[ri-lij-uh
n] 
| 1. | a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, esp. 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. |
| 6. | something one believes in and follows devotedly; a point or matter of ethics or conscience: to make a religion of fighting prejudice. |
| 7. | religions, Archaic. religious rites. |
| 8. | Archaic. strict faithfulness; devotion: a religion to one's vow. |
| 9. | get religion, Informal.
|
| re·li·gion (rĭ-lĭj'ən) n.
[Middle English religioun, from Old French religion, from Latin religiō, religiōn-, perhaps from religāre, to tie fast; see rely.] |
religion
For figures on Adherents of All Religions by Continent, see Table I; for Adherents in the U.S., see Table II
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