Religion and Religiosity as a Basis for Human Faith and Spirituality

Alberto Mudjadju"

Religion and religiosity are distinct concepts that create much confusion among individuals. Religion refers to an organized system of beliefs, practices, and rituals shared by a community of believers, which in turn encompass dogmas considered fundamental and immutable beliefs and teachings; rituals, which are practices and ceremonies performed to express faith and connect with the divine; and institutions, which are the organizations and structures that support and promote religion. Religiosity, on the other hand, refers to the personal and subjective experience of faith and spirituality, which in turn can be understood in the personal dimension, as an individual and intimate experience of faith and connection with the divine; subjective, as a personal and unique interpretation of religion and spirituality; and in the more diverse sense, where it can vary widely from person to person, even within the same religion. Religion and religiosity differ greatly in several aspects, but there are two to consider: structure and focus. The first is because Religion is an organized system, while Religiosity is a personal and subjective experience. Regarding the second aspect, Religion focuses on dogma and rituals, while Religiosity focuses on personal experience and connection with the divine. Therefore, we have the following as examples of Religion: Monotheistic Religions, those that believe in one and only God (Christianity, Islam, and Judaism); Polytheistic Religions, those that believe in multiple gods (Hinduism, Buddhism); Indigenous Religions, practiced by indigenous communities around the world (Native American Religions, Aboriginal Religions, and Traditional African Religions); Eastern Religions, which have their roots in Asia (Taoism, Confucianism, Shintoism). These are just a few examples of the many religions that exist in the world; each religion has its own unique history, beliefs, and practices. And religiosity can be expressed in many different ways, depending on culture, tradition, and personal experience. It presents the following typologies: Traditional Religiosity, which is based on beliefs established by a religion or tradition (followers of a religion, ritual practices); Personal Religiosity, an individual and subjective experience of faith (personal spirituality, meditation, and contemplation); Mystical Religiosity, characterized by a search for deep and direct spiritual experiences (Mysticism, Visionary Experiences); Community Religiosity, is based on a community of faith (Communion, community service); Secular Religiosity, is a form of spirituality that is not necessarily linked to a traditional religion (Secular Spirituality, Humanism); Syncretistic Religiosity, is characterized by the combination of elements of different religions or traditions (Syncretism, Eclecticism).Religiosity is a personal and subjective experience that can vary from person to person. Differentiating Religion from Religiosity is very important for several reasons. It allows for a deeper understanding of individual and collective religious experience (religiosity and religion). This differentiation also requires respect for the diversity of beliefs and practices, as it promotes tolerance (recognizing that people have different experiences and expressions of religiosity) and dialogue (promoting dialogue and understanding between people of different religions and experiences of religiosity). Knowing how to differentiate these two concepts can help us avoid conflicts by combating misunderstandings that arise from misinterpretations of other people's beliefs and practices. Conversely, it promotes understanding and mutual respect between people of different religions and experiences of religiosity. Approaching these concepts differently can catapult our personal development, highlighting self-knowledge that can allow people to develop a deeper understanding of their own beliefs and values, and the attempt to seek spiritual growth and the meaning and purpose of life. Finally, it helps us in our more effective critical analysis of the facts, concerning the analysis of beliefs (analyzing religious beliefs and practices critically and reflectively) and understanding the implications (understanding the implications of religious beliefs and practices in society and in individual life). Understanding the distinction between Religion and Religiosity can help to better understand how faith and spirituality influence the development of society. It is also fundamental to promoting understanding, respect and tolerance, in addition to contributing to personal development and critical analysis.

2025/12/3