REL 105: INTRODUCTION TO RELIGION AND HUMAN VALUES

Lecturer: Dr. Oladosun

DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS

Religion

Religion is a system of beliefs, practices, and moral values that guide human behavior. It
plays a fundamental role in shaping individuals and societies, influencing their daily lives,
traditions, and ethical standards. Different scholars have attempted to define religion in
various ways based on thla

Emile Durkheim's Definition: Durkheim defines religion as a "unified system of beliefs and
practices related to the sacred, forming a moral community." According to him, religion
brings people together and creates a social structure where members share common moral
values.

Immanuel Kant's Definition: Kant describes religion as "the recognition of our duties as
divine commands." This means that religion serves as a moral compass, guiding individuals
in determining what is right and wrong based on divine laws.

Karl Marx's Perspective: Marx famously described religion as "the opium of the masses,"
implying that religion serves as a form of comfort for people, especially those experiencing
suffering and hardships. He believed that religion sometimes prevents people from taking
action to change their social conditions, instead encouraging them to accept suffering as part
of divine will.

Human Values

Human values are fundamental principles that shape human interactions, relationships, and
personal decisions. These values help individuals determine right from wrong, influencing
their moral compass. Examples of human values include honesty, respect, kindness,
compassion, integrity, and responsibility.

Human values are essential because they:

Guide ethical decision-making

Promote social harmony

Enhance self-awareness and personal growth

Encourage responsible behavior in society

IMPORTANCE OF RELIGION IN HUMAN LIFE

Religion is an integral part of human existence, influencing various aspects of life. The
reasons why individuals practice religion include:
1. Moral Guidance: Religion provides ethical standards and principles that shape individuals'
behavior and decision-making.

2. Emotional Support: People turn to religion during difficult times for comfort and
reassurance.

3. Social Cohesion: Religion fosters a sense of belonging by bringing individuals together in

worship and shared beliefs.

4. Cultural Identity: Religious beliefs and practices form an essential part of cultural heritage
and traditions.

5. Spiritual Growth: Many individuals practice religion to strengthen their connection with a
higher power and achieve personal enlightenment.

WHY DO WE PURSUE VALUES?

Values are essential because they determine an individual's character, decision-making, and
relationships with others. People pursue values because:

They shape their moral and ethical beliefs.

They help define their purpose in life.

They create standards for acceptable behavior.

They build trust and respect in personal and professional relationships.

They contribute to the overall well-being of society.

CORE VALUES AND PRINCIPLES

Core values represent an individual's fundamental beliefs and priorities. They influence
personal and professional life, shaping behavior and interactions. Some examples of core
values include:

1. Building Long-Term Relationships: Relationships built on trust and mutual respect are
crucial for personal and professional success.
2. Respect for Others: Treating others with dignity and valuing their time and efforts
promotes positive social interactions.

3. Effective Communication: Clear and respectful communication fosters understanding and

cooperation.

4. Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a balance between personal and professional

responsibilities ensures well-being and productivity.

THEORIES OF RELIGION

Religion has been studied from different perspectives, leading to various theories that
explain its significance and role in society. These perspectives include sociological,
psychological, philosophical, and moral viewpoints.

Sociological Perspective

Sociologists examine religion based on its function in society. There are two main
approaches:

1. Functional Definition: This approach focuses on how religion benefits society. It asks
questions such as, "How does religion contribute to social stability?" Scholars like Emile
Durkheim and Karl Marx explored this perspective.

2. Substantive Definition: This approach focuses on the content of religious beliefs, such as
concepts of the divine, sacred texts, and rituals.

Psychological Perspective

The psychological approach examines how religion influences emotions and mental
well-being. For example, religion provides comfort to individuals during times of grief and
suffering, helping them cope with emotional distress.

Philosophical Perspective

Philosophers analyze religion by questioning moral and ethical aspects. They explore
concepts such as free will, existence, and the meaning of life.

Moral Perspective
This perspective evaluates how religion shapes moral values and ethical behavior. It
examines the role of religion in promoting virtues such as honesty, kindness, and justice.

