Many people believe religion is the most sacred way of life, and to some it is their biggest obligation. A Buddhist once proclaimed in context to religion, "Many paths lead up the mountain, but the view from the top is the same." This quote, I believe contradicts religion in its entirety. However, some people see religion as simply the belief in, and worship of, a superhuman controlling power. Unfortunately, religion goes above and beyond its dictionary meaning. Before examining these religions one must acknowledge the meaning and background of religion in its true essence. Moreover, each faith is found in many countries, and takes color from different regions. For example, Christians in America differ from the Christians in Jerusalem. Every religion has permeated and been permeated by a variety of diverse cultures. This adds to the richness of human experience, but it makes our task of thinking and feeling about the variety of faiths more complicated than we might at first suppose. We are dealing with not just traditions but many sub-traditions. In thinking about religion, it is easy to be confused about what it is. Exactly what is religion? What kinds of religions are there? What makes certain religions different from others? What perspective view should one have? These are some of the many questions people ponder about when thinking in terms of religion. Many religions have similarities in more aspects than others, but all religions have incompatible values, norms, and beliefs, which effects each religions" "view at the top of the mountain" a little differently.
First, one must examine the different perspectives there are when trying to evaluate religion. The insider's view is that of someone who participates in a particular religious tradition. This sort of study presupposes religious commitment and promotes an understanding that will lead to greater commitment.
