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Strictly speaking, "ritual" is the prescribed words to a religious function, such as the Catholic Mass. The accompanying actions (body language) is "ceremonial". But the word "ritual" is commonly used to describe the ceremonial actions, and that is the sense in which it is used in this article.
To understand ritualism in religion, it's helpful to compare it to the arts, such as music and dance. These arts express, non-verbally, something that is felt; though what they express cannot very effectively be put into words. Ritual in religion is like that. The ritual actions express the mysteries of the faith - things that go beyond our earthly knowledge. It's highly symbolic and can create in the participant or observer feelings of awe, beauty, comfort, inspiration, holiness - feelings that go beyond what words can express.
Some people or religious groups are suspicious or disapproving (to say the least) of "ritualism", but this is largely due to a misunderstanding of what is happening. It may look like a form of magic which would naturally be condemned in many religions. In fact, the words "hocus-pocus" used in stage magic comes from a misunderstanding of the words "hoc es corpus" (behold the body) in the Catholic Mass as the consecrated bread is raised for the people to see - a ritual action representing the body of Christ.
If there is any danger to ritualism, it is that some people may be "religious" because they are attracted to the ritual; which cannot be "true religion" in and of itself. However, the beauty and emotional response to ritualism has led countless people to a deeper faith, which is exactly what ritual is intended to do.
Wiki User
∙ 10y ago
People use religious rituals to express their faith because it helps them feel connected to their beliefs and community. Rituals provide a sense of structure and familiarity, allowing individuals to strengthen their spiritual connection and deepen their understanding of their faith. Additionally, rituals can serve as a way to commemorate and honor important events in their religious tradition.
Wiki User
∙ 14y agoMuch of it is because of the religion they believe in. Some people do it to please their gods and others just do it because its part of their culture.
Wiki User
∙ 11y agoBecause it's there culture
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What aree three things that religious people have in common?
Three things that religious people have in common are a belief in a higher power or deity, adherence to certain values or moral principles, and participation in rituals or practices that express their faith.
What is religious devotion?
Religious devotion is the commitment and loyalty that a person shows towards their faith or religious beliefs. It involves practicing rituals, prayers, and other religious activities as a way to express dedication and reverence towards a higher power or deity.
What people perform religious rites?
Religious rites are typically performed by religious leaders, priests, shamans, or designated individuals within a particular faith community. These individuals are trained and authorized to conduct ceremonies and rituals as part of the religious tradition.
Who are the people who travel for religion?
People who travel for religion are often pilgrims, seeking to visit sacred sites, participate in religious ceremonies or rituals, or deepen their connection to their faith. These individuals may come from diverse backgrounds and practices, but share a common motivation to explore and express their spirituality through travel.
What is the difference between a religious and a social ritual?
A religious ritual is a structured practice or ceremony performed within a religious context to connect with the divine or express faith beliefs. A social ritual, on the other hand, is a tradition or custom performed within a community to mark significant events, reinforce social bonds, or communicate cultural values. Religious rituals typically have a spiritual purpose, while social rituals serve social functions within a group.
What aree three things that religious people have in common?
Three things that religious people have in common are a belief in a higher power or deity, adherence to certain values or moral principles, and participation in rituals or practices that express their faith.
What is religious devotion?
Religious devotion is the commitment and loyalty that a person shows towards their faith or religious beliefs. It involves practicing rituals, prayers, and other religious activities as a way to express dedication and reverence towards a higher power or deity.
What people perform religious rites?
Religious rites are typically performed by religious leaders, priests, shamans, or designated individuals within a particular faith community. These individuals are trained and authorized to conduct ceremonies and rituals as part of the religious tradition.
Who are the people who travel for religion?
People who travel for religion are often pilgrims, seeking to visit sacred sites, participate in religious ceremonies or rituals, or deepen their connection to their faith. These individuals may come from diverse backgrounds and practices, but share a common motivation to explore and express their spirituality through travel.
What is the difference between a religious and a social ritual?
A religious ritual is a structured practice or ceremony performed within a religious context to connect with the divine or express faith beliefs. A social ritual, on the other hand, is a tradition or custom performed within a community to mark significant events, reinforce social bonds, or communicate cultural values. Religious rituals typically have a spiritual purpose, while social rituals serve social functions within a group.
What is a religious rite or ceremony?
A religious rite or ceremony is a formal or solemn act or series of acts performed in a religious context. It often has symbolic significance and is used to express and strengthen beliefs, values, and commitments within a particular faith tradition. Examples include baptism, communion, marriage ceremonies, and prayer rituals.
What do you think was the religious faith of the Frankish people before Clovis converted them to Christianity?
The religious faith was Mythology
What are the candles with the cross called?
Candles with a cross are typically called "cross candles" or "religious candles." These candles are often used in religious ceremonies or rituals to symbolize faith and spirituality.
West Africans preserved their religious faith primarily through?
West Africans preserved their religious faith primarily through oral traditions, storytelling, music, dance, and rituals. These practices helped pass down religious beliefs and values from generation to generation.
What do you name religious people?
Faith Believers
Did Julia Child have any religious affiliation?
Julia Child was raised in the Episcopalian faith but did not publicly express strong religious affiliations later in life.
Did the ancient Egyptians believe that their rituals were beneficial to the harvest?
Undoubtedly many people, if not most, believed they were beneficial, just as many people today believe that their religious faith is powerful. But there must have been some in ancient Egypt who were skeptical of the national religion.
