What is the most popular religion in India? | Reference.com What is the most popular religion in India? A: Quick Answer India is home to many religions, but the dominant one is Hinduism. Hinduism, which originated in India, is practiced by over 80 percent of India's population and is the world's oldest religious and philosophical system. Islam is the dominant foreign religion and is practiced by 13 percent of the population. The 12 Most Popular World Religions and Sects in Images A A While many around the world choose not to believe in a god or gods, there are plenty who do. Here are the 12 most popular world religions and belief systems according to FindTheBest.com. 1. Christianity (General) — 2.04 Billion Followers Most of the religious Western World (North America, Europe, and Oceania) follows this monotheistic religion based on the Bible. Above, Christian pilgrims carry wooden crosses along the Via Dolorosa during the Good Friday procession on April 22, 2011, in Jerusalem, Israel. Thousands of Christians around the world on that day marked Good Friday, which is when Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

In Jerusalem, Christian pilgrims took part in processions along the route that Jesus is believed to have taken in his last days as he carried the cross. 2. Islam (General) — 1.226 Billion Followers Islamic pilgrims perform the walk around the Kaaba (Tawaf) at the Grand Mosque in the Saudi Arabian holy city of Mecca on Nov. 9, 2010. The Kaaba, Islam's most sacred sanctuary and pilgrimage shrine, which stands in the heart of Mecca's Masjid Al-Haram mosque, contains the holy Black Stone believed to be the only piece remaining from an altar built by Abraham. Pilgrims try to touch and kiss the Black Stone and the door of the Kaaba. “Islam” literally means “submission to God” and the Quran is its holy book. Islam is most often practiced in the Middle East, Northern Africa, Central Asia, South Asia, Western Africa, the Indian subcontinent, Malay Archipelago with concentrations of worshipers in Eastern Africa, the Balkan Peninsula, Russia, and China. Urgent: Do You Approve Or Disapprove of President Obama's Job Performance? Vote Now in Urgent Poll 3.

Catholicism — 1.142 Billion Followers For some, Catholicism refers to Christians and churches belonging to the Catholic Church in communion with the Holy See, for others it refers to continuity "back to the earliest churches," which is claimed by other churches in mutual disputes over Christian doctrine and practice, such as the Eastern Orthodox Church, Oriental Orthodoxy, the Assyrian Church of the East, the Old Catholic Church, and the Anglican Communion. Top: A press hall attendant holds the curtains adorned with portraits of late Pope John Paul II, left, and John XXIII prior to the start of a news conference at the Vatican on Friday, April 25, 2014. Bottom: The Faithful walk next to rows of empty chairs in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican on April 25. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and faithful were expected to attend the April 27 ceremony at the Vatican in which Pope Francis elevated in a solemn ceremony John XXIII and John Paul II to sainthood. 4.

Hinduism (General) — 828 Million Followers Top: Hindus and Sadhus celebrate Diwali (the start of the Hindu New Year) at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the first traditional Hindu temple to open in Europe, on Nov. 14, 2012, in London. Middle: Indian Hindu devotees pray before forming a human pyramid to break a dahi-handi, curd-pot, suspended in the air during celebrations of Janmashtami, which marks the birth of Hindu God Lord Krishna in Mumbai on Aug. 10, 2012. Hindu men and boys receive prize money by constructing a human pyramid until it is tall enough to enable the topmost person to reach the pot and claim the contents after breaking it. Bottom: Hindu devotees bathe in the holy Ganges river during the royal bathing day of Makar Sankranti, the start of the Maha Kumbh Mela on Jan. 14, 2013, in Allahabad, India.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, perhaps the largest religious gathering on earth (attracting more than 100 million people) is held every 12 years on the banks of Sangam, the confluence of the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. 5. Agnosticism — 639 Million Followers A giant letter “A” representing the atheist and agnostic community sits between a nativity scene and a menorah in Daley Plaza on Dec. 4, 2013, in Chicago. The plaza is also home to the city's traditional Christmas tree and Christkindlmarket Chicago, a German-themed outdoor market open during the Christmas shopping season. Agnosticism maintains that the truth of certain religious or metaphysical claims — in particular claims about the existence of any deity — is unknown or unknowable. 6. Buddhism (General) — 367 Million Followers Two young Buddhist monks are seen in Bagan, Myanmar (Burma). Buddhism originated with Siddhartha Gautama, better known as Buddha ("the awakened one"). Buddha lived in northeastern India between the 6th and 4th centuries BC.

