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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.

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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.


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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.


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