by Elisabeth Mcgrath

Created on: November 23, 2010   Last Updated: March 26, 2011

Religion is a set of beliefs that often includes a divine, higher power. A broad definition of the subject, however, can never do justice to all that religion encompasses. Representing comfort and solace to many, ridicule for others, religion continues to impact directly or historically on our lives. 

Road maps 

Religion provides signposts and directions on our life journeys. Our starting points are given definition and destinations are clear. The texts of most faiths offer human comparisons of earlier travelers that continue to inspire those who follow in their footsteps. Signposts serve to show us where we have been and where we are going. 

Calendars 

Traditional religious festivals and celebrations mark the passage of time and seasons. They weave a pattern through our lives with joyous occasions to anticipate and commemorate. These events often serve to unite and reconcile families and communities. 

How-to guides 

Different followers of religion find textbook answers to many of life’s problems and dilemmas. They have the comforting safety-net of a higher power that is in command of their lives and the universe. 

Peace of mind 

Following the laws of the land may reassure us that we are not liable to judgments or penalties. Adherence to spiritual laws and commandments can bring the type of perpetual peace that allows us to sleep at night with an untroubled conscience and with no concerns about the past or the future. 

Moral codes 

Apart from recognizing a deity, religion offers codes of conduct that enable us to interact humanely with each other. Various religions teach concepts of justice, mercy, compassion and other virtues that have influenced growth to charitable organizations and government welfare agencies. 

Ethical values 

Fair practices in business and commercial dealings owe much of their origins to religious laws and guidelines. The same principles apply whether they refer to property boundary markers or competing electronic innovators. 

Precedents 

Many of our laws, constitutions and legislative bills are based on religious practices. Courts of law have evolved from earlier arbitration systems that dispensed community justice through spiritual creeds. 

Building societies 

Many social and community interactions owe their structure to spiritual mores. The ways that individuals, families, neighborhoods and countries relate to each other can find their forerunners grounded in spiritual teachings. 

There is a current, possibly cyclic, resurgence of interest in matters of religion, spirituality and faith. Whatever is expressed by way of endorsement or disclaimer, the spiritual origins of all that governs our lives remain evident.

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