What are the dimensions of religion of the Ninian Smart?
Quick Answer
Ninian Smart's seven dimensions of religion are ritual, narrative and mythic, experimental and emotional, social and institutional, ethical and legal, doctrinal and philosophical, and material. These are recognizable elements across all the world's religions.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
Smart devised his seven dimensions of religion as a way to avoid defining what a religion truly is and instead create a system to discuss and compare various aspects of religious belief and practice.
The first three dimensions are considered "para-historical," dealing with the intangible beliefs and concepts behind a religion, while the remainder are "historical" and involve the external manifestations of a religion's practice.
Smart's dimensions have been influential in differentiating the field of religious studies from the field of theology.
Learn more about ReligionRelated Questions
-
Q:
Why is Jesus called the Paschal Lamb?
A: In the Christian tradition, Jesus is referred to as the "Paschal Lamb" or "Lamb of God" because his crucifixion echoes the ritual sacrifice of the Passover... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What are the three Confucian principles?
A: The three core Confucian principles are filial piety, humaneness and ritual. These values permeate Chinese culture and everyday life, and also influenced c... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How do you become a Wiccan?
A: The steps to becoming a Wiccan include learning about Wicca beliefs, performing a self-dedication ritual, and contacting a local coven. Some Wiccans choose... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What foods do Sikhs not eat?
A: Sikhs are forbidden from eating Kutha, meat obtained from the Muslim ritual slaughter that involves slowly draining an animal's blood while reciting verses... Full Answer >Filed Under:
