Differences Between Religion and Cult
                     DIFFERENCES BETWEEN 
RELIGION AND CULT
WHAT IS RELIGION?
 Religion is a specific system of belief and/or 
worship, often involving a code of ethics and 
philosophy. It also consists of specific morals, 
principles, rules, beliefs, and rituals that guide 
people. 
Source: pediaa.com
RELIGION BELIEF
 Although religion is often defined as a belief in a 
god or a group of gods or the belief in and 
worship of divinity, not all religions in believe in 
gods.
Source: pediaa.com
RELIGION EXAMPLE
 Buddhism, for example, does not believe in the 
supremacy of God. Some other widespread 
religions in the world include Christianity, Islam, 
and Hinduism. These four religions are the most 
prevalent religions in the world.
Source: pediaa.com
WHAT IS A CULT?
 A cult is a small religious group, which is not 
part of a larger and more accepted religion, with 
socially deviant or new beliefs and practices.
Source: pediaa.com
CULT BELIEF
 A newly established religion may also be called 
by the name cult. Cult is also used to refer to a 
system of religious veneration and devotion 
directed towards a particular figure or object.
Source: pediaa.com
CULT EXAMPLE
 For example, Christian Church allowed the 
worship of a particular saint.
Source: pediaa.com
CONNOTATIONS
 Cult is often associated with pejorative and 
negative connotations.
 Religion is not associated with pejorative or 
negative connotations.
Source: pediaa.com
FOLLOWERS
 Cult generally has fewer followers than a 
religion.
 Religion generally has more followers than a 
cult.
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NATURE
 Cult is newer, less organized and not 
established.
 Religion is organized, established and has a 
longer history.
Source: pediaa.com
VIEWS
 Cult may be viewed as abnormal, abusive, and 
wicked.
 Religions are often more accepted.
Source: pediaa.com