Are You Smarter Than An Atheist? A Religious Quiz
Atheists and agnostics, Jews and Mormons are among the highest-scoring groups in a 32-question survey of religious knowledge by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life. On average, Americans got 16 of the 32 questions correct. Atheists and agnostics got an average of 20.9 correct answers. Jews (20.5) and Mormons (20.3). Protestants got 16 correct answers on average, while Catholics got 14.7 questions right.
CCN has duplicated this quiz for our Muslim readers
How will you do on the quiz?
Questions and Answers
- 1.
When does the Jewish Sabbath begin?
- A.
Friday
- B.
Saturday
- C.
Sunday
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. FridayExplanation
The Jewish Sabbath begins on Friday. In Judaism, the Sabbath is observed from Friday evening at sunset until Saturday evening at sunset. It is a day of rest and worship, during which Jewish individuals refrain from work and engage in prayer, study, and spending time with family. This practice is based on the biblical account of God resting on the seventh day of creation and commanding the Israelites to observe the Sabbath as a sign of their covenant with Him.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is Ramadan?
- A.
The Hindu festival of lights
- B.
A Jewish day of atonement
- C.
The Islamic holy month
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
C. The Islamic holy monthExplanation
Ramadan is the correct answer because it is indeed the Islamic holy month. It is a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by Muslims worldwide. During this time, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from sunrise to sunset. It is considered a time of spiritual reflection, increased devotion, and worship.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Do you happen to know which of these is the king of gods in ancient Greek mythology?
- A.
Zeus
- B.
Mars
- C.
Apollo
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. ZeusExplanation
Zeus is considered the king of gods in ancient Greek mythology. He is the ruler of Mount Olympus and the god of the sky, thunder, and lightning. Zeus is known for his power and authority, as well as his numerous affairs and interactions with both gods and mortals. He is often depicted as a bearded man wielding a thunderbolt, symbolizing his control over the forces of nature. Zeus played a central role in many Greek myths and was worshipped as the highest deity in the Greek pantheon.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of these religions aims at nirvana, the state of being free from suffering?
- A.
Islam
- B.
Buddhism
- C.
Hinduism
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. BuddhismExplanation
Buddhism aims at nirvana, the state of being free from suffering. Buddhism teaches that suffering is caused by desire and attachment, and by eliminating these, one can achieve nirvana. Nirvana is a state of ultimate peace, liberation, and enlightenment, where one is free from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. It is the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice and is attained through meditation, ethical conduct, and the cultivation of wisdom.Rate this question:
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- 5.
In which religion are Vishnu and Shiva central figures?
- A.
Islam
- B.
Hinduism
- C.
Taoism
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. HinduismExplanation
Vishnu and Shiva are central figures in Hinduism. Hinduism is a major religion in India and is characterized by a diverse set of beliefs and practices. Vishnu is considered the preserver and protector of the universe, while Shiva is seen as the destroyer and transformer. Both deities play significant roles in Hindu mythology and are worshipped by millions of Hindus worldwide.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What is an atheist?
- A.
Someone who believes in God
- B.
Someone who does NOT believe in God
- C.
Someone who is unsure whether God exists
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. Someone who does NOT believe in GodExplanation
An atheist is someone who does not believe in God. This means that they lack belief in the existence of any deity or higher power. Unlike theists who have faith in a specific religion or god, atheists reject the idea of a divine being or supernatural entity. They may base their beliefs on rationality, skepticism, or lack of evidence for the existence of God. Atheism is often characterized by a disbelief in religious doctrines and a reliance on scientific explanations for natural phenomena.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What is an agnostic?
- A.
Someone who believes in God
- B.
Someone who does NOT believe in God
- C.
Someone who is unsure whether God exists
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
C. Someone who is unsure whether God existsExplanation
An agnostic is someone who is unsure whether God exists. They neither believe in God nor deny the existence of God. Agnosticism is a philosophical position that acknowledges the limitations of human knowledge and asserts that the existence of God or any ultimate truth cannot be proven or disproven. Agnostics often hold that the existence of God is unknowable or beyond the scope of human understanding. They may remain open to the possibility of God's existence but choose not to commit to any specific belief or disbelief.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Where, according to the Bible, was Jesus born?
- A.
Bethlehem
- B.
Jericho
- C.
Jerusalem
- D.
Nazareth
- E.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. BethlehemExplanation
According to the Bible, Jesus was born in Bethlehem. This is mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke and the Gospel of Matthew. Bethlehem is significant as it is the birthplace of King David, and Jesus is often referred to as the "Son of David." The town of Bethlehem is located in the region of Judea, which is in modern-day Palestine.Rate this question:
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- 9.
