Religions shape the beliefs and values of billions of people around the world. They offer guidance on life, community, and morality. The largest religions have followers across countries and cultures, offering unique teachings and traditions. This list covers the largest religions in the world by followers, origins, and primary deities. Each has played a significant role in history and continues to influence global society today.

Christianity

Christianity is the largest religion in the world. It has over 2.3 billion followers. This faith originated in the 1st century CE in the region now known as Israel. Christians believe in one God and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Bible is their sacred text. There are various branches, including Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern Orthodoxy. Christianity is widespread across Europe, the Americas, and parts of Africa.

Islam

Islam has about 1.9 billion followers worldwide. It began in the 7th century in Mecca, located in modern-day Saudi Arabia. Muslims believe in one God, Allah, and follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. The Quran is their holy book. Islam has two main branches: Sunni and Shia. The religion is practiced in regions such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and North Africa.

Secular/Nonreligious/Agnostic/Atheist

This group includes people who do not follow any formal religion. They number around 1.2 billion globally. Secular individuals may embrace philosophical worldviews instead of religious beliefs. Agnostics remain uncertain about the existence of deities. Atheists reject belief in a god or gods. This category has grown rapidly, particularly in Europe, North America, and parts of East Asia.

Hinduism

Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world. It has approximately 1.2 billion followers. Originating in India over 4,000 years ago, Hinduism is a complex religion with many gods and goddesses. The primary deities include Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The Vedas and Upanishads are some of its key scriptures. Hindus practice rituals, meditation, and believe in karma and reincarnation.

Buddhism

Buddhism has around 520 million followers worldwide. It started in the 6th century BCE in India, founded by Siddhartha Gautama, who became the Buddha. Buddhists do not follow a specific god but focus on attaining enlightenment. The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path guide their practices. Buddhism spread across Asia, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and Thailand.

Sikhism

Sikhism has approximately 25 million followers globally. It originated in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century. The faith was founded by Guru Nanak and developed through ten successive Gurus. Sikhs believe in one God, known as Waheguru. The Guru Granth Sahib is their holy scripture. Sikhism emphasizes equality, service, and devotion to God.

Spiritism

Spiritism has about 15 million followers, primarily in countries like Brazil and France. The religion was founded by Allan Kardec in the 19th century. Followers believe in the existence of spirits and their ability to communicate with the living. There is no specific deity in Spiritism. Instead, it focuses on spiritual evolution and moral development. The core teachings come from “The Spirits’ Book.”

Judaism

Judaism is one of the oldest monotheistic religions, with about 14 million followers. It originated in the Middle East around 4,000 years ago. Jews believe in one God, referred to as Yahweh. The Torah is the central religious text. Judaism has influenced many other major religions. It is practiced mainly in Israel and among Jewish communities worldwide.

Bahá’í Faith

The Bahá’í Faith has approximately 7 million followers globally. It began in the 19th century in Persia, now Iran. Bahá’ís believe in one God and follow the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, their prophet-founder. The religion emphasizes unity and the oneness of humanity. Bahá’í teachings focus on equality, justice, and world peace. There are no clergy in the Bahá’í Faith.

Jainism

Jainism is followed by around 4.5 million people, primarily in India. It originated over 2,500 years ago in the Indian subcontinent. Jains do not believe in a creator god but instead follow the teachings of 24 Tirthankaras, with Mahavira being the last. The religion emphasizes non-violence, truth, and asceticism. Karma and reincarnation are central to its philosophy.

Shinto

Shinto is the traditional religion of Japan with around 3-4 million followers. It dates back to ancient times and revolves around the worship of kami, or spirits. There is no central god, but followers believe in divine forces that inhabit nature. Shinto rituals focus on purity, celebration, and honoring ancestors. It plays an essential role in Japanese culture and festivals.

Cao Dai

Cao Dai has around 6 million followers, primarily in Vietnam. It was founded in the 1920s as a new religious movement. Followers believe in one Supreme Being who combines elements from various religions. Cao Dai incorporates teachings from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The religion seeks harmony between different beliefs, and the Cao Dai Holy See is its main temple.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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