introduction for religion essay

Essays About Religion: Top 5 Examples and 7 Writing Prompts

Essays about religion include delicate issues and tricky subtopics. See our top essay examples and prompts to guide you in your essay writing.

With over 4,000 religions worldwide, it’s no wonder religion influences everything. It involves faith, lessons on humanity, spirituality, and moral values that span thousands of years. For some, it’s both a belief and a cultural system. As it often clashes with science, laws, and modern philosophies, it’s also a hot debate topic. Religion is a broad subject encompassing various elements of life, so you may find it a challenging topic to write an essay about it.

1. Wisdom and Longing in Islam’s Religion by Anonymous on Ivypanda.com

2. consequences of following religion blindly essay by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 3. religion: christians’ belief in god by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 4. mecca’s influence on today’s religion essay by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 5. religion: how buddhism views the world by anonymous on ivypanda.com , 1. the importance of religion, 2. pros and cons of having a religion, 3. religions across the world, 4. religion and its influence on laws, 5. religion: then and now, 6. religion vs. science, 7. my religion.

“Portraying Muslims as radical religious fanatics who deny other religions and violently fight dissent has nothing to do with true Islamic ideology. The knowledge that is presented in Islam and used by Muslims to build their worldview system is exploited in a misinterpreted form. This is transforming the perception of Islam around the world as a radical religious system that supports intolerance and conflicts.”

The author discusses their opinion on how Islam becomes involved with violence or terrorism in the Islamic states. Throughout the essay, the writer mentions the massive difference between Islam’s central teachings and the terrorist groups’ dogma. The piece also includes a list of groups, their disobediences, and punishments.

This essay looks at how these brutalities have nothing to do with Islam’s fundamental ideologies. However, the context of Islam’s creeds is distorted by rebel groups like The Afghan mujahideen, Jihadis, and Al-Qa’ida. Furthermore, their activities push dangerous narratives that others use to make generalized assumptions about the entire religion. These misleading generalizations lead to misunderstandings amongst other communities, particularly in the western world. However, the truth is that these terrorist groups are violating Islamic doctrine.

“Following religion blindly can hinder one’s self-actualization and interfere with self-development due to numerous constraints and restrictions… Blind adherence to religion is a factor that does not allow receiving flexible education and adapting knowledge to different areas.”

The author discusses the effects of blindly following a religion and mentions that it can lead to difficulties in self-development and the inability to live independently. These limitations affect a person’s opportunity to grow and discover oneself.  Movies like “ The Da Vinci Code ” show how fanatical devotion influences perception and creates constant doubt. 

“…there are many religions through which various cultures attain their spiritual and moral bearings to bring themselves closer to a higher power (deity). Different religions are differentiated in terms of beliefs, customs, and purpose and are similar in one way or the other.”

The author discusses how religion affects its followers’ spiritual and moral values and mentions how deities work in mysterious ways. The essay includes situations that show how these supreme beings test their followers’ faith through various life challenges. Overall, the writer believes that when people fully believe in God, they can be stronger and more capable of coping with the difficulties they may encounter.

“Mecca represents a holy ground that the majority of the Muslims visit; and is only supposed to be visited by Muslims. The popularity of Mecca has increased the scope of its effects, showing that it has an influence on tourism, the financial aspects of the region and lastly religion today.”

The essay delves into Mecca’s contributions to Saudi Arabia’s tourism and religion. It mentions tourism rates peaking during Hajj, a 5-day Muslim pilgrimage, and visitors’ sense of spiritual relief and peace after the voyage. Aside from its tremendous touristic benefits, it also brings people together to worship Allah. You can also check out these essays about values and articles about beliefs .

“Buddhism is seen as one of the most popular and widespread religions on the earth the reason of its pragmatic and attractive philosophies which are so appealing for people of the most diversified backgrounds and ways of thinking .”

To help readers understand the topic, the author explains Buddhism’s worldviews and how Siddhatta Gotama established the religion that’s now one of the most recognized on Earth. It includes teachings about the gift of life, novel thinking, and philosophies based on his observations. Conclusively, the author believes that Buddhism deals with the world as Gotama sees it.

Check out our guide packed full of transition words for essays .

7 Prompts on Essays About Religion

Religion’s importance is embedded in an individual or group’s interpretation of it. They hold on to their faith for various reasons, such as having an idea of the real meaning of life and offering them a purpose to exist. Use this prompt to identify and explain what makes religion a necessity. Make your essay interesting by adding real-life stories of how faith changed someone’s life.

Although religion offers benefits such as positivity and a sense of structure, there are also disadvantages that come with it. Discuss what’s considered healthy and destructive when people follow their religion’s gospels and why. You can also connect it to current issues. Include any personal experience you have.

Religion’s prevalence exhibits how it can significantly affect one’s daily living. Use this prompt to discuss how religions across the world differ from one another when it comes to beliefs and if traditions or customs influence them. It’s essential to use relevant statistical data or surveys in this prompt to support your claims and encourage your readers to trust your piece.

There are various ways religion affects countries’ laws as they adhere to moral and often humanitarian values. Identify each and discuss how faith takes part in a nation’s decision-making regarding pressing matters. You can focus on one religion in a specific location to let the readers concentrate on the case. A good example is the latest abortion issue in the US, the overturning of “Wade vs. Roe.” Include people’s mixed reactions to this subject and their justifications.

In this essay, talk about how the most widespread religions’ principles or rituals changed over time. Then, expound on what inspired these changes.  Add the religion’s history, its current situation in the country, and its old and new beliefs. Elaborate on how its members clash over these old and new principles. Conclude by sharing your opinion on whether the changes are beneficial or not.

There’s a never-ending debate between religion and science. List the most controversial arguments in your essay and add which side you support and why. Then, open discourse about how these groups can avoid quarreling. You can also discuss instances when religion and science agreed or worked together to achieve great results. 

Use this prompt if you’re a part of a particular religion. Even if you don’t believe in faith, you can still take this prompt and pick a church you’ll consider joining. Share your personal experiences about your religion. Add how you became a follower, the beliefs that helped you through tough times, and why you’re staying as an active member in it. You can also speak about miraculous events that strengthen your faith. Or you can include teachings that you disagree with and think needs to be changed or updated.

For help with your essay, check out our top essay writing tips !

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

View all posts

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples

Essay Samples on Religion

Composing your student essay about religion, it’s essential to research your subject first and avoid controversial subjects. The trick is to provide a clear structure that will focus on theological aspects of things. When you strive to compare different religions, do not write in a biased tone and work on your compare-and-contrast essay. The body parts of your religion essay must start with a good topic sentence as you address a particular concept or the roots of some religious notions. It’s always good if you can find reliable sources to support the facts. If you are not sure about some source or an idea that must be explored, you can either talk to an academic advisor or focus on a good religion essay example that we have prepared for you. These will help you get a basic idea of how such essays must be written. See the introduction part in every essay sample provided and don’t forget to stay respectful as you work on the differences and similarities. Check your grading rubric requirements twice. Regarding a good thesis statement, religious essays should only pose assumptions or compose specific claims that are supported with another sentence to avoid misreading or confusion.

Why Is Freedom of Religion Important

Freedom of religion stands as one of the fundamental pillars of a democratic and pluralistic society. It safeguards an individual's right to practice their chosen faith without fear of discrimination or persecution. This essay delves into the resons why freedom of religion is important, exploring...

• Religious Tolerance

Who is God in Your Life: Personal Beliefs and Spiritual Connections

The concept of God holds profound significance across cultures and belief systems, shaping individuals' values, perspectives, and sense of purpose. So who is God in your life? This essay delves into the diverse ways people perceive God in their lives, whether through religious traditions, personal...

• Religious Beliefs

Should Religion Be Taught in Schools

Should religion be taught in schools? This question is a topic that evokes discussions about cultural diversity, freedom of religion, and the role of education in shaping students' worldviews. Advocates argue that including religion in the curriculum can foster understanding, promote tolerance, and provide students...

How Does Religion Affect Your Life

How does religion affect your life? Religion is a deeply personal and influential aspect of human experience, shaping beliefs, values, behaviors, and perspectives. The impact of religion extends beyond mere rituals; it permeates various dimensions of life. This essay explores the intricate ways in which...

How Are Religion and Culture Connected in Various Ways

The intricate relationship between religion and culture is a subject of immense significance, shaping the values, behaviors, and traditions of societies worldwide. While religion and culture are distinct concepts, they are profoundly interconnected, often influencing and informing one another. This essay delves into how religion...

• Culture and Communication

Stressed out with your paper?

Consider using writing assistance:

• 100% unique papers
• 3 hrs deadline option

Buddhism and Hinduism: Exploring Similarities and Differences

Buddhism and Hinduism, two of the world's most ancient and complex religions, share both commonalities and distinctions that have shaped the spiritual and cultural landscapes of Asia. This essay delves into Buddhism and Hinduism and the core similarities and differences between these two belief systems,...

Death is a Passage Beyond Life

Introduction In virtually every culture and religion around the world, death is not regarded as an end, but as a passage to a different form of existence. This belief, deeply rooted in human history and psyche, has shaped rituals, philosophies, and the way we perceive...

Why Should We Respect Our Parents: Exploring Islamic Arguments

What islam says about why should we respect our parents? In this essay I want to emphasize that Allah is telling us to treat our parents kindly and to make effort in pleasing them. He says that our mother most deserves our respect and service,...

• Parent-Child Relationship

Respect Your Parents and Take Care of Your Children: Ephesians 6:1-9

I chose the following passage Ephesians 6:1-9. The main reason that I chose this passage was because the other passages had already been taken. Now after researching this passage I discovered that there was more than meets the eye and I want to learn how...

The Importance of Respect and Obedience to Our Parents in Islam

DedicationI dedicate this research to God Almighty my creator, my strong pillar, my source of inspiration, wisdom, knowledge and understanding. He has been the source of my strength throughout this research and on His wings only have I soared. I also dedicate this work to...

Respect for Life: the Issue of Death Penalty in Catholic Teachings

An essential principle of a human rights is that each and every human being has an innate dignity that must be respected. Respect for one's human dignity is the original human right from which other human being had as a gift from our almighty God....

• Catholic Church
• Death Penalty

What Does Respect Mean to You: Christian Explanation

A few days ago a friend of mine asked 'what does respect mean to you?' Later this question inspired me to write this essay about the meaning of respect from christian believer's point of view.   Paradise is something that many people think they can...

• Biblical Worldview
• Christian Worldview

Implementing the Four Noble Truths in Everyday Life

Introduction One of the fundamental doctrines of Buddhism set forth by Buddha himself are the Four Noble Truths. These contain the very essence of the Buddha's pragmatic teachings. The Buddha is known to attain enlightenment only after the realization of these four truths during his...

Euthanasia and the Catholic Church in Australia

An ethical issue is a problem or dilemma that involves a person having to decide whether or not it is morally right or wrong. Euthanasia is a clear example of an ethical issue currently present in Australia. Euthanasia is a process whereby a person who...

• Assisted Suicide

Islamic Traditions and Practices: A Focus on Asian Muslims

Asia is home to one of the largest Muslim populations in the world. Muslim population accounts for approximately 62% of the total population of Asia. Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Bangladesh are Muslim-majority countries of Asia. As Muslims have different cultures, values, and histories, their...

The Divine Love: Understanding God's Love for Humanity

There is a multitude of attributes of God, what He is and that any human being can also become. Among these countless attributes or characteristics, we have love. A 'simple' characteristic present in some way in the life of all humanity, from the rich to...

• Image of God

Comparison of Islamic Religious Texts: the Quran and Hadith

The Quran is the most important text in the Islamic faith, believed to be the word of God communicated to the prophet Muhammad who spoke to his followers, and what he said was written down in the Quran years after his death. The Hadith is...

• Religious texts

The Virtue and Significance of the Quran: Exploring its Divine Revelation, Recitation, and Impact on the Muslim Community

The Quran is defined as the miraculous word of God, devoted to its recitation, the house of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by revelation by Jibril, peace be upon him, and transmitted to us in frequency. It should be noted that the Quran came down in...

Human Experience of Illness and the Key Role of the Environment

The key goal of the healthcare facility is to offer a environment where the sick will be at ease and to enable their body to regenerate. There are three principles for a healthy environment: seen, unseen, and storied environments. These ideas give us a deeper...

The Trustworthiness of the Bible: Exploration of Its Foundations

The Bible, a collection of sacred texts revered by millions around the world, has endured for centuries as a source of moral guidance, spiritual enlightenment, and historical insight. Its trustworthiness stems from a multifaceted examination of its historical, literary, and spiritual foundations, which collectively affirm...

• Personal Experience

Exploring of the Five Meanings of Science of the Quran

Sciences of the Quran are each science that is intended to serve the Holy Quran and attempt to investigate its privileged insights and uncover its puzzles, for example, the exploration in the Quranic disclosure and Quranic contents, the gathering and grouping of the Quran, the...

Exploring Invaluable Role of Jesus Christ for the World

Jesus Christ is one of the most well known historical figures that could be considered heroic and relatively important to the development of Western Civilization. The existence of Jesus and the eternal legacy he left after he sacrificed himself was one that dramatically influenced the...

• Historical Figures
• Influence of Christianity
• Jesus Christ

Is Jesus a Myth: One of the World’s Most Controversial Figures

It would be hard to find a person in history that has been met with so much controversy than Jesus of Nazareth. According to those who wrote the New Testament, Jesus is God, who was born of a virgin, who lived a sinless life, was...

• World History

Why Jesus Is a Hero: an Example of Love and Forgiveness

Is Jesus a hero or not? The meaning of a hero is someone who shows bravery, courage, determination, justice and more. A hero doesn’t need to save the world for people to say that is what a hero is, like Jesus, he reached out to...

• Influential Person

The Life and Achievemnts of Muhammad - a Founder of Islam

I chose Muhammad because he did a lot from the day he was born till the day he died. One of the many things that Muhammad did was when Muhammad founded Islam and made it the way it is now. Muhammad was born in Mecca,...

Unveiling Jesus as the Heroic Figure of True Faith and Love

A hero is someone who gives themselves, often putting their own life at great risk, for the greater good of others . A hero shows courage and is determined and dedicated to helping others in need by showing selflessness and sacrifice for the good of...

Jesus as the Greatest Hero: Being Gifted With Godlike DNA

A hero is a person who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. Jesus shown these quality’s in different bible readings. Jesus was not only a hero that did miracles to heal people, he was a hero that sacrificed his own life...

Personal Reflections: Three Lessons I Have Learnt From Hosea's Story

David was chosen to be king at a young age when he was only a shepherd, but wasn’t the king until he was 30 years old, David had been working for king Saul and throughout that time he had been taken to court by king...

The Menace of Terrorism Around the World: Emerging Threats and Issues

The menace of terrorism has been increasing over the years though there have been several efforts to counter it. The evils of terrorism have become widespread, and the world has become too familiar to them. There has been a lot of debate on the definition...

• Religious Conflict
• Social Problems

Understanding Islam: Beliefs, Practices, and History

What is Islam? What do they believe in? Who are they? Well continue reading and you will find out a lot about this religion. Islam is an Abrahamic monotheistic religion teaching that there is only one God and that Muhammad is the messenger of God....

• Five Pillars of Islam

The Unique World of Buddhism: Its Origins, Beliefs, and Practices

The World is today is unique, religion being a huge part of that uniqueness. The religions shaped many of the well- known religions today. There are a lot of well-known religions today adapted some of practices of many older religions that today depending on the...

Submission to Allah: The Core Concept of Islam

The concept at the core of Islam is the intention that a Muslim follows the will of Allah as closely as possible in hopes that each moment of each day is to be lived in an attitude of complete submission to Him. Allah’s greatest revelation,...

The Increased Violence in New Terrorism: What Is Going On

The 1990s recalls a series of extremist acts that ushered a new and more violent form of terrorism. Propelled by religious motivations, decentralized organization, and technological advancement, the new terrorism distinguished itself from old terrorism with its inclination to indiscriminate killing and mass casualties. Rapoport’s...

The Sacred Mystery of Plants in Eastern Religion Cultures

Sacred plants are specific plants those are usually devoted to gods and goddess. The human relation with sacred plant stands basically on religion which is considered with Hindu, Buddhist and Jain culture. During the ancient period, the worship of sacred plants is most of the...

Understanding Islam: The Complete Submission to the Will of God

Religion is often a fundamental part of one’s identity. The word religion originates from a Latin word meaning “to tie or bind together.” As new and modern religions continue to develop, religion defines as “an organized system of beliefs and rituals centring on a spiritual...

Difference Between Islam and Christianity: Perspectives on Racism

Islam and Christianity are two of the largest religions in the world, with billions of followers combined. While there are significant difference between islam and christianity in this essay we will also analyse similarities between islam and christianity. For this paper we have interviewed several...

Postulates and Principles of Islamic Moral Economic System

In this paper we will take a short review of main principles and postulates, its subsequent objectives of the Islamic moral economic system.  Tawhid or the Unity of God is the fundamental principle of IME. It refers to the human beings being equal before the...

• Economic systems

Muhammad and the Birth of Islam: Unraveling the History and Teachings

Chapter 10 of Islam of “Living Religions” by Mary Fisher talks about how Islam is viewed by society and how Islam came about. Reading this chapter from the point of view of the author who is not Muslim made me feel like she was with...

• History of Islam

The Journey to Nirvana: The Teachings and Beliefs of Buddhism

Buddhism is among the world's biggest religions, with origins in India dating back 2,500 years. Buddhists think that human existence is full of misery, believing the way to obtain happiness, or nirvana, is via meditation, spiritual and physical effort, and moral behavior. Buddhists believe life...

Gautama and the Middle Way: The Birth of Buddhism

Although we think of Buddhism as being created by Buddha, Gautama a young prince, was the creator and he is now referred to as Buddha, also known as the enlightened one. Since Gautama was a prince that meant that his father was a king and...

The Intersection of Religion and Abortion: A Comparative Analysis

Abortion has been a hot topic for several years. People are very opinionated about the case and there's an ethical side to the subject. The abortion debate asks whether it may be morally right to terminate a pregnancy before normal childbirth. Some people believe that...

• Abortion Debate

Buddhism in Asia: A Cultural and Historical Perspective

The story of the life of Gautama Buddha According to the legend the person now commonly known as the Buddha was a prince named Siddhartha Gautama. His father, Suddhodana Gautama, was the ruler of the Shakya clan. Siddhartha’s birth was attended by many unusual events....

• Zen Buddhism

From India to China: The Spread of Buddhism along the Silk Road

Introduction The silk road spread religions, philosophies, education, goods, and people. The people who embarked for a journey on the silk road were monks from India. India, during the iron age, between the fourth and sixth centuries, began urbanization and in this process, the influence...

Exploring Buddhism at a Traditional Mon Buddhist Dharma Session

Introduction Sunday, February 16th at two-thirty, I visited the Mon Buddhist Monastery Community in Akron Ohio. This was a traditional Mon Buddhist Dharma session. I was very pleased by the turnout of the session and was able to grasp a better understanding of the Buddhism...

The Rise and Spread of Islam: History and Impact

Introduction Islam is probably the most youthful religion and has the biggest followers in the world and is predominant in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia (Hopfe and Woodward 330). Islam is a significant religion in the world and has in excess of billion followers...

The Dichotomy of Annihilationism and Non-Annihilationism in Buddhism

Introduction Buddhism can be split into two distinct schools of thought: annihilationism and eternal rebirth. The argument that the state of nirvana is achieved through the blowing out of what fuels one’s self is the one generally accepted by most Buddhists and scholars. The minority...

Islam: The Role of Gender, Storytelling, and Conflict

Introduction: The emergence of the Muslim minority in Western nations has spurred discussion over which Muslim behaviors should be accepted, with many people considering certain customs a rejection. In Western countries, societies based on the Islamic belief system have wrestled with gender roles, the importance...

