ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Classifications of religious movements

Okay kiddo, so you know how there are different types of foods like fruits, vegetables, and meats? Well, there are also different types of religions or religious movements.

One type of religion is called a mainline religion, and they are usually the bigger, more traditional religions like Christianity, Islam, or Buddhism. They have been around for a long time and have many followers.

Another type of religion is called a cult, but don't let the name scare you, it just means a small, newer religion that has some pretty different beliefs compared to mainline religions. Sometimes they can be a little controversial or have some pretty strict rules for their members.

Then there are also new religious movements, which are basically like cults but a little more neutral. They are also newer religions but they are less extreme and less strict with their followers.

And finally, there are also syncretic or hybrid religions, which blend different beliefs and practices from multiple religions together to form their own unique religion.

So just like there are different types of foods, there are different types of religions too, and they all have their own unique characteristics and beliefs.