Definition

Each religion* is composed of the tangible and the intangible aspects of our existence. It helps us tie that which we can see, hear, taste, touch and feel to that which is not so readily apprehended - such as our principles and values in powers or ideals greater than ourselves.

Thus, through our practice (meditation, prayers, music, arts, etc), our narrative, our rituals and our symbols we elaborate a set of myths or values regarding the world we live in. Besides, spirituality binds us into a community or a group with shared culture, values, lifestyles or common goals. As a result, the main purpose of any religion is, by and large, to reconcile human beings with the reality that surrounds them.

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* No definition of religions is entirely satisfactory: etymologically, the term religion is derived from the Latin words religio (conscience, scrupulous attention, sacred commitment) and religare (to bind or tie together). Thus, in the context of this project, we consider numerous systems of values and spiritualities to be religions, although some may be more readily identified as such than others.