Define the word religion and list names of three?

Answer 1

The word religion comes either from the Latin word for conscientiousness/piety or from two latin words meaning "to tie back together."

In modern English this word refers to a set of beliefs, generally shared with others and learned from ones parents, about the nature of the universe, humanity, morality and especially the supernatural. Generally, these beliefs provide guidelines for day-to-day life as well as prescribing and proscribing various actions.

There are many, many religions and they come in loose categories.

Monotheistic religions have one god only. There are three big monotheistic religions, Christianity, Judaism and Islam. Hinduism can also be considered a monotheistic religion, although it is generally categorized as polytheistic.

Polytheistic religions have more than one god. Most of the world's religions are polytheistic and some of the best know ones are the religions of the ancient Greeks, Romans and Norse. Hinduism is considered a polytheistic religion by some, as is Christianity.

Some religions, like Buddhism, Taoism and Animism do not have gods and may or may not have a belief in spirits.

There is great variety within these categories, even between Christians, or even among Anglicans or Eastern Orthodox Christians. The same can be said for all other religions and their sub-sects. I would postulate that there is a different set of beliefs for each individual believer.

Hope this helps,

D