How do you distinguish the doctrine of religion from that which is not doctrine?

Answer 1

Doctrine is an amount of knowledge based on experiences and thoughts ( of it`s founders) which can guide towards other actions, thought or believes ( that may be altered by experience in one`s life) where as religion has set rules, which should not or in many religions are actually prohibited to be altered.( I could elaborate here and give you examples but it seem to me that have a computer as well:-))

Doctrine can be applied to many things (there are doctrines that are negative - meaning that not every doctrine is ok) where religion (good or bad - if there is a differentiation) only has a religious purpose (meaning how it is interpreted and acted upon within it`s religious

grounds). Doctrine doesn`t require action - religion does!

Example: Taoism, the believes of Confucius is / are thoughts and believes of this guy, though they posses a knowledge beyond normal it is very logical, understandable and practicable and doesn`t need explaining where as to religion - pick one, may need an explanation even though if read properly not much.

Doctrine suggestions usually say: " to have a good life one should......

A religious suggestions usually say: "you have to .....

where one is suggesting and the other one is kind of ordering

doctrine doesnt force you to follow as oppose to religion, even Buddhism which i believe is the most adoptable.

Answer 2

The doctrine of religion refers to the official beliefs and teachings of a particular religious tradition, usually outlined by the religious authority. Non-doctrinal aspects of religion can include cultural practices, personal beliefs, and interpretations of scriptures that may vary among individuals or communities but are not considered official doctrine. Distinguishing between doctrine and non-doctrine can be done by consulting religious texts, teachings from religious leaders, and examining the core beliefs that are essential to the faith.