A fact stays a fact whether you choose to believe it or not. All of religion measures up to but a fraction of human culture and civilization in the grand scheme of things.
Yes, there have been several points in history where culture and religion were closely intertwined and sometimes even considered synonymous. In many ancient civilizations, religion played a central role in shaping the culture and daily lives of people. The beliefs, rituals, and practices associated with religion often permeated all aspects of society, including art, architecture, governance, social customs, and even language.
For example, in ancient Egypt, religion was an integral part of the culture, and the pharaohs were considered divine rulers. The construction of monumental structures such as pyramids and temples was closely tied to religious beliefs, and religious rituals and ceremonies were performed regularly to appease the gods and ensure the well-being of the society.
Similarly, in ancient Greece, religion was deeply ingrained in the culture, and the gods and goddesses played a significant role in various aspects of life. Festivals, ceremonies, and religious practices were an integral part of Greek society and influenced art, literature, philosophy, and even politics.
In many indigenous cultures around the world, religion and culture are often inseparable. The spiritual beliefs and practices of indigenous communities are closely intertwined with their cultural traditions, including language, music, dance, storytelling, and social structures.
However, it's important to note that while culture and religion have often been closely linked, they are not necessarily the same thing. Culture encompasses a broader range of aspects such as language, customs, traditions, arts, and social behaviors, whereas religion is a specific belief system that may be a part of a culture or influence it significantly. Additionally, cultures can evolve and change over time, and the relationship between culture and religion can vary across different societies and historical periods.
You've repeatedly insisted religion can exist without being tied to an institution, and yet you've not provided a single example of that ever happening. "Religious institution" can be considered a redundant phrase in the modern day.
There have been instances in history where religion existed without a formal institutional structure. Here are a few examples:
1. Indigenous and Tribal Religions: Many indigenous and tribal communities around the world have practiced their religious beliefs without a centralized institutional framework. These religions often involve animistic or shamanistic practices, where spiritual beliefs are deeply rooted in nature and community. These traditions are passed down through generations and are often guided by community elders, shamans, or spiritual leaders, rather than a formal religious institution.
2. Personal Spirituality: Some individuals may have personal religious or spiritual beliefs that are not tied to any organized institution. They may follow their own unique spiritual path, drawing from various religious traditions or developing their own beliefs and practices.
3. Non-Institutionalized Mystical Movements: Throughout history, there have been mystical or esoteric movements that emphasize personal spiritual experiences and direct communion with the divine, often bypassing formal religious institutions. Examples include certain branches of mysticism within Islam, such as Sufism, or various mystical traditions within Christianity, like Christian mysticism.
4. New Religious Movements: In modern times, there have been new religious movements or alternative spiritualities that exist outside mainstream religious institutions. These movements often emerge as a response to perceived shortcomings or conflicts within established religious traditions. Examples include New Age movements, neo-paganism, and various spiritual or philosophical movements that blend elements from multiple religious and philosophical sources.
It's important to note that even in the absence of a formal institution, these examples still involve individuals or communities practicing and expressing their religious or spiritual beliefs in various ways, often through rituals, ceremonies, prayers, and other forms of spiritual engagement.
