of Nichiren Buddhism, founded in 1938 by Nikkyo Niwano. Its doctrine
draws not only from Nichiren, but from Hinayana Buddhism.
Shingon ("true or mystical word")
Japanese sect, whose doctrines include: the Ten Stages, from beastly
man to the Great Illuminator, a belief in the Buddha-nature of
Supreme Reality, of which the historical Guatama Buddha was a
manifestation; the Two Elements, the passive (or mental) and the
active (or material), reflecting Wisdom and Compassion; the Three
Secrets - that everything possesses body, thought and speech.
Meditation is stressed.
Soka Gakkai ("value creation society")
A lay movement that emerged at the turn of the century when religious
freedom was introduced in Japan. Like Nichiren, from which it
derives, it is intolerant of other movements and lays great stress on
duty and morality. A special emphasis is placed on the creation of a
"contented society".
Tendai (T'ien-t'ai)
Founded by Chih-i in China and based on doctrines brought from India
about 400 A.D. Tendai advocates extreme tolerance of "The Middle
Way", recognizes all Buddhist sects, and is itself a miniature
Buddhism. Very popular in Japan is its fundamental teaching that not
only everyone, but also everything, attains Buddhahood, and that
Buddha is Supreme Reality, manifested as the historical Guatama
Buddha. The Tendai ideal is to live in harmony with Reality by
vowing (to ones' self) imitation of Buddha.
Vajrayana ("the diamond vehicle")
A version of Mahayana Buddhism, originating in India, that has become
overlaid with occult, magical, and mystical elements. Vajrayana
seeks to pass beyond the appearances of things into an emptiness of
through which the individual is identified with the absolute. To
achieve this, specific techniques are used: the "mantra" (a magic
saying, which is repeated over and over again); the "mudra" (special
physical gestures); and the "mandala" (a `meditation circle' which is
contemplated to achieve an experience of the divine). It is the
Buddhism of Tibet.
Won ("complete")
Perhaps the most lively form of Korean Buddhism today, it stresses a
correct understanding of grace, activity in spreading Buddhist
teaching, and selfless service to others.
Zen (Ch'an)
Bought to China from India in the 6th century by the philosopher
Bodhidharma. Stressing self-reliance and meditation, Zen seeks to
substitute intuitive awareness for intellect and logic. It is
intended to train the mind to jump beyond the limits of thought -- to
leap from "thinking" to "knowing". In order to attain enlightenment,
or Buddhahood, according to Zen, a person must plumb the depths of
his own "self". When he comes to know his own consciousness fully,
he will find it identical with the spiritual reality which is
conterminous (having the same boundary) with all that is. If a
person cannot perceive reality in the most commonplace objects and
activities, he will not find it anywhere.
Tantrayana (Tantrinism)
Differs from the other two schools of Buddhism through its emphasis on
sacramental action. Instead of stressing such concepts as faith or
wisdom, it relies on a consecration consisting of actions of the body,
speech and mind. The human body is not deprecated but is valued as the
instrument through which actions are performed to achieve salvation.
Such actions entail complicated rituals that require oral instruction
under a recognized master, and such instructions are given only to those
who are properly qualified. Tantrists believe their way is superior to
Hinayana and Mahayana because it does not require the long road that
those beliefs must travel, but allows followers to achieve salvation
within a single lifespan.
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ISLAM
Founded by the prophet Muhammed, who received the holy scriptures of Islam
(the Koran) from Allah (God), Islam maintains that Muhammed is the last in a
long line of holy prophets, preceded by Adam, Abraham, Moses and Jesus. In
addition to being devoted to the Koran, followers of Islam (Muslims) are
devoted to the worship of Allah through the "Five Pillars": the statement
"There is no god but Allah, and Muhammed is his prophet"; prayer, conducted
five times a day while facing Mecca; the giving of alms; the keeping of the
fast of Ramadan during the ninth month of the Muslim year; and the making of
a pilgrimage at least once to Mecca, if possible. Consumption of pork and
alcohol, as well as usury, slander, and fraud are prohibited. In the end,
the sinless go to Paradise, a place of physical and spiritual pleasure, and
the wicked burn in Hell. The holy book is called the Qur'an (Koran).
