revealed religion
Definition
Noun: A religion that is based on divine revelations made known to humanity, typically through prophets, scriptures, or sacred events. Its core doctrines and truths are considered to have been disclosed by a deity, rather than discovered solely through human reason or observation of the natural world.
Usage
The term is used to categorize and describe religions that claim a foundation in specific, supernatural disclosures from God or gods. It is often used in theological, comparative religion, and philosophical contexts. - Christianity, Islam, and Judaism are classic examples of revealed religion. - Theologians debated the relationship between revealed religion and natural religion.
Advanced Usage
- In theological discourse: The concept is frequently contrasted with "natural religion," which refers to religious knowledge attainable through human reason and observation of the natural world, without special revelation.
- In academic writing: The term can be used to analyze the epistemological foundations (sources of knowledge) of different religious traditions.
Variants and Related Words
- Reveal (verb): To make known something that was previously secret or unknown.
- Revelation (noun): The divine or supernatural disclosure of sacred knowledge or truth; often capitalized () when referring to a specific text.
- Natural Religion (noun phrase): A system of religious belief based on reason and ordinary experience, rather than on revelation.
Synonyms
- Supernatural religion
- Religion of revelation
Antonyms
- Natural religion
- Rational religion
Related Phrases and Concepts
- Divine revelation: The act of God making divine truth known to humanity.
- Positive religion: A related historical term for religion established by divine revelation or positive divine institution.
Noun
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a religion founded primarily on the revelations of God to humankind
