12. Explain the major elements of a religion.

History 8 Culture Origins Concepts The major elements of religion are shared beliefs, system of rituals, myths/ supernatural beliefs, and texts. Having shared beliefs allows people of one religion to understand and interpret things the same way. Rituals are the result of a religion acting upon the myths written and believed by them. Rituals are ceremonies that include things like: saying prayers, singing hymns, wearing special attire, and etc.. Every religion has beliefs of supernatural power and myths. Many times these supernatural beings are believed to influence every aspect of human life. They often come in the form of a god (monotheist) or in the form of many gods and goddesses (polytheist). Finally all religions share some kind of written text. Religious texts usually contain the many myths of a religion and the rules/ morales that people should live by.

By: Grace Knowles Manual page: 54 Sources:

http://college.holycross.edu/projects/himalayan_cultures/2011_plans/sshmitt/images/Elements.pdf

http://www.preservearticles.com/201104296053/notes-on-the-eight-basic-elements-of-religion.html