Religion as a Moral Compass in Society

One of the most enduring influences of religion on society is its role as a moral compass. Religious teachings often provide ethical guidelines that help individuals distinguish between right and wrong. These teachings influence daily behaviors, from personal acts of kindness to decisions about family, work, and community. For example, principles like compassion, charity, and justice are emphasized in the doctrines of Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism, among others. These values often transcend religious boundaries, becoming integral to societal norms.

Religious institutions also play a significant role in community building. Churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues provide spaces where people can gather, share their beliefs, and support one another. These institutions often serve as hubs for charitable work, offering aid to the poor, supporting education, and responding to crises. In this way, religion fosters social cohesion and provides a sense of belonging, particularly in societies grappling with alienation and individualism.

However, the influence of religion is not always confined to personal behavior and community welfare. It extends to broader societal issues, such as debates on morality, human rights, and social justice. Religious leaders and organizations frequently take active stances on issues like poverty, racial equality, healthcare, and climate change, advocating for policies that align with their ethical principles.

Religion’s Role in Shaping Political Systems

Religion has historically been intertwined with politics, and this connection persists in the modern era. In many countries, religious values continue to shape political ideologies, laws, and governance. For example, in nations like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan, Islamic principles are embedded in the legal and political systems, influencing everything from family law to criminal justice.

Even in secular democracies, religion often plays a critical role. In the United States, for instance, religious values frequently intersect with political platforms. Issues such as abortion, same-sex marriage, and education policy are deeply influenced by religious beliefs. Politicians often invoke religious rhetoric to appeal to voters, particularly in regions where faith remains a central aspect of identity.

Religious organizations also wield political influence through lobbying and advocacy. In some cases, these organizations work to promote social justice, environmental sustainability, or humanitarian aid. For example, faith-based groups have been instrumental in mobilizing support for refugee resettlement and poverty alleviation programs. On the other hand, religious lobbying can sometimes hinder progress on issues like gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, or scientific advancements, reflecting the tension between traditional beliefs and modern values.

Religion and Global Politics

The influence of religion is not limited to domestic politics; it also extends to international relations. Religious identities often play a role in conflicts, alliances, and diplomatic strategies. For example, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is deeply rooted in religious and historical claims to land, while tensions between Sunni and Shia Muslims continue to shape the geopolitics of the Middle East.

At the same time, religion can also serve as a bridge for peace and cooperation. Interfaith dialogues and initiatives aim to foster understanding and collaboration between different religious communities. Organizations like the World Council of Churches and the Parliament of the World’s Religions work to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change by uniting faith-based efforts.

In some cases, religion has even influenced the formation of international policies. For example, the Catholic Church, through the Vatican, has played a significant role in shaping debates on human rights, immigration, and global poverty. Similarly, Islamic and Buddhist organizations have been involved in advocating for environmental sustainability, drawing on religious teachings about stewardship and harmony with nature.

Challenges of Religion in Modern Society

While religion contributes to societal and political life, it also presents challenges, particularly in pluralistic and diverse societies. The intersection of religion and politics can lead to polarization, with competing belief systems creating divisions within communities. For instance, debates over religious freedom, such as the right to wear religious symbols or refuse services based on faith, often spark contentious legal and cultural battles.

Religious extremism is another significant challenge. Groups that distort religious teachings to justify violence, oppression, or discrimination pose threats to global security and social harmony. Combating such extremism requires efforts to promote moderate and inclusive interpretations of faith.

Moreover, the relationship between religion and science continues to be a point of contention. Issues like evolution, stem cell research, and climate change often pit religious beliefs against scientific evidence, creating friction in policymaking and public discourse.

Religion’s Evolving Role in the 21st Century

In an increasingly globalized and interconnected world, the role of religion is evolving. While secularism is on the rise in many parts of the world, religion remains a central aspect of identity for billions of people. This dual trend creates opportunities for dialogue and cooperation but also highlights the need to balance religious values with the principles of inclusivity and human rights.

Religious leaders and organizations have a unique opportunity to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. By focusing on shared values rather than differences, faith-based initiatives can help foster unity, promote justice, and encourage sustainable development. At the same time, it is crucial for political systems to ensure that religious influence does not undermine the rights of individuals or marginalize minority groups.

Conclusion

Religion continues to play a profound role in shaping modern society and politics, influencing everything from personal values and community life to national policies and international relations. While it often serves as a force for good, promoting ethical behavior, social cohesion, and political advocacy, it also presents challenges, particularly in diverse and pluralistic contexts. As society moves forward, finding ways to balance the positive contributions of religion with the need for inclusivity and progress will remain a vital task for individuals, communities, and governments alike.

