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Question

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best substitute of the words/sentence.

A system of religious belief; a faith

The correct answer is

Creed

Finding the Best Substitute for Religious Belief System

The question asks for a single word that best substitutes the phrase "A system of religious belief; a faith". We need to examine each option and see which one aligns most closely with this definition.

Analyzing the Options for Religious Belief System

Let's break down the meanings of the given options:

  • Nihilism: This is a philosophy, not typically a religious belief system. Nihilism is the belief that life is without objective meaning, purpose, or intrinsic value. It often rejects moral and religious principles. This is clearly not a system of religious belief or faith.
  • Heresy: Heresy refers to belief or opinion contrary to orthodox religious (especially Christian) doctrine. It is a deviation from an established religious belief system, not the system itself. Someone holding a heresy is challenging or rejecting part of a creed or faith, not defining a whole new one.
  • Impiety: Impiety means a lack of reverence, especially for a god or religion. It describes an attitude or behaviour that is irreligious or disrespectful towards religious beliefs or practices. It is not a system of religious belief in itself.
  • Creed: A creed is a set of religious beliefs or principles. It is a formal statement of Christian belief, or any system of religious belief; a faith. This definition perfectly matches the phrase given in the question.

Identifying the Correct Substitute for Faith

Comparing the definitions:

  • "A system of religious belief; a faith" means a collection of principles, doctrines, and practices that form a particular religion or faith.
  • Creed directly means "a set of religious beliefs or principles" and "any system of religious belief; a faith".

The word "Creed" is the most accurate and direct substitute for the given phrase.

Conclusion on Religious Terminology

Based on the analysis, 'Creed' is the word that best describes 'A system of religious belief; a faith'. The other options refer to concepts that are either opposed to religious belief (Nihilism, Impiety) or are deviations from established beliefs (Heresy).

Summary of Options and Definitions
Term Definition Match with "System of Religious Belief"?
Nihilism Belief that life is meaningless, rejecting religious/moral principles. No
Heresy Belief contrary to orthodox religious doctrine. No (deviation from a system)
Impiety Lack of reverence for God/religion. No (attitude towards religion)
Creed A set of religious beliefs or principles; a system of religious belief; a faith. Yes

Revision Table: Understanding Belief Systems

Key Terms Related to Faith and Belief
Term Brief Explanation
Faith Strong belief in God or in the doctrines of a religion, based on spiritual apprehension rather than proof. Also, a system of religious belief.
Belief System A set of principles or tenets that together form the basis of a religion, philosophy, or moral code.
Doctrine A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a Church, political party, or other group.
Tenet A principle or belief, especially one of the main principles of a religion or philosophy.
Dogma A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true. Central dogmas form the core of a creed.

Additional Information on Creeds and Faith

Creeds are fundamental to many religions as they summarize the core tenets of the faith in a concise manner. For example, the Apostles' Creed and the Nicene Creed are important statements of belief in Christianity. Reciting a creed can be an affirmation of one's adherence to the system of religious belief it represents.

Understanding the nuances between terms like creed, doctrine, dogma, and faith is important for vocabulary building and comprehending texts related to religion and philosophy. While faith can refer to the act of believing, it can also, as stated in the question, refer to the system of belief itself, synonymous with creed in that context.

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Important Questions from One Word Substitution

  1. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words.

    A glass container to keep fish

  2. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words.

    Something that is strong and lasts a long time without breaking or becoming weaker.

  3. Select the word which means the same as the group of words given.

    A place where plants are grown for sale

  4. In the following question, out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the given words/sentence.

    Open refusal to obey orders

  5. Select the word which means the same as the group of words given.

    A doctor who specializes in heart diseases

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