Major World Religions to Know for AP World History: Modern

Major world religions shape cultures and societies, influencing beliefs and practices globally. Understanding these faiths—like Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism—helps us grasp their impact on history, literature, and the human experience in our modern world.

1. Christianity

   • Based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, who is considered the Son of God and the savior of humanity.
   • Central texts include the Bible, particularly the New Testament, which outlines the teachings of Jesus and the early church.
   • Major beliefs include the Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), salvation through faith, and the importance of love and forgiveness.

2. Islam

   • Founded by the Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century CE, who is regarded as the final prophet in a long line of prophets.
   • The Quran is the holy book, believed to be the literal word of God as revealed to Muhammad.
   • Key practices include the Five Pillars of Islam: faith, prayer, almsgiving, fasting during Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj).

3. Hinduism

   • One of the oldest religions, characterized by a variety of beliefs and practices, including polytheism and a belief in karma and reincarnation.
   • Sacred texts include the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita, which provide philosophical and spiritual guidance.
   • Major deities include Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer), each representing different aspects of the divine.

4. Buddhism

   • Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) in the 5th century BCE, focusing on the path to enlightenment and the cessation of suffering.
   • Core teachings include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which guide adherents in ethical living and mental discipline.
   • Emphasizes concepts such as impermanence, non-attachment, and the cycle of rebirth (samsara).

5. Judaism

   • One of the oldest monotheistic religions, centered on the covenant between God and the people of Israel.
   • The Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) is the foundational text, with the Torah being the most sacred part, containing laws and teachings.
   • Key beliefs include the importance of ethical conduct, community, and the expectation of a messiah.

6. Sikhism

   • Founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak in the Punjab region, emphasizing monotheism and equality among all people.
   • The Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture, containing hymns and teachings of the Sikh Gurus.
   • Core principles include devotion to God, community service, and the rejection of caste and ritualism.

7. Confucianism

   • A philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius, focusing on morality, social relationships, and justice.
   • Emphasizes the importance of family, respect for elders, and the cultivation of virtue in both personal and public life.
   • Key concepts include Ren (benevolence), Li (proper conduct), and Xiao (filial piety).

8. Taoism

   • A philosophical and religious tradition rooted in the teachings of Laozi, emphasizing living in harmony with the Tao (the Way).
   • Key texts include the Tao Te Ching and the Zhuangzi, which explore the nature of reality and the importance of simplicity.
   • Focuses on concepts such as wu wei (non-action), naturalness, and the balance of opposites (Yin and Yang).

9. Shinto

   • The indigenous spirituality of Japan, centered on the worship of kami (spirits or deities) and the importance of rituals and festivals.
   • Key practices include purification rituals, offerings at shrines, and festivals that celebrate the kami.
   • Emphasizes a deep connection to nature and the importance of ancestor worship.

10. Zoroastrianism

    • One of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster in ancient Persia.
    • Central beliefs include the duality of good and evil, with Ahura Mazda as the supreme god representing truth and order.
    • Key texts include the Avesta, which contains hymns, rituals, and teachings on ethics and the afterlife.