The goal of Buddhism is to end suffering, achieve nirvana, and escape a cycle of suffering and rebirth. 7. Atheism — 150 Million Followers David Silverman, president of the American Atheists, addresses the American Atheists National Convention in Salt Lake City on Friday, April 18, 2014. In an effort to raise awareness and attract new members, the organization held their national conference over Easter weekend in the home of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 8. Anglicanism — 85.4 Million Followers Desmond Tutu, Anglican archbishop emeritus and Nobel Peace Laureate, greets people as he is wheeled away after joining other religious leaders and a wide range of people from civil society on a march called Procession of Witness in defense of the role of the Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela (not visible), in uncovering corruption, as well as protesting violence, and profiteering by people in business and politics, on April 19, 2014, through the center of Cape Town. On Tutu's left is current Anglican archbishop Thabo Makgoba.

As part of a Christian tradition mostly comprising or tied to the Church of England, Anglicans fully declared their independence from the pope at the time of the Elizabethan Religious Settlement with the Act of Supremacy of 1558. 9. Sikhism — 23.8 Million Followers Fireworks explode over the illuminated Golden Temple, the Sikhs’ holiest shrine, on the festival of Baisakhi in Amritsar, India, on April 14, 2014. Baisakhi, which marks the Sikhs’ New Year’s day is also a harvest festival. Sikhism was founded in the 15th Century in Punjab, India, on the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev and 10 successive Sikh Gurus (the last one being the sacred text Guru Granth Sahib). The word Sikh derives from the ancient Sanskrit root śiṣya meaning "disciple" or "learner," or śikṣa meaning "instruction." 10. Seventh-Day Adventists — 16 Million Followers On Feb. 2, 2014, students from Parkview Jr.

Academy, a Seventh-day Adventist school, are seen making 700 valentines for homeless people. From left to right are Jared Tamaleaa, 12, Mackenzie Pitcher, 14, and Noah Gloudeman, 15. Seventh-day Adventists (SDA) are a 150-year old Christian denomination that emphasizes the central role of Jesus Christ as personal savior, high priest for all believers, and judge of all humankind. The denomination has no creed but members typically agree to 29 fundamental beliefs that cover core Christian beliefs as well as beliefs differentiating it from other sects. 11. Latter Day Saint Movement (Mormonism) — 15 Million Followers Top: More than 100,000 Latter-day Saints came to Salt Lake City last month for the church's biannual general conference. Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints give speeches providing members with guidance and inspiration in five sessions that span Saturday and Sunday. They announce church statistics, new temples, or initiatives.

The 21,000-seat conference center fills to capacity during the sessions, and thousands more listen or watch around the world in 95 languages on television, radio, satellite, and Internet broadcasts. Bottom: Members of the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing during the opening session of the two-day Mormon church conference. 12. Judaism — 14.5 Million Followers Judaism stems from the Hebrew Bible, the Tanakh, and is contemplated and explained in subsequent texts such as the Talmud. The laws and commandments of God were revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai in the form of both the written and oral Torah. Karaite Judaism, however, believes that only the written Torah was revealed. Moreover, humanistic Judaism and similar humanistic moments may be considered non-theistic. INDIAN RELIGIONS INDIAN RELIGIONS Indian Religions | Far Eastern Relogions | Semitic Religions | Mythology The main Indian religions, Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism and Sikhism are linked by a belief in karma.

Life is regarded as a continual cycle of birth, life and re-birth (samasara) and that the deeds or desires of part lives determines ones fate in this and future lives (karma). The karmic cycle can be broken by adherance to the doctrine preached by each religion. BUDDHISM origin. North India, 5th century BC, a Hindi protest group. originator. Prince Siddhartha Gautama (563-483BC), Buddha. main text. Three pitakas (baskets) called vinaya, dharma and abhidharma (discipline, doctrine and further doctrine). followers. 307 million. divisions. The main divisions are Theravadan in SE Asia, Mahayanan in N Asia, Lamaism in Tibet and Zen in Japan. deity. None although Mahayanan Buddhists believe in buddha as a spiritual being. The teachings of Buddha reveal that there is no permanent 'self' and suffering is caused by a desire for that which is impermanent. These beliefs are expressed in the nobel truths: Dukkha, to exist is to suffer. Samuddaya, suffering is caused by desire, the cravings for pleasure and possessions.

Nirodha, detachment from desire will end suffering. Magga, there is a Way to achieve detachment. The 'Way' varies between the buddhist divisions but the central theme is of meditation to acheive enlightenment or nirvana (the blowing out of desire). HINDUISM origin. Indus valley, about 1500BC. originators. Persian settlers influenced by Aryan invaders. main text. Collectively known as the Veda. The earliest, Veda Rig, dates from before 1000BC. The most popular is the Bhagavad Gita. holy city. Varanisi, on the river Ganges. followers. 650 million. About 80% of all Indians are Hindi. deity. See below. Hinduism is a multitheistic religion in which the many gods and goddesses are worshiped in the home and by the numerous sects. The caste system is strictly enforced and all Hindi's are expected to make an annual pilgrimage to a holy centre such as the Ganges, for cleansing. To die in a holy place ensures re-birth.

