You can find most historical information on these religions online or at a local library. It may be hard to research all five at once, so start with one you’re unfamiliar with and slowly move on to learn the rest over time. Islam, Christianity, and Judaism were derived in the Middle East while Hinduism and Buddhism were founded in India. [1] X Research source The age of each religion varies drastically in some cases. Hinduism is the oldest known religion that’s still practiced and has been developed in India since 1500 BCE. [2] X Research source
While Judaism has the Torah, Christianity has the Bible, and Islam has the Quran, most major religions usually have hundreds of associated texts related to the canon of the religion as well. [3] X Research source You can always pick up religious texts in your native tongue by looking online or at a bookstore.
You can ask people about specific dishes that they eat during certain holidays, or customs that you’re not sure about. Most people will be pleasantly surprised when you take interest in their religion. [4] X Trustworthy Source Kansas University Center for Community Health and Development Community-based research center focused on supporting public health development and education Go to source
Sacred sites can be found all over the world including countries like Nepal, India, China, Japan, Italy, France, and Israel. Refer to a travel guide to find local sacred sites.
If you don’t like someone’s customs, but it doesn’t affect you or harm anyone, keep your opinion to yourself. If you really can’t get along with someone, just walk away and reflect on your interaction. Revisit it later with a different person.
Judaism and Christianity use some of the same religious texts and both share the laws of the 10 Commandments. Islam, Judaism, and Christianity share holy sites in Israel and Palestine. Hinduism and Buddhism both share origins from India and have some similar beliefs, like the belief in reincarnation. [8] X Research source
If you’re curious about a custom or ritual, wait until it is complete before asking any questions. Remember to remain respectful and inquisitive and not judgmental.
Make sure to not incorporate negative things you’ve heard from the media or entertainment industry when talking to the person. You can respectfully ask questions about a religion’s clothing, customs, laws, or beliefs without offending most people.
Traveling to different countries can also expand your perspective and increase your knowledge of other religions and cultures. [10] X Research source If you can’t afford to move, visit nearby metropolitan areas that have more religious and cultural diversity. Some of the most culturally diverse cities in the world include Amsterdam, London, and Los Angeles. [11] X Research source
Don’t argue and fight with someone of a different faith. Accept the fact that you may both believe different things. Some people may not want to talk about their faith, and you should accept it and move on. If someone of a different faith asks you why you are asking him so many questions, or why you are so open to talk about religion say, “I’m trying to expand my knowledge and understanding of different faiths. I don’t know a lot about your faith, and I’m trying to get a better perspective from someone who practices it. ”
Clearly communicating and remaining understanding and respectful will help you avoid conflict. [13] X Research source Don’t tell people that your religion is superior to theirs. Never tell someone else that her faith is “wrong. ”
There are non-denominational community groups that participate in community building. To find a community group search on Idealist. org for volunteer openings in your area. [14] X Research source
The stronger your friendships become, the more comfortable some people will feel in discussing and explaining their religion.
People of other religions also have families and friends and want the best for them. They might enjoy sports, or love the family dog, or get irritated with Grandma sometimes. Each person has many facets, and religion is just one side of who they are. Recognizing that you, too, are much more than your religion may help you to think larger and apply that same concept to other individuals who may have a different religion. All humans, regardless of race or religion share the same set of genes. [15] X Research source There are aspects of human psychology that transcend cultural, regional, and religious differences as well. [16] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Business Review Online and print journal covering topics related to business management practices Go to source
Instead of focusing on cultural and religious differences, talk about things that you both enjoy — sports, film, art, good food, literature, etc. You may find a lifelong friend in someone that you would not expect.
In Islam, Allah said, “Allah commands you to uphold justice and to do good to others and to give to the relatives. " (16:90)[18] X Research source In Judaism, it is a main tenant to treat others with kindness. Buddhism teaches you to treat everyone just as you would treat those that are close to you, like family or friends. [19] X Research source The Bible teaches to “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. ”[20] X Research source
Many of your beliefs will influence your children, so it’s especially important to try to achieve acceptance before their belief systems are fully formed.