The Ethical Code of Islam: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction: In Islam, there is a strict ethical code that must be followed in order to abide by Allah. This code is highlighted in the Koran and is practiced through traditions, actions, clothing, and food consumption. Furthermore, every Muslim is expected to adhere to the...

Religion and Abortion: Understanding the Pro-Life Movement

Introduction  Death sentences, guns, religion, and abortion are among the top debated subjects in conversations. These topics are discussed frequently, especially if it’s a hot topic for a political debate. There are supporters and opponents on these subjects due to their strong points of view....

Organ Donation and Brain Death from Buddhist's Perspectives 

Modern scientific and technological developments have contributed to mass production. There have arisen many issues which affect human health both physical and mental are related, regarding to ethical criteria in physical medicine. This paper will discuss brain death and organ transplantation from Buddhists perspectives. There...

• Organ Donation
• Organ Transplant

Hinduism and Buddhism as Most Popular Religions in India

Located in northern India that flows from the Himalayan Mountains to the Bay of Bengal lies the Ganges River. Known as a sacred entity, many Hindus bathe in its waters to cleanse past sins and to facilitate Moksha, liberation of reincarnation; thus, many faithful customs,...

Faith and Reason Are Compatible: Suspension of Disbelief 

Art is a platform that dares reality. It stretches the limits of reality and tends to over step these boundaries all to serve the purpose of the piece of art. This is where the suspension of disbelief comes in. One must set aside their typical...

The Baptism Experience: Passing God's Love Through Baptism

One simple act creates an endless ripple where people passes it on and pays it forward. This is due to the interconnected nature of human beings – when we are happy, we influence the people around us to have a positive outlook in life. And...

The Idea That Faith and Reason Are Compatible in Religious Texts

There are four fundamental claims of the Catholic intellectual tradition and the one I choose is, the dignity of the human being inviolable and the commitment to justice for the common good is necessary. These four fundamental claims are very important in the catholic religion...

The Baptism Experience in the Life of Children in the Medieval Ages

Of all the misconceptions of the Medieval Ages, some of the most prevalent include the life of a child during this era. During this time it is believed that many children were shown no recognition and they were treated as though they were adults as...

• Middle Ages

Hinduism and Buddhism: The Values and Purposes of Both Religions

Today there are many different religions in the world. In Asia, Buddhism and Hinduism are popular beliefs in general. Hinduism is the religion of Antigua known and very rich in literally hundreds of divinities, rituals and symbolic beliefs. Believes is that was founded around 1500...

Nacirema Culture and Buddhism Religious Practices

Religion is a topic that provokes or brings about different thoughts and ideas between people. We all have our own beliefs and traditions that make each one of our religions stand out. It is what makes us who we are. Myths and rituals are a...

The Freedom Of Religion And Why Is The First Amendment Important

First Amendment “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of...

• American Constitution
• First Amendment

Belief In God: Relationships Between Science and Religion

The conflict between science and spirituality (religion) usually refers to an assumed conflict between science and belief in God. For the purpose of this talk “religion” refers to the monotheistic religion which is the belief in the existence of a good, personal and transcendent creator....

• Science Vs. Religion
• Spirituality

Why Do You Believe In God

Well, God can do all of these and even more. Sometimes, situations can make anyone forget or doubt God's abilities irrespective of how strong you have been in faith. Remember, no one is ever ready for hard situations to hit them, it just happens, but...

• Kingdom of God

Peter`s The Great Reforms: A Knot Between Church And State

Christians all over the world have been persecuted for their religious beliefs. Although the situation became better with time, it was still not ideal in the 18th century. Peter the Great, the first emperor of Russia, introduced the Most Holy Synod, and it changed the...

• Russian Empire

The Nature Of Confucianism and Daoism, And The Gender Roles

The story of Cui Ying Ying was composed during the late Tang dynasty and is regarded as famous romantic prose. The story explores cultural dynamics during the Tang period and displays the contrasting views of Chinese philosophy in the era. To truly comprehend the symbolism...

• Confucianism
• Gender Roles

"Paradise Lost" By John Milton: Book Review

In this review, I hope to put forward two different approaches to interpreting Milton’s Paradise Lost. I will be exploring Archie Burnett’s article ‘Sense Variously Drawn Own’ published in 2003 which examines the relation between Lineation, syntax, and meaning in Milton’s Paradise Lost. I will...

• Adam and Eve
• Paradise Lost

"Does Science Threaten Religion?" By Gerber and Macionis: A Review

The article “Controversy and Debate: Does Science Threaten Religion?” has demonstrated the changing relationship between science and religion, from apparent contradictions in the past to recognizing and accepting each other in the present (Gerber & Macionis, 2018, pp. 553). The author has incorporated a structural-functional...

The History Of The Emergence And Spread Of Christianity And Islam

Christianity is one of the most spread religions in the world. It centers its belief in the public life of Jesus Christ. The term Christianity is a derivation of the followers of Christ. Therefore, Jesus is the pioneer of this faith. Christians base their teaching...

• Spread of Christianity

The Second Coming By Yeats: Powerful Warning To Society

In a world full of hostility and loss of faith surrounded by war and technological developments, the modernist era of literature developments, the modernists era of literature arose. The sinking of the Titanic symbolized the falling of the Great Britain empire and newly invented standardized...

• The Second Coming
• William Butler Yeats

Acceptance Concepts Through the Bible Topics

I believe that God creates all of us to be good genuinely and kindhearted. God believes that we are most beautiful & unique the way he created us. So, bullies should stop their intimidating behaviors towards others, they don’t need to be so, they should...

Humble, Mainwairing and Pompous Pride

This is probably something that none of you know about me and that is I am a massive Dads Army fan, I have all the available episodes and movies on DVD. It’s been great to watch the lost episodes on Gold this week, now I...

Apuleius’ Metamorphoses and Picture of Human Nature

This essay will explore Apuleius’ Metamorphoses with special regard to what picture of human nature and society it presents and whether or not the gods offer the prospect of salvation. Dealing with the tale of Lucius whose overly curious nature results in him being turned...

• Human Nature
• Metamorphoses

The Shinto Religion and the Root of Japanese Culture

Shintōism is frequently portrayed in art from all over the world, especially in Japan. The Shintō religion is at the root of Japanese culture and history and therefore has a profound impact on its popular culture today, from manga and anime to film to video...

• Personal Beliefs

Biblical Archaeology: How the Study of God Is Look Like

Archaeology is defined as the scientific study of historic or prehistoric peoples and their cultures by analysis of their artifacts, inscriptions, monuments, and other such remains, especially those that have been excavated. (Dictionary, Archaeology) Archaeology is used throughout history and in many ways. Biblical Archaeology...

• Archaeology

The Development of Islamic Art

Islamic art is created not only for the Muslim faith, but it consists of artworks such as textiles, architecture, paintings and drawings that were produced in the regions that were once ruled by Muslim empires. Artists from various disciplines take part in collaborative projects and...

• Islamic Art

Unforgiveness Steals Away Your Joy, Peace, and Happiness

Forgiveness is one of the topics most Christians don't like to talk about especially if they were truly hurt by someone close to their heart. Sometimes, we feel it is better to carry the burden of hatred rather than forgive those that have wronged us....

• Forgiveness

Role of Cultural and Religious Pluralism

Cultural pluralism is a term used when smaller groups within a larger society maintain their own unique cultural identities. Migration is a key process that makes significant contribution to the growth of urbanism. Often immigrants belonging to particular region, language, religion ,tribe etc tend to...

• Art and Religion
• Religious Pluralism

Political Correctness and Occidental International Law

The uniformity of European political thought canon as asserted by postcolonialists has created a ‘residual sense that the Christian faith is an expression of white Western privilege ’. This deficit in postcolonial theory, to account for Grotius and theorists who argued for the separation of...

• Political Correctness

The Portrayal of the Culture of Death and Afterlife in Art

Throughout history, different cultures dealt with the concept of death and afterlife according to their beliefs, and developed different perspectives about what happens after the body dies. These ideas were often reflected in their art, literature, and their lifestyle as well. Most cultures produce art...

The Tattoo of Cherry Blossom Bracelets in China

The armband tattoos were a popular excitement 10 to 15 years ago. Today, however, it is gradually becoming a hot trend again. These types of tattoos are appealing because they are easy to show and can be quickly hidden in the sleeve. What do bracelet...

• Chinese Culture
• Christianity

Amazon's Upload is All About the Digital Afterlife

Take Black Mirror's dystopian tech analysis, The Good Place's thoughtful investigation of the afterlife, and the workplace pranks of The Office, squeeze them together, and you have Amazon’s Upload. It takes place in a world that could simply be 10 years from now. You can...

Hagia Sophia and Eastern Roman Empire

Hagia Sophia is the great rich remain and an important monument for the Eastern Roman Empire commonly known as the Byzantine Empire. It remain the Centre for Orthodox Church for nearly a thousand years. The current version was built in the year 532. This iconic...

• Ancient Rome
• Byzantine Empire
• Hagia Sophia

Life After Death for the One Whose Heart Is Light

Built in the 27th century BC for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser by his vizier; architect and later known as the God of Medicine, Imhotep. Pyramids were built for religious purposes and the Egyptian civilization were one of the first to believe in an afterlife....

Insurance Regarding the Existence of an Individual’s Afterlife

Under the rational choice model, decisions individuals make are based on perfect information. This implies that people do not undergo any risks or uncertainties when making a choice. However, religious choices of individuals cannot be based on perfect information, for there are no verified sources...

Johann Christoph Blumhardt and Christology

Johann Christoph Blumhardt (1805-1880) was a Lutheran pastor in Württemberg. He was known among the Lutheran Pietists who built the relation between Southwest Germany [then] with the Basel University of Switzerland mission Society. Certain authors consider this relationship as fostering the trans-Atlantic faith healing movement....

• Christology
• Martin Luther King

Finding What Is The Biblical Purpose Of Govenrment

One day a man was walking down the streets of his city, headed to the capitol, and then he saw a car wreck right in front of him. His first instinct is to go help, so he rushes over and sees the scene. Now with...

• Role of Government

The Creation Myth And Human Evolution: The Everlasting Debate

Every generation of people, young and old as well, come to ask questions about the origin of the universe: Where did it come from? When did it start? or How did it come into existence? Scientists, philosophers or religious believers have all tried to explain...

• Creation Myth
• Human Evolution

Considering Religious Beliefs And Freedom Of Expression

Whether you believe in something or not, the idea of religion has probably crossed your mind. Some people see it as a way to make sense of the world around us and some see it as way of life. the idea that a higher power,...

The Foundational Beliefs Of The Biblical Worldview

To build a biblical framework, or foundational beliefs about God, His character, His world, and His plan one must go to Scripture, for these are His words. Here answers are found to life’s questions; why are we here, good and evil, our purpose, and where...

The Truths About Real Life In The Biblical Worldview

Introduction Every person has a worldview that is either biblical or secular (humanistic). A person’s worldview is the lens through which they view the world. It dictates the decisions they make, the way they treat themselves and others, and their ideas of life after death....

The Perception Of The World In The Christian Worldview

A worldview, this is easy to say its self-explanatory, but it’s much more than that. A worldview can be defined as, “a particular philosophy of life or conception of the world” (Google Dictionary). Another idea is, how a Christian worldview is defined. A Christian Worldview...

The Correlation Between Christian Worldview And Criminal Justice System

Abstract This criminal justice research paper will discuss how people in law enforcement have demonstrated and or expressed their integration of Christen Worldviews into the field of criminal justice. It will show how their Christian beliefs are the driving force behind their ethical and moral...

The Age Of The Earth: Creation Vs. Evolution

There are four great questions of life that everyone asks. The questions are; Who am I? Where did I come from? Why am I here? And where am I going when I die? These questions are answered completely different depending on if you are an...

The Impact Of Religion On Defining What Is Value Of Life

What might most people on this earth value? You guessed it right, it’s Life! Life brings a lot of meaning and purpose that is I feel is an ideal answer to the society and lets just face it, what could someone value other than life?...

• Meaning of Life

Exploration Of Buddhism And Hinduism: Similarities And Differences

Nearly, all people chose at least one religion which is suitable for their thoughts and believes. Due to that fact, people of the same religion come together usually. For instance, there are islamic countries in one community which is called Muslim countries or Ummah. Moreover,...

Buddhism And Hinduism: The Similarities And Differences Of Views

There are three ways to achieve moksha which is when a person’s atman (individual soul) is released from the eternal cycle of reincarnation. Reincarnation is a core idea of Hinduism as according to Upanishad (the third and final Vedic scripture) literature the atman would go...

The Similarities And Differences Between Worldviews Of Hinduism And Buddhism

I will start with the greeting of each religion since it gives a good first impression about you if you greet them in their own way. “Namaste” is the common greeting or salutation in Hinduism, it is usually said with body gestures where they bend...

A Biblical Worldview: The Values Of A Devoted Christian

There comes a point in everyone's life that they must start making decisions on their own, it is at this point they choose what lenses they will use to drive their decisions. For Christians that lense is the Bible and the Holy Spirit is the...

Christian Worldview: Faith And Forgiveness As A Basis

Throughout history, different point of views arose and changed the way people looked at the past of the world. One specific viewpoint is the Christian’s worldview. Christians sin just like everyone else and they recognize that, just like how they recognize the faith of God....

The Biblical Worldview On The Human Trafficking

Choices to commit a crime, fight against crime, or generate justice for criminal acts are all motivated by our worldview. Incorporating a Christian worldview into the Criminal Justice approach allows you to view behavior and response through the lens of God's expectations. This perspective creates...

• Human Trafficking

The Christian Worldview: Philosophy And Values

Today's culture has multiple worldviews. Many individuals prefer to select various religions views but mostly keep to one central worldview. A worldview is the gathering of values that form our everyday work and define our overall vision of existence. Looking seriously at my beliefs, my...

The Effect Of Prophet Muhammad On The Quick Spread Of Islam

This paper will deeply investigate the following interesting question on Islam and it’s spread. What effect did the spread of Islam by Prophet Muhammad in Mecca have on the already religious Saudi Arabian society? In order to compose this paper with reliable facts, mostly primary...

Understanding the Power of a Biblical Worldview in Psychology

A biblical worldview is a transformative lens through which we view the world, based on the teachings of the Bible. It impacts our perspectives on various situations, facts, and aspects of life. This worldview has profound implications for psychology, influencing even the smallest details, such...

Best topics on Religion

1. Why Is Freedom of Religion Important

2. Who is God in Your Life: Personal Beliefs and Spiritual Connections

3. Should Religion Be Taught in Schools

4. How Does Religion Affect Your Life

5. How Are Religion and Culture Connected in Various Ways

6. Buddhism and Hinduism: Exploring Similarities and Differences

7. Death is a Passage Beyond Life

8. Why Should We Respect Our Parents: Exploring Islamic Arguments

9. Respect Your Parents and Take Care of Your Children: Ephesians 6:1-9

10. The Importance of Respect and Obedience to Our Parents in Islam

11. Respect for Life: the Issue of Death Penalty in Catholic Teachings

12. What Does Respect Mean to You: Christian Explanation

13. Implementing the Four Noble Truths in Everyday Life

14. Euthanasia and the Catholic Church in Australia

15. Islamic Traditions and Practices: A Focus on Asian Muslims

• Seven Deadly Sins

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

Best Bible Resources For Christians

Bible Facts

• Christian Life
• Read the Bible

Home > Bible Facts > Writing a Perfect Religion Essay for College Students

Writing a Perfect Religion Essay for College Students

Modified: January 9, 2024

Written by: Daniel Gallik

Peter Smith, Editorial Director at Christian.net, combines deep insights into faith, politics, and culture to lead content creation that resonates widely. Awarded for his contributions to religious discourse, he previously headed a major organization for religious communicators, enhancing dialogue on faith's societal impacts.

Wonder how to write an amazing religion essay for collage? Here's a guideline that covers the basis of what to write and how to write.

• bible facts
• religion essays

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Christian.net, at no extra cost. Learn more )

Are you a college student wondering how to write the perfect essay on religion? If yes, read on and find all that you need to know about writing a religion essay. This article will cover the basics and all you need to know about writing an excellent essay piece on religion.

What is a Religion Essay

Image by Thought Catalog on Unsplash

Well, religion essays are a kind of paper that relates to religion, belief, and faith. 

In college, many students will be required to write a few essays on religion. Students typically struggle with writing assignments of this nature since they haven’t learned how to write professionally. After all, religion is a highly personal subject, and objective discussions about religion can be particularly difficult and generally mind-boggling. 

As a result of this, many students prefer outsourcing their writing assignments on religion to a custom essay writing service like Edubirdie. On this “write an essay for me” platform, there are plenty of professional writers for you to choose from with guaranteed transparency on their profiles and reviews. After reviewing, you can simply choose a writer and you will have your essay delivered in no time. 

On the other hand, some students prefer completing such religious essays themselves to improve their writing. If you fall under this category we’ve put together some tips for you. for you to ace your religion essay.

Read more : Christian Blogs To Follow Before Writing a Religious Essay

Tip 1: Choosing a Topic for a Religion Essay

Image by Keenan Beasley on Unsplash

Consider a topic that interests you, one that piques your curiosity . Though it’s said that curiosity kills the cat, it’s a much-needed drive in essays, especially ones that deal with theology and mind-boggling ideas. H aving an interest as your personal pedestal throughout is effective for your research and writing.

A contentious issue would make a fantastic topic for a religion essay because it means it’s a topic of interest to people and it gives room and framework to your arguments. An example can be whether hell is a truth or a myth . You can decide to look into where a particular religious idea came from and employ background information and opposing points of view to present your argument. Whatever the topic, always use the most reliable sources you can to back up your claims.

Next, contemplate what your stance is towards the issue and start to build your case around it. Are you for it or against it? Should this topic even be contentious in the first place? Are there other points that should be contended besides what has already been debated? Usually, a great religious essay identifies the issue and has tight arguments to support the thesis. But, an amazing essay is one that brings in a fresh perspective that’s been rarely discussed in class. So, work around that.

This step is usually the toughest, but once you’ve passed through it, the rest of the work is a breeze.

Tip 2: How to Write an Introduction for a Religion Essay

Image by Patrick Perkins on Unsplash

Prepare your notes and an overview of your case before beginning to write the introduction. In contrast to creative writing , the reader expects your thesis statement and facts up front in an essay. Because of this, seasoned writers advise pupils to read more books and develop their own points of view. But occasionally it can be advantageous to grab an idea from someone who wrote it before you. It’s catchy and demonstrates your familiarity with the subject. The reader should have a clear understanding of what to anticipate from the article from the beginning.

How can you create a strong essay introduction? The components of a strong introduction are numerous such as some background information, a thesis statement, a purpose statement, and a summary of what’s to be covered. Essentially, your introduction is your first impression and a blueprint of what the entire essay will be. 

The topic and focus of the essay, as well as a few other important concepts, should be covered in the first paragraph. Along with the thesis, it should also give background details and the context of the argument. It should also describe the essay’s structure, which is outlined in the last paragraph. The importance of the introduction increases as the essay gets longer. Even though it may appear tedious, just like any first impression, the introduction is an important component of any paper. 

Tip 3: How to Write the Body of a Religion Essay

Image by green chameleon on Unsplash

Introduce the basic tenets and principles of the religion you’re addressing in the major body of your essay. Then, you should investigate the crucial components of the tradition. What are its core ideals and beliefs? What role does it play in society? How is it relevant in our current world? Textual support must be provided because this is an excellent approach to capturing your readers’ interest.

The promise you made in your introduction should be fulfilled in the body of your essay. Make sure to add new proof to the main argument of each paragraph in the body of your essay. Each paragraph should be concluded with a sentence that emphasizes the importance of the argument and connects it to the following one.

