The statement X is what X does is a way of saying that X can best be analysed by the attributes and features of X in form and function objectively.
Religion is a belief and conviction of an individual or a group to explain the abstractions of creation and existence by a Supreme existence.
Religions have an incredibly complex, contradictory and emotional internal structure which forms a mind trap which is very hard to get out of. Therefore it is much easier to understand them if you look at what they do rather than what they say they do.
Religion to some is a duty towards oneself,the social institution we belong to,and to humanity and all creations existing in Nature.
Religion functions:
- to meet the believers spiritual/emotional needs for friendship, hope and love with virtues of humility and surrender.;
- provide humanitarian services in en lighting the ignorant by spiritual education, health care and income support-charity (less common in western societies);
- provide security services to support its community of believers in courts, policing and armies-crusades (uncommon now);
- build churches, monasteries, schools, hospitals, fortresses and housing;
- tax believers to pay for buildings and services;
- employ a large number of priests;
- attack and ostracize any non believer who criticizes a believer.
- The definition of religion is misconstrued as convenience and expediency by the conceited who held power in history and not as a spiritual search for the Truth in a practical approach and acceptance of life.