Ravago, Justin Nico

Sem 3 Paper on What is Religion

What is Religion?

There have been so many efforts to define Religion. It is something which cannot
be encapsulated or boxed in a single term. Personally, I think it is a set of beliefs which
are followed every day and every minute a way of life. For the sake of comparison, the
following are samples on how religion is defined:

Religion can be explained as a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and
purpose of the universe, especially when considered as the creation of a superhuman
agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often
containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs.1

Is there a biblical definition for religion? You cant find the precise equivalent of the
English word religion in the Greek or Hebrew Scriptures. The Greek word threskeia is used
in the New Testament a few times, but its meaning is limited to ceremonial observance or
worshiping. However, the Bible does define what is expected from the true follower of God.
The Bible is the basic manifestation of the will of God, of His mind, and it describes the
religion of God simply as the Way. 2
In discussing Religion, one cannot forget Christianity which is the worlds biggest
religion. It is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ and currently has more than 2 billion
followers. They worship in churches and they believe that there is only one God, but that
there are three elements to this one God which are God the Father, God the Son and The
Holy Spirit.

Among the many religions in the world, there is also Mormonism or more aptly
called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In the Philippines they have

presence in both major cities and provinces as can be seen through their churches.

1
2

http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/
http://www.vision.org/visionmedia/religion-and-bible/way-of-life/37421.aspx

Mormons believe that God has a physical body, is married, and can have children. They
also believe that humans can become gods in the afterlife.3
Moreover, there is also Taoism a religion famous among the Chinese and their
descendants.

Taoism is an ancient tradition of philosophy and religious belief that is

deeply rooted in Chinese customs and worldview.

Their ideas have become so popular

that it has transcended through different martial arts, one of which is Tai Chi. It originated
in China 2000 years ago and Taoist practices include meditation, feng shui and chanting of
scriptures.

3
4

http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/mormon/ataglance/glance.shtml
http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/taoism/