The divisions of Islam are:
Sunni (Orthodox)
Practice is staid and simple. A deterministic (no free will) viewpoint
is held. The Wahhabis are the most important Sunni sect. 90% of Muslims
belong to this belief.
Shi'ah (Shiite)
The Shi'ah believe in the 12 "imams" (perfect teachers) who still guide
the faithful from Paradise. Practice tends towards the ecstatic. Man's
free will is affirmed. For Shiites, pilgrimage to the cities sanctified
by members of Mohammed's family is almost as important as the pilgrimage
to Mecca.
The sects of Shi'ah Islam include:
Imamis (Imamiyya; Twelvers)
The largest sect of Shiite Islam. They have accepted the Jaafari
(named after the sixth "imam") form of Muslim law, and are led by
independent religious authorities (mujtahids) recognized as learned and
pious representatives of the hidden imam.
Isma'iliyya (Batinyya; Seveners)
A branch of the Shi'ah with numerous subdivisions which began to be
differentiated from the Imamis at the time of the great Shi'ite Imam
Ja'far al-Sadiq. They restricted the number of imams to seven, the
last of which was Muhammad ibn Isma'il (the grandson of Ja'far
al-Sadiq), and was expected to be the Mahdi (the awaited descendant of
Muhammad who would restore Islam to purity).
Druses (Druzes)
Developed in the 11th century from the Ismalii branch of Islam and
based on the adoration of the Egyptian Caliph al-Hakim (who is regarded
as the manifestation of God). They expect al-Hakim to return a
conqueror and fill the earth with righteousness. Meanwhile, the more
pious of the Druses try to purify their souls (which are held to be
reincarnated generation after generation) so as to be worthy of him.
Zaydis (Zaidis; Zaydiyya)
The Zaydis hold that any descendant of Ali and Mohammed's daughter
(Fatima) may be a legitimate imam (ruler of the Muslims) provided he is
both expert in the law and effective in claiming his rights by the
sword.
Kharijites
Adherents of several Muslim sects who insisted that the ruler of Islam
must be of pure character and elected by the faithful. The Kharijites
declared all other Muslims renegade for accepting sinful rulers.
Ahmadiyya
A contemporary messianic movement originating in South Asia, it was
created by Ghulam Ahmad Qadiyani in 1889 in an attempt to regenerate
Islam in the face of challenges from Western religions. His visions led
him to belief that he was an agent of the apocaplyse - the Messiah whom
Muslims expected at the end of time. In 1914, a split in the ranks of
the faith occurred, resulting in two branches of the original movement:
Lahoris
Consistent apologists for a progressive, modernist Islam; defending
their faith against propaganda attacks from other religions.
Qadiyanis
Insist on the uniqueness of Ghulam Ahmad as a prophet, and have engaged
in fierce debate with other Muslims.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER RELIGIONS/BELIEFS
Agnosticism
Belief that it is impossible to know whether God exists, or to have any
other theological knowledge. Because the limits of the mind may not be
the limits of the real, Agnosticism does not necessarily imply athiesm.
Animism
Derived from the Latin word "animus", meaning "spirit", Animism is the
belief that all beings, objects and natural phenomenon have souls. Animism
is considered by many to be the original religion and is still widespread
today, particularly in Africa, South America and parts of Asia.
Atheism
The rejection of belief in God. Some atheists have held that there is
nothing in the world that requires a God in order to be explained.
Baha'i (Babi)
Though the original intent of the movement was to purify the branch of
Islam called Shiite Islam, it soon developed into an independent faith, the
followers of which called for social reforms. The faith emphasizes the
unity of all religious teachings that share the same spiritual truths and
promotes universal education, equality between the sexes, world peace, and
world government. The teaching of Baha'is especially concerned with the
problems of the individual in the community, and Baha'is seek to work hand
in hand with science. Man is required to adopt a new attitude to his role
as a partner in the family and the whole social structure.
Cao Dai
Religious and political movement which started in southern Vietnam around
1920. It is sometimes called the "Third Amnesty". Firmly nationalistic,
its teachings are a mixture of Buddhism and Taoism.
Ch'ondogyo (Chondo-kyo)
A Korean religion, Ch'ondogyo ("Way of Heavenly Teaching") teaches the
worship of God in Heaven but combines features of shamanism, Buddhism, and
Confucianism. Founded in opposition to the spread of Catholicism in Korea,
the basic statement of belief affirms that "man is God". Man and the
universe are one, no idols should be worshipped, no humans are above
others, but all should strive to make this earth a heaven.
Confucianism
Confucianism, which grew out of a strife-ridden time in Chinese history,
stresses the relationship between individuals, their families, and society,
based on "li" (proper behaviour) and "jen" (sympathetic attitude -- the
ultimate goal of conduct). Confucianism gives primary emphasis to the
ethical meaning of human relationships, finding and grounding the moral
in divine transcendence. The goal of the Confucian is to become a sage; a
servant of society.
Freemasonry
Originally a religious brotherhood of English masons founded in the twelfth
century, today it is a semi-secret society which retains certain mystical
symbols and ceremonies. Members are committed to a belief that God as "the
great architect of the universe", symbolized by an eye.
Hotoku ("repayment of blessings")
A religious and ethical movement founded by the "peasant sage" Ninomiya
Sontoku for the benefit of peasantry. It is a practical application of
ethical principles to the solution of rural economic problems.
Jainism
An athiestic religion (which teaches that the universe goes through a
process of advance and decline according to natural law) founded by
Mahavira (the Great Hero), the faith accepts karma and reincarnation and,
like Buddhism, rejects the Hindu caste system. However, unlike Buddhism,
followers are urged to take the extreme path of asceticism, or self-denial.
All Jains are vegetarians. They cannot take part in war. They cannot be
butchers, or engage in any professions where they must kill or injure any
living thing. They cannot even be farmers, for in tilling the soil they
might kill worms. Hence, most Jains have become merchants and bankers.
Jainism had some influence on Mahatma Ghandi, especially in respect of his
insistence on complete nonviolence. The two major monastic traditions are
Digambara, which requires all monks renounce their possessions, including
all clothing, and live completely naked; and the Svetambara, which permits
the wearing of simple robes.
Konko-kyo ("the religion of golden light")
One of the new Japanese religions, it was founded by Bunjiro Kawate who had
a shamanistic vision in which a folk religion deity revealed himself to be
actually a monotheistic "high god". The major distinctive rite of this
religion is a practice of personal spiritual guidance somewhat comparable to
Roman Catholic confession.
Maoism
An outgrowth of Marxist-Leninism, which was brought to China from the
Soviet Union in the 1920's, it was founded by Mao Tse-tung, who aligned
himself with the poor peasants of China and gained control of the Chinese
Communist party in 1935. The main tenets of Maoism are faith in the
Communist party, faith in the masses, and transcendence of personal
desires in order to serve the people as a whole.
Omoto ("great source")
A group of new Japanese religions, Omoto emphasizes the existence of a
spiritual world, the coming of a new age and a new messiah, healing, mental
powers, the creation of paradise on earth and the religious importance of
art. Among those religions are:
Pl Kyodan ("perfect liberty order")
Members believe that "life is art" and that all aspects of life need to
be integrated into a total work of art. Sports is emphasized, and they
have a golf course near their churches, where possible.
Seicho-no-Ie ("house of growth")
Teaches that "all is perfect" and draws from the Western "New Thought"
positive-thinking tradition and from the Mahayana belief in the
universal unstained One Mind.
Seikai Kyusei-Kyo (Sekai Meshia-Kyo; Church of World Messianity)
Offers "johrei" - in which the "Divine Light of God" is channeled
through the cupped hand of one who administers it to a recipient.
