Question

What does separation of church and state mean?

Answer 1

The separation of church and and state means preventing the government from officially recognizing or favoring any religion. It is stated in the First Amendment of the Constitution which also grants citizens the freedom to practice any religion of their choice. Government must maintain an attitude of neutrality toward religion.

The relationship between church and state has been extremely controversial since the first settlers arrived in America to escape religious persecution in Europe, and several cases involving the issue have reached the Supreme Court.

Answer 2

I believe that the most fitting answer for this question would be that Congress cannot make a law respecting a certain religion above other religions or prohibit the practices of a particular religion. This phrase originated from a letter written by Thomas Jefferson. The earliest immigrant groups from Europe came to America to practice their religions freely, and this contributed to this American ideal. Hope this helps.