To preface, this is my understanding of religion, one which cannot fully encapsulate the scope of all religious practices nor address every element of its worship. Religion- in a basic premise- is rooted in the belief that there is a divine entity, one that is deserving and worthy of praise. Religion implies a faith in that which can never be certain. It is a matter of driving one’s life according to a specific set of practices and praise, often outlined in scripture or holy texts. Religion governs a person’s being while also encouraging a sense of community.
I believe that religion often is grounded in some form of reason. Professor Cavadini cites in his article “The Role of Theology at a Catholic University,” John Paul II’s description of the Catholic quest of seeking meaning as “Integration of knowledge is a process, one which will always remain incomplete.” Religion is specific to each individual- yet requires a general understanding that has been compounded by religious practices and interpretations over time. Merely believing in something larger, without proper intuition of its history, is where fanaticism, nationalism, and more can fall under religion’s umbrella. I agreed with Cavanugh’s idea that “faiths are any more inherently absolutist and violent than supposedly secular ideologies.” Although religion as a justification for violence is often proliferated throughout the media, there are many other environmental factors at play. Politcal factos, such as ending occupation of a homeland or capturing state rule often contribute to terrorism.
Religion often comes down to each person’s own inquiry into problems that do not have a solution. It is an “attempt to this goodness as well as it can be understood, and to arrive at a notion of justice that flows from it.” Religion constantly evolves, while always being grounded in something beyond us.
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