Radha Soami Satsang
A sect containing elements of Hinduism and Sikhism, its founder described
God as the union of Radha (symbolizing the soul) and Soami ("master",
symbolizing the centre). They believe in a living guru (unlike the Sikhs)
and do not regard the Granth Sahib (Sikh holy book) as their only
scripture.
Rastafanarianism
Religious and political movement centered in the Caribbean. Rastafarians
believe that all West Indians came from Ethiopia and will return there to
liberation. They are distinguished by keeping their hair in "dreadlocks"
and by their use of cannabis in worship. They helped develop the reggae
style of music, which they use to express their political and religious
aspirations.
Rosicrucianism
A modern movement, begun in 1868 that claims ties to an older Society of
the Rose and Cross that was founded in Germany in 1413 by Christian
Rozencreuz. Claims to empower members with cosmic forces by unveiling
secret wisdom regarding the laws of nature.
Satanism
The worship of the power which Judaism and Christianity regard as the
origin of evil. Ideologically, Satanists seem to be divided into three
groups. Some modern Satanists regard the Judeo-Christian devil as actually
the true deity of this world, synonymous with the life force and "healthy"
natural impulses, and God as a sinister being who piously urges an
unwholesome repression of nature and the flesh. For the most "liberal"
wing of Satanism, represented by Anton LeVay (who founded the Church of
Satan in San Francisco in 1966), the whole Satanist symbol system is little
more than a myth and ritual to help people accept their carnal and
materialist sides without guilt. For others, Satan is indeed the prince of
evil whom they embrace for his own sake, and in hope of reward after death
in his dark domain.
Scientism
Scientists believe that the order of the universe can be determined by
systematic study and analysis. They believe that theirs is the only true
path and that other paths are "mere superstitions".
Scientology
Religious philosophy based on the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard. It teaches
development through personality counselling and mind-training, the aim of
which is the "clearing" of the individual and the recognition of his
immortal nature.
Shintoism ("way of the kami")
The ancient native religion of Japan developed out of primitive worship of
ancestors and natural forces, but has been influenced by Confucianism and
Buddhism. The word "Shinto" means "way of the gods". Shinto stresses
belief in a great many spiritual beings and gods, known as "kami" (who are
paid tribute at shrines and honoured at festivals), and reverence for
ancestors. While there is no overall dogma, adherents of Shinto are
expected to remember and celebrate the kami, support the societies of which
the kami are patrons, remain pure and sincere, and enjoy life. Shintoism
places great emphasis on physical and mental purity.
Sikhism
The Sikhs religion developed out of Hinduism under the influence of Islam,
and it also contains features perhaps showing Christian influence. Sikhs
are more strictly monotheistic (one God) than Hindus, referring to God as
Ram, Akal ("the Timeless"), and as Wahguru ("the Great Master"). Like
Hindus, they believe in the transmigration of souls (reincarnation), but
like the Muslims, they object to the worship of images. In their gurdwaras
(temples), the sacred image is replaced by a large copy of the Sikh
scriptures, referred to as Granth Sahib ("Lord Book"). This is a lengthy
collection of hymns in Punjabi and Hindu, composed by the Sikh gurus and
various Hindu hymnodists. Certain regulations of Govind Singh have given
the Sikhs their distinctive appearance. The orthodox male Sikh must always
wear certain articles, known as the "five k's" (because in Punjabi, their
names begin with that letter). These are long hair (kesh), which, including
the beard, must never be cut; a pair of sewn knee-length underpants (kachh),
replacing the Hindu dhoti; an iron bangle (kara); a comb (kangha) to keep
the hair in place; and a short sword or dagger (kirpan). The hair is
always worn under a turban in public. Orthodox Sikhs rigidly avoid alcohol
and tobacco, but they are permitted to hunt and eat meat.
Society of Ethical Culture
A humanist movement, stressing the importance of ethics and morality in
human interaction, although it offers no system of ethics or other
religious beliefs of its own.