Tip 4: How to Write the Conclusion Section for a Religion Essay

Image by Christin Hume on Unsplash

Your conclusion is a paragraph (or two) of concluding remarks that demonstrate the points you’ve made are still true and worth considering . Think of it as a final impression you make on the readers, you’d want to make yourself memorable Additionally, it should demonstrate that the arguments you made in the essay’s main body are supported by relevant evidence.

A great conclusion is also one that highlights the significance of your points and directs readers toward the best course of action for the future. This shows that you aren’t just someone who debates but someone who is also willing to try and better the situation.  Keep in mind that your final chance to convince or impress your audience is the conclusion.

Read more : Cultural Sensitivity in Student Essays about Religion

Tip 5: Find Proofreaders

Image by Joel Muniz on Unsplash

If I’d learned anything through my years of college essays, it’s to get people to proofread your essay. They are your safety nets. I’d usually find a coursemate or someone from my class to proofread. They are valuable second pairs of eyes to help you spot grammar mistakes but also in concepts that you may have applied. Next, find a friend that’s not from your course or class because they are an accurate assessment of how clear and cohesive your essay is. If they can understand what you’re writing, you can be sure that half the battle is already won.

Was this page helpful?

Biblical Justice and Modern Law: Drawing Parallels for Your Assignments

Finding Peace in a Chaotic World: Tips for Christians

Christian Dating

How Do I Have A Personal Relationship With Jesus Christ

How To Teach A Child About Baptism

Latest articles.

What Is The New Name Of The Southern Baptist Church

Written By: Daniel Gallik

What Do You Think Happened When The Baptist Minister Called On Miss Emily

Which Apostles Were The Sons Of Thunder

What Tribes Did The 12 Apostles Come From

50 Peaceful Bible Verses About Rest in God

Related post.

By: Taylor McKittrick  •  Christian Resources

By: Kor Adana  •  Bible Facts

By: Mark Waite  •  Theology and Spirituality

By: Daniel Gallik  •  Christian Resources

By: Karen Herndon  •  Theology and Spirituality

By: Mark Waite  •  Christian Resources

By: Andy Reece  •  Christian Resources

By: Alexa Dark  •  Theology and Spirituality

By: Karen Herndon  •  Christian Resources

By: Daniel Gallik  •  Christian Life

By: Susan Kearney  •  Theology and Spirituality

By: Ronald Rentner  •  Arts and Culture

Please accept our Privacy Policy.

CHRISTIAN.NET uses cookies to improve your experience and to show you personalized ads. Please review our privacy policy by clicking here .

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• https://christian.net/theology-and-spirituality/writing-a-perfect-religion-essay-for-college-students/

Introductory essay

Written by the educators who created Understanding Islam, a brief look at the key facts, tough questions and big ideas in their field. Begin this TED Study with a fascinating read that gives context and clarity to the material.

The TED Talks provide a unique opportunity for an educated layman to learn about the core beliefs and practices of Islam beyond the TV sound bites. These lectures are delivered in a straightforward, lucid and accessible manner, yet are profound and thought-provoking, arousing in the audience an interest to pursue further into a more engaged study of Islam and its varied civilizational expressions across the Muslim world. Mumtaz Ahmad, President, International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan

For historic reasons, it's never been easy for non-Muslims to learn about Islam. Since the Crusaders' efforts to reinstate Roman control over Jerusalem, images of Islam as an ideology founded by a fanatic, posing as a prophet, and encouraging extremism have circulated widely. (Among other vestiges of this era is the saying, "If the mountain won't come to Muhammad, Muhammad will go to the mountain." This was the punch line in a story about Muhammad's failed effort to prove he was a prophet by commanding a mountain to come to him.) In the modern era the British struggled to maintain their control over Arab and Indian lands, derisively referred to by Rudyard Kipling as the "white man's burden." The young Winston Churchill wrote of Sudanis resisting British conquest, "How dreadful are the curses which Mohammedianism lays on its votaries!" He included among them "fanatical frenzy, which is as dangerous in a man as hydrophobia in a dog." (Sir Winston Churchill; ( The River War , 1st ed., London 1899, II:248) The French felt compelled to undertake a "civilizing mission" among Africans, including the Muslim North Africans, casting those who preferred to rule themselves as insurgents and terrorists.

Without this background, it's difficult to comprehend the vehemence of contemporary Muslim struggles for good governance, much less reactions to insults to Islam, its scripture, and prophet. The TEDTalks presented here provide a framework for meeting that challenge. Presenting Islam as Muslims perceive it, beginning with the Qur'an (Islam's sacred scripture; "Koran" in archaic spelling), TED speakers allow us to appreciate that Islam shares its major prophets and core values with Judaism and Christianity. Tracing the historic origins of radicalism, they also reveal the key distinctions between mainstream Islamic values and those motivating headline-grabbing extremists. Finally, sampling some of the ways in which Muslims are working to provide positive role models for their children, and present mainstream views of Islam to non-Muslims using the tools of popular culture, TED speakers provide hope for a future in which non-Muslims and Muslims may work together to realize those shared values.

The Qur'an

Independent scholar and TED speaker Lesley Hazleton undertook a study of the Qur'an — the sacred scripture of Islam — in order to write a biography of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam, and discovered that it was a challenging task indeed. She quotes 19th-century historian and essayist Thomas Carlyle describing the Qur'an as "a wearisome jumble." For Carlyle it was "as toilsome reading as I ever undertook." That's because the Qur'an is not a book to be read like any other book. It's a book of scripture central to Islamic belief and practice, sacred to hundreds of millions of people all over the world. As such, in the words of contemporary Muslim philosopher Tariq Ramadan, the Qur'an is considered "more than a mere text[;] it is a traveling companion" through life. Ramadan writes, "For the woman or the man whose heart has made the message of Islam its own, the [Qur'an] speaks in a singular way. It is both the Voice and the Path. God speaks to one's innermost being, to his consciousness, to his heart, and guides him on the path that leads to knowledge of him, to meeting with him: 'This is the Book, about it there can be no doubt; it is a Path for those who are aware of God.'"

As Hazleton notes, the sound of the Qur'an recited is exquisitely, hauntingly beautiful. It reflects, in her view, "the rhythmic cadence" of the deserts and mountains of Arabia, where it was delivered over a period of 22-23 years in the 7th century. Scholar Michael Sells addresses the aesthetic qualities of the Qur'an in his unique introductory text Approaching the Qur'an (White Cloud 2007). Sells focuses on the shortest chapters (suras), which are generally believed to be the earliest ones. While later chapters often deal with practical issues of communal life and social justice, the early verses are deeply spiritual. They focus on the grand themes of creation and the purpose of human life. The powerful imagery, especially of these early chapters of the Qur'an, is conveyed most effectively by the human voice. The art of Qur'an recitation is among Islam's most cherished, and gifted Qur'an reciters can achieve fame worldwide. Sells has provided a CD with his book so that readers can experience the chanted Qur'an themselves — whether they understand Arabic or not.

Indeed, Arabic speakers comprise only perhaps one quarter of the world's Muslims. The majority of the world's Muslims are Indonesian, Indian, Bangladeshi, or Pakistani. Millions more are Malaysian, African, Central Asian, Chinese, European, Latin American, or North American. But the Qur'ân is considered to be authentic only in Arabic, so virtually all Muslims pray in Arabic. The text exists in translation in most languages, but once translated, it is no longer considered to be the Qur'an. As with all translations, it is an interpretation. The recited Qur'an, as Ramadan notes, speaks directly to the heart of Muslims.

For non-Muslims, on the other hand, the Qur'an must be approached with some preparation. To begin, the term qur'ân means "recitation" or "reading," reflecting the Muslim belief that it is the word of God, not of the prophet who delivered it. Muslims believe that the Qur'an is timeless, revealed word for word in the Arabic language through God's final messenger, Muhammad (d. 632).

In fact, the Qur'an states that its message has been delivered numerous times before. It refers frequently to the Torah and the Gospels, telling people that that they should remember those texts and following their teachings, clearly assuming people are familiar with them. As a result, the Qur'an does not recount their historic narratives. Instead, it uses characters and events familiar to Jews and Christians to make specific moral or theological points. References to Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Moses, and Jesus, for example, thus appear frequently but not in chronological order.

The Qur'ân also refers to prophets unknown to Jews and Christians, but all prophets are believed to have preached the same message of social justice as a reflection of true belief. The Qur'ân, in other words, considers its teaching to be part of the monotheistic tradition that began with the covenant between God and humanity forged at the time of Abraham. (See, e.g. verses 43:13, 2:136-7, 26:194-197; 6:92.) As TED speaker and scholar Karen Armstrong discovered when she began her study of Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are indeed "sister religions." The Qur'an teaches that if people understood their diverse scriptures properly, there would be no religious disputes and, what's more, they would recognize that the Qur'ân truly confirms what had been revealed before. But the Qur'an recognizes that there are disputes among the communities that came to be distinguished as Jewish and Christian (27:76-77; 11:118), and that many people did in fact reject the message of Muhammad. (61:5-6) It offers explanations for these problems, identifying what it considers misinterpretations of the earlier messages. (E.g., 2:124; 3:45, 4:171; 2:87; 4:157.)

Yet the Qur'an teaches that these differences should not be a source of conflict. There must be no compulsion in matters of religion, the Qur'an insists. (2:256) Instead, people of all communities should work together for shared goals. Rather than disputing over doctrine, all who claim to believe should simply "compete with one another in good works." (5:48) Good works, in the Qur'an's perspective, include anything that promotes justice: charity, caring for parents and relatives and the poor, freeing slaves, keeping promises, being sincere and steadfast in one's commitments. And doing such works reflects genuine encounter with the divine. There is one God, who is the sole provider, protector, guide, and judge of all human beings. God created all human beings, and created them equal. Genuine awareness of God thus inspires people to serve God by safeguarding the dignity and equality in which all were created. (See, e.g., Ch. 107; 89:15-18.)

The Qur'an describes this responsibility as stewardship, khilafah . The related term khalifah is later used in the political sphere to mean "successor" of the Prophet (and anglicized as "caliph"), but in the Qur'an it has a much broader meaning. In a famous verse, the Qur'an says that God created humanity to be His khalifah (2:30). Human beings were put on earth to be responsible for all creation.

The majority of the Qur'an's later, more practically-oriented verses deal with specific aspects of that stewardship. Among the Qur'an's most detailed legislation is that designed to improve the status of women. As Hazleton notes, the Qur'an directly addresses both males and females. It is also the only major religious text to acknowledge misogyny and enjoin correctives. (See, e.g., 16:59-60; 43:17; 81:8-9; 4:24; 2:187; 30:21; 4:29; 4:35; 4:128; 2:24; 2:229; 9:71; 2:228) Protection of orphans is another major focus of the Qur'an's program for social justice. There are other aspects of stewardship, as well. Hazleton refers to the Qur'an's environmental concerns, for example (see e.g., 15:19). But altogether, as both Karen Armstrong and Faisal Abdul Rauf stress in their TEDTalks, the Qur'an's intense concern for the most vulnerable members of society, and commissioning of human beings to protect them, reflects Islam's overarching ethos of compassion. In one of its most paradigmatic verses, the Qur'an recalls that, as God (Allah, in Arabic) taught the people of Israel, killing one person is like killing all of humanity, and saving one person is like saving all mankind. (5:32)

Matters of Interpretation

TED speakers Mustafa Aykol, Maajid Nawaz, Maz Jobrani, and Naif al-Mutawa demonstrate that Muslims, at least as much as non-Muslims, wonder how a religion that insists on human dignity and compassion for all living beings could be associated with atrocities like female circumcision, honor killings, and terrorism. In the cases of circumcision and honor killings, it's simply a matter of pre-existing cultural practices being confused with religious teachings. But in the case of terrorism, as Aykol argues, the answer lies in perversion of religious teachings in response to specific political conflicts.

Aykol notes that Islam stresses specific individual liberties. Articulated in classical legal texts as the "goals" or "purposes" of Islamic law (Shari`ah), they include the right to life, religion, family, property, and reason or dignity. Despite economic and political decline in the later Middle Ages, Islamic traditions stressing human dignity remained vibrant. They became the core of reform movements that emerged under the impact of colonialism in the 19th century. By that time virtually all Muslim majority regions - North Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia - were under European control. Reformers of this era ("modernists," in Aykol's terminology) exhibited considerable optimism that once free of foreign control, Muslim societies would recover their cultural dynamism and continue to contribute to global civilization.

But the outcome of World War I created a backlash against Europe and a strong sense of Islamic exceptionalism. Prior to World War I, Britain had convinced Arab leaders to assist them and their allies in defeating Germany by rebelling against Germany's ally, Ottoman Turkey. In return, Britain would recognize Arab independence. That promise, however, was violated. Britain and France in fact kept control of the territories they already dominated in North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Egypt), and took control of Syria (which at that time included Lebanon), Palestine (the territories later divided into Israel and the West Bank), Transjordan (roughly the portion of traditional Greater Syria that lies between Iraq and the Jordan River, eventually renamed Jordan), and Iraq — often ruling through local surrogates. In this context, a new generation of grassroots reformers stressed a sharp distinction between European and Islamic culture, the purity and superiority of Islamic values, and the sufficiency of Islam for all human needs — personal, social, and political. Leaders of this politicized Islam ("Islamism") organized community-based societies to provide social services generally unavailable to the poor through the European-controlled governments and, as a result, became very popular.

By the mid-20th century, Europe lost its dominance in the region, whether through revolution or due to economic and political exhaustion, leaving a legacy of economic and social underdevelopment and, in many cases, communities with no bureaucratic infrastructure except the military. As throughout the formerly colonized world, military-dominated, authoritarian governments thus became the norm. Islamist groups continued to fill the gaps in social services, and thus continued to grow in popularity. They also grew bolder in their political demands. As Aykol notes, increasing political pressure by Islamists resulted in increasing suppression of Islamist opposition by authoritarian post-colonial governments. Islamist organizations were frequently banned, their leaders arrested or assassinated, and many of their members imprisoned and tortured.

The systematic persecution of Islamists by authoritarian regimes resulted in the radicalization of some. The majority of Muslims and the majority of Islamists retained Islam's characteristic moderation. The atrocities committed by the radicals are thus condemned by the vast majority of Muslims as violations of core Islamic values. This became increasingly evident during the last quarter of the 20th century, when political setbacks unleashed a rash of extremist outbreaks in Egypt, Algeria, and Afghanistan.

Egypt was plagued by terrorist attacks and its President Sadat was assassinated (1981), Algeria descended into a shockingly brutal civil war following the military government's cancellation of elections (1992), and Afghanistan became a deadly war zone as warlords battled for dominance following Soviet withdrawal (1980), which ultimately led to the dominance of the repressive Taliban (1996). In all cases, the result was even further suffering in disadvantaged Muslim communities. By the 1990s even the Islamic government established with great optimism in Iran in 1979 had become extremely unpopular. Its people had suffered terribly in a brutal war with secular Iraq, and its increasingly youth-dominated population longed for freedom, development, and global cultural engagement.

By the 1990s, therefore, Islamism was undergoing a transformation. Early Islamist efforts had apparently failed, and new generations emerged whose experience of Islamism was scarcely more positive than had been their parents' experience of secular rule. Mainstream Islamists therefore intensified their demands for representative, participatory governance, and equality of all citizens before the law. Some earlier-generation Islamists had rejected use of the term "democracy" for the kind of government they advocated, given its association with the secular European governments who had caused such resentment in their colonial realms. Newer generations of reformers had no such qualms. They are the ones who rose to roles of leadership during the Arab Spring.

Not all Muslims are Islamists. Some indeed distrust the Islamists and advocate secularism, fearing that Islamism will result in the kind of oppressive societies developed in Iran and Afghanistan. And not all Islamists are pro-democracy. Pockets of militant, anti-West radicals remain and continue to plague both mainstream Muslim communities and the radicals' Western targets. But mainstream Muslims collectively struggle to counter the extremists' messages in diverse ways. TED speaker Maz Jobrani uses the performance art of comedy to challenge Hollywood-style stereotypes of Islam and the Middle East. Maajid Nawaz presents his personal experiences as a terrorist recruit, and describes his efforts to provide coherent media-based outreach programs to counter the outlaw-chic extremist allure for Muslim youth in Pakistan. Shereen El Feki describes how some Arab cultures are using music videos, comics, and even Barbie to promote positive perspectives of Islam; and Naif al-Mutawa introduces his immensely popular comic book series, The 99, offering superheroes embodying Quranic values such as justice, mercy, and wisdom as role models for Muslim children. The goal is for newer generations to emerge from the burdens of the past empowered by an appreciation of Islam's core values and confidence that the world will respect them.

Let's begin Understanding Islam with "On reading the Koran," the TEDTalk from journalist and scholar Lesley Hazleton. In her talk, the Jewish-born, Catholic-schooled Hazleton describes what she learned after spending three months in a close reading of the Koran, studying four well-known translations and the seventh-century Arabic text.

Lesley Hazleton

On reading the koran, relevant talks.

Karen Armstrong

My wish: the charter for compassion.

Feisal Abdul Rauf

Lose your ego, find your compassion.

Mustafa Akyol

Faith versus tradition in islam.

Maajid Nawaz

A global culture to fight extremism.

Maz Jobrani

Did you hear the one about the iranian-american.

Home — Essay Samples — Religion — Religious Pluralism — Role of Religion in Society: Exploring its Significance and Implications

Role of Religion in Society: Exploring Its Significance and Implications

• Categories: Religious Beliefs Religious Pluralism

About this sample

Words: 1028 |

Published: Sep 5, 2023

Words: 1028 | Pages: 2 | 6 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, the significance of religion in society, the implications of religion in society, the debate surrounding the role of religion in society, the historical context of religion in society, the impact of religion on culture and identity, the role of religion in promoting social cohesion, the impact of religion on politics and governance, the relationship between religion and morality, the role of religion in promoting social justice and equality, the debate between secularism and religious influence in society, the impact of cultural attitudes towards religion on the debate, the potential consequences of religion's role in society.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

• Expert in: Religion

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 882 words

2 pages / 905 words

5 pages / 2400 words

2 pages / 1008 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Religious Pluralism

Through life as we hear about different world religions and what they believe or hold to be true, it becomes easy to begin to build presuppositions about these religions. It can also be found that some or most of these [...]

Globalization, the process of increased interconnectedness and interdependence among nations and cultures, has had a profound impact on virtually every aspect of human life. Religion, as a fundamental element of culture and [...]

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a unique place in the landscape of religious pluralism. As a distinct Christian denomination with its own theological beliefs, practices, and history, the LDS Church has [...]

In the 21st-century ethics as far as religious doctrines are concerned has taken a modernity turn. In the classical period religion was solely relied on to dictate morality but due to contemporariness catalyzed by education [...]

In Zhao Xiao’s book “Churches and the market economy,” it is indicated that, American churches are the core that binds Americans together.The Europeans don't feel contented with the naive visualization of religious USA by [...]

The principle of separation of church and state is a cornerstone of democratic societies, reflecting the delicate balance between religious freedom and government authority. This essay delves into the concept of separation of [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Essay on What is Religion for Students and Children

500+ words essay on what is religion.

Religion refers to a belief in a divine entity or deity. Moreover, religion is about the presence of God who is controlling the entire world. Different people have different beliefs. And due to this belief, many different cultures exist.

Further, there are a series of rituals performed by each religion. This is done to please Gods of their particular religion. Religion creates an emotional factor in our country. The Constitution of our country is secular . This means that we have the freedom of following any religion. As our country is the most diverse in religions, religion has two main sub broad categories:

Monotheistic Religion

Monotheistic religions believe in the existence of one God. Some of the monotheistic religions are:

Islam: The people who follow are Muslims . Moreover, Islam means to ‘ surrender’ and the people who follow this religion surrender themselves to ‘Allah’.

