The Importance of Religion

Religion is an important part of life for many people. Even people who are not all that religious by nature consider it to be important. The question is why do they feel this way? The reason is largely down to the belief that society needs religion. As a society we benefit from our collective religious beliefs. In fact, there are many people who would argue that we could not function without religion. 1

The biggest reason that society needs religion is to regulate behavior. Most of the laws that we follow today have their basis in religious teachings. There is considerable debate as to whether or not religion is required to make us good people but what is beyond dispute is that the rules for what is acceptable for society are largely based on religion. Without religion we would almost certainly live in a different type of society. 1

Religion performs the following functions:

1. Religion provides mental peace:

Human life is uncertain. We struggle for survival in the uncertainties, insecurities and dangers. Sometimes we feel helplessness. It is the religion which consoles and encourages us in all times of crisis. Religion give us right shelter. We get mental peace and emotional support, which encourage us to face our life and problems. 2

2. Religion inculcates social virtues:

Religion promotes the major social virtues such as truth, honesty, non-violence, service, love, discipline, patience, kindness, joy, goodness and faith. 3

3. Religion promotes social solidarity:

Religion gives raise to the spirit of brotherhood. With promises and commandments about doing good to every person we meet, we have the incredible big but amazing task of being people of trust to others. 4

4. Religion influences our health:

There are two things in religion that help to influence one’s health, and this is prayer and meditation. When you pray and meditate you activate the brain and stimulate clarity as you do your thinking. Religion is helpful in a human being because it enables her to memorize things. Religion in our lives has the role of clearing our minds and promoting our well-being. 5

5. Religion gives us a sense of purpose:

Religion helps us to define our lives, and thus we can say it gives meaning to our lives. Religion helps us to deal with the most stressful moments of our lives because it gives us hope to move on. It enables you to avoid depression, and so your life moves more smoothly and in a healthy manner.

References:

1 www.academia.edu/3838157/Importance_of_religion_in_todays_world

2 https://es.slideshare.net/zeeshanahmed125/religion-as-institution

3 Holy Bible, Galatian 5:22

4 Holy Bible, 1 Peter 4:7-11

5 http://www.edgewatergallery.net/religion/importance-religion-society/