Examining World Religions
Religion, in many forms, has had the most profound influence on human society throughout history. Religion is the basis for many human traditions, value systems, and conflict throughout the history of human civilization. Most people would generally view religious traditions and moral belief systems to be positive, perhaps with some exceptions. However, conflict is a major part of religious history worldwide. Religious persecution of believers and also persecution of unbelievers by members of religions is still a part of human life worldwide. Some may dismiss this idea based on their ignorance of the subject or their own personal detachment from such situations; however, religion surrounds the American culture and other cultures worldwide. Understanding religious traditions, relationships, and foundational beliefs enables humans to understand their differences and better prepare themselves to make decisions regarding religious interactions in the appropriate context.
Religious Foundations
C.S. Lewis once said, “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else,” (C.S. Lewis Foundation, 2010). Lewis expresses the importance that his faith has in his life, just as so many others might view their faith as intrinsic to their lives. Although many religious people might view their faith in this way, religions vary in several ways. Some religions express faith in a singular sacred holiness known by various terms such as divine parent, Great Spirit, Dao, and God (Molloy, 2010). Some religions believe in one divine being with a supreme cosmic power. Believing in one God or supreme-being is monotheism; believing in more than would God is known as polytheism (Molloy, 2010). Recently, a team located an ancient Mayan temple dedicated to the Sun God in