The Veda Gods: Indra (thunder god), Varuna (divine arbitrator), Agni (god of fire) and Surya (the sun). The Hindu Gods: Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), Shiva (destructor), Gamesh (remover of obstacles) and Hanuman (warrior god). There are also the 10 Avatars of Vishnu which include Krishna and Buddha. JAINISM originator. Break away group of Hindus led by Mahavira. main text. Siddharta. divisions. Digamaras and Swatambaras. deity. None. The central theme is of non-violence, an idea that has influenced other religions. Jains see the world as a place of misery and suffering and most are monks or nuns each seeking the way to personal liberation (moksha). SIKHISM main text. Guru Granth Sahib. holy city. Amritsar in the Punjab. followers. 16.5 million. deity. God, the immortal creator. The central lesson is that a good and contemplative life will achieve unity with God. Sikhs also believe in reincarnation.

Sikh history revers the first 10 Gurus the last of which, Gobind Singh, developed the Sikh community. The five Sikh symbols are: kesh, kangha, kara, kachh and kirpan (beard and uncut hair with a turban, comb, metal bracelet, knee-length shorts and dagger). Sikhs have a wide influence in India and there is increasing demand for a separate homeland in the Punjab (North India). Indian Religions - Religions In India - Religions Of India - Indian Religion -Major Religions Of India Cultural India : Indian Religions Indian Religions India is a land of diversities. This diversity is also visible in the spheres of religion. The major religions of India are Hinduism (majority religion), Islam (largest minority religion), Sikhism, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, Judaism and the Bahá'í Faith. India is a land where people of different religions and cultures live in harmony. This harmony is seen in the celebration of festivals. The message of love and brotherhood is expressed by all the religions and cultures of India.

Whether it's the gathering of the faithful, bowing in prayer in the courtyard of a mosque, or the gathering of lamps that light up houses at Diwali, the good cheer of Christmas or the brotherhood of Baisakhi, the religions of India are celebrations of shared emotion that bring people together. People from the different religions and cultures of India, unite in a common chord of brotherhood and amity in this fascinating and diverse land. Buddhism At present Buddhism is one of the major world religions. The philosophy of Buddhism is based on the teachings of Lord Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama (563 and 483 BC), a royal prince of Kapilvastu, India. After originating in India, Buddhism spread throughout the Central Asia, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Southeast Asia, as well as the East Asian countries of China, Mongolia, Korea, Japan and Vietnam. Christians Christianity is one of the prominent religions in India. At present there are about 25 million Christians in India. It is interesting to note that the Christian population in India is more than the entire population of Australia and New Zealand or total population of a number of countries in Europe.

Hinduism Hinduism is the oldest religion in the world. Hinduism is world's third largest religion after Christianity and Islam. Hinduism is the dominant religion in India, where Hindus form about 84 per cent of the total population. Hinduism is also known as "Sanatan Dharma" or the everlasting religion. Islam One of the prominent religions of India, Islam forms about 12 per cent of India's population. Though India's contact with Islam had begun much earlier, the real push came in the 8th century when the province of Sindh was conquered. Though the Muslims form only 12 per cent of the total population of India but the influence of Islam on Indian society is much stronger. Jainism Jains form less than one percent of the Indian population. For centuries, Jains are famous as community of traders and merchants. The states of Gujarat and Rajasthan have the highest concentration of Jain population in India. The Jain religion is traced to Vardhamana Mahavira (The Great Hero 599-527 B.C.). Sikhism Sikhs form about 2 per cent of Indian population. In comparison to other religions, Sikhism is a younger religion.

The word 'Sikh' means a disciple and thus Sikhism is essentially the path of discipleship. The true Sikh remains unattached to worldly things. Zoroastrian Though the total number of Zoroastrians in Indian population is very less yet they continue to be one of the important religious communities of India. According to the 2001 census, there were around 70,000 members of the Zoroastrian faith in India. Most of the Parsis (Zoroastrians) live in Maharashtra (mainly in Mumbai) and the rest in Gujarat. Guru Nanak Dev Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji is credited with starting the Sikh religion. He was the first Guru of the Sikhs and is worshipped next to God. His sole aim in life was to unify the Hindus and Muslims and form a universal religion of brotherhood and compassion. He believed that true salvation could be achieved only by devotion of thought and excellence of conduct. Lord Mahavira Lord Mahavira is often credited with the advent of Jainism in India. However, Jainism existed even before Lord Mahavira was born. He is supposed to be the twenty-fourth (last) Tirthankara according to the Jain philosophy.

