Religion has never had a set definition and thus there are many variations. However, many scholars such as Tim Crane and Christian Smith have tried to create a setlist of characteristics that categorize a broad definition of what combination of actions creates a religion. Smith argues that religion is both cosmology and morality. However, Crane argues that religion does not solely rely on those two, but rather a combination of multiple characteristics including religious practice and sacred texts. Smith’s limited definition excludes many other religions; therefore, Crane’s list of characteristics creates a more holistic approach to defining what a religion is.
First, Christian Smith states that religion is best defined as “a complex of culturally prescribed practices that are based on premises about the existence and nature of superhuman power”[1]. Cosmology being the explanation for how and why the universe was created, this allows for the belief in supernatural spirits such as gods and goddesses. Morality consists of the commitment to written scriptures such as the Bible. Following these texts guides the followers in the right direction for the afterlife of either eternal happiness or eternal damnation. The combination of these two characteristics correlates with many religions that believe there is a higher superhuman power that has the ability to alter a person’s way of living. This has caused humans to pray to these higher powers, such as God, for forgiveness or guidance. However, limiting the definition of religion to just two characteristics takes away from the complexity and appreciation for such beliefs. Thus, there are a few flaws with Smith’s theory. First, not all religions believe in a higher power nor have a set scripture that they live by. This mostly applies to Asian religions such as Buddhism. This religion is more ethics-focused. They believe in bettering themselves through knowledge of the mind and their way of living. A common example is Theravada Buddhism, where its believers practice in the ethical part of religion through meditating and concentrating on their own well-being to find self-enlightenment. They do not believe there is an outside controlling factor, but rather that each action has a reaction. Second, Smith does not include one of the most important aspects of religion, the religious practice itself. Smith believes religious practice is a product of an already established religion. However, the practicing of a religious belief is one of the many reasons why religion has spread so far and survived so long. Religious practice can consist of various actions such as praying to a higher power or meditating. It can also include the gathering of people who share the same beliefs. These are both individual and community actions that strengthen a belief. Without the act of religious practice, religions would not be able to be sustained around the world for centuries.
In contrast, Tim Crane states that the practice of religion is an essential part of labeling an act a Religion. religious practice is usually done in social settings, such as churches, mosques, and temples. This element has allowed people to come together and form a strong relationship with others, and it is another identifying feature of who they are and what they believe. Crane suggests that this strong identity relationship is a product of religious practice and can be related to people’s strong sense of patriotism to one’s nation or ethnicity. This can be seen in Thailand where the white color in the country flag represents religion and the purity of Buddhism.[2] Many countries also have a state religion that defines their country’s beliefs. This is seen throughout the Middle East with Islam. These countries are known for their consistent practice of religion through praying five times a day. The action of religious practice through prayer or sayings allows people to connect with the past believers, it creates a sense of unity with the past, present, and future. Altogether, Crane emphasizes the importance of religious belief through religious practice. Crane further state many people believe religion is the “blend of cosmology -a theory of the universe- and morality”[3]. However, he thinks this is an inadequate understanding of religion. Crane’s main argument is that religion cannot be categorized into only cosmology and morality because many things do not fall into either of those categories. He uses the Five Pillars of Islam as an example. Crane states, “the injunctions to go on pilgrimages, to fast, and to pray are injunctions on how to live, in a broad sense, but they are not moral injunctions”[4]. Although these are written in the Quran, they are just the basics of the beliefs of the religion and cannot be placed into the two characteristics of cosmology or morality. Therefore, there must be something beyond cosmology or morality. There are actions and beliefs within religious practice that cannot be defined into a set definition. This emphasizes the reason for different religions around the world. Not everyone believes in the same thing and in order to appeal to different preferences there must be different religions. This makes religion unique, appealing and yet debatable. The world and humans will not have free will if everything is categorized and must adhere to specifics they do not agree with. Religion is an a pathway into endless thoughts, and possibilities.
After comparing Christian Smith’s theory to Crane’s, I have concluded that religion cannot be tied to one definition. Although many religions share the same characteristics, such as having a sacred text or believing in a supernatural power, this does not apply to every religion. This does not make other religions such as Buddhism invalid but rather provides a different perspective on the human mind and beliefs. I believe religious practice is one of the most important parts of creating a religion. Religious practice demonstrates a person’s true belief in the system. I consider religious practice, going to community events, socializing with people of the same religion, and the intentional actions of carrying out the belief. This is what allows religions to prosper and develop. Limiting religion to certain characters takes away the mystery and the original intent. I think religion was created by humans to provide comfort in the unanswerable. As technology and science improve religion still remains strong. Religion will never go away because of the tradition created through the action of religious practice.
Many countries rely on religion for community and a sense of belonging. It has become an international rule of law to protect religious freedom. It would cause mass hysteria if religion were ever taken away. However, religion has started many wars and is a sensitive topic for many people. I believe this shows how powerful religion can be in relation to the humans. Overall, religion has many standard features, but there are always outliers that will not fit into specific categories, as Crane had stated about religious practice. Therefore, religion cannot have a set definition. It is up to the followers to determine what they call their repetitive actions.
[1] Smith, Christian
[2] “Thailand.” In The World Factbook. Central Intelligence Agency, February 22, 2022. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/thailand/#people-and-society.
[3] “Tim Crane on Religion.” https://app.perusall.com/courses/erh-211wx-02-comparative-religion/tim-crane-on-religion?assignmentId=gdQ8566iv8qLet6h5&part=1.
[4] “Tim Crane on Religion.” https://app.perusall.com/courses/erh-211wx-02-comparative-religion/tim-crane-on-religion?assignmentId=gdQ8566iv8qLet6h5&part=1.
