Final answer:
Monotheism is the belief in a single deity, seen in religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Polytheism involves multiple deities, with Hinduism being a prime example. Animism holds that nonhuman entities have a spiritual essence, as observed in Shinto.
Step-by-step explanation:
In religion, different belief systems are classified based on the number and nature of deities. Monotheism is characterized by the belief in a single supreme deity. Examples of monotheistic religions include Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. These faiths collectively have billions of followers worldwide.
Polytheism involves the worship of multiple deities, each with unique attributes and responsibilities. A quintessential example of a polytheistic religion is Hinduism, which has a diverse pantheon of gods and goddesses.
Animism, on the other hand, is the belief that nonhuman entities, such as animals, plants, and inanimate objects, possess a spiritual essence or divinity. Shinto, practiced in Japan, is an example where animistic beliefs are central.
It is important to note that categorizations can be complex, as some religions may blur the lines between these classifications. For example, the concept of the Christian Trinity can appear to challenge the strict definition of monotheism, while Hinduism's understanding of a single godhead with multiple manifestations suggests a monotheistic framework within a polytheistic tradition.