Buddhism, based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama

[kwassa]

31. I like the definition of spirituality, but disagree on your definition of religion

When I use the word "religion" I mean this (in my own words):


"A group of people organized around a common belief in a god or gods, gathering under the umbrella of a secular organization that is built around that belief; an organization that controls the dissemination of dogma regarding that belief in order to achieve social or cultural goals."

The god or gods part is not necessary; clearly Buddhism is an example of that. Also, the organization built around that belief is not secular, but religious, of course. There are also religions that are relatively non-dogmatic, or possess no dogma at all, like the Unitarians, if they can be considered a religion.

here is a dictionary definition

re·li·gion   /rɪˈlɪdʒən/ Show Spelled[ri-lij-uhn] Show IPA
noun
1. a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, especially when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs.
2. a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects: the Christian religion; the Buddhist religion.
3. the body of persons adhering to a particular set of beliefs and practices: a world council of religions.
4. the life or state of a monk, nun, etc.: to enter religion.
5. the practice of religious beliefs; ritual observance of faith.