Final answer:
The dominant religions of Southeast Asia can be matched with regions as follows: Islam in Island Southeast Asia, Hinduism in India and Nepal, nearly all religions in South & East Asia, and Buddhism in Mainland Southeast Asia, reflecting diverse historical and cultural influences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Matching Religions to Countries or Regions in Southeast Asia
The task is to match the dominantly practiced religions with specific countries or regions within Southeast Asia. Below are the pairs correlated based on religious prevalence and historical influences:
- a. Island Southeast Asia - d. Islam: Countries like Indonesia and Malaysia have large Muslim populations due to historical trading connections with Arab and Indian Muslim traders and subsequent conversion over centuries.
- b. India, Nepal - b. Hinduism: Hinduism is the predominant religion in India and parts of Nepal, which have historically been the center of Hindu culture and religion.
- c. South & East Asia - a. Nearly all religions: This region, including countries like China, Korea, and Japan, is characterized by religious diversity with the presence of Buddhism, Shintoism, Christianity, Islam, and other religious practices.
- d. Mainland Southeast Asia - c. Buddhism: Predominantly Buddhist countries include Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, all of which have been influenced by the spread of Buddhism from India through trade routes and migration.
In Southeast Asia, the practice of these religions can sometimes be blended with local customs and traditions, particularly in rural communities.