Religion
/rɪˈlɪdʒən/
Definitions
3 meaningsA set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, especially when considered as the product of human creation; the belief in and worship of a controlling power, especially a personal God or gods.
/rɪˈlɪdʒən/
Belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, especially a personal God or gods.
She practices the Islamic religion.
💡 Simply: Religion is like a set of rules and beliefs that people follow to understand the world and how to live. It's like a club with its own special guidelines, like how some people believe in a God and go to church, while others have different practices.
👶 For kids: Religion is a set of beliefs about how the world works and what is good and bad. People who share the same beliefs might have special buildings or days to celebrate their religion.
More Examples
Many people find comfort in their religion.
The country has a diverse range of religions.
How It's Used
"Sociologists study the role of religion in society."
"The philosophy class explored various religious belief systems."
A particular system of faith and worship, often with a specific code of ethics.
/rɪˈlɪdʒən/
A particular system of faith and worship.
She was raised in the Christian religion.
💡 Simply: This means a specific set of beliefs and practices, like Christianity, Islam, or Buddhism, that people follow. It includes things like prayers, rituals, and special holidays.
👶 For kids: A religion can also be a group of people who believe the same things and have special ways of praying or celebrating.
More Examples
Buddhism is a religion practiced in many parts of Asia.
Religious freedom is a fundamental right in many countries.
How It's Used
"The Roman Empire had a state religion."
"Freedom of religion is protected by the constitution."
The practice or expression of a particular set of beliefs and rituals, often involving a community and related to the sacred or supernatural.
/rɪˈlɪdʒən/
An activity, belief, or practice relating to the sacred (e.g. devotion, worship, ritual) particularly when it involves a community.
For many, religion is a source of comfort and guidance.
💡 Simply: Religion can also refer to the acts, beliefs, or way people connect to what's special or sacred, often done with others. Think of it as shared practices like praying, going to a temple, or celebrating holidays to show their faith and connection.
👶 For kids: Religion is what people do to show their beliefs about things that are important to them, especially if they do it together with others.
More Examples
The study of religion encompasses diverse cultural and historical contexts.
His commitment to his religion was evident in his actions.
How It's Used
"Anthropological studies have examined religion in various cultures."
"Religion plays an important role in the social fabric of many societies."
Idioms & expressions
freedom of religion
The right to practice any religion or no religion without government interference.
"The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees freedom of religion."
organized religion
A religion that has a structured system of beliefs, practices, and leadership.
"Many people find comfort in organized religion."
spiritual but not religious
Describing someone who has spiritual beliefs but does not adhere to organized religion.
"She considers herself spiritual but not religious, preferring to connect with nature and meditate."
From Old French *religion* and Latin *religio* ('reverence, obligation, bond'). The etymology is debated; it is possibly related to *religare* ('to bind').
The term 'religion' has been used for centuries, with shifts in meaning reflecting societal changes and evolving belief systems.
Memory tip
Think of the 're-bind' (religare) of beliefs that hold a community or individual together.
Word Origin
"reverence, obligation, bond"