The world is full of diverse beliefs and spiritual practices, many of which remain relatively unknown to the wider public. From ancient traditions to modern movements, these lesser-known religions offer fascinating insights into human culture and spirituality. Exploring these unique faiths can expand our understanding of the various ways people find meaning and connection in their lives. Here, we examine the most intriguing religions you probably didn’t know existed, each with its own distinct practices and philosophies.
Aetherius Society
Founded in the 1950s by George King, the Aetherius Society blends spirituality with extraterrestrial influences. It centers on the belief that advanced alien beings from other planets are guiding humanity toward enlightenment. This new-age religion emphasizes global healing through spiritual energy and cosmic missions.
Raelism
Raelism, established by Claude Vorilhon (Rael) in the 1970s, believes that life on Earth was created by an alien race called the Elohim. Followers practice meditation and seek to build an embassy to welcome these extraterrestrial creators. Raelism promotes peace, democracy, and sharing knowledge about humanity’s extraterrestrial origins.
Church of the SubGenius
The Church of the SubGenius parodies religious and social norms, founded in the 1950s by Ivan Stang and Philo Drummond. Its followers worship J.R. “Bob” Dobbs, a salesman figure, celebrates “slack,” a state of true freedom. This satirical religion critiques consumerism and conformity through humor and absurdity.
Discordianism
Discordianism, created in the late 1950s by Greg Hill and Kerry Thornley, worships Eris, the Greek goddess of chaos. It embraces the chaos and disorder in life, promoting the idea that there’s no single truth. The religion’s holy text, the “Principia Discordia,” combines satire, chaos theory, and philosophical musings.
Pastafarianism
Pastafarianism, or the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, was founded in 2005 by Bobby Henderson as a satirical response to the teaching of intelligent design. It humorously worships a deity resembling spaghetti and meatballs. Pastafarians advocate for the separation of church and state and criticize religious dogma through parody.
Kopimism
Kopimism, originating in Sweden, regards information sharing as a sacred act. Founded by Isak Gerson in 2010, it recognizes copying and disseminating knowledge as a form of worship. Kopimism’s symbol is the “K,” representing Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V keyboard shortcuts for copy-pasting.
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest religions, was founded by the prophet Zoroaster in ancient Persia around 3,500 years ago. It centers on the dualistic cosmology of good and evil and worships Ahura Mazda, the supreme god. Zoroastrianism’s core tenets include the promotion of truth and the rejection of falsehood.
Yazidism
Yazidism, an ancient religion practiced by the Yazidi people, combines elements of Zoroastrianism, Islam, and Christianity. It centers on the worship of Melek Taus, the Peacock Angel, who represents both good and evil. Yazidis believe in reincarnation and follow a strict caste system within their community.
Mandaeism
Mandaeism is an ancient Gnostic religion that reveres John the Baptist as its primary prophet. Practiced mainly in Iraq and Iran, it emphasizes the duality of light and dark and the importance of baptism. Mandaeans believe in a celestial hierarchy and perform elaborate rituals to maintain purity and spiritual enlightenment.
Atenism
Atenism was a monotheistic religion established by the Egyptian Pharaoh Akhenaten in the 14th century BCE. It worshiped Aten, the sun disk, as the sole deity, breaking from Egypt’s traditional polytheism. After Akhenaten’s death, Atenism was largely abandoned, and traditional religious practices were restored.
Caodaism
Caodaism, founded in Vietnam in 1926, merges elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity. It believes in the unity of all religions and the existence of a supreme being. Followers practice vegetarianism, prayer, and communication with spirits to achieve spiritual enlightenment.
Tengrism
Tengrism is a Central Asian shamanistic religion that venerates Tengri, the sky god. Practiced by various Turkic and Mongolic peoples, it focuses on harmony with nature and ancestral worship. Tengrism played a significant role in the political and cultural life of ancient nomadic empires like the Mongol Empire.
Candomblé
Candomblé is an Afro-Brazilian religion that blends Yoruba, Fon, and Bantu beliefs with elements of Catholicism. Practitioners worship a pantheon of deities called Orishas, who govern various aspects of life. Rituals involve music, dance, and offerings to the Orishas, aiming to maintain balance and harmony.
Shinto
Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion, emphasizes the worship of kami, spirits associated with natural elements and ancestors. It involves rituals, festivals, and practices that honor these deities and seek their favor. Shintoism coexists with Buddhism in Japan, influencing cultural traditions and daily life.
Santería
Santería, or Regla de Ocha, is a syncretic religion combining Yoruba beliefs with Catholicism, practiced primarily in Cuba. It centers on the worship of Orishas, who are associated with Catholic saints. Rituals include drumming, dancing, and animal sacrifices to gain favor and guidance from the Orishas.
Tenrikyo
Tenrikyo, founded in Japan in the 19th century by Nakayama Miki, teaches the importance of joyous living and gratitude to the divine. Followers believe in a single god, Tenri-O-no-Mikoto, who created the world and guided humanity. Practices include daily service, charity, and spiritual teachings aimed at promoting happiness and relief from suffering.
Rastafarianism
Rastafarianism emerged in Jamaica in the 1930s, recognizing Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie I as the messiah. It emphasizes the return to African roots, spiritual use of cannabis, and rejection of Western oppression, called “Babylon.” Rastafarians believe in living in harmony with nature and adhering to a strict dietary code called Ital.
Baha’i Faith
The Baha’i Faith, founded in the 19th century by Bahá’u’lláh in Persia, advocates for the unity of all people and religions. Followers believe in progressive revelation, where each major religion’s prophet contributes to humanity’s spiritual evolution. The Baha’i teachings promote world peace, equality, and education for all.
Jainism
Jainism, originating in ancient India, emphasizes non-violence, truth, and asceticism. Followers adhere to strict ethical principles, including vegetarianism and non-harming of all living beings. Jain monks and nuns lead an austere lifestyle, renouncing worldly possessions to attain spiritual liberation.
Sikhism
Sikhism, founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century in Punjab, India, teaches devotion to one God and the equality of all people. Sikh practices include prayer, meditation, and community service. The religion’s holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, guides followers in leading an honest and truthful life.
Zuni Religion
The Zuni religion, practiced by the Zuni people of the American Southwest, integrates elements of animism, ancestor worship, and mythology. It centers on rituals and ceremonies to maintain harmony with nature and the spirit world. The Zuni believe in a pantheon of gods and spirits, often represented through intricate masks and dances.