Furthermore, the holy book of Islam is ‘ QURAN’, Muslims believe that Allah revealed this book to Muhammad. Muhammad was the last prophet. Above all, Islam has the second most popular religion in the entire world. The most important festivals in this religion are Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

Christianity: Christian also believes in the existence of only one God. Moreover, the Christians believe that God sent his only Jesus Christ for our Salvation. The Holy book of Christians is the Bible .

Furthermore, the bible is subdivided into the Old Testament and the New Testament. Most Importantly, Jesus Christ died on the cross to free us from our sins. The people celebrate Easter on the third day. Because Jesus Christ resurrected on the third day of his death.

However, the celebration of Christmas signifies the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Above all Christianity has the most following in the entire world.

Judaism: Judaism also believes in the existence of one God. Who revealed himself to Abraham, Moses and the Hebrew prophets. Furthermore, Abraham is the father of the Jewish Faith. Most Noteworthy the holy book of the Jewish people is Torah.

Above all, some of the festivals that Jewish celebrate are Passover, Rosh Hashanah – Jewish New Year, Yom Kippur – the Day of Atonement, Hanukkah, etc.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Polytheistic Religion

Polytheistic religions are those that believe in the worship of many gods. One of the most believed polytheistic religion is:

Hinduism: Hinduism has the most popularity in India and South-east Asian sub-continent. Moreover, Hindus believe that our rewards in the present life are the result of our deeds in previous lives. This signifies their belief in Karma. Above all the holy book of Hindus is ‘Geeta’. Also, Hindus celebrate many festivals. Some of the important ones are Holi-The festival of colors and Diwali- the festival of lights.

Last, there is one religion that is neither monotheistic nor polytheistic.

Buddhism: Buddhism religion followers do not believe in the existence of God. However, that does not mean that they are an atheist. Moreover, Buddhism believes that God is not at all the one who controls the masses. Also, Buddhism is much different from many other religions. Above all, Gautam Buddha founded Buddhism.

Some FAQs for You

Q1. How many types of religions are there in the entire world?

A1. There are two types of religion in the entire world. And they are Monotheistic religions and Polytheistic religions.

Q2. What is a Polytheistic religion? Give an example

A2. Polytheistic religion area those that follow and worship any Gods. Hinduism is one of the examples of polytheistic religion. Hindus believe in almost 330 million Gods. Furthermore, they have great faith in all and perform many rituals to please them.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

• Religion Essays

Free Religion Essays Examples in English + Writing Tips

Relevant tags:

• Bullying Essays
• Capital Punishment Essays
• Abortion Essay
• Gun Control Essays
• Globalization Essays
• Video Games Essays
• Drug Abuse Essays
• Homelessness Essays
• Feminism Essays
• Police Brutality Essays
• Racism Essays
• Global Warming Essays
• Immigration Essays
• Mental Illness Essays
• Social Networking Essays
• Marijuana Essays
• Death Penalty Essays
• Autism Essays
• Hero Essays
• American Dream Essays
• Obesity Essays
• Gender Discrimination Essays
• Friendship Essays
• Family Essays
• Happiness Essays
• Love Essays
• Pollution Essays
• Freedom Essays
• Civil Rights Essays
• Civil War Essays
• World War 1 Essays
• World War 2 Essays
• Romeo and Juliet Essays
• The Great Gatsby Essays
• To Kill a Mockingbird Essays
• Catcher in the Rye Essays
• Hamlet Essays
• I Have a Dream Essays
• Frankenstein Essays
• Edgar Allan Poe Essays
• Macbeth Essays
• Procrastination Essays
• Human Trafficking Essays
• Scarlet Letter Essays
• A Raisin in the Sun Essays
• Cyber Bullying Essays
• Anxiety Essays
• Domestic Violence Essays
• Stress Essays
• Vietnam War Essays
• Letter From Birmingham Jail Essays
• Social Media Essays
• Fahrenheit 451 Essays
• Illegal Immigration Essays
• Overpopulation Essays
• Animal Testing Essays
• Bipolar Disorder Essays
• Of Mice and Men Essays
• Recycling Essays
• Industrial Revolution Essays
• Westward Expansion Essays
• The Crucible Essays
• Into the Wild Essays
• Lord of the Flies Essays
• Child Abuse Essays
• The Yellow Wallpaper Essays
• Resilience Essays
• Cancer Essays
• Alzheimer's Disease Essays
• Diabetes Essays
• Nutrition Essays
• Vaccination Essays
• Failure Essays
• Jackie Robinson Essays
• Overcoming Obstacles Essays
• Football Essays
• Soccer Essays
• Volleyball Essays
• Social Justice Essays
• Fake News Essays
• Discourse Community Essays
• Media Analysis Essays
• American Identity Essays
• LGBT Essays
• Stereotypes Essays
• Cold War Essays
• Fences Essays
• Things Fall Apart Essays
• A Modest Proposal Essays
• A Rose For Emily Essays
• Hills Like White Elephants Essays
• Just Mercy Essays
• The Things They Carried Essays
• Othello Essays
• 1984 Essays
• Anne Frank Essays
• Utilitarianism Essays
• Standardized Testing Essays
• Endangered Species Essays
• Water Pollution Essays
• Hurricane Essays
• Climate Change Essays
• Abraham Lincoln Essays
• George Washington Essays
• Declaration of Independence Essays
• Pearl Harbor Essays
• French Revolution Essays
• Imperialism Essays
• Artificial Intelligence Essays
• Bill of Rights Essays
• Racial Profiling Essays
• Women's Suffrage Essays
• Child Labor Essays
• Gender Equality Essays
• Civil Disobedience Essays
• Black Death Essays
• Cesar Chavez Essays
• Adolf Hitler Essays
• Virtual Reality Essays
• Mass Incarceration Essays
• Refugee Essays
• Elon Musk Essays
• Creation Myth Essays
• Food Waste Essays
• Concussion Essays
• William Shakespeare Essays
• 9/11 Essays
• Identity Essays
• American Revolution Essays
• Discrimination Essays
• The Story of an Hour Essays
• Federalism Essays
• Cultural Identity Essays
• Pride and Prejudice Essays
• Time Management Essays
• Beowulf Essays
• Freedom of Speech Essays
• Slavery Essays
• Minimum Wage Essays
• Empathy Essays
• Schizophrenia Essays
• Eating Disorders Essays
• The Metamorphosis Essays
• Motivation Essays
• The Great Depression Essays
• Thomas Jefferson Essays
• Career Goals Essays
• Media Bias Essays
• Smoking Essays
• Air Pollution Essays
• Volunteering Essays
• Manifest Destiny Essays
• Buddhism Essays
• Censorship Essays
• Animal Rights Essays
• Democracy Essays
• Drunk Driving Essays
• Education System Essays
• Euthanasia Essays
• Salem Witch Trials Essays

Critical Evaluation of Harold A. Netland’s Christianity & Religious Diversity

Words: 1953

Paganism in European Religion

Words: 1185

Conflict Between Religion and Science

Hire an expert to write you a 100% unique paper aligned to your needs.

American Jesus and feminist ideology

"3 idiots" film analysis.

Words: 1568

Jesus and the Gospel Accounts

The revelation of humanity to itself "humanity as god intended it", the difference between christianity and buddhism.

Words: 1109

The Jesus Seminar - A Comprehensive Guide

Words: 1584

The Nature of God: Exploring the Divine Character

• Essay of any type
• Scholarship essay
• Admission essay
• College essay
• High School

Fine collection of free essay examples, paper samples and topics

Access a vast arsenal of free writing examples covering any subject or topic. Use these academic essay examples to draw inspiration or deepen your knowledge in various areas. Start exploring now!

• Persuasive essays
• Argumentative essays
• Analytical essays
• Expository essays
• Classification essays
• Cause-and-effect
• Problem-and-solution
• Compare-and-contrast
• Descriptive essays
• Narrative essays
• Definition essays
• Informative essays
• Critical analysis
• Rhetorical analysis
• Admission essays
• Human Resources
• Political Science
• Government Studies
• Linguistics
• Gun control
• Capital punishment
• Domestic violence
• Police brutality
• Marijuana legalization
• Climate change
• Globalization
• Illegal immigration
• Overpopulation
• Gender roles
• American Revolution
• World War 1
• The Great Depression
• World War 2
• Vietnam War
• American Dream
• The Great Gatsby
• Romeo and Juliet
• To Kill a Mockingbird
• Catcher in the Rye
• Miscellaneous

What Is a Religion Essay

Let’s begin with a proper definition of religion essay. Such texts talk about the basics of faith, churches, and believer communities’ traditions or inspect religions from historical, cultural, or philosophical perspectives. Depending on a general subject, you might talk about your belief or discuss other ones you are familiar with within your essay.

When describing such kind of topic (be it your own one or some others you wish to talk about), you should typically provide the following information:

• Its core beliefs (is it mono- or polytheistic and so on).
• Its main traditions.
• Problems it faces (or has faced in the past) and how they are solved, etc.

Religion Essay for School

In this article, we’ll provide some guidelines for writing about religion in schools essays. First of all, keep in mind that your paper must be informative and objective. Describing your own belief or discussing other ones, you need to avoid uninformed assumptions and prejudice. In order to engage in such discussions, one should learn about some basic principles at least:

• What is it in general?
• What are the main religions in the world or in your country?
• Main differences between religions or churches, etc.

More detailed tips for essay about religion in schools will be provided below. Besides, we’ve got many such examples posted here for free. Go ahead and check them. Maybe you’ll find some helpful ideas there to borrow for your own work. Start with civil disobedience essay or discrimination essay at StudyBounty .

Religion College Essays Example

Looking for a sample of college essays about religion? We’ve got one for you! Feel free to check out its structure and style and reuse it in your own essay.

College students are expected to address more complicated problems in their papers. But you need to stay respectful while writing about religion in college essays. This is quite an important and sensitive aspect of modern life so better make sure you’re not offending anyone. Be objective and use valid sources to back up your narrative. Avoid informal vocabulary and make sure all parts of your text are logically connected with each other.

Religious college essays aren’t very easy to compose. That’s why it would be useful to have some real completed works as your reference materials. Scroll down to access our college essay examples .

Religion Essay Examples That Will Help You in Writing

Searching for a good religion example to help you with your writer’s block? You’ve come to the right place. We have many different examples for various kinds of essays on this subject.

Is your task to write a college essay on religion? This level requires proper analysis and some time spent on research. You are likely to address complex or even controversial problems. So, make sure to use good argumentation and at the same time avoid radically judging other people’s views.

There are two main essay types for this topic:

• Argumentative
• Persuasive.

Each subtype has its own peculiarities and limitations. It is better to learn more about each one before choosing your topic. Let’s examine both these essay types in detail.

Religion Argumentative Essay

Writing an argumentative essay on religion requires presenting some claim and defending it before your audience. You should build a set of reasons showing that you’re right which requires conducting some preliminary research. 

So, these are necessary steps when working on an argumentative essay about religion:

• Formulate a strong claim in your thesis statement. Be cautious with that since you’re dealing with a sensitive subject.
• Brainstorm ideas and collect sources.
• Build your argumentation taking potential counterarguments into account.

Religion argumentative essay topics are controversial by definition which is why it might be complicated to deal with them. Feel free to check out argumentative essay examples or samples below – maybe you’ll find its argumentation structure useful for your own work.

Religion Persuasive Essay

Interested in persuasive essay topics on religion? We’ve got you covered! A real religion essay sample of this type is provided below. Feel free to use it as inspiration or reference material while writing your task.

Here are also some tips for persuading others to use in your writing:

• Choose a familiar topic. It would be hard to convince others when discussing questions you aren’t too well versed in.
• Use different types of reasoning. Appeal to your experience, emotions, rhetoric, etc.
• Maintain a respectful tone because you’re dealing with some quite sensitive questions. For example, if you’re presenting ‘My religion essay”, don’t offend any other religions or their representatives.

Do not forget to browse various persuasive essay examples by StudyBounty . It is crucial for your essay writing.

Religion Essay Outline

Let’s talk about an outline of essay on religion. This step is very serious because composing an excellent outline would help make huge progress with your essay. Presenting its logical structure in shortened but comprehensive format allows you to correct all grave mistakes before writing the full text.

Let's look at our sample. Suppose your general topic is ‘Cultural role of religion’.

Outline example for religion essay

Introduction: draft an introduction providing your thesis statement.

• Introduce your topic and write a thesis statement – a full sentence. E.g. debate that your belief is a key element of your national culture.
• Add a few words about this problem’s context, explaining the history of this question in your country.

Main body: the body should contain at least three paragraphs, sketched but concise. 

• Think your argumentation through and perform the necessary research.
• When defending the cultural role of your religion, place each of your major arguments in a new paragraph.
• Reserve the last paragraph to review possible counterarguments and refute them.

Conclusion: write a shortened conclusion.

• Summarize your arguments and refutations.
• Restate your claim and check whether it sounds convincing. Fill in any logical gaps if needed.

Bonus: Do not know how many pages your essay should be? Try our words per page tool and get an instant result!

Religion Essay Introduction

Making an introduction to religion essay informative enough requires some preparation and analysis. First, read how to write an informative essay . And here are the recommended steps:

• Provide your thesis statement making it clear, concise, and well formulated. We’ll discuss this part in another section below.
• Add enough context to make your audience familiar with the selected problem. It should explain why this problem is important and/or interesting for others. Otherwise, you would risk losing your audience’s attention.
• Make sure to keep it brief nevertheless. Don’t disclose any vital information that is to be provided in the main part later.

Our sample is available for you here. Feel free to choose and if necessary copy this structure and these techniques to use in your paper.

Introduction of religion essay example

During the ancient era, both power and religion had a connection to the aspect of kingship. Power was defined as the authority to influence other people's behavior. On the other hand, religion at times espoused the belief that the divinity in human beings was expressed in the center of leadership, in this case, the kingship. The fields of religious studies and anthropology, as well as a number of conferences, have considered kingship with respect to its relationship to religion. Going back to the early civilizations, the aspect of power and religion worked similarly as well as differently in both Aegean Crete and in Mesopotamia. This paper aims at discussing how the two aspects operated in the two regions.

Religion Essay Thesis Statement Examples

When brainstorming a thesis statement on religion, better focus on the aspects you are well familiar with. It would be difficult to prove the point if you don’t know enough about the problem.

Are you writing an argumentative or persuasive essay? In both cases, you should make some controversial claims so that you would have enough materials for discussion.

Here is a thesis statement about religion that you could use when discussing its cultural role:

Despite many controversies about the current role of our church, religion has shaped the unique culture of our society.

Here you quote an opposite opinion on your problem and refute it in the same sentence. Such construction makes your thesis sound more interesting.

Religion Essay Body Paragraph

The classic format of 5 paragraph essay about religion foresees using 3 out of 5 paragraphs for the main body part. The remaining 2 paragraphs are left for the introduction and the conclusion respectively.

Here is what your main part should include:

• All the information with necessary explanations and argumentation. Make sure to prepare valid data or evidence for your claims and assumptions.
• Each paragraph in your essay should contain a certain major argument. Leave the last one for reviewing the main counterarguments against your position and refuting them.
• Remember that all paragraphs should be logically connected with each other.

You can see how it is done in a sample available below.

Religion essay body paragraph example 

Ancient leaders, more particularly Kings, used architecture and art to show their true dominance vividly. In this context, various structures conferred different messages. It's evident that every structure portrayed a specific message as far as kingship was concerned. A much more critical component, in any case, is the central role performed by organized religion within Mesopotamian in regards to issues of state (Finegan 2015). More certainly during the Sumerian times, the city and its monetary association were the duty of the sanctuary, with its progressive brotherhood in which was vested a power practically equivalent to that of the ruler and his admonitory committee of elders. As needs were at the beginning of Sumeria and Babylonia, consideration was paid essentially to the design of religious structures, and all sculptures that had a religious significance filled. The elaboration and enhancement of castles were an advancement of the Assyrian times.

Religion Essay Conclusion

Finally, let’s talk about a conclusion on religion essay. Here are several tips on writing a good one:

• Summarize the important information you’ve provided in your essay, but don’t repeat it. Make sure you address the opposing point of view – this will make an essay more objective.
• Don't put any reference material in this section – place all of that in the previous part.
• Make it brief but comprehensive. Try adding some captivating comments about the subject. They could leave a lasting impression on readers.

A good sample is available below. It could be useful for you as extra reference material. Feel free to borrow some ideas from it!

Example of conclusion for religion essay

Evidently, as the paper highlights, in the ancient world, kingship was complemented both by power and by religion. The highest-ranking officials in government used architecture and artworks to show their dominance and authority. For instance, a stone relief and the Akkadian statue in Mesopotamia and the tallest buildings in Aegean Crete such as the Knossos Palace. These artworks showed that the kingship position was for universal well-being. The artwork was symbolic. It showed power vested upon the ruler and not the ruler themselves.

How to Write a Religion Essay

Are you stuck at the beginning? Here’s how to write an essay about religion – step by step:

• Choose your topic carefully. Brainstorm ideas and conduct some research. Make sure you know well what you are writing about.
• Present it to your audience properly. This includes preparing a strong thesis statement. But at the same time remain respectful to other people, including your opponents. Review your thesis carefully before proceeding.
• Write a short outline. At this stage, it will be much easier to evaluate how concise your work would be. Serious misjudgments, errors, or gaps can be quickly spotted and corrected. Just make sure to review your completed outline at least twice.
• Conduct serious research about your topic. Collect all necessary reference material. Use only valid sources and make sure all the citations aren’t offensive.
• Write the full essay. Format it carefully, use proper vocabulary, and don't forget about grammar.
• Review it at least once. Minor issues are left unnoticed quite often. Try asking someone else to check it out.

Still not sure how to write an essay on religion? You can contact us! We have experienced academic writers who are happy to help students.

List of Popular Religion Paper Topics

Need some good topics for religion papers ? Or not sure how to choose from various religion topics to write about? We’ve got your back! Here are the 12 best religion topics for essays of various levels and types:

• The historical role of religion in education. (Look at the education system essay from our library.)
• Comparison and contrast of Islam and Christianity.
•  Start with Importance of religious community in our society.
• How do churches in maintain international peace?
• Benefits of polygamy/monogamy from the religious aspect.
• Ideas of reincarnation and their basis.
• Dangers of religious radicalism.
• Are religious people more moral? Why or why not?
• What justifies changing your belief? 
• Why the church should/should not be separated from the state.
• Polytheism vs monotheism.
• Why religions will/will not disappear eventually.

FAQ About Essays on Religion

Sure, we’ve got totally free essays religion for you, at no charge at all. Feel free to browse through them, read or download them as pdf. As long as you avoid direct copying, you can reuse their style or structure in your own original work or borrow their sources if they match your own topic.

Always start your religious essays with strong thesis statements. It is recommended to address complex and even controversial problems. Such claims provide enough material for discussion and engage your reader. Don’t forget to give enough context about your thesis. Otherwise, people who read it might lose focus at the beginning.

No! These religion papers available here aren’t unique. They have already been published online and are visible to all other people. Submitting someone else’s text for your school assignment qualifies as plagiarism, even if you’ve copied only a part of it. Be sure that your professor can easily detect that.

Because of the importance of studying religion essay is a popular assignment in various colleges. This kind of paper allows students to demonstrate their ability to address different complex and very sensitive problems. In addition to their writing skills, they show their capabilities of performing analysis and maintaining respectful dialogue.

Many essay titles about religion are helpful for engaging your reader. A strong title should be captivating (e.g. using unexpected logical constructions); controversial and inviting for a debate; correct and completely corresponding to your thesis statement but not copying it completely; relevant for different types of societies and avoid a narrow focus.

Running out of time ?

Entrust your assignment to proficient writers and receive TOP-quality paper before the deadline is over.