WORLDVIEW AND RELIGION

A worldview is a set of beliefs that shape an individual's perception of reality. Religious

worldviews influence how individuals interpret life, morality, and society. In many African
societies, religion is deeply integrated into public life, unlike Western secular societies where
religion and governance are separate.

IMPORTANT RELIGIOUS AND ETHICAL CONCEPTS

Abortion

Abortion is the termination of pregnancy before birth. It can be categorized into:

Spontaneous Abortion (Miscarriage): Occurs naturally without human intervention.

Induced Abortion: Intentionally caused by medical procedures.

Legal and Illegal Abortion: Depending on a country’s laws, abortion may be permitted or
prohibited.

Adultery

Adultery refers to extramarital sexual relationships, which are often condemned in religious
teachings.

Capital Punishment

Capital punishment involves executing criminals for serious offenses such as murder. It is a
controversial issue with religious and ethical debates surrounding its morality.

Euthanasia

Euthanasia, also known as mercy killing, refers to ending a person's life to relieve suffering.
There are different arguments regarding its morality:

Arguments For: Personal choice, quality of life, dignity, and relieving suffering.

Arguments Against: Religious beliefs, sanctity of life, and the Hippocratic Oath in medical
practice.

RITE OF PASSAGE

A rite of passage is a significant ceremony marking a person's transition from one stage of
life to another. The main rites of passage include:
1. Birth

2. Puberty and Adolescence

3. Marriage

4. Death

OMOLUABI (YORUBA CONCEPT OF GOOD CHARACTER)

Omoluabi is a Yoruba philosophical concept representing good character. An Omoluabi is a

person who embodies virtues such as honesty, respect, and hard work. The key principles of
Omoluabi include:

1. Respect (Ìtẹríba) – Treating others with dignity.

2. Goodwill (Inú rere) – Having a kind heart.

3. Truth (Òtító) – Always being honest.

4. Bravery (Akínkanjú) – Facing challenges with courage.

5. Hard Work (Ìṣé-ṣíṣe) – Diligence and perseverance.

6. Intelligence (Òpóló pipe) – Applying wisdom in decision-making.

SECTION 1: RELIGION AND SOCIAL VICES

1.1 The Concept of Religion

Etymology: The word ‘religion’ originates from the Latin religare, meaning to re-link or reunite
with God.

Definition: Religion is a belief in a superhuman power (God or gods) that involves obedience,
reverence, and worship. It defines a way of life, morality, and spiritual improvement.
Key Aspects of Religion:

Cultural system creating lasting meaning.

Includes narratives, symbols, traditions, and sacred histories.

Provides moral, ethical, and legal guidance.

Public in nature (e.g., organized behavior, rituals, and clerical hierarchies).

Expressions include prayer, festivals, sacrifices, meditation, music, and arts.

1.2 Religion’s Role in Reducing Social Vices

Divine religions (Islam, Christianity) promote justice, security, compassion, tolerance, unity,
and peace.

When widely practiced, religion helps reduce immoral and illegal activities in society.

1.3 Social Vices

Definition: Social vices are immoral behaviors frowned upon by society.

Categories:

Worship Centers: Indecent dressing, phone usage, stealing, pre-marital sex, fighting.

Schools: Exam malpractice, cultism, truancy, drug abuse, homosexuality.

Society: Human trafficking, baby factories, child labor, hooliganism, gambling, prostitution,
robbery, internet fraud.

1.4 Causes of Social Vices

1. Poverty: Drives people into crime (e.g., prostitution, robbery).

2. Unemployment: Leads to idleness and criminal activities.

3. Peer Pressure: Youths influenced by their peers engage in vices.

4. Corruption: Lack of accountability fosters criminality.

5. Broken Homes: Poor parental care results in deviant behavior.

1.5 Religion as a Solution to Social Vices

Islam and Christianity provide moral guidelines to counter vices.

Qur’anic Guidance (49:13): Recognizes cultural differences but condemns immorality.