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The Essence of Prayer

At its core, prayer is a form of communication with the divine or a higher power. It is a practice that transcends specific religions and is found in nearly every spiritual tradition around the world. Whether it is the silent meditation of a Buddhist monk, the daily prayers of a Muslim, the hymns of a Christian congregation, or the chanting of Hindu mantras, prayer is a universal expression of faith and devotion.

Prayer serves multiple purposes. For some, it is a way to express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. For others, it is a means of seeking guidance or strength in difficult times. Prayer can also be a way to reflect on one’s actions, ask for forgiveness, or simply find a moment of peace and connection in a busy world. Regardless of the specific form it takes, prayer is a powerful tool that allows individuals to reach beyond themselves and connect with something greater.

Prayer as a Path to Spiritual Growth

One of the most significant ways in which prayer shapes our lives is by fostering spiritual growth. Through regular prayer, individuals cultivate a deeper relationship with the divine, which in turn influences their beliefs, values, and actions. Prayer encourages self-reflection and introspection, prompting individuals to examine their lives in light of their faith and seek ways to align more closely with their spiritual beliefs.

For many, prayer is not just a ritual but a transformative practice that brings them closer to the divine. It is through prayer that individuals often experience moments of clarity, insight, and spiritual awakening. These moments can lead to profound changes in one’s outlook on life, relationships, and purpose. For example, a person who regularly prays for patience and understanding may find that over time, they become more compassionate and empathetic in their interactions with others. Similarly, someone who prays for guidance may discover a renewed sense of direction and purpose in their life.

Prayer also plays a central role in religious practices that emphasize the importance of discipline and commitment. In many faiths, prayer is seen as a way to cultivate virtues such as humility, gratitude, and trust in the divine. By dedicating time each day to prayer, individuals reinforce their spiritual commitments and create a foundation for a life centered around their faith.

Prayer as Emotional Support

In addition to fostering spiritual growth, prayer provides powerful emotional support, particularly during times of hardship and distress. When faced with challenges such as illness, loss, or uncertainty, many people turn to prayer as a source of comfort and strength. The act of praying can provide a sense of peace and reassurance, helping individuals to cope with difficult emotions and find hope in even the darkest of times.

Research has shown that prayer can have a positive impact on mental health, reducing stress and anxiety and promoting a sense of well-being. This is partly because prayer allows individuals to express their fears, worries, and desires in a safe and supportive way. By voicing these concerns in prayer, individuals may feel a sense of relief, knowing that they are not alone in their struggles and that they are being heard by a higher power.

Moreover, prayer can foster a sense of acceptance and surrender, helping individuals to let go of what they cannot control and trust in the unfolding of events. This is particularly evident in prayers that focus on seeking the strength to endure challenges rather than asking for specific outcomes. For example, the Serenity Prayer, widely used in recovery programs, emphasizes the importance of accepting the things we cannot change, having the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

In this way, prayer becomes a vital tool for emotional resilience, offering individuals a way to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and equanimity. It also provides a way to maintain hope and optimism, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable difficulties.

The Social and Communal Impact of Prayer

While prayer is often a deeply personal practice, it also has a significant social and communal dimension. In many religious traditions, prayer is a collective activity that brings people together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Group prayers, whether they take place in a church, mosque, synagogue, temple, or other places of worship, create a powerful sense of unity among participants. These communal prayers reinforce social bonds, promote a sense of belonging, and strengthen the overall fabric of the community.

Communal prayer also plays a crucial role in the transmission of religious beliefs and values from one generation to the next. By participating in group prayers, individuals, especially children, learn about the importance of faith, the meaning of religious rituals, and the ethical teachings of their tradition. This collective experience of prayer helps to sustain religious practices and ensure their continuity over time.

Furthermore, communal prayer can serve as a powerful force for social change. Throughout history, prayer has been used as a means of mobilizing communities around important causes, from the Civil Rights Movement in the United States to movements for peace, justice, and human rights around the world. The collective act of praying for a common goal can inspire individuals to take action, support one another, and work together to bring about positive change in their society.

Prayer’s Transformative Power

The transformative power of prayer lies in its ability to touch every aspect of our lives—spiritual, emotional, social, and even physical. Through prayer, individuals can experience profound personal growth, find solace and strength in times of need, and connect with others in meaningful ways. Prayer shapes our lives by providing us with a sense of purpose, guiding our actions, and helping us to navigate the challenges and opportunities we encounter on our journey.