Free Religion Essay Examples

1596 samples of this type

Wondering how to write a paper on religion? Don’t know how to approach this controversial and debatable topic? We are here to help you! Here you’ll find religion essay topics, useful writing prompts, and a list of religion essay examples at the end of the article!

Religion Essay: What Is It about?

A religion essay is a paper that explores beliefs and traditions as well as their influence on cultures and nations. In a religion essay, you can also analyze the parallels and differences between various religious branches.

Religion studies are connected to philosophy and social science. That is why essays on the topic are often written in these disciplines.

Below are three primary approaches to compose the essay. You need to choose the one that stays in line with your assignment.

• Religion argumentative essay
• Religion persuasive essay
• Religion comparative essay

Make sure you state in your religion essay introduction that all religions are equal and have the right to exist. Now we may explore these types of papers in depth. Choose the one that applies to your task and write an excellent article with our tips!

Argumentative Essay on Religion

An argumentative essay on religion explores faith and its aspects. You prove right or claim wrong a specific concept you work on. You can discover the approaches of different schools of thought to some ideas. This is a reflection on questions that can be raised but cannot be answered.

These are the possible essays:

• Science and religion essay is on the relationship and contradictions between the two fields. Are they contested? Does creationism exclude evolution? At what point does religion become science and the other way round? Here you may explore the treatment of science among different religions. Compare traditions of the state where the research is approved and where it is not. There is a theory on atheism as a religion as well. Describe scientists’ views on this topic.
• Religion and morality essay is part of the debate on ethics and moral development. What is the difference between religion and morality? What is their connection to each other? What does a dignified life mean? You can argue on what is good and what is evil. Explain the roots of moral values. How have they developed out of religious traditions?
• Religion and politics essay puts questions on the role of religion in politics. Do these institutes have to be separated? How do religious states function? How has the bond of faith and state changed? Study the role religion played in various historical periods. You may try to defend the times when religion was the cause of wars. Or analyze the way religion has influenced the government’s programs.

Persuasive Essay on Religion

Religion persuasive essay sets a goal to reshape one’s mind on faith. There is no need to write about a wide-ranging concept or analyze a concrete notion. You aim to make others consider or even adopt the beliefs you promote. To achieve that, do not force your values, but use logic and strong arguments. Note pros and cons, so the reader knows your position from both sides.

The topics can be:

• Same-sex marriage persuasive essay on religion. It has to prove the need to legalize or prohibit this relationship. You are to give evidence about the benefits or drawbacks of such a law. Refer to the religious tradition of your culture and state. Explain the way morals change if you implement your beliefs.
• Persuasive essay: should religion be taught? In this paper, you need to define if there has to be a religious class or not. Do we have to explain to children world religions? American society is multicultural. So it is best to know more about the existing beliefs. Or are you sure that religion belongs to the past? Is there a place for it in the modern world?
• Freedom of religion essay is about one’s right to practice a religion or not. The first amendment to the US Constitution protects this right. Still, not everyone agrees with it. They believe religious unity is crucial to a society. You may try to adopt this point of view to prove these claims right or wrong.

Compare & Contrast Essay on Religion

Comparative essay on religion contrasts beliefs and traditions. What kind of relationships are among these faiths? What is their influence on each other? The goal is to define the similarities and contradictions. It is better to choose a concrete notion or practice. Then describe two or three religious scholars’ ideas on this topic. You may speculate on the future cooperation of this and that faith.

The titles are as follows:

• Compare and contrast: Buddhism and Christianity essay. Study the principle ideas and morals of these beliefs. Here you can describe the contacts of the Catholic Church with the Dalai Lama. Consider writing about Christ and Buddha’s teachings on the afterlife. What are their parallels? Do they have the same concept of the divine or not?
• Compare and contrast: Christianity and Islam essay. This paper can take as a topic the common roots of these faiths. How have they changed, and why are they so distinct? What are their principal similarities? Discuss the reasons for religious persecutions of the Middle Ages. You may explore Islam’s remains in the Iberian Peninsula.
• Compare and contrast: Hinduism and Buddhism essay. You may confuse these religions with one another, but they should not be mixed. They have many similar principles, but there are some distinctions as well. Compare Hinduism and Buddhism cosmology. How do these religions define karma and dharma? How do they represent gods and spirits?

How to Write an Essay about Religion?

These are some pieces of advice we recommend you to follow:

• Study your tutor’s instructions and ask him if something is unclear
• Think about an argumentative title
• Prepare a detailed outline
• Give a thesis in the introduction
• Make your arguments solid and valid
• Prove your evidence with reliable sources
• Do not make new points in the conclusion
• Place the best arguments at the beginning and at the end of a body part
• Reread the final essay and correct any incoherence
• Check the spelling and grammar mistakes

Hope our article is useful to you, and you will get an A+ essay. We also prepared some high-quality religion essay examples. Make sure to check them out!

The Impact of Religion in Society

Have you ever wondered how different religions influence society? In this impact of religion on society essay sample, you’ll find an answer to this and other questions about impact of religion on society. Keep reading to gain some inspiration for your paper! Impact of Religion on Society: Essay Introduction Let...

The Scribes and the Pharisees After Crucifixion of Christ

Jesus and the scribes and the Pharisees were always at crossroads and the latter believed that Jesus was neither the son of God nor did he have that he had the capabilities he talked about when addressing the multitudes. One of the things that Jesus said when he was alive...

Qur’an, Sunnah, and Hadith in Islam

Introduction Qur’an, Sunnah, and the Hadith are the three sacred texts that Muslims value and use for assessing the ethical behavior to be embraced in their societies. The Quran is the supreme of the three sacred texts. It is taken to be literal word of God and is believed to...

Saint Augustine vs Aquinas: Theological Approaches Comparison

If you need to give an example to differentiate Augustine’s views on the self from Aquinas’, this essay sample is for you. Here, you will find an explanation of the similarities and difference between Augustine and Aquinas regarding their philosophies and theological approaches. Augustine vs Aquinas: Introduction The views of...

Christianity, Islam and Judaism Similarities

Introduction Christianity, Islam and Judaism are all religions. Religion can be defined as a set of beliefs and a way of life. Though, there are different religions with different practices and beliefs in the world, there exists some clear similarities. Christianity is defined as the religion that is based on...

Similarities and Differences Between Islam and Hinduism

The two religions; Hinduism and Islam are considered poles apart from each other for many reasons, though one fails to consider their similarities as well. Being humans, no matter what religion or sect one belongs to, they think that their knowledge of the religion is best. For instance, all human...

The Relationship between Religion and Politics

Abstract Religion and politics are regarded as very unlikely bedfellows in the contemporary world. This is contrary to previous civilizations where religion took a center stage in the day-to-day running of politics. This paper will look at the various stages of the relationship between religion and politics through various ages...

An Introduction to Christian Values and Decision-Making in Health Care

Introduction In terms of spirituality, human nature is a vast, complex, largely unknown world. The inner world of a person is shaky, as it is vulnerable to the influence of other people and circumstances. At the same time, it can become a support in difficult times and lead a person...

The Main Characteristics of Hinduism

Hinduism is a religious practice that originated and is practiced in India. It is one of the oldest religious practices in the world. It is mainly practiced in India and it’s the world’s 3rd most popular religion with over 900 million followers. It is a complex religion, but it is...

Christianity Beliefs and Practices

Christian beliefs and practices are connected with the history and origin of Christianity. Beliefs and practices of worship are studied in this essay. Introduction Christianity is one of the most popular religions in the world. Beliefs and practices of Christianity are generally the same across the world. Christianity beliefs include...

• Christianity

Eastern vs. Western Religions: What’s the Difference?

The Eastern religions are typically described as those faiths which originated and were practiced in countries such as India, Japan, Southern Asia, and China. There are regular arguments and conflicts between the Eastern and Western religions, whereby the latter dwells on the idea that a distinct type of worshipping only...

Leadership Styles Used by the Church

Introduction Effective church leadership is important in the numerical growth of congregants. As such, the management strategy adopted by a church minister will have a bearing on the growth of membership. Poor administrative practices can lead to a drop in the followership of churches which even started with a large...

Judaism, Christianity and Islam: Comparative Analysis

Introduction Global events and attitudes have to a large extent been shaped by religion. The history of humanity have been encompassed by a number of events such as wars, the building of new cities and the introduction of new laws with the central of aim of promulgating or protecting one...

The Concept of Education and Religion

Introduction Education and religion are major social institution that impacts the lives of many people. They play an integral role in shaping values and beliefs as well as comparing various religious and educational practices across the globe. Education is a formal system of teaching knowledge, skills, and values (Henslin 495)....

The Development of the New Testament Canon

Canon of the New Testament: Essay Introduction In contemporary times, researchers and scholars have raised differing opinions and discussions about the development of the New Testament canon. Consequently, different individuals have come up with disparate approaches and sentiments in a bid to solve this controversy. Different individuals raise opposing points...

Major Themes of The 13 Letters of Paul

Introduction The basis of Paul’s thirteen letters is the theme of truthfulness and the appearance of Christ for the salvation of people. In addition, another topic is the redemption of the human soul and God’s grace. The famous missionary Paul of Tarsus is credited with writing fourteen of the twenty-seven...

Christianity in Malaysia: The Spread and Development

The spread of Christianity began in the first century. It continued steadily as different missionaries traversed various continents globally. Activities such as crusades and campaigns significantly influenced the success of the spread of the religion which started in Northern Europe before proceeding to other continents. Among the earliest regions to...

Narrow Road to the Interior. Analysis

“Narrow Road to the Interior,” written by Matsuo Basho is a set of haiku and prose depicting Basho’s journeys across Japan. In this work, Basho describes how he traveled, describing the places and references to other poems. Additionally, the topic of spirituality, mainly on the basis of the religious tradition...

The Ministry of the Prophet: Meanings and Goals

The Calling, The Prophetic Voice, Character, New Covenant Prophets The ministry of the prophet is referred to as any ministry that depends on the gift of prophecy and revelations from God to guide the church to maturity or a specific direction. The prophetic ministry is seen most often in the...

The Book of Ephesians: Literary Analysis of Passage

The book of Ephesians consists of two major parts, one of which is Doctrine, which explains who the people in Christ are (1:1 – 3:21), and the second one is about Duty, or how people live in Christ (4:1 – 6:24). These are two blocks of thoughts, the ideas of...

• Jesus Christ

Role of Religion in Functionalism and Conflict Perspectives

Introduction Religion is a basic social institution that affects an individual’s life from childhood to adulthood. Religion can be defined as a set of beliefs and practices which govern society, religion varies in different societies and also differs in the degree to which it is integrated into the society. It...

Similarities and Differences Between Jainism and Sikhism

Introduction Jainism came about as a result of efforts to transform Hindu religion 2000 years ago. This religion was established almost same time as Buddhism. It was founded by Vardhamana, a prominent person who live in East India. The founder became very famous in 420 BCE when he was around...

The Observance of Prayer in Christianity Compared to Islam

Introduction Religious organizations provide familiar institutions of social cohesion and control in an environment. In the city of Los Angeles, many religions are being practiced due to the freedom of worship. Talking about how Christianity and Islam are prevalent in the city of Los Angeles today, these two religions have...

The Old Testament’ Importance for the Modern Believer

Introduction Today, many Christians neglect the Old Testament, considering that it only contains bedtime stories and is not relevant for the modern believers. However, this approach is not correct. Studying the Old Testament gives a modern believer knowledge on the relationship between God and people, explains certain universal principles, helps...

The Christian Worldview: Gospel Essentials Essay

Introduction Gospel Essentials and the Christian Worldview Gospel essentials are the subject matter of the gospel books, whose theme is forgiveness of sin and redemption, qualified by Jesus’ atonement (1 Cor. 15: 1-4 New International Version). On the other hand, Valk describes the Christian worldview as the underlying philosophical structure...

“Wonders of the Invisible World” by Cotton Mather

Wonders of the Invisible World is a book written by Cotton Mather, published in 1693, right after the Salem Witch trials. The objective of the book was to defend the role Cotton Mather played in the trials and is based on the man’s belief of witchcraft being real and perpetrated...

Critical Evaluation of Talal Asad’s Critique of Geertz’s Model

Introduction Religion is an integral part of the life of society, performing a number of important functions, one of which is cultural. Despite the fact that this area is ancient, there are still disputes among researchers about the significance of this institution for the individual and the state. Clifford Geertz...

Importance of the New Testament for Christianity

Christianity is the world’s major religion with around 2 billion followers. Its central figure is Jesus Christ who through his birth, ministry life, trials, crucifixion, death, and, resurrection is believed to have offered the salvation and atonement needed by His followers from their sins. His nature and personality have been...

Analysis of Exegesis of Numbers 21: 4-9

“If it does not kill you, it will make you well” (Barlett and Brown Thaylor, 2008, 101). This well-known statement that is used now as a saying is given in the presentation of the exegetical perspective of the analyzed pericope. It has its roots in the Scripture, mainly in the...

Reflection on the Book of Psalms

Introduction The Bible does not provide all the religious answers that believers may have; only the passages and translations open to interpretation. God’s figure is mysterious, fearsome, and impossible to fully understand; thus, some readers can feel confused or intimidated. However, the Bible touches on the Lord’s nature and provides...

• Spirituality
• Old Testament
• Relationship

Deontological Ethics of Christianity

Deontology is derived from two Greek words, “Deon,” which means duty, and “logos,” meaning science. It is an ethical term that applies the laid down rules to determine whether a thing is right or wrong. The theory argues that rules should be followed without establishing the consequences of the actions...

Religion as a Belief System: What Is It?

Introduction A belief system, as is generally understood, contains high values, moral ideas and thoughts which provide a moral lesson. An overview identifies different types of belief systems that have been prevailing in the modern world. One can regard “belief system is the actual set of precepts from which you...

Steward Versus Servant Leadership in Christianity

Introduction Leadership style is the method or approach employed by a person while managing or heading a team. The leadership style is determined by factors such as an individual’s personal characteristics or traits, behaviors, and goals. Christian leadership styles have been in existence for a long time, and different people...

The Importance of Studying and Understanding Different Religions

In my opinion, the study of different approaches to the study and comprehension of religions is indeed an exciting and important topic. The realities of the modern world significantly contribute to communication between representatives of different cultures. This can often lead to conflicts, including those that arise on religious grounds....

The Second Coming of Christ

The Second Coming of Jesus Christ in Christian doctrine is reflected in the Nicene Creed. It is the return from Heaven to Earth of the Lord Jesus Christ in divine glory and power, which, according to the promise of God, will occur at the end of time. This is the...

Life and Ministry of John the Baptist

Introduction The life and ministry of John the Baptist started several years before his birth. His coming is prophesied in the Old Testament, even before his parents were in existence. His life is well mapped out and planned by God since He foretells his role in his plan for salvation....

Comparison Between Buddhism and Christianity

Buddhism and Christianity are the religions that have many believers from different parts of the world. The two religions may be seen as distinct, but they still share some beliefs and teachings. Buddhism entails teachings about Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as Buddha, while Christianity is based on the belief in...

Exegesis of Jeremiah 1:4-10

Biblical Text The Call of Jeremiah The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew[a] you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not...

Ten Commandments in My Life and the World Today

The Ten Commandments hold a very special place in the hearts of all Christians, these commandments are believed to be written by God, and every person is expected to adhere to these Ten Commandments. It can be said that in order to have a good life one must follow all...

Effective Leadership: The Biblical Perspective

Effective leadership from a biblical perspective is a God manifested character to influence and serve others through Christ’s interests to accomplish God’s purposes. In a Christian community, leaders should be guided by the Holy Spirit to collaborate and adopt good attributes to execute their duties without fear. Jesus demonstrated effective...

• Interpretation

Making Friends With People of Different Religions

Being educated and respectful of other religions Education of other religions is undoubtedly one of the most crucial parts of a dialogue with a representative of a different faith. Ignorance in such a matter might lead to misunderstanding and unwanted conflict. Besides, respecting other beliefs should prove to be very...

Safeguarding and the Bible Perspective

The term ‘safeguarding tendencies’ implies a range of structured actions of an individual determined to protect himself or herself from public criticism or other threats from other people, including both phycological and physical ones. These behavioral patterns are usually referred to as revealing a neurotic nature and lifestyle. There are...

Judaism and Buddhism: Similarities and Differences

Abstract The term religion is used to refer to the approach that human beings give to their spirituality as provided by their beliefs, symbols, narratives, and practices on a supernatural figure. Human beings express religious inclination through several ways; some of which include prayers, rituals, and music. There are different...

Fruits of the Holy Spirit and Its Nine Attributes

Introduction Holy Spirit can be considered as one fruit with nine parts as developing all the nine attributes makes the soul holistic and establishes a connection with God. The fruit of the Spirit is “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Howard). Letting the listed attributes into life...

The Book of Job From the Bible

Background The Book of Job in the Bible informs why God allows evil in people’s lives through Job’s experiences. Job was a man who feared the Lord and was prosperous in all ways; he lived a comfortable life, was wealthy, had a big family and possessions. After God boasted to...

Joseph and Yusuf in the Qur’an and the Bible

Introduction Prophet Yusuf is a character in the Holy Book of the Koran, the Bible, and Jews. He lived, preached, and died in Egypt in the sixteenth century BC, living for nearly one hundred and ten years. His name is mentioned twenty-six times in the Qur’an, and there is also...

Servant Leadership in the Church and Its Purpose

Introduction Leadership is a quality that people can be endowed with if they can manage other groups for development. In addition, leadership qualities are formed over a long period, thus becoming the result of a person’s experience. Among leadership types, there is Servant Leadership, the essence of which is the...

Ministry of the Prophets, Bible Prophets and Their Prophecies

Prophetic ministry at its core is the act of leading and guiding the church based on revelations from God and gift of the prophesy. The Scriptures present multiple examples of prophetic ministry. The Old Testament has a significant number of prophets. There are the central ones who directly communicated with...

Jesus Role in Fulfilling God’s Plan to Save the World

The bible as a religious book was written many years ago. It’s a religious book for Christians. Christians believe in God, the son and the Holy Spirit. Christianity acknowledges that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. The bible teaches about the history of the world in a religious perspective....

The Reflection of Shinto in Spirited Away by Hayao Miyazaki

The animated film Spirited away, produced by Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki, contains many sacred Shinto motives and folklore reflections. The film’s plot follows the story of a 10-year-old girl named Chihiro Ogino, who finds herself in a world inhabited by ghosts and spirits. Although Hayao Miyazaki, being a big admirer...

• Confucianism
• Western Civilization

“In His Steps” by Charles Sheldon

Since its publication in 1896, “In His Steps” by Charles Sheldon became widely popular in Christian circles. Part of the success of this religious fiction novel lies in its focus on timeless concepts of love and compassion and the responsibility we share to care for those in need. In his...

China Buddhism vs. Japan Buddhism and Shintoism

Buddhism is a religion that uses Buddha’s perspective, such as the traditions and beliefs attributed to the religious faith. It is believed that Buddha lived and taught in some parts of India during the fourth century BCE (Miura, 2018). Buddhism has been getting popular in many countries, for example, Japan...

Jesus Christ’s Ministries and Chaplain Behaviors

Introduction Parallels can be drawn between Jesus Christ and military chaplains, as both were sent to minister to secular and religiously diverse communities. As such, His example should serve as the inspiration for members of the profession, with His words and actions deserving emulation in the course of one’s work....

Concept of Human Being in Islam

Background Humans are considered the most important beings among all the animals created as they can distinguish between right and wrong. Muslims believe humans are born in a state of purity, and as they grow, they make decisions that are by and against Islam teachings. The creator sent his prophets...

The Connection of Spirituality and Mental Health

Nowadays, spirituality plays a huge role for many people around the world, and the connection between the inner feelings of every person with the outside world is a crucial part. According to Brown, et al (2013), spirituality has a strong relation to mental health, and while working on the religion...

