religious Terms

One who abandons his or her religious loyalty.

One of an authoritative New Testament group sent forth by Christ to preach the gospel.

A sacred book of Hinduism

Highest of Hindu castes reserved for priests, spiritual leaders, etc.

Faith centered around achieving enlightenment. Based on the teachings of Buddha, Siddhartha Gotama. Its main tenet is that life is suffering. Through meditative practice, on can escape Samsara ( the Wheel of Suffering) and achieve a state of nirvana ( Spiritual enlightenment.)

Monotheistic faith based on the teachings of Jesus Christ in which there are three aspects of single divinity: God the father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. These three aspects comprise the Trinity. The Christian Bible is split into the Old Testament and the New Testament (and four Gospels)

System of codes and ethics originating under Confucius. Religion centers around individuals understanding and fulfilling their roles within society.

One who accepts and assists in the spreading of doctrines of another.

Protestant faith that recognizes the Church of England.

An unbeliever in respect to a particular religion

Faith based on the teachings of the prophet Muhammad. Monotheistic worship of Allah centers around the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

Founder of Calvinism, a strict Protestant faith centered around the concept of predestination.

Monotheistic religion based on the Torah ( Old Testament) and the Talmud texts

The holy book of Islam

Founder of Lutheran faith. Began the Reformation with his posting of the Ninety five Theses on the church door in Wittenberg, Germany.

A follower of a polytheistic religion

A Far eastern tower generally erected as a temple or memorial

Outcasts or "untouchables" comprising the lowest of the Hindu castes.

Belief that those who will achieve Salvation are a select few who are preordained prior to birth

Protestant faith that originated in Scotland

To attempt to convert others to a faith or religion

Japanese religion based on the polytheistic worship of nature and ancestors.

Pantheistic religion and philosophy originating in china focused on principles that allow people to live in harmony with the natural order. Founded by Lao-tzu.