Moreover, the impact of prayer extends beyond the individual, influencing the broader community and society. By bringing people together, fostering social cohesion, and promoting values such as compassion, justice, and peace, prayer plays a vital role in shaping the world we live in.

In a world that often feels fragmented and uncertain, the power of prayer serves as a reminder of the importance of connection—connection with the divine, with ourselves, and with each other. It is through these connections that we find meaning, hope, and the strength to continue on our path, no matter where it may lead.

As we continue to explore the power of prayer, it is clear that this ancient practice remains as relevant and impactful as ever. Whether practiced in solitude or in community, in times of joy or sorrow, prayer continues to shape our lives in profound and enduring ways.

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In today’s interconnected world, understanding the nuances of different cultures and belief systems is more important than ever. One area of significant interest is religion, a cornerstone of human civilization that serves as a guiding framework for millions of people. When it comes to categorizing these beliefs, a typical division is made between Eastern and Western religions. Although these classifications might seem to suggest inherent opposition or dichotomy, closer examination reveals a rich tapestry of shared themes and intersecting principles. This article aims to explore key differences and similarities between Eastern and Western religious traditions.

Section 1: Defining Eastern and Western Religions

What Constitutes an Eastern Religion?

Eastern religions commonly refer to belief systems that originated in the Eastern world, primarily in India, China, and Japan. This category typically includes religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, and others that focus heavily on individual spiritual development.

What Constitutes a Western Religion?

Western religions are those that originated in the Middle East and are primarily monotheistic. This category includes Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. These religions often emphasize a relationship with a single deity and focus on communal worship and ethical conduct.

Section 2: Philosophical Foundations

Eastern Religions

Key concepts in Eastern religions include karma (action and consequence), dharma (duty or righteousness), reincarnation, and enlightenment. The focus is often on individual spiritual growth and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Western Religions

In contrast, Western religions usually adhere to ideas like monotheism, sin, salvation, and life after death. They often provide a more structured view of the cosmos and one’s place within it, guided by a single, omniscient God.

Common Philosophical Themes

Despite these differences, both Eastern and Western religions address universal questions concerning morality, the meaning of life, the role of suffering, and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom.

Section 3: Ritualistic Practices

Eastern Religions

Common practices include meditation, yoga, and various festivals like Diwali or Vesak. Rituals can be highly individualistic and personalized.

Western Religions

Practices such as prayer, receiving sacraments, and observing religious festivals like Christmas or Ramadan are more common. Rituals are often standardized and involve congregational worship.

Shared Ritual Elements

Both Eastern and Western religions emphasize the importance of community gatherings, sacred texts, and rites of passage like marriages and funerals.

Section 4: Views on God or Higher Power

Eastern Religions

Eastern religions often have a more fluid concept of the divine, ranging from polytheistic beliefs to pantheistic or non-theistic frameworks.

Western Religions

Western religions are predominantly monotheistic, worshipping a single, all-powerful deity.

Intersections in Theological Views

Both Eastern and Western religious traditions grapple with the ideas of divine love, justice, and the role of a higher power in human life.

Section 5: Role of Community and Clergy

Eastern Religions

The focus is often on spiritual teachers like gurus or monks and the concept of a spiritual community or sangha, especially in Buddhism.

Western Religions

Here, organized clergy like priests, rabbis, or imams play a significant role. Religious practices often involve organized congregations.

Shared Social Functions

Regardless of the religion, the community plays an essential role in moral upbringing, social justice, and offering communal support.

Section 6: Ethical Frameworks

Eastern Religions

Central to many Eastern religions are concepts like Ahimsa (non-violence), compassion, and the Middle Way in Buddhism, which emphasizes balance and moderation.

Western Religions

Ethical frameworks in Western religions often come from structured sets of laws like the Ten Commandments, Sharia Law, or Judaic Halacha.

Common Ethical Tenets

Both Eastern and Western religions espouse universal ethical principles, such as justice, kindness, and the Golden Rule (“treat others as you wish to be treated”).

Section 7: Contemporary Issues

Eastern Religions

Modern interpretations and movements like Engaged Buddhism adapt ancient teachings to contemporary social issues.

Western Religions

Western religions also evolve, addressing modern-day questions through social justice activism, interfaith dialogue, and even evangelism.