The Impact of Apostle Paul Leadership Style

Introduction Apostle Paul is considered the most important person after the death of Jesus due to his influence on Christian theology. He used a transformational leadership approach to inspire change in the followers. This is a leadership style where a leader collaborates with employees to identify the desired change, develops...

Comparing of Judaism and Taoism

The purpose of this essay is to compare the two religions, their main characteristics, beliefs, and conceptual and ethical attitudes. Judaism and Taoism are chosen as examples for comparison. Judaism is one of the oldest Western monotheistic religions, distinguished by belief in the one true God. Judaism is based on...

Critical Introduction to the Book of Matthew

Introduction The book of Matthew is the first in the New Testament and was written by Saint Matthew, the evangelist. The book primarily discusses the accounts of the life and death of Jesus Christ. The gospel was initially written in Greek sometimes after 69 CE and depended on the earlier...

African Christianity vs. Western Rationalism

Introduction Christianity has spread to all parts of the world since its early days, and the cultural differences of those who adopted this religion shaped their religious beliefs, practices, as well as spirituality. African Christianity is characterized by spiritual and holistic nature, which encompasses the acceptance of the empirical and...

Gregory the Great Life and Teachings

Introduction Pope Gregory the Great became a pope when the Italian province was in crisis, and the state appeared lawless, crumbling, and semi-abandoned by visitors to Rome. A statement by the future pope had indicated that barbarians had full control of the religion. The city’s state had made the Romans...

Why Is It Important to Study Bible?

Introduction The Bible as the repository of wisdom and God’s written word is often taken for granted. However, it needs to be examined as the source of essential insights into the nature of human relationships and the use of ethical and moral standards based on which one should build relationships...

Phenomenology Approach in Studying Religion

Introduction Many disciplines have attempted to define the field of religion to give it a substantive and universal grounding. However, some of these definitions have been found to be compartmentalized and narrow. The different methods used to define religion include phenomenology, comparative religion, historical approach, sociology of religion, and philosophy...

How Do Religions Both Unite and Divide Humanity?

Introduction Even in the age of secularity and diversity, religion permeates essential aspects of human society, such as law, morality, ethics, and economy. The power of faith can either unite or cause severe divisions. Examples of unifying potential can be found in universal values upheld by the followers of different...

The Politicization of Muslim Identity

Primarily, Mamdani shares a concern about the violence of the modern age and how it is rooted in the political agenda. 9/11 was an essential event in the history of the United States that led to the juxtaposition of “bad Muslims” with “good Muslims” in society (Mamdani 2005, 15). The...

Religion Study: Analysis of Exodus 32:7-14

Introduction In the Book of Exodus, one of the most daring confrontations with God is the Golden Calf event. The story revolves around the people of Israel who doubted the divinity of the Lord and describes how God and Moses reacted to this treachery. The narrative reveals how arrogant and...

Karma and Rebirth in Hinduism and Buddhism Religions

Introduction In many cases people face difficulties trying to differentiate between Hinduism and Buddhism religions. The two share many similarities though they are not identical but only have Indian origin. Besides, each religion teaches its followers to separate doctrines and values. According to Romero (n.d.), Buddhism is one of the...

The Healing Ministry of Jesus

Introduction This paper looks at the healing ministry of Jesus. This ministry is one of the most acknowledged yet controversial parts of His work on earth. However, He is the most recognized healer because of His expertise and compassion, as the paper will illustrate. This research is based on historical...

A Fresh Look at Christianity in the Therapy Room

Everyone who subscribes to Christianity is expected to be a missionary wherever they are. However, there is a challenge in applying related beliefs while counseling clients as a psychologist. Consequently, the paper thoroughly analyzes chapters four through six of the book Embodying integration: A fresh look at Christianity in the...

Islamic Culture, Politics and Religion

In the Arab world, the word ‘Islam’ means submission and peace. As a term, it refers to the messages revealed to Muhammad by Allah. Cultural practices and beliefs associated with the people who practice this religion give rise to Islamic culture. In the recent past, the religion has spread into...

The Watch and the Watchmaker Summary & William Paley Watchmaker

Curious to find the answer to the question, “Who is a watchmaker according to William Palley?” You’re in the right place! This essay contains The Watch and the Watchmaker summary of the theory and analysis of William Palley watchmaker argument in support of the existence of God. Sounds interesting? Keep...

• Discrimination

Charles Manson and the Family as a Destructive Cult

Introduction There is freedom of worship in the US and one can join any religion she/he feels like. Everyone has control of his/her life and is responsible for the actions he takes. One can do everything that pleases him as long as his actions do not hurt another person. However,...

“The Making of a Leader” by Dr. J. Robert Clinton

Abstract The Making of a Leader by Dr. J. Robert Clinton explores the complicated nature of spiritual dynamics. The book provides readers with numerous accounts of leadership stories that are meant to serve as guidance for emerging leaders. In the first chapter of the book, Dr. Clinton describes five main...

Message of the Prophets: Background and Interpretation

Introduction The Bible described many situations when people got to know God’s words from other people among them. Being chosen individually, prophets were expected to pass God’s message to others. These messages were aimed to communicate God’s will, while the predictions in them happened to be inevitable. Background and Interpretation...

Decline of Christianity in Europe

Christianity is the largest religion in the world, with more than two billion adherents. Christian faith includes numerous branches, the most popular of which are the Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Protestantism. Even though all the branches are diverse in terms of canons and rituals, all of them...

The Difference between the Qur’an and Other Religious Texts

The Qur’an is a central divine book of Islam, written in the sacred language – Arabic. Many scholars believe that the message written within the passages of the Qur’an cannot be imitated since the Book is unique and contains universal knowledge. However, despite the initial beliefs, the Book can be...

Old Testament Lessons for National Security Council

Abstract The purpose of the paper is to offer a set of applicable recommendations regarding the National Security Council (NSC) membership and operations based on the examination of the Old Testament kings’ advisors. The Scripture offers a number of invaluable lessons related to political leadership and a ruler’s need for...

Analysis of “Surah al-Ikhlas” in Qur’an

This paper targets to analyze Surah 112 of the Qur’an, which consists of 4 verses. It is relatively short, yet considered to be one of the most significant. It goes under the name “Surah al-Ikhlas,” which in translation from Arabic means “The Purification” or “The Unity”. It contains many fundamental...

The First Three Kings of Israel in the Bible

Introduction The history of the establishment of monarchy and the reign of the first Israeli kings is described in the books of Samuel and the books of Kings. The first king, Saul, was appointed due to the fact that people turned away from God’s will; even though his successor, David,...

Christianity: History, Traditions, and Cultural Practices

Introduction Cultural diversity in society is an unavoidable and unique phenomenon that is central to human development. Unfortunately, several multicultural issues arise when individuals from different backgrounds interact because many people strongly hold onto their beliefs. Thus, it is critical to understand the backgrounds, history, and practices of different cultures...

The Image of Christ in Mark’s Gospel

The Gospel The Gospel is an irrefutable witness to the divine humanity of Christ. As a God-inspired book, however, it was written by living people, each describing events as he saw and perceived them or as he heard about them from eyewitnesses. The inspiration of the sacred books refers to...

• Ancient History
• Ancient Civilizations

Socio-Historical Context of the Book of Romans

Paul wrote to the church in Rome when Jews were coming back to the city after their expulsion. A new emperor had assumed control of the empire, replacing the one who had dismissed the Jewish leaders. Besides, the Gentiles became in charge of the church’s leadership and changed the practices,...

Comparison of the Gospel of Mark and the Gospel of John

The Bible is the book of eternal wisdom and experience; it is the source that can provide answers to all questions if one is faithful enough and if he/she takes a deep look at the endless wisdom embodied in words. It is impossible for one person to convey this eternal...

Theology: Virgin Mary as a Goddess

Goddesses have always been part of various pantheons during the various stages of human history. Their role is inseparable from the role of women in ancient, medieval, and modern societies, as religion was used as a blueprint for morality, proper behavior, and the establishment of societal and gender roles. Ancient...

Jesus and Confucius Comparison

Christianity and Confucianism are well-known systems of belief, based on the number of adherents and their significance. There are three more than 2 billion Christians today, whereas there are approximately 7 million Confucianists only. While Christianity is expected to remain the world’s largest religion in the nearest 50 years, competing...

Eternal Life in John’s Gospel: Theological Perspective

Every human, at least once in their life, thought about receiving the gift of eternal life. Such a desire is quite reasonable because any person is afraid of the unknown; they have no idea about what will happen when they die. This is a part of human nature; being scared...

Leadership Development Plan Based on the Bible Principles

Introduction Leadership advancement is the practice of cultivating governance abilities and proficiencies through various undertakings. During the process, individuals are taught vital management competencies that enable them to lead, encourage and direct their teams to success properly. Training is essential to cultivate a culture of headship throughout an establishment appropriately....

Global Challenges of The Muslims in the Modern Society

The presented research outlined and examined some of the issues facing Muslims in modern society, taking into account knowledge acquisition and global Muslim representation as the core aims in the study. One of the significant problems identified in the research faced by Muslims was the mass media misrepresentation and Western...

The Concept of God in Christian, Islamic and Hindu Religions

Muslim concept of God Muslims are monotheistic, they believe in one God whom they refer to as Allah. Allah is an Arabic name for God; he is One and unique in everything he had created. Allah has no gender. He is self-sufficient as His existence is not determined by anything....

The Meaning of Human Existence

Meaning of Spirituality Spirituality refers to the sense of connection to a higher being or purpose that goes beyond normal human understanding. In that regard, it is the connection that humans have to the divine. Spirituality can also be defined as the connection humans have to concepts that are hard...

Christianity in Rome During the 1st to 5th Centuries

Introduction One of the most astounding developments in world history was that within five centuries after its inception, Christianity had won adherents throughout the Roman Empire, including the backing of the Roman state. Christianity started as an apparently unknown sect of Judaism. It survived persecution to become an important part...

• Civilization
• Nationalism
• Communication
• Colonialism

The Positive and Negative Aspects of Judaism

Judaism is a Jewish religion where members believe in a single deity who is the creator and redeemer of human beings, all forms of life on earth, and everything in the Universe. It is one of the oldest monotheistic religions in history, said to have begun with Abraham in Canaan....

The Christological Interpretation of the Psalms

Psalms is a sacred book of the Old Testament. The book of Psalms consists of 150 psalms devoted to different religious values and norms. Each psalm is a song consisted of chants. Critics suppose that the Book of Psalms was composed by the Babylonians, from about 586 to 538 B.C....

Developing a Personal Philosophy of Ministry

What I Believe About God What people believe about God can both be universal and personal since at the end of the day it is upon a particular believer to make his or her personal choice whether to believe in God or not to believe in Him. As to the...

Afterlife in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

Introduction A basic belief that varies from faith to faith is that there is life after death. According to several religions, including Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, where followers of a common religion have diverse afterlife concepts, life takes multiple forms when a person dies (Kippenberg 110). Afterlife, immortality as a...

Jesus’s Teaching Methods and Messages

Introduction Jesus Christ is the most prominent figure in Christianity. The New Testament fully portrays his life, actions, teachings, and the legacy that remained. The teachings, specifically, have become a pillar of religious studies and illustrate the moral and ethical values Christians have nowadays in regard to having a righteous...

Psychology and Theology: Worldview Issues, and Models of Integration

Psychology and theology are often viewed as two opposing forces with no common ground and the proponents of which deny the merits of each other’s disciplines. Nevertheless, the two fields of studies have a long-standing history, although the relationship between the two can be described as problematic. Many people who...

Abortion in Hanafi and Maliki Schools of Islamic Thought

Introduction It is a well-known fact that the Quran outlines the ethical and practical principles that were designed to be followed in 7th-century Arabia. At the same time, Islam as a global religion aims to translate a universally applicable worldview that, at least theoretically, should work in every situation and...

How I Apply the Principles from Anderson’s Gracism

Humility is at the heart of Christianity, and every person who has faith must strive to adhere to this virtue. Being humble means valuing diversity in all of its manifestations, and to do it, one can rely on the principles outlined by David A. Anderson in his book Gracism. The...

The Role of Ruth’s Character in the Scripture

Introduction God’s use of ordinary people to achieve His goals may be found in the Holy Scripture more than once. As an example, the story of Ruth can be cited, a humble girl who symbolizes the events of Israel’s redemption. The chapters in the Bible about this character introduce the...

Christian Life in the “Everyman” Moral Play

Everyman represents all humanity and critical issues related to all the people, including Fellowship, Material Goods, and Knowledge. In the play, Everyman strives to answer an eternal question of what a person should do to achieve Christian salvation (Lester 107). Comparing my own life with time when Goods lays the...

• Architecture
• Native American
• Social Work
• Biomedicine

Buddhism and the Life Teaching of Siddhartha

Buddhism Essay Introduction Buddhism is believed to have been in existence, way before Siddhartha existed (United Press International, 2007, p. 1). Most scholars observe that the roots of Buddhism are very deep, and though Siddhartha contributed a lot to the development of the religion, many Buddhists believe that he was...

The Story About Joseph: God Always Has a Plan

Joseph was one of Jacob’s twelve sons and the most loved ones, so his father gave him a beautiful colorful coat. Joseph’s brothers became jealous of him and decided to sell him as a slave. He was taken to Egypt and started to serve the Potiphar, who was a Pharaoh’s...

Selflessness in Islamic Belief and Practice

The Five Pillars of Islam are faith, prayer, alms, fasting, and pilgrimage. The selected pillar for exemplifying the selflessness of the given religion is alms or zakat. All Muslims are obliged to allocate some of their wealth to charity to improve the community and support the people in need. It...

Symbols and Rituals in Religion

Introduction The word symbol is derived from a Greek word which is related to the word compare whereas rituals can be defined as actions which have a deeper implication than what we perceive at first instant. Rituals can be as simple as a blinking of an eye or as complex...

The Problem of Evil and Suffering

The nature of evil No matter what an optimist a person may be, the surrounding reality is not always the merriest place for living. No matter what religious beliefs an individual has, everyone during his life bears the burden of suffering and faces evil. It is useless to deny the...

Is Jesus God? Critical Evaluation, Arguments for and Against

Introduction Diverse religious opinions arise whenever individuals hold different views about a certain spiritual issue. Most people respect the opinion of others about a certain topic. People appreciate that rational individuals can in differ in opinion. However, these sensible and tolerant attitudes lead to the formulation of two distinct lines...

“The New Christian Counselor: A Fresh Biblical and Transformational Approach”

Introduction In their book The New Christian Counselor: A Fresh Biblical and Transformational Approach, Hawkins and Clinton seek to explain counseling from a Christian perspective. They consider what it means to be a new Christian counselor. Additionally, the book makes a distinction between old Christian counselors and new ones. In...

“Viderunt Omnes” by Leonin

Viderunt Omnes is an old Georgian chant based on a biblical Psalm XCVII. It is sung as a gradual, which is a liturgical celebration of the Eucharist, mostly in the Catholic religion. The hymn is usually performed at the masses on such catholic and Christian holidays as Christmas and, historically,...

A Gift of Speaking in Tongues

Introduction The gift of tongues was divinely bestowed upon believers by God, making them able to speak in a human language that was not learned by the one speaking it. When believers use the gift of speaking in tongues, they are instructed to speak one at a time, and only...

Classical Sufism and Al-Gahazali’s Sufism: Different Perceptions, but Goal Is One

Sufism generally means reaching the greatest level of believing in truth. A Sufi or a person dedicated in seeking the truth is in the process of moving towards God, which is called the tariqat. Sufism teaches Islam to exercise divine ethics and doing the will of God. Members are expected...

• Women's Rights
• Functionalism

A Belief in Helping Strangers

The collision of the two vehicles startled me. I swerved to the side of the road to ensure that I did not become a victim. My husband jumped out of the car before it had even stopped and rushed towards one of the cars that had been involved in the...

Is Jesus Both Human and Divine?

Introduction The personality of Jesus Christ is one of the most interesting and a mystical one in Christian thought. The Old and New Testaments contain the evidence about divine nature of Jesus and his life as a human. The biblical facts suggest that Jesus was a man. He was a...

Revival as the Impetus for Church Growth

Summary A long time ago, a famous novelist wrote the immortal lines: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of time, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity.”1 Charles Dickens’...

Salvation Concept in Religion

What do (or should) Christians mean by the word “Salvation”? The Christian definition for salvation is deliverance from wrath of God brought about by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Salvation is a process which Witherington describes as: “one believe in ones heart that Jesus Christ is Lord, He...

The Theme of Justice in the Old and the New Testament

Introduction: Tracing the Discrepancies between the Testaments God’s decisions differ. This statement is often used to describe the content of two Testaments. The scholars of all times have been investigating the sources and the logical explanations of some discrepancies that put a strong line of demarcation between the Old and...

The Kingdom of God in Christianity

The Kingdom of God portrays the rightful society ruled by God, where each member dedicates to their moral and spiritual development, and the principle of righteousness and virtue is dominant. According to Christian beliefs, people fell from God’s grace thousands of years ago, being seduced to disobey His orders, after...

Impact of Religion on Individuals, Society, and the World

Religion plays an essential role in the growth of an individual, society, and the whole world. Religion acts as a guidebook on how people should live, driven by their faith and principles of life (Primal Religions, n.d.). Moreover, religious leaders are expected to teach people the virtue of love and...

Religious Discrimination in Different Countries

Introduction Discrimination is a negative attitude, bias, injustice, or deprivation of certain rights of people due to their national, racial and religious affiliation. Religious discrimination restricts people’s rights based on their religious affiliation. Discrimination is usually accompanied by religious stratification in several countries where several religious communities are represented. That...

The Book of Exodus: Brief Analysis

Introduction The Book of Exodus is one of the defining narratives of Western culture. It recounts the story of ancient Israelites being chosen by Yahweh to escape slavery at the hands of Egyptians and attain the Promised Land. It features many of the most famous characters and episodes from biblical...

The Biblical Creation Story

The Biblical account of the creation story portrays God as the creator of all matter who exists beyond time. The Christian understanding of the creation is that God as the master architect whose power is unfathomable. The Middle Eastern texts, however, propose the versions of the creation which appeal to...

• Human Nature

“Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling” Book by McMinn

Summary Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling by Mark McMinn is a book that reflects the professional experience and the wisdom of the author as both a teacher and practitioner. Combining the Scripture with the context within which counseling takes place in a rather complicated assignment that requires a...

Christology: Development of Christology

Introduction In no doubt, one will never understand Theology, the idea about God, without mentioning the character of Jesus. Christology then comes in, as among the many branches of Christian theology that purely addresses the mystery behind Jesus Christ: his nature, actions, and person, as it appears in the New...

Science and Religion: Historical Relationship

Introduction The historical relation between science and religion is long and has not been that cozy throughout history. The main area of contention is the view that both hold on the world whereby, as science tends to base all its explanations through empirical observations, religion on the other hand makes...

The Holy Spirit: Characteristics and Activity

Introduction The Holy Spirit is an inherent part of Christian theology representing an integral element of the Holy Trinity and a means by which people are both empowered and become messengers of God. In Scriptures, the Holy Spirit takes on numerous forms and has appeared to influence major events in...

Neo-Orthodoxy Theology: Barth, Brunner et al.

Introduction Neo-orthodoxy is a concept used in advanced contemporary theology, also called liberal theology. The views of neo-theologians are different from those of the orthodoxy on the basis of their approaches to the word of God. Neo-theology is a deviant view of the doctrine of the word and is in...

Perceiving “The Holy Grail” in Le Morte D’Arthur and Idylls of the King

Introduction In the history of Christianity, symbolism has been a significant aspect of religion, with various objects, animals, and features playing an essential role in symbolizing different things. One of the most common symbols in the Christian faith is the ‘Holy Grail,’ which generally represents the vessel that Jesus and...

