Religion has shaped human history for thousands of years. From ancient belief systems that trace back to the dawn of civilization, to younger faiths that emerged only a few centuries ago, billions of people today still find meaning, identity, and community in religion.

Here’s a look at ten of the world’s most widely practiced religions, their origins, and what makes them unique.

Jainism (6–7 Million Followers)

Born in India, Jainism is one of the world’s oldest religions centered on the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence toward all living beings. Jain teachings encourage peace, compassion, and self-control, with followers striving to overcome passions such as anger, pride, and greed.

Jains follow five central vows: non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-attachment. These ideals greatly influenced Mahatma Gandhi, who adopted them into his philosophy of peaceful resistance. Jainism has two main sects—Digambara and Svetambara—but both emphasize harmony and inner peace.

The Baháʼí Faith (7 Million Followers)

The Baháʼí Faith was founded in 19th-century Persia (modern-day Iran) by Baháʼu’lláh, who taught that he was the latest messenger of God, following in the footsteps of prophets like Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.

Baháʼís emphasize unity: the unity of God, the unity of religion, and the unity of humankind. They believe all people are equal, regardless of race or culture, and that humanity should work together for collective progress.

Despite facing exile and imprisonment, Baháʼu’lláh’s message spread across the globe, making the Baháʼí Faith one of today’s most widespread independent religions.

Judaism (14 Million Followers)

Judaism is among the oldest monotheistic religions, rooted in the Torah, part of the Hebrew Bible. Jews believe in one God who created the universe and continues to guide it.

Religious practices often center on family and tradition: daily prayers, observance of the Sabbath, and rituals tied to life events and festivals. Distinctive symbols include the kippah (skullcap), tzitzit (fringes), and tefillin (small boxes with scripture).

Uniquely, Jewish identity is considered inherited: if your mother is Jewish, you are Jewish—regardless of your personal beliefs.

Spiritism (15 Million Followers)

Less familiar to many outside of South America, Spiritism began in 19th-century France through the writings of Allan Kardec. Followers believe humans are immortal spirits who undergo multiple reincarnations to grow morally and intellectually.

Unlike many religions, Spiritism has no formal rituals. Instead, its communities focus on study groups, charity, and healing centers. It has had a lasting influence in Brazil, where millions embrace it as a spiritual path alongside other traditions.

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Sikhism (23 Million Followers)

Founded in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century, Sikhism is one of the youngest major religions. Sikhs believe in one God who exists within and beyond the universe.

The Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s holy scripture, teaches equality, selfless service, and devotion to God. Sikhs also uphold the principles of social justice and honest living. Their faith incorporates ideas of karma and rebirth, while emphasizing community and compassion.

Buddhism (349 Million Followers)

Buddhism traces its origins to Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, a prince who gave up his wealth to seek enlightenment. Emerging in India around the 6th century BCE, Buddhism spread widely across Asia and beyond.

Buddhists follow five moral precepts, such as refraining from harming living beings, stealing, lying, and misusing substances. Monks take additional vows and live lives of deep discipline.

Colorful Buddhist festivals, especially in Southeast Asia, reflect the joy of this tradition. Anyone who has witnessed a New Year celebration in Thailand or Cambodia has seen Buddhism’s lively spirit.

Chinese Folk Religion (394 Million Followers)

Less known outside Asia, Chinese folk religion is a blend of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, shaped by local traditions. It is polytheistic, involving worship of gods, ancestors, and natural forces.

Practices include rituals, festivals, and reverence for harmony between humanity and the cosmos. Though often overlooked in the West, it remains a central spiritual tradition for millions in China.

Hinduism (1 Billion Followers)

Often called the world’s oldest living religion, Hinduism stretches back over 4,000 years. Hindus believe in a supreme cosmic spirit, Brahman, expressed through countless gods and goddesses.

Central deities include Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). Worship can take place in temples or at home, often involving offerings of flowers, food, or incense.

One unique feature of Hindu society is the caste system, once rigid but now less strictly observed. Hindus also hold strong beliefs in karma, dharma (duty), and reincarnation.

Islam (1.8 Billion Followers)

Islam began in the 7th century CE with the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who Muslims believe was the final messenger of God. Followers worship Allah, the one true God.

The religion is guided by the Five Pillars of Islam: faith, prayer, charity, fasting during Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca. Muslims also honor earlier prophets such as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, though they see Jesus as a prophet rather than the Son of God.

With over 1.8 billion followers worldwide, Islam is the second-largest and fastest-growing religion today.

Christianity (2.4 Billion Followers)

Christianity is the largest religion on Earth, with more than two billion followers. Christians believe in one God and in Jesus Christ as the Son of God who came to save humanity from sin and death.

Major branches include Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern Orthodoxy, each with rich traditions and practices. Christianity has profoundly influenced culture, philosophy, and education, helping to shape much of the modern world.

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Final Thoughts

From the disciplined non-violence of Jainism to the universal call for love in Christianity, religions offer people a framework for understanding existence and living meaningful lives. While beliefs differ, the common threads of morality, community, and the search for truth unite people across cultures and history.