Overarching Concerns

Both Eastern and Western religions face challenges like religious extremism, the need for interfaith dialogue, and questions surrounding their role in an increasingly secular society.

Conclusion

Though Eastern and Western religions may appear fundamentally different in philosophy, ritual, and social organization, they share key similarities that offer a window into the universal quest for spiritual understanding. As we move further into the 21st century, recognizing these differences and similarities becomes crucial in fostering interfaith understanding and mutual respect.

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Religious Affiliations of Casino Players

The survey encompassed a diverse sample of casino players in Australia who frequently use a specific payment method as their preferred option. The participants were asked to identify their religious beliefs, and the results revealed that a significant proportion of casino players in Australia are religious. Approximately 80% of the respondents identified themselves as religious, while the remaining 20% reported having no religious affiliation.

Popular Religions Among Casino Players

Among the religious respondents, Christianity and Islam emerged as the most prevalent faiths among casino players in Australia. The survey showed that 45% of the religious respondents identified as Christians, while 35% identified as Muslims. This indicates a diverse religious composition within the casino player community, reflecting the multiculturalism of Australian society.

Christianity and Gambling

Christianity, being the dominant religious affiliation among the surveyed casino players, holds varying views on gambling activities. Within Christianity, opinions on gambling range from complete prohibition to conditional acceptance, depending on the denomination and interpretation of religious texts.

Certain Christian denominations view gambling as morally unacceptable due to its association with greed, materialism, and the potential for addiction. These denominations emphasize the importance of responsible stewardship of resources and caution against the risks associated with gambling.

However, other Christian denominations adopt a more permissive stance, considering gambling as a recreational activity as long as it is engaged in responsibly and does not lead to harmful consequences. Such denominations often highlight the importance of moderation, self-control, and the responsible use of resources.

Islam and Gambling

Islam, the second most prevalent religious affiliation among the surveyed casino players, has a more unequivocal stance on gambling. Islamic teachings categorically forbid engaging in any form of gambling, considering it as haram (forbidden). Gambling is seen as a source of social and economic harm, as it can lead to addiction, financial ruin, and the erosion of family and community values.

The prohibition on gambling in Islam is based on the principle of preserving individual and societal well-being. Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of avoiding activities that are deemed detrimental to personal and collective welfare. Consequently, Muslim casino players who strictly adhere to their faith may choose to abstain from gambling altogether.

Summary of Religious Affiliations Among Casino Players

The table below provides a summary of the religious affiliations among casino players in Australia, based on the survey results:

Reasons Why Religious People Play Online Casinos?

The study conducted using the EcoPayzpayment system in Australia aimed to examine the motivations and behaviors of individuals with religious beliefs who engage in online gaming, particularly in the context of online casinos. The findings provide insights into the factors that drive people with religious affiliations to participate in online games, including casino gaming.

One of the key factors identified in the study was the desire for entertainment and relaxation. Online gaming, including casino games, offers an immersive and enjoyable experience that allows individuals to unwind and escape from the stresses of daily life. People with religious beliefs, like anyone else, seek leisure activities that provide entertainment and a sense of pleasure. Engaging in online games allows them to indulge in recreational activities conveniently from the comfort of their homes.

Another aspect that emerged from the study was the social aspect of online gaming. Despite the virtual nature of online casinos, they often provide opportunities for players to interact with one another through chat features, multiplayer games, and online communities. This social dimension of online gaming can be appealing to individuals with religious beliefs, as it allows them to connect and engage with others who share similar interests and experiences. It provides a platform for forming connections and building relationships, even within the context of a virtual environment.

Furthermore, online gaming can provide a sense of challenge and achievement, which appeals to individuals with religious beliefs who value personal growth and self-improvement. Many casino games incorporate elements of strategy and skill, requiring players to develop their abilities and make informed decisions. For individuals with religious beliefs, this aspect of gaming aligns with their desire for personal development and the pursuit of excellence.

It is important to note that the study did not seek to determine a direct causal relationship between religious beliefs and online gaming. Rather, it aimed to explore the motivations and behaviors of individuals with religious affiliations who engage in online games. The findings highlight that individuals with religious beliefs are not immune to the appeal of online gaming, and they engage in these activities for similar reasons as those without religious affiliations.

In conclusion, the study conducted in Australia shed light on the motivations behind individuals with religious beliefs playing online games, including casino gaming. The desire for entertainment and relaxation, the social aspect of gaming, and the sense of challenge and achievement were among the key factors identified. This study provides valuable insights into the diverse motivations and behaviors of individuals with religious affiliations in the realm of online gaming, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of this dynamic and evolving landscape.

