Five Major World Religions
Adam Bede
Christianity
Christianity is one of the world's major monotheistic religion. Christians believe that Jesus is God's own son and lived on the earth over 2000 years ago. Christianity is based off the teaching of Christ whose life is written in the New Testament. They became the first church in Jerusalem because of their belief to receive his promised gift of the Holy Spirit and new power. Their main book is called the Bible and some major holidays include Christmas and Easter. Sunday is the day of rest and they practice prayer.
Buddhism
Buddhism was founded in northeastern India and is based on the teaching of Siddhartha Gautama who is also known as Buddha. Buddhism today is divided into two branches known as Theravada and Mahayana. They also believe in Karma, this is when they believe that there is always going to be a consequence for your actions, whether it be good or bad. They also have Vesak or Buddha day. Their holy book is the Tipitaka.
Islam
Islam is a major world religion which was founded in Arabia and is based on the teachings of Muhammad, who is also known as a Prophet. Muslims believe in one god (Allah) so they are monotheistic and their holy book is called the Quran. There two major holidays are called Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha.
Hinduism
Hinduism is the main religion in India. Hinduism is the oldest religion in the world and it is said that it dates back to prehistoric times. Unlike other religions, Hinduism has no founder. Hindus believe that the universe undergoes endless cycles of creation, preservation and dissolution. Hinduism is based on the concept of reincarnation. Reincarnation is a cycle in which human, animal, and plant spirits come back to Earth to live many times in different forms after death. One book in their religion is the Upanishads. Many of their holidays are based off the cycles of nature and for their festivals they have things like Holi and Dassera.
Judaism
Judaism originated in Israel in the Middle East. Migrations of Jews have resulted in the existence of Jewish communities in all parts of the world. It is estimated that by the end of 2006, the Jewish population will have about 16 million followers. Their books are the first five books of the Hebrew bible. Holidays include Rosh HaShannah (the jewish new year) and Yom Kippur (the day of atonement)