The Crucifixion of Jesus in Old and New Testament

The Old Testament includes a range of themes and concepts later referenced and reinterpreted in the New Testament. For example, Luke’s descriptions of Jesus’ death are thoroughly connected to Zechariah’s prophecy presented in the Old Testament. Chapter 23 of the Gospel of Luke highlights the fulfillment of predictions about the...

“A Thousand Splendid Suns” by Khaled Hosseini

Introduction During the course of the recent decade, it used to be particularly fashionable among political scientists to discuss the present confrontation between the supposedly Christian West and Muslim Middle East/South in terms of ‘clash of civilizations’. Nevertheless, as time goes by, more and more people in Western countries come...

The Significance of the Ethical Pillars of Jainism

The non-Vedic native Jainism religion has an origination in India and Mahavira is the most prominent tutor of the doctrine of this religion. The main belief of the religion is that Universe is forever it is not affected by time, there is no commencement or an end and it is...

Hinduism and Buddhism: Similarities and Differences

Many religions take similar paths and steps to help their followers or believers reach enlightenment. Other religions require their followers or believers to accept one idea or creed. Some believe in God and others do not. Whether they believe in gods or not, each religion has its followers who believe...

• Moral Values
• Mental Health
• Social Justice

The Epistle of Paul to Philemon: Interpretation

Introduction The Epistle of Paul to Philemon (otherwise known as Philemon) is a book included in the Christian New Testament. The most common interpretation of the book was that Paul wrote a letter to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, who was a runaway slave that had wronged his owner. Throughout...

Mecca and Meccan Society Before Islam

Introduction Mecca has been a significant social, economic, and political hub in the Middle East since the ancient period. Before the rise of Islam, Mecca mainly served as a commercial and religious center in the Middle East. Mecca was strategically located along major trade routes that linked the Middles East,...

Religion Role in the Society

Introduction God is the originator of religion. He created the world and the people in it and established some general principles and laws which they were instructed to follow. God spoke through selected prophets who heard him speak and recorded his words (Johnstone 21). He revealed to the people through...

Pastoral Ministry’s Goals Accomplishment

Introduction The work of a pastor, a shepherd for people in both trying and peaceful times, is noble but difficult. Some describe it as the highest of callings in life, while others add that it is very taxing (Tan, 2019). To provide for people in a God-honoring way, one must...

The Gospel of John vs. Other Synoptic Gospels

The Gospel of John uniquely differs from the three Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Matthew, Luke) in terms of its literary style, setting and time sequence, portrayal of Jesus, dualistic imagery, and theological concepts. A deviation is observed between John’s Gospel and the Synoptic Gospel because John takes readers back to Genesis...

“Christian Theology” by Millard J. Erickson

In the chapters of his book, Erikson critically examines the nature of Jesus Christ through a discussion of the most prominent theological trends and opinions. At the center of the analysis is the recognition of the historical significance of Jesus as a teacher and a man who managed, nevertheless, to...

“Changed Into His Image” by Jim Berg

The Main Concepts and Ideas of the Book The book Changed into His Image, by Jim Berg, discusses sanctification. Sanctification is a process through which people are made holy according to the Biblical teachings. Therefore, Berg endeavors to illustrate how Biblical teachings contribute to the sanctification of believers. Berg reminds...

Christian Spirituality in History and Today

The question of spirituality and relationship of a man and God should be topical today taking into consideration the present cultural and ethical situation in contemporary society. Nowadays mankind is lead by and inspired by material values, the main characteristic of our life and lifestyle is their being mercenary. The...

“On the Soul and the Resurrection: St. Gregory of Nyssa” by Roth

Doctrine of Resurrection The text that is summarized is part of the book On the Soul and the Resurrection: St. Gregory of Nyssa by Roth (1993). The story is about the doctrine of St. Gregory of Nyssa, who considers human resurrection as one of the main divine gifts that allow...

Cross-Cultural Evangelism Strategies

Cross-cultural evangelism is the sharing of the gospel with people from other cultures. It involves getting to know people from other cultures, learning about their customs and beliefs, and then sharing the gospel with them in a culturally relevant way. An example of cross-cultural evangelism would be a missionary who...

• Historical Figures
• Women’s Role

Theological Translatability, Inspiration, and Authority in Religious Traditions

Global South and Theological Translatability The field of global politics is in constant change and adaptation to new realities and contexts. Because of it, various political terms and concepts have outdated, modified, novel, or deceptive meanings. A striking example of such descriptive and interpretive inconsistencies and contradictions is the “first-world...

“The Great Hymn to Aten” and the Beginning of Monotheism

Today, monotheistic religions prevail globally, but people were inclined to honor many gods in ancient times. For example, in ancient Egypt, much of the time, religion was polytheistic. The emergence of monotheism, in turn, is associated with the development of Judaism and later Christianity and Islam. However, such a source...

The Christian Faith and Its Advantages

Religion plays a critical role in the life of millions of people. Individuals all over the world have their rituals and visions. Christianity is one of the most ancient and influential teachings popular in different parts of the globe. It has some fundamental beliefs, such as the necessity to save...

Importance of Having Faith for People

Faith, the concept of having confidence in something regardless of whether it is grounded in facts, is often the only thing that offers consolation to people. However, it is beneficial during hard times and can inspire people to be and do better when they are already living well. This concept...

Secularism in the Current World

Introduction Secularism sometimes referred to as secularity entails the idea that something is not related to a church or religion. It is usually applied to explain an independent government that does not rely on a religious organization. The Secularism principle attempts to influence human affairs depending on the naturalistic or...

The Suffering of Joseph

The story of Joseph, son of Jacob, is told in the book of Genesis from chapters 37 to 50. As a young man, Joseph was Jacob’s favorite son because of many reasons. He was born when Joseph was advanced in age and did not expect another child. He was obedient...

Women’s Role and Leadership in the Church

Most Christians think that women are oppressed, and their rights denied when limits are put on their roles in the church. This has led to the cropping of great challenges between complementarians and egalitarians on the limitation of women’s leadership roles. For instance, many women in the current churches fight...

Exegesis of Job 23: 1-17, The Book of Job

Introduction The Book of Job can be considered as one of the most philosophical works of the Old Testament. The uniqueness of the Book of Job is in its “depth and thoroughness in dealing with the relationship of human suffering to divine justice” (Gaebelein, 1979-1992, 843). The commonly accepted notion...

Importance of Speaking in Tongues in Christianity

Introduction Speaking in tongues is a term that is common especially when referring to the Pentecostal churches. It is a supernatural language that is believed to be imparted to Christian believers when they have been baptized in the Holy Spirit. The issue of speaking in tongues has raised a lot...

The Role of Women in Judaism

Judaism is thought to be founded almost 3,000 years ago. This religious idea is based on the Jewish ways of life. A lot of reverence is annotated from the account of Abraham and Moses in the Biblical writings. That is the covenant affiliation between the patriarchs and matriarchs and God...

If you're seeing this message, it means we're having trouble loading external resources on our website.

If you're behind a web filter, please make sure that the domains *.kastatic.org and *.kasandbox.org are unblocked.

To log in and use all the features of Khan Academy, please enable JavaScript in your browser.

AP®︎/College Art History

Course: ap®︎/college art history   >   unit 2, introduction to islam.

• The Five Pillars of Islam
• Introduction to mosque architecture

Origins and the Life of Muhammad the Prophet

After muhammad's death, want to join the conversation.

• Upvote Button navigates to signup page
• Downvote Button navigates to signup page
• Flag Button navigates to signup page

• Harvard Library
• Research Guides

Introduction to Religion

• Christianity
• All Religions
• Buddhism & Hinduism

Find Overviews & Introductions

Encyclopedia of Christianity Online A 5-volume set of articles on the history of Christianity and its relationship to historical events.

Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church A comprehensive dictionary of concepts relating to the Christian church. Entries also contain a bibliography.

New Catholic Encyclopedia A 15-volume encyclopedia of concepts relating to the Roman Catholic Church.

Find Journal Articles

Christian Periodical Index Contains articles in many different disciplines from an evangelical Christian perspective. Coverage 1976-present.

Index Religiosus : international bibliography of theology, church history and religious studies Bibliography of theological studies in general, with heavy focus on church history. Created from the  Elenchus Bibliographicus and the bibliography of the  Revue d’Histoire Ecclésiastique. 

Boston College Jesuit Bibliography Books, articles, reviews on Jesuit studies. Open access.

Find Primary Sources

American Board of the Commissioners of Foreign Missions (ABCFM) papers Correspondence and other papers documenting the experiences of missionaries sent out by the American Board of the Commissioners of Foreign Missions, 1810-1961. Finding aid for collection. Originals at Houghton Library; view microfilm at Lamont Library.

Archives Unbound: Global Missions and Theology Contains documents from organizations and individuals involved in missions in the 19th century. Highlights the following areas: Africa, Fiji and Sandwich Islands, India, China, Southeast Asia, Japan, and Hawaii.

Twentieth Century Religious Thought: Christianity Key works of major figures in Christianity in the 20th century. Includes personal papers of Reinhold Niebuhr.

Digital Library of Classic Protestant Texts 16th- & 17th-century texts from religious figures who played a large role in Protestant reformation. Works in original language; some English translations.

Find Sacred Texts & Commentaries

Find sacred texts in HOLLIS

Find Bibles

Find commentaries

New Testament Abstracts Contains articles and book abstracts for literature on the New Testament.

Old Testament Abstracts Contains articles and book abstracts for literature on the Old Testament.

Find Bibliographies

Oxford Bibliographies Online - Biblical Studies Extensive listings of key resources related to sub-topics within Biblical Studies.

Search HOLLIS Advanced Search (in Library Catalog) for [name of religion] + bibliography as a subject .

• << Previous: Buddhism & Hinduism
• Next: Islam >>
• Last Updated: Feb 6, 2024 3:31 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.harvard.edu/religion

Harvard University Digital Accessibility Policy

University of Notre Dame

Fresh Writing

A publication of the University Writing Program

• Home ›
• Essays ›

Climate Change Communication: A Politicized Landscape within the U.S. Catholic Church’s Hierarchy

By Lauryn Biondi

Published: June 06, 2024

2nd place McPartlin Award

Introduction

Amidst increasing political polarization and the urgent need to address climate change, the intersection of politics and religion has become a landscape of profound significance and controversy in the United States. At the heart of this complex interplay lies the Catholic Church’s stance on environmentalism, headed by Pope Francis and clearly voiced in his 2015 ecological-focused encyclical, Laudato Si’ . As the world’s moral authority, Pope Francis has continued to express an outspoken stance on climate change, facing both praise and criticism for mediating between religion and science. Contrary to misconceived notions, he urges that “science and religion, with their distinctive approaches to understanding reality, can enter into an intense dialogue fruitful for both” ( Laudato Si’ par. 62). In the eight years since Laudato Si’ , political affiliations, even among Catholics, have altered climate change perceptions.

There is reason to question whether U.S. politics, increasingly defined by affective and asymmetric polarization, has infiltrated the Catholic Church’s hierarchy of communication on climate change. On October 4, 2023, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, Pope Francis released an apostolic exhortation titled Laudate Deum , a follow-up to his enduring messages in Laudato Si’. His document criticizes “deniers” of climate change and addresses the culture of “resistance and confusion” taking place. He wrote, “I feel obliged to make these clarifications, which may appear obvious, because of certain dismissive and scarcely reasonable opinions that I encounter, even within the Catholic Church” ( Laudate Deum par. 14). His acknowledgement of humanity’s inadequate response to the climate crisis should not be taken lightly by the laity nor clergy.

Indifference and resistance to our planet’s falling state is largely driven by politics. Research suggests that “politics may trump religion in influencing climate change beliefs even among religious leaders” (Danielsen, et al. 1). This study seeks to explore the comparative relationship between the politicization and reception of climate views within the U.S. Catholic Church’s hierarchy, using the long-term impact of Laudato Si’ as a reference point. The central aim of this paper is motivated by suspected dissonance within the Church and curiosity about its dissemination of climate change teachings. Pope Francis’ messages in Laudato Si’ have lacked follow-up at parish levels; hence, my research question: how does the U.S. political landscape affect climate change communication (or lack thereof) within the Catholic Church’s hierarchy? More specifically, why aren’t U.S. bishops more vocal on climate change?

Methodology

In order to fully understand the divergences within the U.S. Catholic Church’s views on climate change, internally and externally, one must understand the impact of American politics in shaping public perceptions, and therefore receptions, of the Church’s hierarchical communication. Relative to its traditional authority structure and current times, ecclesiology defines the Church’s mission of collegiality and synodality between bishops and the Pope, calling for universal-minded, collaborative efforts. Religious-environmental studies indicate both resistance and support toward Laudato Si’ among U.S. Catholics. Social science research points to partisanship as the main predictor of climate beliefs, revealing fragmented U.S. public perceptions of Laudato Si’ and Pope Francis’ credibility. By delving into these areas of interest, this research ventures to shed light on apparent resistance within the Catholic Church’s hierarchy in promoting its mainstream social teachings on environmental stewardship. The varying, politicized landscape at-large will provide a basis for comparison when looking at smaller-scale dispositions, such as those at the parish level.

This empirical research is prompted by a recent study conducted by sociologists at Creighton University, which discovered a correlation between political conservatism and U.S. Catholic bishops’ silence and climate change denialism around the time of Laudato Si’. In this paper, I will investigate three areas: 1) political affiliation’s influence on climate change perceptions; 2) politicized religion’s influence on climate change perceptions; and 3) Church hierarchy and climate change. Unlike the vast majority of existing research, this scholarship will merge all three ideas together, bringing new insights to bear on the question of whether America’s climate change politicization has shaped clerical voices (e.g., bishops) in the U.S. Catholic Church. Broadly, this will help speculate about increased religious partisanship on matters of climate change within the Church’s hierarchy, eminently drawing attention to the need for greater collegiality and synodality in the episcopal conference of the U.S. Catholic Church.

Political Affiliation’s Influence on Climate Change Perceptions

Roughly speaking, American Catholics are evenly split between Republican and Democratic lines. According to Gallup , the Catholic vote in the 2020 election, estimated by the AP VoteCast, shows that 49% of Catholics voted for Biden and 50% for Trump (Newport). The partisan divide over climate change, as sharply polarized in the broader U.S. public, is apparent among identifying Catholics in the United States.

Social science research points to the fact that political identity and ideology serve as the biggest predictors of climate beliefs (Danielsen, et al. 1). Recent public polling conducted by Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan fact tank, has shown this proposition to be true. To better understand U.S. Catholics’ feelings about climate change, Pew Research Center carried out an online survey in 2022 through the Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP), randomly sampling 10,156 U.S. adults. According to the polling, “Catholics are no more likely than Americans overall to view climate change as a serious problem [identical share of 57%]” (Diamant). Fitting to our stereotypical assumptions of polarized politics, Democrats or Democratic-leaning Catholics (82%) are more likely to say global climate change is an extremely or very serious problem than Republican or Republican-leaning Catholics (25%), who tend to be more skeptical (Diamant). Furthermore, “just over half of Catholics (54%) say the Earth is warming mostly due to human activity – in line with the pope’s stance” (Diamant). The breakdown of this percentage point reveals another partisan rift: Democratic Catholics (70%) are more likely to say the Earth is warming due to anthropogenic activities than Republican Catholics (18%) (Diamant). These discrepancies are indications of politically-motivated denialism and right-wing resistance. Climate change is not a conjecture; it’s a scientifically-backed reality that can be opposed but not justifiably denied. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Since systematic scientific assessments began in the 1970s, the influence of human activity on the warming of the climate system has evolved from theory to established fact” (qtd. in “Scientific Consensus”). In October 2022, Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation wrote, “Despite all attempts to deny, conceal, gloss over or relativize the issue, the signs of climate change are here and increasingly evident” ( Laudate Deum par. 5). Doubting the anthropic origin of climate change “is no longer possible” (par. 11). Authorities in both realms of science and religion have acknowledged the climate crisis’ conclusive nature, and yet, people are still viewing scientific findings “through the lens of their political identities” (qtd. in Landrum and Vasquez 2). Polarity is noticeably visible among laypeople’s climate beliefs.

Traditional Authority Structure within the Church

Shifting our focus from receivers of the Church’s teachings to the clergy entails deepening our knowledge of the traditional authority structure within the Church. Historically, given their unique voice, position, and moral authority, popes have shaped the Church’s primary stance in the environmental movement, mainly through encyclicals. In the 1980s, St. John Paul II made a strong case for environmentalism, linking the Church’s commitment to the will of God and the creation narratives in the Book of Genesis (Diamant). Following in succession, Pope Benedict XVI wrote a social encyclical titled Caritas in Veritate , expounding on the idea of humanity’s “responsible stewardship over nature” and the “pressing moral need for renewed solidarity” to ensure dignity among all ( Caritas in Veritate par. 48-49). In our present day, Pope Francis has shown devotion to climate activism through a moral imperative of “integral ecology.” As he addressed in Laudato Si’ , “We are faced not with two separate crises, one environmental and the other social, but rather with one complex crisis which is both social and environmental” (par. 139). In acknowledgement of those who are disproportionately affected by the climate crisis, Pope Francis’ ministry has embraced the “preferential option for the poor” – a prominent theme in Catholic social teaching centered around the Church’s intimate care and concern for the well-being of the poor. Laudato Si’ is intended to address “every living person on this planet” under the shared purpose of caring for “our common home” (par. 3). The Pope’s authority over the Catholic constituency, and therefore posture towards certain issues like climate change, becomes a substantial part of the Church’s environmental advocacy.

Be that as it may, the context of climate change communication in the Catholic Church does not fall solely on the Pope’s outward stance. From the top down, the Church’s hierarchy is composed of different levels of authority: the pope, cardinals, archbishops, bishops, priests, deacons, religious orders, and the laity. The hierarchy is believed to have been established by Jesus Christ and His apostles, who “instituted a variety of ministries in His Church for the People of God” ( Lumen Gentium par. 18). Its structure serves as a means of preserving and transmitting the faith, maintaining doctrinal and moral authority, providing spiritual guidance and governance, and perpetuating unity and discipline within the Church (“Catholic Church Hierarchy”). Guided by the Holy Spirit, the teaching authority of the Catholic Church, known as the Magisterium, is made up of the Pope and all bishops in communion with him. While the hierarchy remains rooted in tradition, apostolic succession, and the Church’s infallible teachings, it has evolved over time to meet the changing needs of the universal Church and modernity.

Vatican II: Collegiality

In the 1960s, the Church underwent major reforms under the Second Vatican Council as a means of “opening up” to the modern world. Lumen Gentium , the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church by Pope Paul VI, is recognized as one of the most central documents to emerge from Vatican II. Focusing on the nature of the Church, it emphasizes “that the Church is the People of God, not just a purely hierarchical institution” (“Lumen Gentium and Vatican II”). As stated, “It is the duty of the ecclesiastical hierarchy to regulate the practice of evangelical counsels by law, since it is the duty of the same hierarchy to care for the People of God and to lead them to most fruitful pastures” ( Lumen Gentium par. 236). The three evangelical counsels include: chastity dedicated to God, poverty, and obedience. As this paper will underline, the latter can be applied to bishops, who “should be shepherds of His Church even to the consummation of the world” ( Lumen Gentium par. 18). Lumen Gentium delves into the concept of collegiality within the Church, accentuating the role of bishops and their collective authority with respect to the Pope. Overall, the Second Vatican Council “laid the foundation for the ecclesiology of the local/particular Church, collegiality of bishops, and synodality” (Bujak 147). The Church’s shifted understanding of authority and decision-making processes involving the episcopacy led to the development of modern Catholic ecclesiology and the increasing prominence of collegiality and synodality.

