As of January 2022, the following is a general list of the ten largest religions in the world based on the number of adherents. It’s important to note that these figures can vary, and the rankings might change over time due to various factors such as population growth, conversion, and other demographic trends. Additionally, the term “religion” can be broad and inclusive, encompassing various belief systems. Here is a general list:
- Christianity:
- Subdivided into numerous denominations, including Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern Orthodoxy.
- Islam:
- Main branches include Sunni and Shia, with various sects within each.
- Secular/Atheist/Agnostic:
- This category includes people who identify as secular, atheist, agnostic, or non-religious.
- Hinduism:
- A diverse religious tradition with various sects and practices.
- Buddhism:
- Different schools and traditions exist within Buddhism, such as Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana.
- Chinese Traditional Religion/Folk Religion:
- Encompasses a variety of beliefs and practices rooted in Chinese culture.
- Sikhism:
- A monotheistic religion founded in the 15th century in South Asia.
- Judaism:
- Comprising various traditions, including Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and others.
- Bahá’í Faith:
- A monotheistic religion founded in the 19th century that emphasizes the oneness of humanity.
- Jainism:
- An ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence and asceticism.
It’s important to keep in mind that these rankings are approximations, and the actual numbers of adherents may vary. Additionally, different sources may provide slightly different rankings and figures based on their methodologies and data sources. For the most accurate and current information, it is advisable to refer to demographic studies, religious organizations, or reputable statistical sources.