Islam
Islam, a major world religion, is rooted in the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad. It emphasizes submission to Allah through the Five Pillars: Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage). Islam promotes values of compassion, justice, and humility and has significantly influenced art, science, and culture. Its global community celebrates diverse practices while uniting under shared spiritual principles.
Christianity
Christianity centers on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, with the Bible as its foundational text. It emphasizes salvation through faith in Christ, with practices like baptism and Eucharist symbolizing devotion. Encompassing denominations like Catholicism, Protestantism, and Orthodoxy, Christianity has shaped values of love and forgiveness while inspiring art, philosophy, and global faith communities.
Judaism
Judaism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, is centered on the covenant between God and the Jewish people as outlined in the Torah. It emphasizes worship, ethical conduct, and the study of sacred texts such as the Torah, Talmud, and Siddur. Essential practices include observing the Sabbath, celebrating festivals like Passover and Yom Kippur, and adhering to dietary laws known as kashrut. With values like justice, charity, and community, Judaism fosters a strong sense of identity and continuity, uniting millions worldwide through shared faith, traditions, and cultural heritage.
Hinduism
Hinduism, one of the oldest religions, revolves around concepts like Dharma (righteousness), Karma (action), and Moksha (liberation). Rooted in texts like the Vedas and Bhagavad Gita, it features diverse practices, including temple worship and yoga. With its pantheon of deities and cultural richness, Hinduism remains a profound spiritual and cultural force worldwide.
Buddhism
Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), teaches the path to enlightenment through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. With meditation at its core, Buddhism promotes impermanence, compassion, and wisdom. Scriptures like the Tripitaka guide its diverse schools, including Theravāda and Mahāyāna, inspiring millions globally.
Mormonism
Mormonism, or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasizes faith in Jesus Christ and the Book of Mormon alongside the Bible. Its teachings focus on family, eternal progression, and missionary work. Known for its unique doctrines and temple worship, Mormonism has grown into a global Christian faith with a strong community focus.
Taoism
Taoism, rooted in the Tao Te Ching, teaches harmony with the Tao, the universe’s guiding principle. Emphasizing simplicity, balance, and nature, Taoism incorporates practices like meditation and Tai Chi. Its philosophy, symbolized by the yin-yang, promotes interconnectedness and has deeply influenced Chinese culture and spirituality.
Confucianism
Confucianism, based on Confucius’s teachings, emphasizes ethics, social harmony, and filial piety. With principles like ren (compassion) and li (ritual), it advocates moral behavior and respect. Though not a religion, it has profoundly shaped East Asian culture, governance, and values, offering timeless wisdom for societal well-being.
Book of Common Prayer
The Book of Common Prayer, a cornerstone of Anglican worship, provides structured liturgies for daily prayers, sacraments, and special occasions. Renowned for its eloquent language, it has shaped Christian liturgical traditions and inspired cultural works, remaining a vital resource for communal and personal devotion.
Siddur
The Siddur, the Jewish prayer book, contains prayers for daily services, Shabbat, and festivals, reflecting Jewish worship’s structure and heritage. Highlighting themes of gratitude and hope, it connects Jewish communities worldwide and serves as a central guide for maintaining spiritual and cultural traditions.
Tripitaka
The Tripitaka, or “Three Baskets,” is the foundational scripture of Theravāda Buddhism, comprising teachings, monastic rules, and philosophical analysis. Preserved in Pali, it guides ethical living, meditation, and wisdom, serving as a cornerstone for Buddhist practice and spiritual enlightenment.