Polytheism is a religion where the gods are worshipped in a variety of 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 (or Zoroastrianism) is a religion found in Central Asia and the Near East. It is believed to have originated around the second millennium B.C.E. Its name comes from the god Zarathushtra, who is also known as Zoroaster. Even though it is centuries old, this ancient religion is still popular today.
Zoroastrians believe it is the eternal struggle of good and evil. They believe in two spirits, Spenta Mainyu (the spirit of good) and Angra Mainyu (the spirit of evil). They also believe in the power of fire. Zoroastrians worship a fire temple as their principal place of worship. According to legend, there were at least three fire temples when the world began. They have been lost and are myths.
Catholicism
The Catholic religion is monotheistic, and it acknowledges Jesus Christ's divinity. The Judeo-Christian Bible is its main religious document and is believed to have been inspired by God. It includes both the Old Testament of Hebrew Religion and the New Testament canonical works. The Bible was created 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, the mother of Jesus Christ, lived in Bethlehem and Nazareth. The archangel informed her that she would be giving birth to Christ as virgin. After giving birth, she remained virgin. Her body went through what is known as the "the assumption" process to become the Queen in Heaven.
Orthodox Christianity
The relationship between Orthodox Christianity, polytheism, and Orthodox Christianity isn't just about belief. Both religions hold very different views on salvation and the nature of God. Orthodox Church teaches man can become God by Grace and the Holy Spirit. This is how God made Himself known to us as a man.
Worship in Orthodox Christianity is liturgical and follows ritual patterns. It enfolds the whole human person and is seen as a direct entrance to the throne of the Creator. Worship has transformative power. It draws Christians closer to God and transforms them into saints. Orthodox Christianity's essential elements include worship and veneration for holy persons.
Shinto
Shinto practitioners perform ritual purification before they approach a kami to make a petitionary prayers. 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 between the kami and the worshipper.
During the early centuries of Shinto, local shrines enshrined the protector gods of the clan and village. These shrines were often associated with seasonal festivals, and everyone was expected to take part in them. Shinto beliefs focused upon the interests of the whole village, while Buddhism focused more on the individual. Shinto religions were modified by Buddhism. People could pray to shrines for personal problems.