Polytheism refers to a religion in which the gods can be worshipped in many different ways. This belief holds that there are many gods and deities and there is no one superior god or goddess. This article discusses the different forms and types of polytheism: Orthodox Christianity; Shinto; Catholicism; Zoroastrianism.
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism was a religion that originated in the ancient Near East and Central Asia. It is believed to have been founded in the second century B.C.E. Its name derives from Zoroaster the Zoroaster god. Even though it is centuries old, this ancient religion is still popular today.
Zoroastrians believe in the eternal struggle between good and evil. They believe in two spirits - Spenta Mainyu is the spirit good, and Angra Mainyu the spirit evil. They also believe that fire is a powerful force. Zoroastrians consider a fire temple their main place of worship. According to legend, there were at least three fire temples when the world began. But, these temples never were discovered and are a myth.
Catholicism
The Catholic religion is monotheistic and acknowledges the divinity Jesus Christ and the Trinity. The Judeo-Christian Bible is its main religious document and is believed to have been inspired by God. It comprises the Old Testament of the Hebrew religion and the canonical books of the New Testament, which was established in the 4th century CE. Some parts of Scripture can be read literally, while others may be considered poetic expressions.
Catholics worship the Virgin Mary and other saints. These saints do NOT have power of creation but are called upon to intercede for Catholics in prayer. The Virgin Mary was the mother Jesus Christ's and lived in Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Bethlehem. The archangel told her that she would give birth as a virgin to Christ. She did it, but she remained a virgin even after the birth. Her body went through a process known as "the assumption" to become the Queen of Heaven.
Orthodox Christianity
The relationship between Orthodox Christianity, polytheism, and Orthodox Christianity isn't just about belief. Both religions have different beliefs about salvation and the nature God. Orthodox Christianity teaches that God can be made a man through Grace and the Holy Ghost. This is how God was made flesh as a man, and revealed Himself.
Orthodox Christianity follows liturgical ritual patterns for worship. It encompasses all of humanity and is a direct entry to the throne. Worship has transformative power. It draws Christians closer to God and transforms them into saints. Orthodox Christianity is a fundamental component of worship and veneration.
Shinto
Shinto practitioners practice ritual purification prior to approaching a kami and offering a petitionary prayer. They are also expected to offer a sacrifice before they seek the blessings of the kami. This can be in the form a meal, sake or a horse. These offerings are considered a transaction by the worshipper and the kami.
During the early centuries of Shinto, local shrines enshrined the protector gods of the clan and village. The shrines were often held in conjunction with seasonal festivals, which the whole community was expected participate in. Shinto beliefs addressed the needs of the entire village while Buddhism addressed the individual. Shinto beliefs were modified by Buddhism, which allowed people to pray at shrines for personal issues.