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I.INTRODUCTORY CONCEPT
Definition of Terms:
Worldview. It is the basic assumption about reality which lies beyond the beliefs and behavior of a
certain culture. It is a particular philosophy of life or conception of the world.
Belief System. Faith based on a series of beliefs but not formalized into a religion. Also,a coherent set of
beliefs prevalent to a community of society.
Religion. The belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, especially a person God or gods.
Spirituality. The quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul, as opposed to material or
physical things.
Philosophy of Religion. It is the philosophical study of the meaning and nature of religion. It includes the
analyses of religious concepts, beliefs, terms, arguments, and practices of religions adherents.
Differentiate the concept, elements and characteristics of belief system, world view, religion, and
spirituality
A. Let us Study
* Elements of Religion
1. Reflects an effort to elevate your whole self to a higher dimension of existence –We are only a small
fragment of our totality. We are apprised by the fact that we have a Higher SELF or an ‘I AM Presence,’
(because God created us based on His own image) who resides in planes beyond our level of
consciousness, who serve us as our guardian angel, adviser-teacher, and our benefactor.
2. Aframework of transcendent beliefs –belief in a divine being or power, which is greater than
humankindand the natural world. This being or power is believed to be responsible for the creation of
the world, for providing a moral framework for human life and being the ultimate destiny of a human
person at the end of their mortal life. The three Semitic religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
emphasize the idea of God being revealed to humankind from beyond the human spirit.
3.Text or scriptures –(Holy Bible, Koran) The most important beliefs of a religion are contained in its
sacred texts. Usually,these beliefs were in oral circulation before they were written down in the sacred
texts. These sacred texts contain sacred stories, which explain through historical or non-historical
means, how people are connected to this supernatural dimension
4.Rituals –Rituals and ceremonies are practical expressions of aspects of a religion. Rituals and
ceremonies involve prescribed words and actions along with the use of symbols. Together these reflect
an understanding of the sacred dimension. Thus, rituals and ceremonies help to lead to a greater
understanding of the ultimate reality
5. Sacred spaces (e.g., church, temple, mosque, synagogue) –place of worship to perform acts of
devotion, veneration, or religious study.
Understanding the worldview of each of the major religions is critical in appreciating their rituals and
practices. These worldviews are the following:
* Elements of Spirituality
1. Holistic (fully integrated view to life) –holistic means “full,” “complete,” “whole,” “all-inclusive,”
“universal.” Embraces all aspects oflife, life in its totality. Nothing is excluded.
2.quest for meaning (including the purpose of life) –search for meaning of your life, embracing the
purpose of life
4.suggests a self-reflective existence –you are willing to learn more on the fundamental purpose and
essence of your existence
Religion can be defined as a belief in God or gods to be worshipped, usually expressed in conducts and
rituals.
Religion is a set of beliefs and rituals that put a person in a right relationship with God or gods, while
spirituality is more of a character focused on spiritual things.
Give examples and characteristics of a person who is: (Give at least 5 each)
SPIRITUAL________________________________________
RELIGIOUS_________________________________________ __________
C.Let us Remember
1.What is the essential difference between a spiritual and a religious person? Why?
2.Does a religious person automatically become a spiritual person? Yes or No. Defend your
answer.
D.Let us Appreciate
My Happy Pill
Looking at the pictures which are related to faith, answer the question “What are you happy
about your faith?” Write your answers on your answer sheets. Afterwards, answer the
processing questions:
1.What are the things in my faith that make me happy?
2.How does this happiness affect my relationship with others?
F. Evaluation
V.ANSWER KEY
Spiritual: nurtures personal relationship with God, practices reflection, has personal relationship w/ others
Religious: follows set of creeds & teachings, always in places of worship, joins public prayer/worship
C. Let us Remember: Answers may vary (subjective)
D. Let us Appreciate: Answers may vary (subjective)
E. Let us Practice More: Answers may vary (subjective)
F. Evaluate:
1. No, they are different. State the differences.
2. Religion is a belief in God or deities, while spirituality concerns the spirit or soul and is more personal
rather than communal. Expound.
VI.REFERENCES
Introduction to World Religion and Belief Systems, Quarter I. Module 1. Regional-initiated Modules
2020. Deped Region V
Prepared by:
HUMSS Teacher