Taoism (Daoism; "the Way")
Both a philosophy and a religion, Taoism was founded in China and can best
be described as a philosophy of "live and let live". It derives primarily
from the "Tao-te-ching", which claims that an ever-changing universe
follows the Tao, or path. The Tao can be known only by emulating its
quietude and effortless simplicity; Taoism prescribes that people live
simply, spontaneously, and in close touch with nature, and that they
meditate to achieve contact with the Tao. Harmony is thus achieved by
pursuing inaction and effortlessness.
Tenrikyo ("Religion of Heavenly Wisdom")
One of the new religions of Japan, members perform sacred dances with
gestures of sweeping movement to symbolize clearing away spiritual dust.
Founded by Miki Nakayama, it is said that a deity spoke through her lips,
saying he was the True and Original God, and that he wished to use Miki's
body as a shrine to save the world. From then on, she lived wholly as the
vessel of this "holy one", known to believers as the Father-Mother God.
Through her came the sacred scriptures of the religion, the divine dances,
and the sire of its great temple, located where it is believed the creation
of the world began and where divine dew will fall from heaven to mark the
inception of the paradisal age.
Voodoo
The religion of 90% of the people in Haiti (in spite of the official
domination of the Roman Catholicism) as well as others in the West Indies
and parts of South America. The name derives from a West African word for
God, and the faith is a mixture of Christianity and native African
religion. The Voodooists believe that life came from the mud and that from
it they derive strength.
Unification Church
Korean religion founded by Sun Myung Moon, who claimed that when he was 16,
Jesus appeared to him. It combines Christian, shamanistic and messianic
features. Members are dubbed "Moonies", after the name of their leader.
The Church teaches that a second Adam and Eve must come forth to pay the
indemnity for the sin of the original Adam and Eve. Jesus came to earth as
the second Adam, but did not marry and therefore could not fulfill the
prophecy. Therefore, the material world remains under the power of Satan.
Moon teaches that the time is near when a new Messiah will arise in Korea,
complete the indemnity, marry the new Eve, found a sinless humanity, and
establish God's kingdom.
Zoroastrianism (Parsi)
A religion of ancient Persia, Zoroastrianism still exists on a limited
scale in India and Iran. Founded by Zoroaster (Zarathustra in Persian),
who had a series of revelations, inspiring him to preach the new faith.
Eventually, it was eclipsed by Islam. Zoroastrianism is a monotheistic
faith with a strong ethical emphasis centering about the dualistic concept
of the conflict between Good and Evil. Good was manifest in the
creator-god of light and truth, Ahura Mazda, the great, beneficent Wise
Lord. His evil opponent was Angra, Mainyu, or Ahriman, the spirit of
darkness. The ultimate triumph of Ahuru Mazda was assured, but during the
struggle, men could aid the cause of Ahuru Mazda by making free ethical
choices and judgements in their daily lives.
===============================================================================
As an appendix to this file, I offer a chart comparing the world's most
influential religions. The information was culled by a fascinating book called
"Many Peoples, Many Faiths".
Religion can be expressed in three broad areas: Theoretical, Practical, and
Sociological. It is through these areas of expression which we shall examine
the differences between the various religions under examination.
THEORETICAL (what is said by the religion)
Basic World View (how the universe is set up, especially in its spiritual
aspect -- the map of the invisible world)
Tribal: the universe is a place animated by many spirits, some
friendly and some not. Humans have a real place in the cosmos,
which works by rules and cycles that can be known.
Hinduism: the universe is profoundly one. Even though it goes through
surface changes and cycles, its ultimate nature as expression of
the divine does not change.
Zoroastrianism: the universe is a battleground between good and evil.
Buddhism: reality is an indescribable unity. Humans find themselves in
a realm of suffering governed by karma.
Confucianism: the universe is a unity under heaven, of which humans are
an integral part. For humans, family and society are the most
important links to the universe.
Taoism: the universe is one, yet always moving and changing.
Shintoism: universe is pluralistic, having many gods. It is growing
and changing. Nature, humanity, and the divine are not sharply
separated.
