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Definition:
The practice of ancestor worship appears to be part of some of the earliest forms
of religious belief. Its basic premises include the idea that deceased relatives
still linger about near the living, still need things like food and drink, and are
motivated much like the living. Because of these motivations, they can help the living
when pleased or hurt the living when displeased.
Services for the dead only reach the level of "worship," instead of simply being veneration, when they are based upon feelings of real dependence of the living on the spirits of the dead. Both veneration and worship are directed at spirits of family members primarily, although they can also be directed at important leaders or heroes.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
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What is the Philosophy of Religion?
Sometimes confused with theology, the Philosophy of Religion is the philosophical study of religious beliefs, religious doctrines, religious arguments and religious history. The line between theology and the philosophy of religion isn't always sharp, but the primary difference is that theology tends to be apologetical in nature, committed to the defense of particular religious positions, whereas Philosophy of Religion is committed to the investigation of religion itself, rather than the truth of any particular religion.