A Tirthankara is an enlightened soul who is born as a human being and attains perfection through intense meditation. Adi Shankaracharya One of the greatest philosophers of India, Adi Shankaracharya founded the Advaita Vedanta, which is one of the sub-schools of Vedanta. Adi Shankaracharya whole-heartedly believed in the concept of the Vedas but at the same time advocated against the rituals and religious practices that were over exaggerated. Hinduism is the most popular religion in India. Hinduism in India Hinduism is India's religion with the largest following. It's the world's third largest religion, following Christianity and Islam. Roughly one billion people in the world follow the Hindu faith and about nine-hundred and five million of them live in India. The religion's roots trace back thousands of years to India's Iron Age; for this reason, the Hindu faith is often referred to as the oldest living religion. This religion is also called Sanatana Dharma by Hindus, which means "the eternal law" in the language of Sanskrit. The religion is really a collection of different religious beliefs, rituals and traditions that developed and were unified through India's history.

In the Indus Valley Civilizations of ancient India, the religion began as an ancient religion called Brahmanism. Brahmanism got its name from with the Brahman priests that were the leaders of these civilizations. However, the Hindu faith has no credited founder because there is no specific belief system to be credited. The Hindu faith truly is a collection of teachings, rituals, traditions and philosophical beliefs that were born throughout India. Its followers may choose to follow particular branches of the various Hindu teachings and rituals, while choosing to pay no mind to others whatsoever, and this is all perfectly acceptable. There are many Gods available for worship in the Hinduism, but Hindus may choose to worship only one god, or multiple Gods. Some forms of the Hindu Religion recognize a primary god and view all other Hindu gods and goddesses as manifestations of that supreme god. The religion consists of many religious texts. These texts are divided into two simple categories called Sruti ("revealed") and Smriti ("remembered"). These scriptures discuss philosophy, mythology, theology and the provide instructions for followers to practice Dharma. Dharma is the practice of living ethically through religious life-philosophies. Hindus believe in reincarnation, or being born again and again.

If you are a Hindu, your ultimate goal is to break this cycle and to finish your last life, which is called reaching Nirvana. If you follow the laws of Dharmic living, you may reach Nirvana. The Om is the symbol that is most often used to represent the Hindu faith. It's also the sound spoken or sung at the beginning and ending of most Hindu prayers. The two most important of the ancient writings are the Vedas and the Upanishads. These are the oldest and the most important of all the Hindu texts because they represent the beginning of the religion and the Sanskrit language that was developed in Ancient India. Additional important scriptures include the Puranas and the epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana; these are all important teachings and Hindu stories. Hinduism originally got its name from the Persian word "Hindu", which means Indus River, where the first Indian civilizations began, also known as the Indus Valley Civilizations. The British introduced the word Hinduism to name the religious, cultural and philosophical sides of India. Hindu people follow its teachings by adhering to prominent beliefs.

The concepts of Karma (the cyclic reaction to one's positive or negative actions in each life they live), Dharma (practices for living ethically in order to eventually stop being reincarnated), Samsara (The ongoing circle of birth, life, death and re-birth), Moksha (freedom from Samsara, and the Yogas (paths or practices) support the belief system of the Hindus. Again, your ultimate goal as a Hindu is to achieve Moksha, so that your soul can be free from repeating the birth, life, death and re-birth cycle. It's considered to be the world's most complex religion and has inspired the creation of Jainism and Buddhism. In the Hindu belief, God is complicated and the concept of God differs based upon an individual's particular religious traditions. Hinduism is not the only religion practiced in India; there are many other India religions.

Top 5 Largest Religions in the World - Countries of the World Top 5 Largest Religions in the World Top 5 Largest Religions in the World Pinterest0 The world is full of people following different religions and beliefs and from which some religions came into existence only a few years ago while on the other hand some popular religions have existed from the thousands of years. According to an estimate there are 21 formal religions around the globe with their followers living around the different countries around the globe. Some people follow all the beliefs while some followers believe only in God. From all the religions of the world, we have ranked the top five most popular and biggest religions having the largest number of followers. List of Top 5 Major Religions of the World [box type=”info” style=”rounded”] 1.Christianity Christianity is one the first rank in the list of most popular religions around the globe with more than 2.1 billion followers which is more than 31.5% of world’s entire population. It was founded about 2000 years ago in Israel. Bible is the holy book followed by Christians.Christianity is divided in three major Sects named Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox and Protestant.