Bible (Romans 1:29-30): Condemns wickedness, murder, envy, deceit.

Both scriptures prohibit murder, theft, adultery, and corruption, urging their followers to
uphold moral integrity.

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SECTION 2: RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE

2.1 The Islamic Perspective on Religious Tolerance

Prophets (Moses, Jesus, Muhammad) were not sent to force religion but to guide people.

Qur’an (5:99, 16:35, 42:48): Prophets are only messengers, not enforcers of faith.

Qur’an (2:256): “There is no compulsion in religion.”

Faith must be accepted willingly, not imposed.

2.2 Prophet Muhammad’s Example

Showed tolerance to unbelievers in Mecca.

Qur’an (109:1-6): “To you your religion, and to me mine.”

Lived peacefully with Jews in Medina, calling them Ahlul-Kitab (People of the Book).

Ensured religious freedom through peace treaties.

Sent peaceful letters to non-Muslim rulers.

2.3 Historical Context of Religious Tolerance

Despite wars, Islam did not impose faith by force.

Muslims ruled India for centuries, yet the majority remained non-Muslim.

Western historian Roderic Davison: Ottoman rulers were less oppressive than Prussians,
British, and Americans towards minorities.
2.4 The Concept of Tolerance

Definition: Respect for differences in religion, culture, race, gender, etc.

Types of Tolerance:

Belief: Islam does not force people into faith (Qur’an 10:99, 16:93).

Behavioral: Responding to hate with kindness (Qur’an 41:34, 3:159).

2.5 Factors Promoting Religious Tolerance

1. Education: Knowledge of religions prevents conflicts.

2. Government Policies: Laws ensuring religious freedom.

3. Cultural Understanding: Accepting different traditions.

4. Economic Stability: Reduces religiously motivated tensions.

5. Media Influence: Spreading positive messages and interfaith dialogue.

6. Historical Awareness: Learning from past religious conflicts.

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SECTION 3: HUMAN VALUES FROM AN ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

3.1 Understanding Human Values

Etymology: From Latin valere (to be strong, valuable).

Types of Values:

Extrinsic: Material worth (e.g., money, property).

Intrinsic: Moral worth (e.g., love, honesty, justice).

Positive vs. Negative: Positive values improve society, while negative values harm it.
3.2 Core Human Values

1. Truth: Essential for trust, justice, and harmony.

2. Love and Caring: Encourages kindness and generosity.

3. Peace: Results from truth, justice, and love.

4. Responsibility: Ensures accountability in society.

5. Justice: Fair treatment and upholding rights.

6. Right Conduct: Includes honesty, punctuality, ethics.

7. Discipline: Necessary for personal and societal progress.

3.3 Importance of Human Values

Shapes attitudes and behaviors.

Influences perceptions of right and wrong.

Aids decision-making and ethical conduct.

3.4 Islamic Perspective on Human Values

Kindness to Parents (Qur’an 17:23-24): Treat them with respect and mercy.

Love for Others (Hadith): “Love for your brother what you love for yourself.”

Courtesy (Qur’an 49:11): Avoid mockery and offensive speech.

Cooperation (Qur’an 5:2): Help others in righteousness.

Generosity (Qur’an 3:92, 2:274): Give freely to the needy.

Truthfulness (Qur’an 9:119, 33:70): Be honest in word and deed.

Humility (Qur’an 31:18, 25:63): Avoid arrogance.

Patience (Qur’an 16:127, 2:45-46, 2:155-157): Endure hardships with faith.

Nonviolence in Religion (Qur’an 16:125): Preach with wisdom and kindness.

Justice (Qur’an 38:26, 28:77, 16:90): Act fairly and uphold integrity.

RITE OF PASSAGE: COMPREHENSIVE NOTES

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1. Introduction to Rites of Passage

A Rite of Passage is a ceremony or event marking an important stage in a person’s life,

particularly transitions from one social or biological status to another.

These rites exist in almost every culture and are deeply rooted in traditions, customs, and
religious beliefs.