Thus, thanks to a survey conducted among gamers of the best Ecopayz casinos, we found out that people with religious beliefs also prefer the gambling industry. And what’s more, 80% of online casino players are religious people.

Conclusion

A survey conducted with the assistance of the Ecopayz payment system showed that Christianity and Islam are the most common religious associations among casino players. While Christianity exhibits different views on gambling, Islam explicitly forbids participation in any form of gambling.

These findings have important implications for both the gambling industry and religious communities. Understanding the religious beliefs of casino players allows the industry to tailor its offerings and strategies to meet the diverse needs and sensibilities of different religious groups. In addition, religious communities may use this information to interact with their members and raise awareness of the potential risks associated with gambling.

Ultimately, this survey contributes to a better understanding of the religious landscape among casino players and encourages dialogue between the gambling industry and religious institutions to promote responsible gambling practices.

Source: New online casinos in Australia: https://newaustralianonlinecasinos.com

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Unlike most would also assume, many people in this category are generally younger and bear more children than the 16% that have no relation to religions at all. Hence, the shocking fact is that people are becoming even more religious. What is more, it has the potential to become even more widely accepted in the future.

Most Prominent Religions Today

A 2015 analysis by the Pew Research Center found that among all religious groups Christianity formed the largest religious body, taking up approximately 31% of the population. The trend toward the dominance of this group continues to this day. The Roman Catholic is the biggest Christian subdivision as they take up about half the 31% of Christians. Other Christian subdivisions include the Eastern, Greek Orthodox, and Protestants.

Closely after Christianity comes Islam, having almost 2 billion Muslims (this is about 24% of the Earth’s total population). And the most popular Muslim subdivision is the Sunni, then the Shia. Ibadi, Sufi, and Ahmadiyya are among the less popular denominations of Islam.

Hinduism is the third most prominent religion today, with about 15% of the population practicing it in four main subdivisions. Buddhism comes next as the fourth practiced type of religion. Finally, the Chinese traditional religion goes right after it.

How Geography Is Related To Religion

A study has found that geography is a very important factor when religion is being discussed. In most situations, a person’s geography determines what religion the person chooses to practice to a large extent. There are also some regions with a very high level of religiosity, and, on the contrary, some areas are not religious at all. Hence, both concepts can never be fully discussed separately.

As mentioned earlier, the Asia Pacific is the world’s most populated region. It is also in this region that the highest level of religiosity is noted. The Asia-Pacific is home to almost all the people practicing Hinduism, Buddhism, and even the traditional religion, three of the world’s top five most common kinds of religion.

Surprisingly, the Asia-Pacific area hosts a good majority of people without any religious affiliations as well. Study shows that people in this category make up about 15% of population, which is approximately 1.2 billion. Of this number, about 700 million are Chinese.

Statistics show that many religious people live in parts where they are considered a majority. Most practicing religions, like Hinduism especially, make up a good majority of the areas they are based in. Most Hindus can be found in such countries as India and Nepal. There are countries like Iran, Pakistan, and many more that majorly practice Islam.

However, the Buddhists are the only major group considered a minority in their geographical areas. Only 28% of Buddhists live in such countries as Sri Lanka and Thailand, where they are considered a majority group.

Trends In The Religions Development On A Global Scale

A decline in religion has been noted in some regions: these are North America and some Western areas of Europe. However, religion is of rising popularity in other parts, especially if talk about the most populated areas worldwide.

Though Christianity is still the largest religion in the world, Islam has been on a tremendous rise in different parts of the world. Based on the Pew Research Center’s review, Islam’s growth rate is almost twice the rate of the world’s entire population. At this rate, it is expected that the number of Muslims will probably surpass that of Christianity in the next few decades.

Several reasons can be attributed to the growth of Islam. The first and major reason is due to the demographics. It was found that the people currently practicing Islam have more children if compare to every major religious body. Also, Muslims have the youngest age of all religions, an age where many of them are just set to begin their childbearing stage. Will the trend toward an increase in the popularity of religions continue in the coming decades? Most likely, yes, because religion was, is, and will be an integral part of people’s lives. Numerous studies prove this statement.

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Origins
The origins of Orthodox Judaism can be traced to early 19th century Germany and German-Jewish immigrant communities in the United States. Orthodox Judaism is considered a reaction to the growing popularity of Reform Judaism.

