Religion
Religion
Religion represents a collective agreement among a group regarding specific beliefs, rituals, values, and practices, shaping their collective perspective. These convictions and customs often derive from sacred scriptures, tradition, or personal experiences. They can be classified based on various parameters, including monotheism, polytheism, pantheism, animism, and atheism.Interpretation of Religion
Across ages, "religion" has witnessed diverse interpretations. Broadly, it signifies any belief system incorporating spiritual aspects and advocating certain moral principles. This inclusive interpretation encompasses diverse religious traditions, from the ancient pantheon of gods to the modern single-god doctrines. Further, it extends to non-deistic philosophies, acknowledging ideologies like Confucianism and Taoism.Rationale for Religion
Religion primarily serves two objectives: offering a moral compass and elucidating the existential enigma. Various religious doctrines prescribe ethical conduct guidelines, infusing life with purpose and fostering a sense of community among adherents. Additionally, they provide perspectives on life's origin, purpose, the interplay of living entities, and concepts about life after death.Doctrine and Rituals
Each religion introduces a unique assembly of beliefs and practices. These range from views about divine essence, moral and ethical edicts, to rituals for worship and commemoration. The complexity of ceremonies and rituals may vary across religions, but the common objective remains unchanged: establishing a deeper connection with the divine.Religion's Influence
Religion has significantly influenced the course of human history. It has molded legal frameworks and social norms, inspired artistic and literary creations, and incited movements against injustices. Furthermore, religion has been a refuge, providing solace and hope during challenging circumstances.Terms and Definitions
Religion is a cultural system or set of beliefs that relate humanity to spirituality and moral values. It often involves specific behaviors, practices, ethics, texts, sanctified places, prophecies, or organizations, that give meaning to life or explain the origin of life or the Universe.
Spirituality refers to a sense of connection to something bigger than oneself, typically involving a search for meaning in life. It is a broad concept with many perspectives, often involving a belief in a higher power or entity, and is connected with religious and personal beliefs.
Theology is the study of the nature of the divine and, more broadly, of religious belief. It involves the investigation of the beliefs and practices of religious faiths, philosophies, and spiritual systems.
A deity is a supernatural being, like a god or goddess, that is worshipped by people who believe it controls or exerts force over some aspect of the world. Deities are considered powerful, divine, and holy within their respective religions.
Faith is a strong belief in the doctrines of a religion, based on spiritual conviction rather than proof. It often refers to trust or confidence in a particular religious system, its deity, or its leadership.
A ritual is a sequence of activities involving gestures, words, actions, or objects, performed according to a set sequence in a sacred place or at a set time. Rituals are a key aspect of many religions, acting as a means of expressing and reinforcing beliefs.
Doctrine refers to a set of accepted beliefs held by a religious, political, philosophical or other group. In religion, it is the body of teachings of a religious tradition, that serves to guide its followers.
Scripture refers to the sacred writings of a religion, serving as the foundation and authority for its beliefs, practices, and principles. These texts are believed by followers to be divinely inspired and authoritative.
A sect is a group of people with somewhat different religious beliefs or practices than those of a larger group to which they belong. Sects can be found within many religions, distinguishing themselves through the interpretation of doctrines, religious practices, or leadership.
Monotheism is the belief in the existence of a single god. Monotheistic religions include Christianity, Islam, and Judaism among others. This belief system contrasts with polytheism, which is belief in multiple gods, and atheism, which is disbelief in any gods.
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Portugal: Religious Affiliation, by population share
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Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism, is the dominant religion in Portugal, while other faiths including Islam, Judaism, and various Protestant denominations also have a presence.
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Catholicism
Catholicism is one of the oldest and largest branches of Christianity, characterized by its sacraments, observance of the Holy Mass, devotion to the Virgin Mary, and recognition of the Pope as the spiritual authority. Read more »
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