Learn about the world's religions. Learn about Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity and Hinduism. These religions have different beliefs and practices. Some religions emphasize the personal while others are more focused on the universal. Some emphasize the importance of personal salvation and reject this world as corrupt.
Buddhism
Buddhism is an ancient religion founded on the teachings Buddha. It promotes self-denial and includes the concepts of karma, reincarnation, and self-denial. There are many Buddhist schools. But there is one universal moral code that unites them all. These are precepts, values and virtues that Buddha extolled in fifth century BC. They still guide 350 million Buddhists today.
Taoism
Taoism's philosophy is based upon the belief that all things are part of a greater whole. This whole is known by the Tao, also known as The Dao. It is the cosmic energy that flows through everything, binding it and then releasing it. Taoism evolved from observation of nature and belief that there is cosmic balance. Some Taoists may also practice spirit worship and ancestor worship.
Christianity
Although the question of Christianity's position among all the world's religions is complex, Christians must recognize that Christianity is not inferior or unique to any other faith. Interreligious communication is essential in today’s multicultural world. Increasing encounters between people with different beliefs and cultures are necessary to reach enlightenment. Christians should not be content with being on the margins of interreligious conversation. Although the question is complex, the biblical framework to evaluate world religions offers a solid foundation for Christian engagement.
Hinduism
Hinduism is a traditional religion in India. Its origins can be traced back to 400 BCE. This was when the Indus Valley people were worshiped. One of the oldest religious texts is the Vedas. It is a collection of sacred scriptures written in many languages. These texts along with the tradition and practice of worship have influenced the evolution of modern Hinduism.
Sikhism
The founder of the Sikh tradition was Guru Nanak, who lived in the Punjab region in South Asia, which is divided between India and Pakistan. Today, most Sikhs are found on the Indian border. The Guru was disillusioned by the social injustices of his day. He believed that there was only one divine force that created the universe, and he believed that this force resides within everything. Sikhism emphasizes service to humanity.
People not affiliated
Unaffiliated with any religion is a growing percentage of the world's population. These people are known as "nones" and come from a variety of faiths. They have created advocacy and service groups to raise awareness about social issues. They are expanding their reach in the media. The vast majority of them are young and secular, which makes them an important audience for media.
Folk religions
Folk religions are traditions that come from local or ethnic religious traditions. They are not officially recognized by any church or country. These folk religions are specific to one region or group of people and rely heavily upon superstition and sympathetic magic to invoke supernatural forces. Some of these traditions were founded on the idea that the planets and stars influence us on a deep and personal level.
Judaism
Judaism, one of the oldest religions on the planet, is Judaism. It dates back to around 2,000 B.C. when the Hebrew people lived throughout the Middle East. Abraham is the center of faith. Abraham, who was old and childless, sought God’s assistance and was granted the promise that he would have a large family. After travelling across the Middle East, Abraham decided to follow one God.