Hierarchical Role of Bishops

Bishops are indispensable figures in spreading the faith “as teachers for doctrine, priests for sacred worship, and ministers for governing” ( Lumen Gentium par. 20). In relation to the Pope as the voice of the Church, they are entrusted with the responsibility of leading dioceses around the world as a “visible source and foundation of unity of faith and communion” ( Lumen Gentium par. 18). The Pope and bishops form a single collegial body; therefore, “the college or body of bishops has no authority unless it is understood together with the Roman Pontiff, the successor of Peter at its head” ( Lumen Gentium par. 22). The Pope ultimately has power over all, but the “hierarchical communion with the head and the members of the college” is intended to be “whole and intact” ( Lumen Gentium par. 21; 22). Bishops are allotted portions of the People of God to care for; they do not exercise their governance over the universal Church. However, as members of the episcopal college and successors of the apostles, they are “obliged by Christ’s institution and command to be solicitous for the whole Church…” ( Lumen Gentium par. 23). In preserving and passing on the faith, they are to uphold obedience to papal instruction.

Emphasis on Synodality

What we are seeing today among bishops in the United States is a sense of dissonance over climate change; they have not reflected a great deal of concordance with the Pope’s vocalization. Said to be a vision of Vatican II, the notion of synodality in the life and mission of the Church has manifested itself under Pope Francis’ papacy. However, a true “coming together” over environmental matters is yet to be communicated by Church leaders in the U.S. The Synod of Bishops was formed as a permanent institution in 1965 by Pope Paul VI; it refers to the regular assembly of bishops, who gather with the Pope “to share information and experiences, in the common pursuit of pastoral solutions which have a universal validity and application” (“The Synod”). This includes all matters of urgent pastoral importance, including discernment of controversial issues, such as the role of women in ministry, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, optional priestly celibacy, etc. The environment is no exception. Pope Francis has welcomed help in governing the universal Church. His “teaching on synodality and strengthening the Church at local and regional levels” (Bujak 147) is an opportunity for the Pope, bishops, and the laity to listen to each other. Synodality is needed at three levels of the Church: communion between the local, regional, and universal. This is foundational to understanding the importance of U.S. bishops’ communication on climate change. According to an article published in the Polish journal Collectanea Theologica , “By its nature, every authentic manifestation of synodality requires the exercise of the collegial ministry of the bishops” (Bujak 156). Climate change communication within the U.S. Catholic Church’s hierarchy, for the most part promulgated by Pope Francis, relies on the obedience and subsequent application of bishops.

Politics and Religion: Competing Influences on Values

Taking into account the traditional authority structure within the Church, including modern movement toward collegiality and synodal collaboration, we would expect the Pope’s support for climate activism to be upheld across the Catholic community. However, in a country divided over global climate change, Pope Francis’ widespread influence and framing of climate change as a moral issue has not swayed skeptic, indifferent, and/or resistant perceptions in the United States. Further evidence of polarization among Catholics is mirrored in the partisan reception of Laudato Si’ . Existing research on climate change communication, representative of political and Catholic affiliation, revolves around Laudato Si’ and its imprint on climate change perceptions, as well as papal credibility. In a trans-disciplinary literature review published in WIREs Climate Change , communication scholars at Texas Tech University and Boston College ruled out the possibility of a “Francis Effect” – whether Pope Francis was able to change certain climate attitudes through Laudato Si’ – maintaining that “Pope Francis was not able to influence politically conservative climate change deniers” (Landrum and Vasquez 10). His messages in Laudato Si’ did not generate consensus among Catholic Conservatives, allusively showing that American Catholics are closely affiliated with their political party.

Politicized Religion’s Influence on Climate Change Perceptions

Equally important to understanding the gap between U.S. Catholics’ feelings about climate change is to consider the perceptions of Pope Francis as a religious figure. Because Pope Francis is generally perceived as being more “left-leaning,” some experts believe the Pope’s credibility in the U.S. is highly politicized. In a scoping review found in Worldviews: Global Religions, Culture, and Ecology , scholars looked at a five-year-old body of research around Laudato Si’ and reached a similar conclusion: “Conservative participants (Catholics as well as non-Catholics) … who were aware of the encyclical, granted the Pope less credibility. Initially unconcerned about climate change they were found to express less concern about it and engage less in activism behaviors” (qtd. in Nche, et al. 131). This finding cited Landrum’s research, as well as an investigation using nationally-representative surveys that argued, “Cross-pressured by the inconsistency between Francis’ view and those of their political allies, conservative Catholics devalued the Pope’s credibility on climate change” (Li 367). Pope Francis’ messages in Laudato Si’ were not echoed among Catholic Conservatives. Although appealing to moral foundations can “be effective for climate communication,” his calls for action via the “traditional, top-down format” were met with reactance. Skeptics, who already questioned the reality or importance of combating climate change (e.g., U.S. Conservatives), “were resistant to top-down messages communicating the scientific consensus surrounding climate change” (qtd. in Landrum and Vasquez 4). These findings are unsurprising given the context of America’s political polarization. People are less likely to resonate with messages that don’t reinforce their existing views. Religion, when up against politics, is a competing influence on values.

The Pope vs. U.S. Catholic Conservatives

Empirical evidence of this nature, notably situated in the U.S., inevitably raises questions about whether climate change communication is reaching its desired impact from the Church’s hierarchical standpoint. The Vatican’s influence in the United States has become associated with underlying Conservative implications. In fact, Pope Francis has commented there is a “strong reactionary” element in the U.S. Catholic Church. According to an article on the USCCB website, when a Jesuit brother asked the Pope about his critics (including bishops) in the United States, Pope Francis replied, “In the United States the situation is not easy: There is a very strong reactionary attitude. It is organized and shapes the way people belong, even emotionally” (qtd in. Wooden). During that same meeting in Portugal, he said, “I would like to remind those people [U.S. Catholics] that ‘indiestrismo’ [being backward-looking] is useless…” (qtd. in Wooden). Marked by tensions with Conservatives, who disagree on issues like climate change, Pope Francis once informally said, “For me it’s an honor they attack me, the Americans” (qtd. in Doane). Political interpretations of the Pope and climate change have arguably altered Pope Francis’ “unique ability to raise a moral voice and to mobilize social action” in the United States (Campbell 88). In a journal article titled The Perils of Polarized Religion , Notre Dame Professor David Campbell wrote, “The key to religion’s prophetic potential is not to be perceived as being on one side or the other” (Campbell 100). Unfortunately, politicized religion has compromised the Pope’s outreaching influence on climate change perceptions. This contributes to a greater understanding of “tensions in religious environmentalism,” as referenced in the book Religious Environmental Activism: Emerging Conflicts and Tensions in Earth Stewardship (Koehrsen 3). Environmental commitments voiced by religious leaders are a “messy and embattled process” (Koehrsen 14), partially explaining why politicized religion intersects with Americans’ views on the environment.

Church Hierarchy and Climate Change

If partisan identity is taking precedence over religious views of laypeople, what is happening among the clergy? Research on the impact of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ demonstrates that cues from religious elites “may promote new consensus over divisive issues but could also stoke latent internal divisions over religion and politics” (Buckley 3). Ongoing disagreements over the Church’s environmental engagement has uncovered “frictions within the institution” (Koehrsen 3). Although Pope Francis “assumed an explicit environmental position with his encyclical, many of its segments (e.g., national churches, Bishops, members) disagreed with its contents, questioned the relevance of this call, and only backed it to varying extent” (qtd. in Koehrsen 1). Climate change discourse in the Church’s hierarchy embodies diversity of opinion and conflict, but it may also resemble the effects of political polarization. A recent study conducted by sociologists at Creighton University analyzed 12,077 diocesan columns by U.S. Catholic bishops around the time of Laudato Si’ and identified a correlation between political conservatism and U.S. Catholic bishops’ silence and denialism on climate change. As a group, most bishops were silent about climate change. However, those who mentioned climate change either: 1) diminished or distanced themselves from Church teaching; 2) downplayed parts of the encyclical that conflicted with political Conservatism; or 3) emphasized parts of the encyclical that aligned with Conservative views (Danielsen, et al. 1). Emergent research of this type suggests that “politics may trump religion in influencing climate change beliefs even among religious leaders” (Danielsen, et al. 1).

Inconsistent Communication

Should this be the case, climate change communication’s “spotty receptivity at the parish level” could be explained by political affiliation’s overwhelming influence. In the months that ensued the release of Laudato Si’ , a writer for Scientific American noted, “There has not been a consistent response across the American Catholic Church to the pope’s call for action or even the dissemination of his social teaching from church pulpits” (Vyawahare). In fact, at a USCCB meeting in July 2015, only “40 out of 250 bishops … attended a workshop on the encyclical” (Vyawahare). The hierarchical rank that should be the most receptive to the Pope’s messages about climate change (i.e., bishops) has not prioritized environmental discourse. Quantitative data from Pew Research Center’s 2022 survey, asking how often Catholic respondents hear about climate issues in sermons, reflects this continued disparity. Consensus among U.S. Catholics who attend Mass at least monthly indicates “that climate change is not discussed frequently from the pulpit” (Diamant). Forty-one percent of regular Mass attendees reported there is no discussion of climate change while 50% said there is either some or little; only 8% noted a great deal or quite a bit of discussion (Diamant). In the same survey, 78% answered “a little/none” in response to talking about climate change with people at their congregation (Alper). Climate change receives relatively negligible attention in U.S. religious congregations, suggesting inconsistent or lacking communication from clergy members, perhaps in part to political interferences with the Pope.

Of course, not every U.S. bishop has allegedly defied Pope Francis’ stance or ignored the Church’s call for urgent climate action. For instance, the Catholic Climate Covenant, an organization based in Washington D.C. inspiring care for creation and the poor, compiled an incomprehensive list of supportive statements and postings of 110 bishops in the United States celebrating the release of Laudato Si’ . Other noteworthy disseminations have been displayed as well. For instance, Bishop Robert McElroy in San Diego created an “Action Plan” and “Creation Care Teams” to address climate change at the parish level (“Diocese’s Action Plan”). Comparably, Cardinal Wilton Gregory in the Archdiocese of Washington created a Laudato Si’ Action Plan, similar to the one he launched while Archbishop of Atlanta (“Archdiocese Launches New”). Even with these exceptions, it is argued that Pope Francis’ encyclical has seemingly “fallen on deaf ears” in a considerable number of U.S. dioceses.

Beyond the political realm, there are several individual and systemic barriers that could account for the insufficient clerical engagement on environmental issues, such as lacking knowledge, perceived unimportance, disinterest, or irrelevance, over-packed schedules, financial constraints, or perhaps even fear of backlash from parishioners (Wilkins). However, climate change’s religious partisanship and assumed influence on bishops raises the utmost concern when pinpointing the place of questioning, resistance, and independent action in the U.S. Catholic Church. Holy obedience is structured hierarchically under the Pope’s power of primacy. The Church teaches that all Catholics should give religious assent, just as the consecrated are called to practice obedience through submission to the Pope. If the official place of obedience in the Church (i.e., the Magisterium) is shaken by politics, how can we expect followers of the faith to “come together” on important issues like climate change?

This is integral to carrying on conversation about the Church’s need for unified diocesan responses on creation care efforts. A Synod report submitted by the Catholic Climate Covenant to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) addressed bishops’ avoidance of Church teaching on creation care, sharing a plea “for more institutional Church support and help for care of creation efforts” (Gaona). By and large, lay Catholics looking to safeguard the environment “feel little to no support from clergy, bishops and dioceses, and in some cases direct opposition” (Roewe). There has been an unfolding message from the laity that climate change is not widely prioritized across U.S. dioceses but rather resisted within the Church.

Based on speculation, America’s political landscape has shaped climate change communication between bishops and the Pope in the U.S. Catholic Church. Paired with political affiliation, the ever-present culture of politicization has influenced climate change perceptions among both laypeople and clergy, ostensibly disrupting the impact of the Church’s long-standing commitment to social and environmental issues. Disparaging views, even within the Church’s governing body, have failed to see beyond the sphere of politics in recognizing climate change’s moral and ethical imperatives. The gap between Pope Francis’ urgency in tackling this social-environmental crisis and bishops’ wavering reception attests to dissonant communication in the Church’s hierarchy.

Ideals of dialogue and consensus between bishops and the Pope should reflect Vatican II’s principles of collegiality and synodality, so as to foster the Church’s adherence to collective decision-making and alignment in addressing global challenges, such as climate change. What should be happening under the traditional authority structure of the Church, in terms of obedience and synodality, is not happening in the context of climate change communication. Spotty receptivity of the Pope’s environmental teachings, combined with political resistance, underscore the importance of collaborative and constructive dialogue, as well as the need for unity between U.S. bishops and the Pope in addressing the state of our common home. As Pope Francis wrote in Laudate Deum , “There are no lasting changes without cultural changes, without a maturing of lifestyles and convictions within societies, and there are no cultural changes without personal changes” (par. 70). Until the culture of politicization changes in the United States, the hierarchy of the Catholic Church will find itself in the middle of the partisan divide. “Our world has become so multipolar and at the same time so complex that a different framework for effective cooperation is required,” wrote Pope Francis ( Laudate Deum par. 42). With the climate crisis steadily worsening, greater cooperation is needed between the Holy See and the U.S. episcopal conference to encourage unified movements going forward. Further studies should consider where this is likely to go in such a politicized landscape; that is, how will the application of papal doctrine need to change in order to be prioritized by dioceses?

Works Cited

Alper, Becka A. “How Religion Intersects With Americans' Views on the Environment.” Pew Research Center , 17 November 2022, https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2022/11/17/how-religion-intersects-with-americans-views-on-the-environment/ . Accessed 9 November 2023.

“Archdiocese Launches New Laudato Si' Local Action Plan for Protecting the Planet.” Archdiocese of Washington , 16 August 2021, https://adw.org/news/archdiocese-launches-new-laudato-si-local-action-plan-for-protecting-the-planet/ . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Buckley, David T. “Religious Elite Cues, Internal Division, and the Impact of Pope Francis' Laudato Si'.” Politics and Religion , vol. 15, no. 1, 2022, pp. 1–33., Cambridge University Press, https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/politics-and-religion/article/abs/religious-elite-cues-internal-division-and-the-impact-of-pope-francis-laudato-si/6C695AC2C08AC2490277520862981113 . Accessed 3 October 2023.

Bujak, Janusz. “The Teaching of Pope Francis About Synodality in the Context of Contemporary Theological and Ecumenical Reflection.” Collectanea Theologica , vol. 91, no. 5, 2021, pp. 147-73. https://czasopisma.uksw.edu.pl/index.php/ct/article/view/8562 . Accessed 9 November 2022.

Campbell, David E. “The Perils of Politicized Religion.” Daedalus , vol. 149, no. 3, 2020, pp. 87-104. MIT Press Direct , https://direct.mit.edu/daed/article/149/3/87/94859/The-Perils-of-Politicized-Religion . Accessed 9 November 2023.

“Catholic Church Hierarchy” prompt. ChatGPT , GPT-3.5, OpenAI, Oct. 2023, chat.openai.com/chat. Accessed 27 October 2023.

Danielsen, Sabrina, et al. “U.S. Catholic Bishops’ Silence and Denialism on Climate Change.” Environmental Research Letters , vol. 16, no. 11, 2021, p. 114006, https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/ac25ba . Accessed 27 September 2023.

Diamant, Jeff. “U.S. Catholics’ views on climate change and the environment.” Pew Research Center , 28 September 2023, https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/02/09/the-pope-is-concerned-about-climate-change-how-do-u-s-catholics-feel-about-it/ . Accessed 9 November 2023.

“Diocese's Action Plan - The Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego.” Diocese of San Diego , 2021, https://sdcatholic.org/dioceses-action-plan/ . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Doane, Seth. “Pope Francis says it's an "honor" to be criticized by Catholic conservatives in the U.S.” CBS News , 4 September 2019, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pope-francis-says-its-an-honor-to-be-criticized-by-conservatives-in-us-today-2019-09-04/ . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Gaona, Elena. “Catholic Climate Covenant hears plea for more Church support for creation in Synodal gatherings | Catholic Climate Covenant.” Catholic Climate Covenant | , 26 July 2022, https://catholicclimatecovenant.org/resources/2021-laudato-si-and-the-u-s-catholic-church-conference-recordings-2/ . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Koehrsen, Jens., et al. Religious Environmental Activism : Emerging Conflicts and Tensions in Earth Stewardship . Taylor & Francis Group, 2022. ProQuest Ebook Central , https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/ndlib-ebooks/detail.action?docID=7119849 . Accessed 2 October 2023.

Landrum, Asheley R., and Rosalynn Vasquez. “Polarized U.S. publics, Pope Francis, and climate change: Reviewing the studies and data collected around the 2015 Papal Encyclical.” WIREs Climate Change , vol. 11, no. 6, 2020, pp. 1-13. https://wires.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/wcc.674 . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Li, Nan, et al. “Cross-pressuring conservative Catholics? Effects of Pope Francis' encyclical on the U.S. public opinion on climate change.” Climate Change , no. 139, 2016, pp. 367-380. Springer Link , https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10584-016-1821-z?utm_source=getftr&utm_medium=getftr&utm_campaign=getftr_pilot . Accessed 2 October 2023.

“Lumen Gentium and Vatican II” prompt. ChatGPT , GPT-3.5, OpenAI, Nov. 2023, chat.openai.com/chat. Accessed 9 November 2023.

Nche, George C., et al. “Is the Pope's Hope Being Dashed?” Worldviews: Global Religions, Culture, and Ecology , vol. 27, no. 1, 2022, pp. 115-180. Brill , https://brill.com/view/journals/wo/27/1-2/article-p115_5.xml . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Newport, Frank. “Religious Group Voting and the 2020 Election.” Gallup News , 13 November 2020, https://news.gallup.com/opinion/polling-matters/324410/religious-group-voting-2020-election.aspx . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Pope Benedict XVI. “Caritas in Veritate - Encyclical Letter, Benedict XVI.” The Holy See , 29 June 2009, https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_ben-xvi_enc_20090629_caritas-in-veritate.html . 

Pope Francis. “Apostolic Exhortation - Laudate Deum.” The Holy See , 4 October 2023, https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_exhortations/documents/20231004-laudate-deum.html . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Pope Francis. “Laudato Si’ - Encyclical Letter, Francis.” The Holy See , 24 May 2015, https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html . Accessed 30 September 2023.

Pope Paul VI. “Dogmatic Constitution of the Church - Lumen Gentium.” The Holy See , 1964, https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19641121_lumen-gentium_en.html . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Roewe, Brian. “Synod report details US bishops' avoidance of church teaching on creation care.” National Catholic Reporter , 16 August 2022, https://www.ncronline.org/earthbeat/faith/synod-report-details-us-bishops-avoidance-church-teaching-creation-care . Accessed 9 November 2023.

“Scientific Consensus | Facts – Climate Change: Vital Signs of the Planet.” NASA Climate Change , https://climate.nasa.gov/scientific-consensus/ . Accessed 9 November 2023.

“The Synod of Bishops.” The Synod of Bishops , 2018, http://secretariat.synod.va/content/synod2018/en/the-synod-of-bishops.html . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Vyawahare, Malavika. “How Will American Catholics Respond to Pope's Message on Climate Change?” Scientific American , 23 September 2015, https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-will-american-catholics-respond-to-pope-s-message-on-climate-change/ . Accessed 3 October 2023.

Wilkins, Dominic. “Catholic clerical responses to climate change and Pope Francis's Laudato Si.'” Environment and Planning E: Nature and Space , vol. 5, no. 1, 2022, pp. 146-168. Sage Journals , https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2514848620974029 . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Wooden, Cindy. “Pope says there is a 'strong reactionary' element in U.S. Catholic Church.” United States Conference of Catholic Bishops , 28 August 2023, https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/pope-says-there-strong-reactionary-element-us-catholic-church . Accessed 9 November 2023.

Lauryn Biondi