One has to work on a rock, with the help of learned others, to extract the full rich ore. It requires the labors of many to grasp what's really there. Every religion, of course, has its pluses and minuses. And in a brief space one can only indicate some features. In many respects it's a comforting way to live.
Leaders generally have ready answers for every life situation.
They know without hesitation who God will save and won't save, as well as what's in God's mind about a host of matters. People's roles are clear, discipline sure, conformity widespread, and community closeness a rewarding by-product. This model of religion offers security, clarity and a certain freedom from many of life's tensions. Towards the other end of the spectrum are religions that see the world and most people as flawed, but essentially good. They perceive that God can be found everywhere and that as people we are meant to appreciate diversity, explore the sciences, savor the arts and work towards a socially just world.