The major religion of India, with sacred texts like the Vedas and stories of gods such as Vishnu and Shiva. It teaches karma, dharma, and reincarnation, with the ultimate goal of moksha (liberation).

A school of thought from Japan and China that focuses on seated meditation (zazen) to realize enlightenment. It often uses paradoxical sayings called koans to challenge the mind.

The mystical branch of Islam that seeks direct experience of God through love and devotion. Famous teachers in this tradition include poets like Rumi, and gatherings may include chanting or whirling dances.

An ancient Indian religion that stresses nonviolence so strongly that followers may sweep the ground to avoid harming insects. It teaches that the soul can be freed from rebirth through self-discipline and truthfulness.

Developed in ancient Persia, this faith honors a supreme creator and teaches the struggle between truth and lies. Fire is used in its worship as a symbol of purity, and traditionally, followers placed the dead in open towers to be consumed by birds rather than buried or cremated.

Originating in South Asia, this faith teaches devotion to one God, equality among all people, and service to others. Followers often keep uncut hair, wear specific articles of clothing, and gather in places called gurdwaras.

One of the oldest monotheistic religions, with laws and teachings recorded in the Torah. Traditions include a weekly day of rest, festivals marking historical events, and life rituals such as coming-of-age ceremonies.

Founded in the United States in the 1800s by Joseph Smith, this religion was later led by Brigham Young to settle in Salt Lake City. It follows both the Bible and another sacred text, emphasizing family life, missionary work, and continuing revelation.

A Christian denomination founded in the United States in the late 1800s. They are known for door-to-door preaching, refusing military service, not celebrating most holidays, and expecting God’s Kingdom to replace human governments.

Founded in Persia in the 1800s, this religion teaches the unity of all people and faiths. Followers believe that religious history is a series of messages from God given through different prophets over time.

A Chinese tradition based on the writings of Laozi that teaches living simply and in balance with nature. Practices may include tai chi, breathing exercises, and studying the patterns of the natural world.

Japan’s native religion, focused on kami—spirits tied to natural places and ancestors. Shrines with torii gates mark sacred spaces for worship and festivals, and purification rituals are central to maintaining harmony between people and the spiritual world.

Emerging in Jamaica in the 20th century, this movement venerates a former Ethiopian emperor. Followers often grow their hair into dreadlocks and use reggae music as spiritual expression.

Also called the Religious Society of Friends, this Christian group began in England in the 1600s. William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, was a member, and the group is known for opposing war and valuing equality.

A modern religion founded by L. Ron Hubbard in the mid-1900s that teaches humans are immortal spiritual beings called thetans. It uses counseling methods called auditing to clear the mind of harmful influences.

A branch of Buddhism common in East Asia that emphasizes compassion and the ideal of the bodhisattva, someone who delays enlightenment to help others. Sacred texts include the Lotus Sutra.

A monotheistic religion that began in Arabia in the 600s, guided by the Qur’an. Followers practice the Five Pillars, which include daily prayer, charity, fasting during a holy month, and a pilgrimage to a sacred city, along with dietary laws and community worship.

Rooted in West African traditions and adapted in Haiti, this religion honors spirits called loa. Rituals may involve drumming, dancing, and offerings to seek guidance or healing.

Founded in India, this religion follows the teachings of a man who reached enlightenment under a tree. It centers on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path to end suffering, and it spread widely across Asia with variations in practice such as meditation, chanting, and temple offerings.