Judaism: universe is made by God but is an arena of humans to live in
and enjoy, exercising free will, in co-operation with God's
guidance.
Christianity: a world made by God, but fallen far from harmony with his
will; Jesus Christ bridges the gap between God and humanity. In
this situation faith and love are required.
Islam: the world is for humans but under the absolute rule of God.
God or Ultimate Reality (what the ultimate source and ground of all things
is)
Tribal: many gods and spirits; but perhaps a higher god or unifying
force over them.
Hinduism: Brahman, the one Mind or Life, is the one reality. It
expresses itself in all that is like a flame taking many shapes.
Zoroastrianism: the good high God, Ahura Mazda, whose adversary is the
evil force Angra.
Buddhism: unconditioned reality beyond all opposites; Nirvana, the
Void.
Confucianism: "heaven", regulating the world and moral order.
Taoism: the Tao, the great Way down which the universe moves.
Shintoism: many "kami" (gods).
Judaism: in traditional Judaism, a sovereign, personal, all-good
creator God.
Christianity: a sovereign, personal, all-good creator God.
Islam: God, sovereign, personal, revealing himself and giving specific
guidance to humanity.
Origin of the World (where it all came from)
Tribal: either no point of origin, or created by the gods or a high god
who may subsequently have withdrawn from activity.
Hinduism: the world goes through endless cycles of creation and
destruction but has no real beginning or end.
Zoroastrianism: made by Ahura Mazda to entrap the evil force.
Buddhism: while the cosmos may go through cycles, it has no known
beginning or end.
Confucianism: the world originates from heaven.
Taoism: it is an expression of the Tao without a known beginning.
Shintoism: generated by the gods.
Judaism: created by God.
Christianity: created by God.
Islam: created by God.
Destiny of the World (where it is going)
Tribal: usually not clear.
Hinduism: the world goes through endless cycles of creation and
destruction but has no real beginning or end.
Zoroastrianism: at the end of the age, to be remade as a new, pristine
palace.
Buddhism: while the cosmos may go through cycles, it has no known
beginning or end.
Confucianism: vague, but world proceeds through interaction of Yin and
Yang and the five "principles" or elements.
Taoism: it is an expression of the Tao without a known end.
Shintoism: unknown, but historical progress has meaning.
Judaism: will be led by God through historical vicissitudes, until
finally a messianic age brings it to a paradisal state.
Christianity: at the end of time, to be judged and then remade as a
paradise of God.
Islam: to be destroyed on the Last Day, the day of judgement.
Origin of Humans (where we came from)
Tribal: often children of gods or demidivine primal parents.
Hinduism: like the world, the individual has no known beginning. It
goes through countless lifetimes, the nature of which is determined
by karma.
Zoroastrianism: made by Ahura Mazda with free will to help trap and
defeat the enemy.
Buddhism: an individual is a process of cause and effect rather than a
self; to this there is no beginning.
Confucianism: vague; ultimately from heaven and earth.
Taoism: an expression of the Tao, to share in its never-ending
evolution.
Shintoism: descended from the "kami".
Judaism: created individually by God.
Christianity: created individually by God.
Islam: created by God.
Destiny of Humans (where we are going)
Tribal: frequently to go after death to another world, not unlike this
world, sometimes also to be reborn here in this world.
Hinduism: the series of lifetimes continues and may include episodes in
heavens and hells. Finally, one transcends karma through God-
realization.
Zoroastrianism: judgement after death; sentence to paradise or hell;
ressurection in the new world at the end of the age.
Buddhism: unending lifetimes in this and other worlds, good or bad
according to karma and merit. One then breaks through to attain
the Nirvana state.
Confucianism: no stress on afterlife except in terms of ancestrism.
Ideal is to live a good life in this world through family and
society.
Taoism: one may become immortal by mastering the Tao and its power.
Shintoism: unclear; perhaps to become "kami" or merge with "kami".
Judaism: chiefly in this world; with divine help and human
co-operation, the human condition can become better and better
until a paradisal age is reached.
Christianity: judgement and resurrection on the last day; eternal life.
