World Religions Project
By Christine Foley
Christianity
Christianity is based off the belief that Jesus Christ is the son of God, and that Mary the virgin gave birth to Jesus. He came onto earth to forgive humanity of their sins by dying on the cross, and resurrecting three days later. Those who accept Him as their savior will spend eternity in heaven. The holy book of Christianity is the Bible. Christianity is a monotheistic religion, they do not believe in multiple Gods. Major Christian holidays include Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus, as wells as Easter, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. Most Christians attend church on the sabbath, or Sunday.
Buddhism
Buddhism is a religion based off of the teachings attributed to Siddhartha Gautama, who was known as the Buddha. Buddhism is known as a philosophy, or a way of life. Buddhists follow a certain philosophy that can be summed up by leading a moral life, to be mindful of thoughts, and to develop wisdom. It promotes a deep understanding of humanity and provides a code of practice that leads to a happy life. They celebrate a holiday called "Buddha Day," which is the day Buddha was born. Their holy book is called the Tipitaka. They're not polytheistic or monotheistic, they simply believe in a higher spirit, but are unsure of a god, and believe that to enlighten themselves, a god isn't necessary.
Judaism
Jews believe in God and they are monotheistic. They believe prayer should be directed to be God only, and they base their other beliefs of off their holy book, the Torrah. The Torrah consists of the first five books of the Holy Bible, as well as other teachings and explanations of traditions in scripture. Some major Jewish holidays are Rosh Hashanah, which celebrates the new year, as well as Yom Kippur, where they refrain from work to celebrate the Day of Atonement.
Islam
The Islamic faith has a wide variety of different customs and beliefs. Overall, it is generally accepted that Islam is monotheistic, even though some sects practice polytheistic rituals. The god of Islam is called Allah. Their beliefs are based of off Qur'an. Similar to Christians, Muslims believe there will be a judgment day, and those who have accepted their god will go to heaven. Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha are the 2 major holidays. 1 is celebrated after a month of fasting, and the other is where Muslims sacrifice an animal and distribute the meat amongst family.
Hinduism
Hinduism is a polytheistic religion based off a number of scriptures. Hindus believe in multiple gods, and that each god is the specific god of one thing or another. Adi Parashakti is a female god of power. Hindus celebrate a number of festival and holidays. One of these festivals is called Holi, a celebration of colors which is celebrated in the spring.