Reaction against Reform Judaism
In the early 19th century, Jewish Reform Jews in parts of Central Europe and North America saw the need to adjust to changing times and turn to more modern, liberal Jews, changing traditional practices not only in synagogues but also in everyday life. They advocated integrating Jews into secular society in areas that were considered irrelevant to Jewish life, such as switching to local vernacular languages and relaxing strict kosher food laws. This influential movement became known as Reform Judaism.

Orthodox Judaism rejected many of the modernizations introduced by Reform Judaism, reaffirming the authority of ancient Jewish law and prescribing strict adherence to traditional Jewish practices. While the founders of Orthodox Judaism recognized the modern age and the need for Jews to be part of the larger community, they also believed that Jews could lead fully orthodox lives by strictly observing established Jewish law and ritual.

Founders and Supporters
One of the key founders of German orthodoxy was Rabbi Jacob Ettlinger. An ardent opponent of the Reform movement, Ettlinger was instrumental in organizing a group of like-minded rabbis in the region to protest against Reform. In 1845 he began publishing a weekly journal in German with a Hebrew supplement that disseminated orthodox ideas and opinions. Ettlinger was universally admired for his religious devotion and scholarship, and many students who graduated from his influential yeshiva (a school where Talmud and Jewish law are studied) took up prominent rabbinical positions. This helped to further spread the tenets of orthodox Judaism, which were already accepted in Western and Central Europe, as well as in German-Jewish immigrant communities in the United States.

Two of Ettlinger’s disciples, Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch and Rabbi Asriel Hildesheimer, further deepened and expanded the practice of Orthodox Judaism. During their distinguished careers, both were instrumental in spreading orthodox thought in Germany and the rest of Western Europe. In the United States, Issac Lizer championed orthodox ideas in his influential periodical The Occident and American Jewish Advocate. Lieser gained notoriety in the American Jewish community for his opposition to Reform Judaism, especially the teachings and writings of prominent American Reform leader Issac Mayer Wise.

Fundamentals of Faith
Although there are many denominations classified as orthodox Judaism, they all share basic beliefs. One of the most essential tenets of the faith is that these groups, whether Haredi or modern orthodox, believe that the Torah is of divine origin and unchanging in light of changing economic and social conditions. The challenge for today’s Jewish scholars is to apply traditional Jewish law (halakha) to contemporary situations.

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Catholicism and Orthodoxy were formed as far back as 1054, when the Catholic Church (Greek καθολικός – “universal, universal, conciliar” – Wikipedia) split at the famous Council of Sophia and the Eastern Church separated from the Western Church.

Even later, in the 16th century, Catholicism split into Catholics and Protestants under the influence of Martin Luther’s teachings.

It is important to remember that all three of these denominations constitute Christianity and are by no means “enemies” of Orthodoxy, but brothers and sisters in Christ.

Catholics themselves differ in the rite of liturgy: there is the Roman, Byzantine, and others. But the distinctive feature of the Catholic Church is the belief in one universal Church, with the Pope at the head.

The foundations of Catholicism
The foundation of the Catholic Church is the Creed and the Christian dogmas:

Fliocwe is the dogma that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both God the Father and God the Son.

Celibacy is the dogma of the celibacy of priests and monks.

Purgatory is the dogma of a place between hell and heaven where one can atone for one’s sins.

The dogma of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary and her bodily ascension. (The Orthodox also believe that Mary is in heaven in body and soul, but this is not a dogma of the Orthodox Church. The Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary is not recognized by the Orthodox Church.)

At the head of the entire Catholic Church is the Pope. The Catholic Church is one church, all its offices in different countries are considered part of one church and are subordinate to the Pope.
An important feature of Catholicism is that Catholics do not consider the Pope a saint. Only his statements and decisions regarding the faith and the church are considered infallible, but he is not counted as a saint just because he was elected to that position.

Catholics love and appreciate the Pope, and he responds in kind, setting an example as a true believer. Just look at the stories that keep coming up in the news about the Pope washing the feet of prisoners. Or helping refugees.
What countries practice Catholicism?
There are over a billion Catholics in the world. Catholicism is one of the largest Christian denominations.

Most Catholics are in Brazil, Mexico, the United States, and India. Catholicism is present on every continent.

One of the most beautiful Catholic churches “of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary” is in the center of Moscow and is a favorite place for walks, attracting tourists with its gothic silhouette.
Differences between Catholicism and Orthodoxy
Although both Catholics and Orthodox are Christians, there are nevertheless some differences:

The most important one is the belief in the Holy Spirit, which comes from both God the Father and the Son. The Catholic Church places this as the basis of the Creed, in contrast to the Orthodox Church, which confesses that the Holy Spirit comes only from the Father.