Common stages of rites of passage include birth, puberty, marriage, and death.

2. Stages of Rites of Passage (Arnold van Gennep’s Model)

Gennep identified three major stages in rites of passage:

a. Separation Stage

The initiate is physically, socially, or symbolically removed from their previous status.

Often marked by symbolic acts such as isolation, cutting hair, or wearing special clothing.

Example: In some African tribes, boys are taken away from their homes before initiation into
adulthood.

b. Transition (Liminal) Stage

The period between two statuses where the individual undergoes training, trials, or
transformations.

Characterized by uncertainty, learning, and often symbolic death and rebirth.

Example: During initiation rites, candidates might endure endurance tests, fasting, or
symbolic teaching.
c. Incorporation Stage

The initiate is reintroduced into society with a new status, often accompanied by celebrations
and gifts.

Symbolizes the completion of transformation.

Example: After initiation, boys may be given new names and adult responsibilities in the
community.

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3. Types of Rites of Passage

a. Birth and Naming Rites

Ceremonies that mark the arrival of a newborn and its introduction into the family or
community.

Often involves prayers, blessings, and symbolic acts like shaving a baby’s head, baptism, or
naming rituals.

Example: Christian baptism, Islamic Aqiqah, Yoruba naming ceremonies.

b. Initiation Rites (Puberty/Coming of Age)

Marks the transition from childhood to adulthood.

Includes physical trials, education on responsibilities, and ritualistic teachings.

Example: Jewish Bar/Bat Mitzvah, African circumcision rituals, Quinceañera in Latin

America.

c. Marriage Rites

Celebrates the union of two individuals, often with elaborate traditions and family
involvement.

Includes engagement, dowry/bride price, religious or civil ceremonies.

Example: Christian weddings, Hindu Saptapadi (seven steps), Muslim Nikah.

d. Death and Funeral Rites

Mark the departure of an individual and their transition to the afterlife.

Practices vary widely, from burial, cremation, to elaborate mourning periods.

Example: Egyptian mummification, Catholic last rites, African ancestor worship.

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4. Functions of Rites of Passage

Social cohesion: Reinforces community bonds and shared identity.

Cultural continuity: Preserves and transmits traditions across generations.

Psychological support: Helps individuals transition smoothly between life stages.

Moral and ethical education: Teaches values, roles, and responsibilities.

Spiritual connection: Strengthens belief in divine forces and ancestors.

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5. Examples of Rites of Passage in Various Cultures

a. Africa

Xhosa Ulwaluko (South Africa): Circumcision and seclusion to mark manhood.

Maasai Warrior Initiation (Kenya/Tanzania): Physical endurance tests and lion hunting
(historically).

b. Asia

Hindu Upanayana (Sacred Thread Ceremony, India): Marks the beginning of formal
education.

Japanese Seijin Shiki (Coming of Age Day): Celebrated when individuals turn 20.

c. Europe

Christian Confirmation: Acceptance into the church and faith commitment.

Quinceañera (Spanish-Latin tradition): 15th birthday celebration for girls transitioning into
womanhood.

d. Native American

Vision Quest: Solitary spiritual journey to gain wisdom and guidance.

Apache Sunrise Ceremony: Marks a girl’s transition into womanhood with a four-day ritual.

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6. Modern and Secular Rites of Passage

Graduation ceremonies (academic achievement)

Military enlistment and training completion

Retirement ceremonies

Citizenship ceremonies

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7. Challenges and Changes in Rites of Passage

Westernization and urbanization: Traditional rites may decline as societies modernize.

Legal and ethical issues: Some rites (e.g., female genital mutilation) face global criticism.

Intercultural influences: Blending of traditions due to migration and globalization.

Personal choice: Some individuals reject traditional rites in favor of self-defined transitions.

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8. Conclusion

Rites of passage remain fundamental in shaping human experiences across cultures.

While some traditions have evolved or faded, their underlying purpose remains: marking
life's significant milestones with meaning and structure.

Understanding and respecting various rites of passage enhances cultural appreciation and
social harmony.