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Causes of Division of Religions into Different Sects After the Demise of Their Founders- A Study

Religion, as a deeply ingrained aspect of human culture, has been a driving force in shaping societies, moral values, and individual beliefs throughout history. Whether it be Buddhism, Jainism, Christianity, or Islam, many of the world's major religions have undergone divisions into various sects after the death of their founders. This phenomenon can be attributed to a combination of factors, including human nature, the interpretation of scriptures, sociopolitical influences, and the quest for spiritual authority and autonomy. Let us explore these reasons in detail:


Possible Causes of Division of Religions

 Scriptures, often written in symbolic and metaphorical language, can be subject to multiple interpretations, leading to different understandings and emphases on particular aspects of religious teachings

1. Interpretation of Scriptures:

One of the primary reasons for the emergence of sects within religions lies in the interpretation of sacred scriptures and teachings left behind by the founders. Scriptures, often written in symbolic and metaphorical language, can be subject to multiple interpretations, leading to different understandings and emphases on particular aspects of religious teachings. As time passes and various scholars and religious leaders arise, they may present distinct interpretations, leading to divisions within the religious community.


For example, In Christianity, the interpretation of the Bible's teachings led to the division between Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. Disagreements over doctrines such as salvation, the authority of the Pope, and the role of scripture resulted in the Protestant Reformation and the formation of various Protestant denominations.


Similarly, The split between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism is based on different interpretations of the Buddhist scriptures, known as the Tripitaka. Theravada Buddhism, prevalent in Southeast Asia, adheres strictly to the original teachings of the Buddha. In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism, found in East Asia, interprets the scriptures more flexibly and emphasizes the concept of the Bodhisattva, one who postpones their enlightenment to help others achieve it.


After the death of a religious founder, the question of leadership and authority becomes crucial for the continuity and expansion of the faith.

2. Leadership and Authority:

After the death of a religious founder, the question of leadership and authority becomes crucial for the continuity and expansion of the faith. Differences in opinions about who should succeed the founder can lead to conflicts, and in some cases, multiple leaders emerge, each claiming their legitimacy to guide the religious community. These competing claims often result in the establishment of separate sects with distinct leadership structures.


For example, in Islam, after the death of Prophet Muhammad, there was a dispute over the rightful successor to lead the Muslim community. This led to the division between Sunni Muslims, who believe in following the consensus of the community (the majority), and Shia Muslims, who believe in the leadership of specific descendants of Prophet Muhammad.


On a similar note, after the demise of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of Sikhism, there was confusion over who should succeed as the next Guru. Some Sikhs believed there should be no human successor and that the Guru's teachings were embodied in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture. Others opined that the Guruship continues through human successors. This led to the creation of two main sects in Sikhism - the Udasis and the Khalsa.


Within Islam, Sufism represents a mystical and spiritual dimension of the faith.

3. Cultural and Regional Influences:

Religions often spread across diverse regions and cultures, adapting to the unique characteristics of each locale. As a result, local customs, traditions, and beliefs may become intertwined with religious practices and teachings. Over time, these variations can lead to the emergence of different sects, each reflecting the cultural and regional influences of its followers.


For instance, Buddhism spread to various regions, resulting in distinct sects such as Theravada Buddhism in Southeast Asia and Mahayana Buddhism in East Asia. Each sect adapted to the local customs and culture, leading to variations in practices and beliefs.


Within Islam, Sufism represents a mystical and spiritual dimension of the faith. Sufis seek a direct and personal experience of God through practices like meditation, music, and dance. Over time, various Sufi orders, also known as Tariqas, emerged in different regions, each with its unique practices and cultural influences. For example, the Chishti order in India is known for its devotional music and poetry, while the Mevlevi order (Whirling Dervishes) in Turkey is famous for its Sufi dance performances.


the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century was not only a religious movement but also deeply intertwined with political dynamics in Europe

4. Socio-Political Factors:

Historically, religions and their sects have played significant roles in the politics of various societies. The competition for political power and influence can sometimes lead to the establishment of rival sects that align themselves with different political factions. In some cases, rulers and political leaders have used religion to consolidate their authority, further fragmenting the religious landscape.


