Religious conversion: Difference between revisions
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'''Religious conversion''' | '''Religious conversion''' is the changing of one's [[religion]], usually from the faith in which one was raised to a different set of beliefs. Conversion sometimes includes adopting a different [[name]] or [[lifestyle]]. | ||
Secondary conversion | Secondary conversion involves converting to the religion of one's spouse <!--I've never heard this term before, so I've no idea if it's true or not, but that's what the original author put so in the absence of more information I'm leaving it.<--> | ||
Historically, conversion has happened for many reasons: positive change such as personal choice or converting to one's spouse's religion for the sake of family unity, or negative impetus, such as whole groups of people being compelled to convert, as after conquest or being coerced into conversion in some manner. In modern times, conversion is usually the individual's own choice and takes place after a period of research and reflection. | |||
The [[New Testament]] states that Christians have the | ==Why do people convert?== | ||
There are many theories of conversion. A longstanding view sees conversion as the result of some great, sudden revelation or [[epiphany]], and indeed, some such dramatic conversions are well known, such as conversion story of Saul who became Paul, as described in the [[New Testament]], or the revelations described by [[Joseph Smith]]. | |||
The theory of forced conversion by [[brainwashing]] for recruitment into [[cult]]s or [[new religious movement]]s has been rejected by the majority of scholars. <!--has it?--> Sociologists now tend to see conversion as a gradual process in which [[socialization]] is at least a factor. | |||
==The role of evangelism== | |||
===In Christianity === | |||
The [[New Testament]] states that Christians have the obligation to tell about their faith. Most Christian denominations believe in evangelism but they may differ on how active or aggressive this should be. [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] for example, consider active evangelism a great part of the faith. | |||
Revision as of 01:48, 13 April 2008
Religious conversion is the changing of one's religion, usually from the faith in which one was raised to a different set of beliefs. Conversion sometimes includes adopting a different name or lifestyle.
Secondary conversion involves converting to the religion of one's spouse
Historically, conversion has happened for many reasons: positive change such as personal choice or converting to one's spouse's religion for the sake of family unity, or negative impetus, such as whole groups of people being compelled to convert, as after conquest or being coerced into conversion in some manner. In modern times, conversion is usually the individual's own choice and takes place after a period of research and reflection.
Why do people convert?
There are many theories of conversion. A longstanding view sees conversion as the result of some great, sudden revelation or epiphany, and indeed, some such dramatic conversions are well known, such as conversion story of Saul who became Paul, as described in the New Testament, or the revelations described by Joseph Smith.
The theory of forced conversion by brainwashing for recruitment into cults or new religious movements has been rejected by the majority of scholars. Sociologists now tend to see conversion as a gradual process in which socialization is at least a factor.
The role of evangelism
In Christianity
The New Testament states that Christians have the obligation to tell about their faith. Most Christian denominations believe in evangelism but they may differ on how active or aggressive this should be. Jehovah's Witnesses for example, consider active evangelism a great part of the faith.