2.Islam Islam is given the second rank in the list of major religions of the world having more than 1.5 billion followers; it is one of the fastest growing religions and was founded about 1400 years before in Saudi Arabia which is considered to be the largest oil-producing country . Quran is the Holy book and acted by the Muslims living in the different countries of the world. Indonesia, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh are the major countries having the largest Muslim population. 3.Hinduism Hinduism in one of the most major religions of the world with 900 million worshipers living in the different countries of the world .It is considered the world’s oldest religion. The Gita, Agamas and Vedas are the major scriptures of Hindus.India has the third strongest army around the globe and it is the top country having the largest Hindu population while on the other hand it is the second largest country for Muslim population. 4.Buddhism Buddhism is also considered a leading religion around the globe with more than 376 million followers. It was founded by Gautama Siddhartha 2500 years before in India.

Its followers are acting the son of a warrior Prince which had a wealthy background in the history of world. Buddhism is divided in three major sects like named Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana. 5.Sikhism Sikhism is the world’s fifth largest religion having more than 23 million worshipers living in the different countries of the world. It came into existence 500 years before by the Guru Nanak. This religion combined the beliefs from Islam and Hinduism. Majority of its followers is living in the Indian province Punjab. [/box] Question of the Day Q: Which is the most popular religion in the world? [box type=”tick” style=”rounded”]Ans : At present Christianity is the largest followed religion than other religions around the globe having more than 2.1 billion worshipers.[/box] [unordered_list style=”star”] What are the most common world religions? What are the most common world religions? Subscribe to our Question of the Week : Question: "What are the most common world religions?" Answer: There are countless religions in the world, with most religions having sub-sects within them.

Generally speaking, all religions attempt to help people make sense of their purpose and existence in this world, explain what occurs in the afterlife, and declare whether or not there is a deity, and if so, how we relate to this deity. The seven world religions in the list below comprise over 95 percent of the world's religious adherents. With each world religion is a link to a more detailed discussion of that religion's beliefs and practices. Roman Catholicism and Christianity There are approximately 1.2 billion professed Roman Catholics worldwide. Though the Roman Catholic Church has always been identified with Christianity, there are clear and fundamental differences between the two. Roman Catholics generally identify themselves as Christians, but for the purposes of distinguishing the two divisions of the Christian faith, adherents of Roman Catholicism are referred to as Catholics, while non-Catholic adherents of the Christian faith are referred to as Christians. There are approximately 900 million people worldwide who profess to be non-Catholic Christians.

The name Christian is derived from the fact that the early followers of Jesus of Nazareth were called Christians (Acts 11:26), which means literally “little Christs.” Christ is the Greek word for the Hebrew Messiah, the “anointed one.” Although Christians frequently identify with particular denominations such as Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, Lutherans, Pentecostals, and Nazarenes, they also universally claim the name “Christian” for themselves. Christianity is oftentimes collectively called “the church.” This is an indistinct term in that it is also the word used for local congregations and buildings as well as for specific denominations. Islam The word Islam literally means “submission,” and, as such, a Muslim is “one who submits to God.” Islam is based primarily on the writings of Mohammad, as recorded in the Qur'an. There are about 1.3 billion Muslims in the world today. Islam is represented all over the world. Though mostly associated with the Middle East, the largest Muslim populations are in Asia. Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India have sizable Muslim populations.

Hinduism Hinduism is a word created by the Western world to encompass the dominant religious and social system of India. Traditionally, those we call Hindus refer to their religion as the dharma, which means “the way” or “the religion.” There are approximately 900 million Hindus in the world. Obviously, the greatest number of Hindus is located in India. Since Indians have emigrated all over the world, however, there are many Hindu communities in other countries. The total number of Hindus in India is subject to some controversy because it includes up to 300 million “untouchables” (dalits), who are officially counted as a part of the Hindu social structure but who are prevented from fully participating in Hinduism. Buddhism Buddhism is based on the teachings of the person called the Buddha, which means “enlightened one.” This religion has many different branches, but Buddhism is the only appropriate all-encompassing term, and its adherents, no matter how divergent in their beliefs, are happy to be known as Buddhists. Buddhism has about 360 million followers, placing it fourth, behind Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism. Buddhism originated in India.

It is dominant in its more traditional forms in Sri Lanka and much of Southeast Asia (Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia). Additionally, it has taken on various forms in many other Asian countries, most notably Tibet, Korea, China, and Japan. Today Buddhism is frequently adapted and adopted by Westerners, though often at the expense of faithfulness to the traditional forms of this religion. Judaism The word Judaism comes from the name of the tribe of Judah, one of the twelve ancient tribes of Israel. So, literally, it is the religion of those who come from the tribe of Judah, who are (in English) called the Jews. However, being Jewish refers to an ethnic identity as well as a faith, and nowadays there are many Jews who do not practice the Jewish faith, even though they are happy to be known as Jews ethnically and culturally. It is estimated that there are about 15 million religious Jews in the world today, but many others do not practice any religion. Baha’i The term Baha'i literally means a “follower of Baha,” referring to Baha'ullah, the founder of the religion. Baha'i has more than seven million members.