For instance, the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century was not only a religious movement but also deeply intertwined with political dynamics in Europe. The reformers, such as Martin Luther, challenged the authority of the Roman Catholic Church and its ties to political rulers. Some rulers saw the Reformation as an opportunity to break away from the authority of the Pope and establish state-controlled churches, thereby consolidating their political power.


Individual seekers of spiritual truth may embark on their personal quests for a deeper understanding of their faith.

5. Personal and Spiritual Quests:

Individual seekers of spiritual truth may embark on their personal quests for a deeper understanding of their faith. As they delve into the teachings and practices, they might develop unique perspectives and insights, leading to the formation of their own sects or spiritual movements.


For example, the Ramanandi sect was founded by the 14th-century saint Ramananda, who was devoted to Lord Rama. Ramananda emphasized devotion (bhakti) to Lord Rama as the means to attain spiritual liberation. His teachings attracted followers from various social backgrounds, including people from lower castes. The sect remains popular in North India and is known for its emphasis on devotion to Lord Rama and social inclusivity.


 Different sects can emerge as responses to changing social, cultural, and ethical contexts.

6. Evolution and Change:

As societies evolve and encounter new challenges over time, religions may adapt and change to address these shifts. Different sects can emerge as responses to changing social, cultural, and ethical contexts. Some followers may seek to modernize and reinterpret the teachings to make them relevant to the contemporary world, leading to the creation of new sects with updated beliefs and practices.


For instance, reform Judaism emerged in the 19th century as a response to modernization and the desire to adapt Jewish practices to contemporary life. It is characterized by a more liberal approach to Jewish law and a focus on ethical teachings.


Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Vajrayana Buddhism, developed in Tibet and neighboring regions, reflecting the cultural influences of the Himalayan region.

7. Cultural and Linguistic Barriers:

Religions that spread across diverse linguistic and cultural boundaries may encounter language and cultural barriers. Translations of sacred texts may vary, leading to different interpretations and beliefs among followers who speak different languages or come from distinct cultural backgrounds. This can contribute to the emergence of sects with regional or linguistic identities.


For instance, Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Vajrayana Buddhism, developed in Tibet and neighboring regions, reflecting the cultural influences of the Himalayan region. It incorporates unique practices and rituals not found in other forms of Buddhism.



Belonging to a specific religious sect can provide a sense of identity and community for its followers.

8. Individual and Group Identity:

Belonging to a specific religious sect can provide a sense of identity and community for its followers. Some people may feel a stronger connection to a particular interpretation of the faith that resonates with their personal beliefs and values. This desire for a distinct identity can contribute to the formation of new sects within a religion.


The Hare Krishna movement, for example, was founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and is now a distinct sect within Hinduism that emphasizes the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.


Interactions with followers of other religions can influence the development of sects within a faith.

9. Interaction with Other Religions:

Interactions with followers of other religions can influence the development of sects within a faith. Exposure to different religious beliefs and practices may prompt followers to emphasize specific aspects of their own religion, leading to divisions based on differing interpretations or responses to other belief systems.


For instance, the encounter between Christianity and indigenous African religions led to the emergence of African Independent Churches, which incorporate both Christian and traditional African beliefs and practices.


The idea of religious orthodoxy, or the belief in a singular, correct interpretation of the faith, can contribute to the formation of sects.

10. The Concept of Orthodoxy:

The idea of religious orthodoxy, or the belief in a singular, correct interpretation of the faith, can contribute to the formation of sects. Some groups may be seen as more orthodox than others, leading to divisions between those who adhere strictly to traditional practices and beliefs and those who advocate for more liberal or innovative interpretations.


For example, Sunni Muslims consider themselves to be the orthodox mainstream of Islam, adhering to the consensus of the community (ijma) and the practices of the Prophet Muhammad (Sunnah). Shia Muslims, on the other hand, consider their interpretation of Islam to be the true orthodoxy, asserting that leadership should follow a specific line of descent from Prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, Ali. This difference in understanding Islamic orthodoxy has led to distinct sectarian identities within the Islamic faith.


In short, the division of religions into sects after the death of their founders is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by a wide range of factors. These divisions often reflect the diverse nature of human beliefs, interpretations, and aspirations, as well as the dynamic nature of religious traditions as they adapt and respond to changing circumstances. While the presence of sects can result in differences and tensions within religious communities, it also showcases the resilience and vibrancy of religious belief systems across cultures and history.


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Pratha Editorial Team

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