Final answer:
The 'big 3' refer to the three major monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, also known as the Abrahamic faiths. Each has a different set of beliefs, practices, and sacred texts, with Christianity including varied denominations like Catholicism and Protestants. Religions can be sociologically categorized as ecclesia, denomination, sect, or cult, based on their influence and organization.
Step-by-step explanation:
When referring to the 'big 3' in terms of religion, it usually denotes the three major monotheistic faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. These religions are collectively known as the Abrahamic faiths, as they all have traditions that trace back to the patriarch Abraham. They share significant historical narratives and religious sites, particularly in the Middle East, such as Jerusalem. These religions have deeply influenced the world's history, cultures, and political landscapes. Each of them also has variations within their practices and sacred texts. For instance, Christianity includes groups like Catholics, Protestants, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, each with different texts and interpretations.
Christianity is the broad category with the most adherents in the United States, and this category includes many different denominations. It is noteworthy that more people identify as Catholic than as any single Protestant denomination. Moreover, Christianity has unique doctrinal elements such as the belief in the Holy Trinity and the guiding principles of the Ten Commandments. The Holy Spirit is often referred to in Christian circles as the embodiment of divine presence in the world.
In sociological terms, different kinds of religious organizations range from ecclesia, which may have a state religion element and significant social influence, to denominations, sects, and cults, with varying degrees of influence and organization. The categorization of the world's religions also extends to their belief systems, sacred texts, and the nature of belief in a higher power.