Question

Many religions are very ritual oriented. Such faiths as Orthodox Judaism, Roman Catholicism, Episcopalianism, and Islam are built around a life of ritual or sacraments. Other religions such as the Quakers and many Protestant denominations minimize ritual. What reasons do some religious traditions give for thinking ritual is important? Do you agree with these reasons? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Ritual can be defined as a religious ceremony which consists of a series of actions performed in a prescribed and orderly manner.

Ritual forms an important part of many religions. This is to create a connection with the follower. It helps to create and if already oresent reinforce faith through a set of religious customs, thus helping the follower make a personal connection with his/her religion. Rituals also make people feel a ceetain sense of belonging and brings about comfort.

No the reasons mentioned by religion for the importance of ritual arent very convincing. This is because a person with a rational mind wouldnt need something like rituals to feel a sense of connection with his ideas as religion but the conviction in the religion would bring that up.