120 likes | 230 Vues
Delve into the classification of religions based on monotheism, polytheism, hierarchical structures, and universalizing vs. ethnic vs. tribal distinctions. Explore the beliefs, symbols, worship spaces, and burial practices that differentiate these diverse religious systems.
E N D
How many gods? • Monotheism: One god (Christianity, Judaism, Islam) • Polytheism: Multiple gods (Hinduism, Paganism)
How organized? • Hierarchical religion: • Well-defined geographic structure • Administrative units • Well organized • Ex- Catholics, Methodists, Episcopalian, Anglicans • Autonomous religion: • Self-sufficient • Loose cooperation and shared ideas • Ex- Islam, Baptists
Universalizing v. Ethnic v. Tribal • Universalizing religions • Attempts to be global • Appeal to all people, regardless of ethnicity • Goal is proselytizing (making converts) • Examples? • Diffusion?
Universalizing v. Ethnic v. Tribal • Ethnic Religions • Appeals to a group of people living in one place • Conversion (usually) possible • Must adopt cultural practices • Examples? • Diffusion?
Universalizing v. Ethnic v. Tribal • Tribal Religions • Appeal to small, specific group of people • Contains Animism and/or shamanism (usually both)
Universalizing v. Ethnic v. Tribal • Animism – belief that natural objects contain spirits or gods; may include ancestor worship • Shamanism – belief that world of spirits or gods that can only be communicated with by a shaman or priest • Examples: Native American Religions, African Religions
How do they differ? • Beliefs • Symbols • Worship Spaces • Burial