Originating in Iran, Baha’i is represented in well over 200 countries in the world, behind only Christianity (in over 250 countries), but far ahead of Islam, which is in about 175 countries. Top Ten Religions in the World 2015 | WhichCountry.co 842 SHARES When we are talking about religions then a wave of thoughts like beliefs, view about the whole world in humanity, system of the followed religion culture and spirituality comes in our mind. In accordance with the Guinness Book of World Records, Islam is the world’s fastest-growing religion by number of conversions every year so far. Following is the list of most practiced religions in the world, probably Top Ten Religions in the World (with most population): 1. Christianity FOUNDED : Christianity began about 2000 years ago in what is now Israel. FOUNDER :: Jesus of Nazareth, or Jesus Christ, “the Anointed One”, “The Messiah”. WRITING HOME: The Bible – Old and New Testaments. Adherents :: is estimated at about 2 billion. CULTS: Christianity is divided into three main sects: Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox and Protestant.

Among Protestants there are over 20,000 denominations. Currently Christianity is at the top practiced religion in the world 2.Islam FOUNDED: Islam began about 1400 years ago in what is now Saudi Arabia. Started by: THE Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). KEY SCRIPTURE: THE QURAAN, the revealed scripture of Islam, and the Hadith, the teachings, sayings and life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Adherents: One billion, mostly in the Middle East, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Africa, China and Eastern Europe. According to Guiness 3.Hinduism FOUNDED: Hinduism, the world’s oldest religion, has no beginning – predates written history. FOUNDER: Hinduism has no single founder. MAJOR SCRIPTURES: The Gita, Vedas, the Agamas and more. Adherents: Almost one billion, mostly in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Malaysia, Indonesia, Indian Ocean, Africa, Europe and North and South. CULTS: There are four major denominations: Saivism, Saktism, Vaishnavism and Smartism.

FOUNDED: Buddhism began about 2500 years ago in India. FOUNDER: Gautama Siddhartha, the Buddha, or “Enlightened One.” Major Scriptures: The Tripitaka, Anguttara-Nikaya, Fhammapada, Sutta-Nipata, Samyutta-Nikaya and many others. Adherents: More than 300 million. Cults: Buddhism today is divided into three main sects: Theravada, or Hinayana (Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma, Cambodia), Mahayana (China, Japan, Vietnam, Korea), and Vajrayana (Tibet, Mongolia and Japan). 5.Taoism FOUNDED: Taoism began about 2500 years ago in China. FOUNDER: Lao-Tzu, whom Confucius described as a dragon riding the wind and clouds. KEY SCRIPTURE: The Tao-te-Ching, or “Book of Reason and Virtue”, is among the shortest of all scriptures, containing only 5000 words. Also important are the sacred writings of Chiang-tsu. Adherents: Estimated at 50 million, mostly in China and elsewhere in Asia.

CULTS: Taoism is a highly mystical tradition, so there have been various interpretations and sects are many. 6.Confucianism FOUNDED: Confucianism began about 2500 years ago in China. FOUNDER: The Supreme Sage K’ung-fu-tsu (Confucius) and Second Sage Meng-tsu (Mencius). KEY SCRIPTURE: The Philosophical Reviews, Doctrine of the Mean, Great Learning and Mencius book. Adherents: Approximately 350 million, mostly in China, Japan, Burma and Thailand. CULTS: There are no formal sects Confucianism. The followers are free to profess other religions and still be Confucianists. 7. Jainism FOUNDED: THE Jainism began about 2500 years ago in India. FOUNDER: Nataputra Vardhamana, known as Mahavira “Great Hero”. Pricipales Scriptures: The Jain Agamas and Siddhantas. ADHARENTES: About 600 million, almost exclusively in Central and South India, especially in Mumbai. CULTS: There are two sects.

The sect Digambara (“sky clad”) argues that a saint should own nothing, not even clothes, hence the practice of wearing only a loincloth. They believe that salvation in this birth is not possible for women. The sect Svetambara (“white robes”) disagree on that point. 8.Shintoism FOUNDED: Shintoism in Japan began around 2500-3000 years ago. FOUNDER :: Each of the thirteen ancient sects has its own founder. KEY SCRIPTURE: Kojiki (Record of Ancient Things), Nikongi (Chronicles of Japan), a later work, Yangishiki (Institutes Yengi period), and the Collection of 10,000 Leaves are the main works, but are not considered revealed scripture. Adherents: About 30 million, mostly in Japan. Most are also Buddhists. 9. Judaism FOUNDED: Judaism began about 3700 years ago in the Near East, mainly Canaan (now Israel) and Egypt. FOUNDERS: Abraham, who began the lineage, and Moses, who emancipated the enslaved Jewish tribes from Egypt.

