In order to grasp a more narrow understanding of what a religion is and does, we cannot rely solely on a "textbook" that covers religions' scriptures, major figures and formal institutions, as this only provides a general vision of world religions, which often times "obscure the creative and flexible ways people practice their religion that may diverge from the ideal" (Guest 578). ... I came to this understanding of a "personal" religion during my visit to the Hindu Temple. ... Worshippers of Lakshmi are in search of beauty and material gain, which is why t...

• Word Count: 1573
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: Graduate