Religion=Music

At the beginning of class we defined religion. In order for us to understand religion in pop-culture, we must have an understanding of the broad definition. Towards the beginning of our book religion is described as "an integrated system of belief, lifestyle, ritual activities, and institutions by which individuals give meaning to (or find meaning in) their lives by orienting themselves to what they take to be holy, sacred, or of the highest value."

Just as we discussed in class the relationship between religion and sport, the concepts of the definition of religion can draw similarity to music. Perhaps out of all the outlets of media, music can pull out more passion and emotion then any other. Part of the reason why is music comes from a source and is transmitted to to us, and by using our imagination, we interpret the lyrics, beat and rythm, and overall presentation of the music. Just as we read about the divine feminine in books like The Da Vinci Code and The Secret Life of Bees, our imagination is sparked with curiosity due to the arthur trying to paint a picture in our mind. Music can have the same affect on us. We listen to it and interpret it how we want. This can cause very emotional and passionate feelings.

Also, just as religion brings people together in a group for the same purpose, music draws many people together in concerts. In the definition listed above, religion is taken as something personal, sacred, and held to the highest value. Many people are greatly influenced by their taste in music. It is commonly the focus of our lives, conscientiously or sub-conscientiously. Different music has different effects on us. It can inspire, motivate, anger, move, and change our feelings. Just as religion is thought to be able to change or mind and attitude for the better, music can alter and influence us in the same fashion.

To many, religion=music. In many religions, music is a vital tool in involving spirituality. The conclusion I have drawn is, there are many similarities in the definition of religion and music. What I have noticed is music is many people's religion.

Another phenomenon in pop-culture is many people view others as being "religious" by solely listening to "religious music." In this clip on Seinfeld, Elaine is surprised at her boyfriend being religious by finding his radio stations in his car being christian rock.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3BDY3tfs8M

(Here is the URL. I tried to post the video, but it wouldn't upload.)

What makes someone religious? In this case, Elaine discovers Puddy's christianity by his taste in music. By this discovery alone, she comes to the conclusion that Puddy is a very religious and spiritually person. I have noticed in our society that some people in order to get their religious fix, they will listen to religious music and consider themselves performing a religious act. Rather than living the principles their specific religion teaches, they feel they are fulfilling their religious duty by listening to religious music.

I would like to pose two questions to the class: Using the your understanding of the definition of religion, how have you seen music become religion to some people? Also, have you seen (if so, please elaborate) any examples of someone listening to religious music as their only religious practice?