Definition

1. Noun:
   • A structured system of beliefs, practices, and institutions dedicated to the worship of a divine power or powers, typically with established doctrines, rituals, and a community of adherents.

Usage

• Organized religion is used to describe formal, institutional faith systems, often in contrast to personal spirituality or informal belief.
• It functions as a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • Sociology often studies the role of organized religion in society.
  • Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism are examples of major organized religions.
  • Some people find community and moral guidance through an organized religion.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used in analytical or comparative contexts to discuss the social and institutional aspects of faith.
  • The study focused on the political influence of organized religion throughout history.

Variants and Related Words

• Religion (n): A broader term for a system of faith and worship, which may or may not be highly structured. "Organized religion" is a specific type of religion.
• Faith (n): Often used synonymously with religion, but can place more emphasis on personal belief and trust.
• Denomination (n): A distinct branch or subgroup within a larger organized religion (e.g., Baptists are a denomination within Christianity).
• Sect (n): A subgroup within a religion, sometimes implying a break from established doctrine.

Synonyms

• Institutional religion
• Formal religion
• Creed (when referring to the system of belief)

Antonyms

• Personal spirituality
• Irreligion
• Secularism

Related Phrases

• Freedom of religion: The right to practice any organized religion or none at all.
  • The constitution guarantees freedom of organized religion.
• Organized faith: A near-identical phrase, sometimes used interchangeably.

Noun

1. an institution to express belief in a divine power
   • he was raised in the Baptist religion
   • a member of his own faith contradicted him