2. THE DEFINITION OF RELIGION:
Religion can be defined as the
belief in a god or in a group of gods.
In addition it is an organized system
of beliefs, ceremonies, and rules
used to worship a god or a group of
gods. However it is an interest, a
belief, or an activity that is very
important to a person or group.
3. THE VARIOUS TYPES OF RELIGIONS
ARE:
Islam
Christianity
Buddhism
Hinduism
Judaism
4. A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF EACH
RELIGION:
Islam:
Islam is a divine religion of God
introduced through Last Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH) in 7th century. It is
one of the most popular and fastest
growing religions. Islam means
submission to Allah.
5. CHRISTIANITY:
Christianity is the largest world religion at the moment.
It has over 2 billion followers, who classify themselves
under 34,000 different denominations. Initially,
Christianity was derived from Judaism, as Jesus Christ
was a Jew, as were his twelve disciples. Christianity is
based mainly around the life, death and resurrection of
Jesus Christ, and is monotheistic. Christians believe in
the Bible being the word of God, and although some
choose to take it more literally than others, it is
generally considered to be inspired by the Holy Spirit.
6. BUDDHISM:
The basic purpose of Buddhism is to purify our
mind of the “three poisons” of greed, hatred,
and ignorance. This is much easier said than
done. The focus of Buddhism has always been
on how to actually accomplish this in our daily
life, rather than merely talking about it or
getting caught up in the net of philosophical
views. As it is said, “merely talking about food
will not make one full.”
7. HINDUISM:
Hinduism is the other name for humanism. In many respects, it is
more than a religion; it is a way of life. It is not a man made
religion, founded or created by any prophet. It has no origin and
therefore has no end either. Hinduism has never been imposed
on anybody at anytime. It is a religion of freedom and, unlike most
other religions, it allows absolute freedom of one's faith and mode
of worship. Indeed, it is the only religion in the world, which
respects the right of people to realise the Almighty by their own
free will. The history of Hinduism has proved that it is a living
force. Both hostile rulers and foreign aggressors could not banish
it because it is a religion of self-experience and self-realisation. It
is not based on any dogmas or set of rules to be accepted with
blind faith. Yet, Hinduism has a very close understanding of and
relationship with the Almighty God.
8. JUDAISM:
Judaism is one of the oldest religions still
existing today. It began as the religion of
the small nation of the Hebrews and
through thousands of years of suffering,
persecution, dispersion, and occasional
victory, has continued to be a profoundly
influential religion and culture.
12. CLASSROOM/GROUP ACTIVITY
TOPIC: VARIOUS TYPES OF RELIGIONS
WITHIN SOUTH AFRICA
INSTRUCTIONS:
In groups of five you as learners are required to choose a specific
religion on which you will have to conduct a role play. However
within the role play you will illustrate the various elements that
makes up the religion.
You should include the following elements:
• The specified religious practices
• The dress code
• Symbols
• And any other elements which you desire to include
• Total:
/20
