What is a Religion - Religion Explained

this is the start of a new series on religions throughout time and across the world. Sounds simple enough… but there is a problem. And that problem is that no one can agree what a religion actually is!
If I were to ask you what a religion is, I am sure you would have a pretty solid and sure answer – in fact if you want to tell me what you think a religion is then leave a comment below and lest see how many different ideas people have.
Let me show you the problem of defining the world “religion”


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[ElliottWestbury]

I like the choice of background music, and it's good to see you back on your channel!

I think decreasing the volume of the music in your mix would help, as I found it a little bit distracting at times. :) But keep up the good work

[mayor]

my definiton: a relatively organized set of spiritual beliefs that a group or groups believe in

[dengeliii]

"Superstition" as background music for a video on religion

Hmmmm...

[mayankgarg]

According to me, in old times people ask existential questions and to answer hard questions religions were made, religion is a set of beliefs that describe or try to explain the 'right way' or 'correct way' to live a life and answer questions on the belief that are woven in the form of stories.

[kevinkauschel]

A definition of religion is a set of beliefs and practices that form a moral and ethical code for a society so that a spiritual goal is reached by the individual.

[lshulman]

I've gone through any number of "definitions" of religion. More recently:
"Religion is a system of beliefs, narratives, and rituals that resonate with people, helping them to find meaning in their lives."
"Religion is a system of beliefs, practices, and values that serve to deepen one's awareness of the spiritual realities of life."

[cemal]

good video mate but the music in the background is suppresing your voice

[pauladee]

Thank you for your channel and explanations.. Where did your channel go?

[PetroBeherha]

Religion is an organized spiritual belief system that pertains to worship of the supernatural, ie. gods and spirits. It is also as much if not more about practices as well as beliefs, which are indicated in different tenents, sacred laws, scriptures, and so on.

[thegreyman]

I’m so happy you used the Animist symbol when you were explaining everything. You never see it, and it’s freaking awesome!

[pauljohnson]

It seems to me that "a set of beliefs and practices" covers most if not all and allows a common sense basis to move forward. My opinion, not a hill to die on...

[qwertyTRiG]

Crafting a definition of the word _religion_ which includes all religions and also excludes non-religious activities such as sport or national celebration is quite tricky.

[daddyleon]

What makes something a religion?

There are the well-known theistic forms, like: Sikhism, Hinduism; but also supernatural but not theistic, like: Jainism, new ageism. Sometimes secular religions are mentioned, e.g.: nationalism/civic religion, socialism, environmentalism.

So what makes something "a religion"? If socialism can be seen a religion, is capitalism or consumerism a religion as well; if environmentalism is a religion could veganism be one too? It's clearly a moral pov, but it also gives meaning and direction to life, it can provide for community or identity. So what about a less specific moral framework, that might be slightly less community providing, like utilitarianism? And within this 'moral part', there can be various lenses too, some are much more easily seen as personal (virtue ethics, Kant) other much state-oriented (like utilitarianism, Machiavelli or Confucianism). And if meaning, identity, etc. can be considered important, what about a strong sort of fandom? Or other strongly held beliefs, like those of anti-vaxxers?

I don't have a clear cut answer. I could see it being a case of concentric circles. With religion being one of the circles, state philosophy another. Or perhaps it's more like Wittgenstein's notion of family resemblance and we could see the relations between these things more like venn or euler diagrams.

I find it a very interesting question and I don't have a clear-cut answer for it, while I lean towards the latter ideas.

[BigBen]

I'm a Christian, but I see some truths in almost every religion. I think it's no coincidence that every society has a some sort of religion. I think many humans, me included, feel connection to God.

[fredklier]

I understand religion as a set of rules (dogmas) that constitue a framework for moral and social normalization. That's why many people see politics as a religion! That's because it is for some people.

[bobsled]

Interesting and balanced presentation but the music suggests what you have to say is somehow lacking and needs more zing to keep attention.

[dansattah]

Hey Well...Actually, nice to see you again. I look forward to your series. Will you also touch on interpretations of atheism or agnosticism?

[kimbirch]

I think the purpose of religion can be summed up with " Know Thyself "

[man.inblack]

I was researching Geertz’s definition, but your video was clear, understandable and very helpful for entry level use.

As far as my definition of religion, it’s a coping mechanism for the crazy complex world we get thrust into for a short time.

I seems to help some people to allay their fears, insecurities and ignorance by sharing ideals, narratives and codes of conduct to encourage a better future.

I’m a cheerful nihilist myself, so my perspective might seem clinical, but im agnostic towards the beliefs of an individual, I’m only atheist when it comes to the human corrupted institutions of hypocrisy.

I’m fine with God existing, as long as he doesn’t make me choose between the many options.

[Fehlerhund]

I define religion as the philosophy by which someone relates to the spiritual aspects of life and how they define the spiritual aspects.