HOME WRITING: The Torah (the Old Testament and the Talmud). Adherents: About 12 million worldwide, more than half in the United States. CULTS :: The Jews are divided into sects: Orthodox, Conservative and Reform, with other regional and ethnic divisions. 10. Sikhism FOUNDED: THE Sikhism began about 500 years ago in North India, today the nation of Pakistan. FOUNDER: Guru Nanak. KEY SCRIPTURE: The Adi Granth, revered as the present guru of belief. Adherents: Estimated as nine million, primarily in the state of Punjab in India. CULTS: Khalsa Besides, there are Ram Raiyas in Uttar Pradesh and two groups with gurus in life – the Mandharis and Nirankaris. 11. Zoroastrianism FOUNDED: Zoroastrianism began 2600 years ago in ancient Iran. FOUNDER: Spenta Zarathustra (Zoroaster). KEY SCRIPTURE: Lots of Zend-Avesta (Persian). Adherents: 125,000, mostly near Mumbai, where they are called Parsis.

Cults: Cults today are three: Shagenshai, Kadmi and Fassali. These were the most preached and practiced Top Ten Religions in the World. Below is table showing population and percentage of each religion. Top Ten Religion in the World By Population Religion the best religion in the world is Islam Mishael Yabes How about christian, buddhist, hindus??? not best, ??? vipin every religion is to be respected as it is an individuals way he understands god in his sense. wen we respect other religion we r respecting the personal freedom and sentiments of our brothers. So it is of utmost pertinence that we have an open mind in accepting and respecting other religions and at the same time ardently follow our own in its true essence. So my muslim brothers respect other religions because to others their religion is the best in the world. U can never convert all this people in this lifetime so instead of making them ur enemies lets exist as brothers and be there for each other and love each other!!! JudgeJuryExecutioner In Sikhism , everyone is welcome inside the Gurdwaramehdianasahib. Everyone regardless of background, gender, etc. is able to enjoy a complimentary meal.

What better way is there to break bread with a stranger. Sikhs have been taught to respect all and recognize other religions as they will lead to God as well. There’s no such thing as a right religion or wrong religion as long as it’s a humanitarian religion without discrimination. Haleema Saadia opinions everyone says their religion is the best Haleema Saadia Wao that’s amazing that some of the religions have very unique values and many of them are centuries old anilla IKR!!! Saeed Islam is the worlds most peaceful and loving religion and hundreds or even thousands of people are converting each day! Mishael Yabes you, just affraid, Saeed…., see the fact don’t turn the truth, cause the truth id never wrong, Islam peace???? salman Islam is about peace and respecting other religions but you guys sabotaged our picture to the people and maybe there used to be terrorism but that was long ago and by people who didn’t follow the religion 100% and thought it was wrong to stay peaceful Mark john ISLAM MEANS Terror against humanity. All muslims are children OF BIG PIG, PROPHET MUHAMMAD.

He slept with his own mother and fucked her till she died.HE WAS REAL MOTHER FUCKER AND MUSLIMS NOW DOING SAME. BASTARDS AND MOTHER FUCKERS ARE ALL MUSLIMS. WISH LORD JESUS TAKE MERCY ON THESE PIGS AND CONVERT THEM TO CHRISTIANITY AND MAKE THEM HUMANS salim All christian does this ,got it.. he doesnt…don’t say anything if udont know anything…go and read the reality….your ishu is our isha al e islam he came to earth just to give a msg of islam n u guys as usual mad people took him in a wrong way…i think u need a doctor you r mad n i dont think so u r a human being …we respect all religion because our islam says that.. we love our prophet a lot n will never ever tolerate your bullshit comment ….we never force any one to convert there religion but u people r doing this by launching the scheme ….convert to christianity you will get 2 lacs 5 lacs ting ting ti tiding…WHAT BULLSHIT IS THIS ….

if your religious is not convincing that is the you guys r launching schemes , adds, promotion as like u r selling your product…please be human n respect all religion Nivas Deen Sunni da ongomma thevdiya avsari ne or paradesi on goppan or thayali ibrahim You stupid bitch you know nothing don’t speak Islam is a religion of peace and justice but there are some Muslims do not obey these rules and how dare you say that about prophet Mohamed you are just joking around MotherFucker shut up you your mom is a hore fuck u till death an absolute jerk. i am going to let you sit on a screwdriver so every time you sit down you remember me asshole Souvik Most terrorist in the world are muslims. Nivas Deen Athukku on sootha konjam mooduriya natuthu. …..? anilla I agree on this point, but sadly as the world and tecnology is advancing, everyting is changing. People who call themselves muslims or christains are truly not muslims or christains, this is because if they were muslims they would have refraimed themselves from doing wrong and evil, since both islam and christianity forbid such activities.