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The difference between Eastern and Western Christianity was also due to the peculiarities of the development of spiritual culture. Greek Christianity focused on ontological and philosophical issues, whereas Western Christianity focused on political and legal issues.

Because the Orthodox Church was under the patronage of the state, its history is related not so much to external events as to the formation of its doctrine. Orthodox doctrine is based on Sacred Scripture (the Bible-the Old and New Testaments) and Sacred Tradition (the decrees of the first seven Ecumenical and local councils, the works of the church fathers and canonical theologians). At the first two Ecumenical Councils, Nicaea (325) and Constantinople (381), the so-called Creed, which briefly set forth the essence of Christian doctrine, was adopted. It recognizes the triunity of God – the creator and ruler of the universe, the existence of an afterlife, posthumous retribution, the redemptive mission of Jesus Christ, who opened the possibility of salvation for mankind, on which lies the stamp of original sin.

Fundamentals of Orthodoxy doctrine
The Orthodox Church declares the basic tenets of faith to be absolutely true, eternal and unchangeable, communicated to man by God himself and incomprehensible to the mind. Keeping them intact is the first duty of the Church. No addition or deletion is possible, so the later dogmas established by the Catholic Church, about the descent of the Holy Spirit not only from the Father, but also from the Son (filioque), about the Immaculate Conception not only of Christ, but also of the Virgin Mary, about the infallibility of the Pope, about purgatory, are considered heresies by orthodoxy.

The personal salvation of believers is made dependent on the zealous observance of the rites and prescriptions of the Church, thanks to which there is accession to Divine grace, transmitted to man through the sacraments: infant baptism, anointing, communion, penance (confession), marriage, priesthood, unction (consecration). The sacraments are accompanied by rituals, which, together with divine services, prayers, and religious festivals, form the religious cult of Christianity. Orthodoxy attaches great importance to feasts and fasts.

Orthodoxy teaches the observance of the moral commandments given to man by God through the prophet Moses, as well as the fulfillment of the commandments and sermons of Jesus Christ set forth in the Gospels. Their main content is the observance of universal norms of life and love for one’s neighbor, manifestations of mercy and compassion, as well as the refusal to resist evil with violence. Orthodoxy emphasizes the uncomplaining endurance of sufferings sent by God to test the strength of faith and the purification of sin, and the special veneration of the sufferers: the blessed, the poor, the foolish, the hermits and the hermits. In Orthodoxy, only monks and the highest ranks of the clergy take a vow of celibacy.

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It is quite difficult to tell in a nutshell what sansara is, because the word is used in several religions (Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, Buddhism).

The word “sansara” (“samsara”) is a Sanskrit transcription. The literal translation is “passing” or “flowing”. This word in the Hindu worldview texts refers to rebirth, the migration of the soul (reincarnation). It turns out that samsara, simply put, is reincarnation.

However, the process of rebirth in Hinduism is influenced by “karma”. In the course of one’s life one performs deeds that determine one’s future. At the end of one life a summation is made that affects rebirth, deciding whether it will be “high” or “low.” It’s also worth imagining samsara not as one reincarnation, but as countless, in which one life is like a small grain of sand on a big sandy beach.

Karma is the consequence of all your actions, which translates into retribution. Karma is the totality of the righteous and unrighteous actions you have performed in each of your lives.

So, according to the concept of transmigration of souls, bad karma prevents you from realizing the Tao (the right path that leads to exaltation), preventing you from reaching Brahma (God, the creator of everything, according to the Hindu religion). And since the transmigration of the soul is samsara, it is responsible for the appearance of bad karma. Regardless of the teachings in which this concept is used, it always refers to a vicious cycle of events (lives) in which the soul degrades while enjoying worldly pleasures.

In Hinduism, samsara is treated precisely as a vicious circle, from which one must necessarily escape in order to reach the abode of God. This can be attained by meditation, by yoga, or by endless love and unselfish service to God.

In Jainism, samsara is a worldly life full of pain and suffering. The soul spins endlessly in it along with karma.

In Sikhism, it is believed that in order for the soul to be placed in a human body, it must have done many good deeds in the past in order for its karma to allow it to approach the moment of exit from the cycle, and it can only exit in the form of a person.

It turns out that in all such teachings, the worldly life is represented as an illusion, from which you need to leave in order to move to a better world.

