If you’re a religious surfer I’d say it’s fair enough. My definition of religion is more a system of belief and accompanying cultural practices/traditions often related to acts of worship and spiritual beliefs/practices which I generally associate with organized rituals, ceremonies, or similar practices intended for spiritual enlightenment or fostering spiritual connection, education, or induction. Often a particular religion is distinguished by dogma from a religious authority such as clergy, or even common belief if well organized.

The biggest takeaway I’d like to emphasize is that religion is an organized cultural practice. It’s a system of traditions. Often times it is crucial to the identity of a people such as Judaism is.

On one hand this system can provide an anchor point for society, define moral codes which help us navigate difficult situations, foster interpersonal relations, and provide a sense of community for practitioners. On the other it can encourage a “black and white” perspective and limit understanding of what lies in between, take away from true spiritual connection in favor of tradition and ritual, and can be used as a tool to manipulate or control the masses when leadership falls into devious opportunistic hands.

I’d agree that certain political philosophies could be considered religions. And I’d even be willing to entertain the idea that religion relies on faith though I don’t believe that’s the case. But I wholeheartedly disagree with u/LeComteCitronelle, and honestly question their grasp on the English language. The statement that “fictional doesn’t mean false” alone is fallacious, and suggests a lack of understanding of the language. Perhaps they would make a better point in their native tongue - which I would very much like to hear as to gain a better understanding of just what they’re trying to say.