No one is pure anymore, they are just self proclaimed muslims and christains, they only turn towords god either when they are in trouble or if they want something for there own selfish reasons. So in the end both muslims and christains are just ruinnig the reputation of their own religion through their corrupted habits and deeds. ibrahim Lmao, you just keep believing that fool!??? Chris Just wondering why you left out Mormonism? They claim over 17 million people. Ben Bout they’re christians. If you separate them, you’ll also have to lower the number for christianity and call it non-mormon christianity. balraj singh All religions are same and humans are equal, pray to god and keep faith, make earth planet heaven and beautiful. Help poor and feed hungry person.be good and do best for each others that our true religion on earth. GULAM KATHAR Dear sir, U r correct. But every one depends or obey to someone, tats GOD. And also, v don’t need to obey any stone. Those are all made by a man. Islam is not a new religion in this world. Its started from Adam(world first person).

Isa(pbuh) is they are worship as god Jesus . But truth is he is also a messanger of Allah (the one god). Hinduism is old stories written by some writer. NW they are all follow as religion. Its followed only by India & neighboring country. Not in whole world. Try to understand. Islam is world fastest growing religion in the world.if u follow this, not only by u &also everyone shall follow to help poor. If u want to know abt Islam , ask ur Islamic friends. Thank u sir. balraj singh I m a sikh.so u must read sikhism and islam history.it tells u how cruel u Muslims are at that time .I know about islam.islam is very good religion but muslims are not following it.they are bypassing it .Also numbers have nothing to do with religion, lot of animals in jungle but king lion is only one.please keep ur faith and religion for you and follow it correctly. Keep ur dirty mind invitation for ur dirty muslims.

Tell them follow it correctly and make women equal laws.thanx much balraj singh Also I have around 10 islamic friends and they are tired of cruelty too.also tell ur muslim brothers to be honest . Saayella Hassanwalia I think u r 100% correct. I am also sikh. British also wrote that sikh have the best fighting style in the history. Our religion has did great sacrificis. I am not at all saying that other religions are down or something like that. I believe God is one according to Guru Granth sahib. habban just read the quran and u follow it dont care about the others balraj singh Let the hindus do what they believe praying to stones or wtever , gita , regvida,,,,, u muslims just learn to be honest to ur islam religion…ur religion change from one country to another .no values for women or girls.even ur holy koraan is not written by prophet muhammad. ..read ur own history and respect all religions. Learn how to be a good human and love others.islam is good but u muslims not follow it 100 % .give respect to womens especially.

khurram shahzad “.no values for women or girls.even ur holy koraan is not written by prophet muhammad.” Who said this “no values for women or girls” On judgment Day,First question from Muslim would not be prayer or fasting, first question would be how you treat your wife?, Your relationship with your wife. And we believe on Allah( the God) so Koran is divine book, not written by any mankind and yes not even by prophet Muhammad. Thanks for reading. What a beautiful speech brother. May allah reward you for you knowledge . Alhamdulilah for islam…. Mark john ISLAM IS ALL THICK SHIT salim Shut up ur bloody mouth Nivas Deen Vaada yen sunni mavana oppen sunniya pudichi umbu da thevdiya paiya pe punda JudgeJuryExecutioner Thanks for sharing this… Shaani Ali \Let the hindus do what they believe praying to stones or wtever , gita , regvida,,,,, u muslims just learn to be honest to ur islam religion.\ Better you first learn the above by yourself then to suggest others to ponder upon as you’re here pointing your finger at Muslims.

The nature of this world has been made such a way that if you found a human injured your heart will ache and the same we Muslim feel about the humanity. I know by words it’s sometime not possible to believe in someone’s religion but the scriptures that GOD has revealed upon the face of this earth can soften a man heart! So we try to enlighten people around the globe but yes few of us are a bit extremist so they sometime teach people harshly and sometime by insisting which is not what Islam commands! We as a Muslim simply follow: Say, “This is my way; I invite to Allah with insight, I and those who follow me. And exalted is Allah ; and I am not of those who associate others with Him.” [Surat Yūsuf (Joseph) 12:108] Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided.

[Surat An-Naĥl (The Bee) 161:125] Means we’re simply allowed to discuss politely and rationally and once we’re completed our job is done and we can’t force anyone to embrace Islam. \.ur religion change from one country to another\ About switching from country to country, we do not force people to embrace Islam but we enlighten them about the teaching but it’s their own free will whether to follow it or not. That’s what our religion teaches us and that’s what we do. \no values for women or girls.\ If you have time then read the following to clear your doubts:

Question: What is India's most popular religion?
Answer: Hinduism