Final answer:
The Free Exercise Clause protects religious practices, but the government can limit them when there's a compelling state interest, with the Supreme Court balancing individual rights against societal needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution restricts the government from prohibiting the free exercise of religion. However, not all religious practices are protected when they conflict with public interests or harm others. For example, in Reynolds v. United States, the Supreme Court ruled that religious duty could not be used as a defense against a criminal indictment. In issues of state interest, the government must show a "compelling state interest" to limit religious freedom, maintaining a balance between individual rights and societal order.