Islam: to be judged on the Last Day and receive reward or punishment
in the Second Creation.
Revelation or Meditation Between the Ultimate and Human (how we know this
and how we are helped to get from here to our ultimate destiny)
Tribal: myth, often told and enacted at festivals and by shamans;
benign gods and ancestral spirits as helpers.
Hinduism: the Vedic scriptures; the brahman priesthood; the gods and
God-realized saints as expression of the One; following one's
"guru" as spiritual guide.
Zoroastrianism: revelation through the prophet Zoroaster; meditation by
priests.
Buddhism: through the Buddha, who attained full enlightenment, and the
scriptures attributed to him.
Confucianism: the teachings of Confucius and the classics; mediated by
the education system.
Taoism: the teachings of Laozi and other sages. Benign immortals or
gods can be honoured and serve as helpers.
Shintoism: myths; traditions, and festivals of shrines where one
approaches the "kami" presence.
Judaism: the scriptures, especially the Torah (or Law), and its
traditional interpretation in the Talmud.
Christianity: supreme self-manifestation by God in Jesus Christ the
Mediator; revelation in Scripture and, especially in the Roman
Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican traditions. The tradition
and authority of the Christian church.
Islam: the revelation in the Koran given through Muhammed, the last and
greatest of the prophets.
PRACTICAL (what is done in religion)
What is Expected of Humans; Worship, Practices, Behaviour (what we
ourselves must do)
Tribal: to undergo initiation; to honour and sacrifice to gods and
ancestors; to observe tribal norms of behaviour and taboos.
Hinduism: to follow "dharma: (cosmic & social order) through rituals,
behaviour, and righteous deeds. If one seeks "moksha", or
liberation, one would practice yoga, meditation, or devotion under
the guidance of a "guru".
Zoroastrianism: to choose good, do right, keep pure; to maintain the
faith by supporting its rites and institutions.
Buddhism: to do good. Religious and moral works that gain good
rebirth. To seek Nirvana by meditation or related practices.
Confucianism: to observe official and ancestral rites; to honour
parents and meet other ethical obligations. One works for a good
society by exercising benevolence and practicing mutuality with
others.
Taoism: to live spontaneously and close to nature; in more formal
systems, to meditate and perform rites that draw one close to gods
and immortals.
Shintoism: to remember and celebrate the gods, remain pure and sincere,
enjoy life. Support the societies of which the gods are patrons.
Judaism: to honour and serve God by following the laws of Moses in
letter or spirit, to maintain the identity of the people, and to
promote the ethical vision of the great prophets and humanitarians.
Jewish customs are followed in the home as well as in the place of
worship.
Christianity: to seek and know God, to worship him, to practice the
ethics of love and service.
Islam: to worship and serve God in accordance with his commandments;
to observe the "Five Pillars" and the rest of Shari'a (code based
on the Koran).
SOCIOLOGICAL (kinds of groups formed by religion)
Major Social Institutions (how the religion is set up to preserve and
implement its teaching and practice; what kind of leadership it has;
how it interacts with the larger society)
Tribal: tribe as spiritual unit; shamanism.
Hinduism: the caste system; temples as places of worship of gods; holy
men; the family; the brahmin priesthood.
Zoroastrianism: temples, priesthood, a close-knit community; now mostly
Parsees in India.
Buddhism: temples; the "samgha", or order of monks.
Confucianism: great importance of family and of elite class; aligned to
state under empire.
Taoism: temples, monastaries, the Taoist priesthood.
Shintoism: shrines, with the "ujiko" community of each. Family, work,
and regional ties with particular shrines is important.
Judaism: after the Jewish people as such, the basic unit is the
congregation of Jews, forming a synagogue or temple. Jewish family
life is also very important.
Christianity: the Christian church, divided into many traditional
denominations; also monastic orders, missionary works, numerous
associations.
Islam: the whole Islamic community; the local Friday Mosque community;
the "uloma", or body of teachers and preachers; Sufi orders; the
ideal of Islamic society.