Learn about the various religions around the globe. Learn about Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity and Hinduism. Each religion has its own beliefs and practices. Some religions have a greater emphasis on the personal, while some others place more importance on the larger picture. Others emphasize personal salvation while rejecting the world as corrupt.
Buddhism
Buddhism is an ancient religion founded on the teachings Buddha. It emphasizes self denial and embraces the concepts karma as well as reincarnation. While there are many Buddhist schools out there, they all have a common moral base. These are the precepts and values that Buddha extolled in the fifth century BC, which still guide the 350 million Buddhists of today.
Taoism
Taoism is based around the notion that all things in the universe form part of a larger total. This whole is known as the Tao, which is also called the Dao. It is the universal force that flows through all things, binding or freeing them. Taoism is based on observation of the natural environment and belief in cosmic harmony. Some Taoists may also practice spirit worship and ancestor worship.
Christianity
Although it may be difficult to determine the place of Christianity among the world's religious traditions, Christians must remember that Christianity is not exclusive or inferior. Interreligious dialogue in today’s world is crucial. The increased encounters among people of different faiths and cultures are an essential component of reaching enlightenment. Christians should not remain at the fringe of interreligious discussion. While the question may be complex, the biblical framework for assessing world religions provides a solid foundation for Christian engagement.
Hinduism
Hinduism is a traditional religion in India. Its origins date back to 400 BCE, when the Indus valley people were worshiped. The Vedas, which are a collection in diverse languages of sacred texts, is one of the most ancient religious texts in history. These texts along with the tradition and practice of worship have influenced the evolution of modern Hinduism.
Sikhism
Guru Nanak, who was born in South Asia's Punjab, is the founder and originator of the Sikh tradition. It is now divided between India (India) and Pakistan (Pakistan). Today, most Sikhs live along the Indian side. He was disillusioned with the social injustices of his time. He believed there was only one divine power that created the universe and that it resides in all of us. Sikhism is a religion that emphasizes service to the human race.
Unaffiliated people
A growing proportion of the world’s population is not affiliated to any recognized religion. These people are called "nones" and represent a broad spectrum of beliefs. They have formed advocacy and service organizations to address social issues. They also expand their reach to the media. A large majority of them are secular and young, making them an important audience.
Folk religions
Folk religions are practices that originate from regional or ethnic religious traditions and are not officially recognized by any country or church. These beliefs are exclusive to a single region or ethnic group, and they rely heavily on superstition for supernatural power. Some of these traditions were founded on the idea that the planets and stars influence us on a deep and personal level.
Judaism
Judaism is the oldest religion on the planet. It dates back to around 2,000 B.C. when the Hebrew people lived throughout the Middle East. Abraham, a human being, is the core of the faith. Abraham, an elderly man and childless, sought God's help and was promised a large, fertile family. Abraham made a journey across the Middle East to find one God.