ConnectedThink about how many people live on this earth, all the different backgrounds people come from, all the traditions they were brought up on.
Now, with all these people, begin to think about the types of religions that these people might be connected to. Having an understanding of other religions allows us to look into the lives of others and maybe begin to realize the connection between each religion. Although there are many of us, we are all so much alike. We all strive to answer the same complex questions to life. Religion was created to answer them, to provide an answer for the unknown. To understand the ideologies of other faiths, one must be willing to step into the lives of others and dive deep into what they believe. The 7 Dimensions of Religion
Religions all possess the same seven things that make a religion a religion. Each dimension is intertwined and uniquely complimentary of each other.
Experiential Mythic
Simply put, these are the religious experiences or revelations These are the truths that we know without proof so to speak. that has changed you in some way or another. Examples of this They are non-historical / non-rational, but don't conflict with include a retreat or pilgrimage. history and science. Examples of this include sacred stories Doctrinal passed on from generation to generation. Doctrines make sense of the content of experience and myth. Ethical Usually seen and used in sacred texts, scriptures, myths and Answers the question of how are we to act while living in the accounts of revelation. world. Usually within this dimension, it addresses general and specific ethical duties each human being should abide by. In Christian terms, an example of this would be the ten commandments. |
Ritual Social
One of the most common aspects of a religious practice and Regions naturally involve communities and for some it is the
occupy much of an individuals religious life..Examples include attractive part of religious involvement. It seeks to fulfill a sense of
reenactments of a myth or sacred story. belonging, and often leads to forms of hierarchy of leadership.
Most religions have multiple tiers, common people and religious.
Material
Usually this dimension involves sacred architecture, cathedrals,
temples, gurdwaras, icons (crucifix/statue of saints), Buddha, books
of scripture, rivers and other parts of nature.
One of the most common aspects of a religious practice and Regions naturally involve communities and for some it is the
occupy much of an individuals religious life..Examples include attractive part of religious involvement. It seeks to fulfill a sense of
reenactments of a myth or sacred story. belonging, and often leads to forms of hierarchy of leadership.
Most religions have multiple tiers, common people and religious.
Material
Usually this dimension involves sacred architecture, cathedrals,
temples, gurdwaras, icons (crucifix/statue of saints), Buddha, books
of scripture, rivers and other parts of nature.