What is the Law of Sansara

Next, let us understand what the “law of samsara” is.

In essence, the “law of samsara” is the law of karma, which presents consequences to humans for their deeds. That is, it is the law that follows a person through life, making him responsible for what he does or does not do, because inaction is also action.

It turns out that the “law of samsara” is a cause-and-effect relationship that determines whether you will be rewarded or punished.

Because karma is involved as a controlling element in samsara, one cannot completely identify the two. It follows that the “law of samsara” is those consequences that arise from the state of karma, which in turn is influenced by worldly actions.

The wheel of samsara – what is it

We wrote above that the “wheel” of infinite worldliness is samsara. However, the wheel of samsara is not a simple sequence of lives, but is represented as a set of worlds that are constantly moving and transforming.

Did you know? The image of the wheel of samsara is present at the entrance of any Buddhist temple.

Thus, what we see before us is not an endless chain of successive lives of one soul, but all worlds that are constantly in motion, and this motion leads to the transformation of everything within the circle.

The circle of samsara is a vicious circle, the worlds in which are an illusion from which one can only escape by being human.

What does it mean: The wheel of samsara has taken a turn

It is worth understanding what the expression “the wheel of samsara has given a turn” means.

The passage of one circle cannot be measured in time, because one complete circle corresponds to one day of the life of God (described in the Vedas). In the usual sense, this expression means a change of epochs, which has nothing to do with the life of God. That is, we are talking about replacing the old with the new, about any transformation.

However, according to Buddhist teachings, during one revolution of the wheel, the world goes through the following stages: formation, stability, degradation and death, the state of bardo.

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Today Protestantism is most widespread in Germany, Switzerland, Great Britain, the United States, Canada, Australia, the Baltic States, and the Scandinavian countries.

Basics of Religion in Protestantism
Protestantism shares common to all Christians ideas about the being and essence of God, the immortality of the living soul, Heaven and Hell, Revelation and Resurrection, etc. Protestantism rejects some Catholic teachings, such as Purgatory. Protestantism is distinguished by three principles: the priesthood of all believers in the Lord, salvation by personal faith, and the accepted exclusive authority of Holy Scripture (the Bible).

According to Protestant teaching, man’s original nature was perverted by original sin, which deprived the soul of compassion and man’s ability to do good. Therefore, it is not asceticism and good works that are required of the Protestant to save the soul, but a sincere personal faith in the atoning sacrifice made by Jesus Christ.

It is noteworthy that in Protestantism there is no church hierarchy and no distinction between layman and priest. The newly-elected and baptized laity can conduct worship services without the Church and clergy and have the right to proclaim sermons. Confessions and absolution are also absent in Protestantism, as is the celibacy of pastors and priests, and monasteries and monasticism are abolished.

Protestant houses of worship look very simple, lacking the statues, images, and other opulent decorations common in Orthodox churches, the altars have been removed, and the bells have been removed. Rites of worship have also been simplified and the number of rites reduced to a minimum: preaching, praying, and singing psalms or hymns.

Protestantism abolishes the sacraments except for the Eucharist and Baptism, abolishes fasting, and does not divide food into lean or fasting foods. Protestant doctrine does not recognize prayers for the dead, does not venerate saints and feasts in their honor, and rejects the idea of the sanctity of relics and images. The Bible is considered to be the only source of doctrine of Protestants and its study and interpretation is a sacred duty of every believer.

Funeral rites in Protestantism
Unlike other Christian denominations, Protestants do not tolerate ritualistic costumes and cosmetic procedures (with the exception of embalming) in preparation of the deceased for burial. Protestantism does not provide for any specific funeral dates or funeral vigils.

When the deceased is placed in the coffin, he is laid on his back, joining his hands on his chest. The presence of a pastor is obligatory. The coffin can be anything, as long as it bears the cross, and it is strictly forbidden to put symbolic or personal objects in it together with the deceased. Often flowers are used to decorate the coffin as a symbol of solemnity and beauty, but for the principled desire for simplicity, many invitees prefer to make a donation of money.
The funeral ceremony itself is held in the temple and symbolizes the transfer of the soul to God, proclaiming the hope of the obligatory resurrection of the living present. A prayer for the repose of the soul is not proclaimed at the ceremony, and the presence of the body of the deceased in the temple is not at all necessary.

Cremation is widespread among Protestants, and has been officially permitted since 1898. In this case, the pastor comes with the family to the crematorium. The presence of the pastor at the cemetery is also mandatory.

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