When was the Mormon religion founded?
- A.
Before the year 1200 A.D.
- B.
Between 1200 and 1800
- C.
Sometime after 1800
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
C. Sometime after 1800Explanation
The correct answer is "Sometime after 1800." The Mormon religion, also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was officially founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith in upstate New York. Therefore, it was established sometime after the year 1800.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The Book of Mormon tells the story of Jesus Christ appearing to people in what area of the world?
- A.
The Americas
- B.
Middle East
- C.
Asia
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. The AmericasExplanation
The Book of Mormon tells the story of Jesus Christ appearing to people in the Americas. This religious text is believed to be a record of ancient prophets who lived in the Americas and their interactions with Jesus Christ. It describes his teachings, miracles, and the establishment of his church among the people in this region. The Book of Mormon is an important scripture in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which of the following best describes Catholic teaching about the bread and wine used for Communion?
- A.
The bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Jesus Christ
- B.
The bread and wine are symbols of the body and blood of Jesus Christ
- C.
Other
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. The bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Jesus ChristExplanation
According to Catholic teaching, the bread and wine used for Communion actually become the body and blood of Jesus Christ. This belief is known as transubstantiation, where the substances of the bread and wine are transformed into the actual presence of Christ. This is a central doctrine in Catholicism and is celebrated during the Eucharist, where the faithful receive the consecrated bread and wine as the true body and blood of Christ.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of these religious groups traditionally teaches that salvation comes through faith alone?
- A.
Only Protestants
- B.
Only Catholics
- C.
Both Protestants and Catholics
- D.
Neither Protestants nor Catholics
- E.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. Only ProtestantsExplanation
Only Protestants traditionally teach that salvation comes through faith alone. This belief is known as "sola fide" and is a key tenet of Protestant theology. Catholics, on the other hand, believe in the concept of "faith and works," teaching that salvation requires both faith and good deeds. Therefore, the correct answer is Only Protestants.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Please tell me which of the following is NOT one of the Ten Commandments?
- A.
Do not commit adultery
- B.
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you
- C.
Do not steal
- D.
Keep the Sabbath holy
- E.
All are in the Ten Commandments
- F.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. Do unto others as you would have them do unto youExplanation
The statement "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" is not one of the Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments are a set of moral and religious laws given to Moses by God in the biblical book of Exodus. The actual commandments include instructions such as not committing adultery, not stealing, and keeping the Sabbath holy. However, the phrase "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" is known as the Golden Rule and is a moral principle found in various religious and philosophical teachings, but it is not specifically listed as one of the Ten Commandments.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which Bible figure is most closely associated with remaining obedient to God despite suffering?
- A.
Job
- B.
Elijah
- C.
Moses
- D.
Abraham
- E.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. JobExplanation
Job is most closely associated with remaining obedient to God despite suffering. In the biblical story of Job, he undergoes immense suffering and loss, including the death of his children, the destruction of his property, and his own physical afflictions. Despite all this, Job remains faithful to God and refuses to curse Him. He questions why he is suffering but ultimately maintains his obedience and trust in God. Job's story serves as an example of unwavering faith and obedience in the face of adversity.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which Bible figure is most closely associated with leading the exodus from Egypt?
- A.
Job
- B.
Elijah
- C.
Moses
- D.
Abraham
- E.
Don't know
Correct Answer
C. MosesExplanation
Moses is the correct answer because he is the Bible figure who is most closely associated with leading the exodus from Egypt. In the book of Exodus, Moses is chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and towards the Promised Land. He confronts Pharaoh, performs miracles, and leads the Israelites through the Red Sea. Moses is a central figure in the story of the exodus and is often considered one of the greatest prophets and leaders in the Bible.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which Bible figure is most closely associated with willingness to sacrifice his son for God?
- A.
Job
- B.
Elijah
- C.
Moses
- D.
Abraham
- E.
Don't know
Correct Answer
D. AbrahamExplanation
Abraham is most closely associated with the willingness to sacrifice his son for God. In the Bible, Abraham was tested by God to sacrifice his son Isaac as a demonstration of his faith and obedience. Abraham was willing to carry out this sacrifice, showing his unwavering devotion to God. However, at the last moment, God provided a ram for the sacrifice instead, sparing Isaac's life. This story is often cited as an example of Abraham's faith and trust in God.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Would you tell me if Mother Teresa was ...
- A.
Jewish
- B.
Catholic
- C.
Buddhist
- D.
Mormon
- E.
Hindu
- F.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. CatholicExplanation
The correct answer is Catholic because Mother Teresa was a Catholic nun and missionary. She dedicated her life to serving the poor and needy, and her work was inspired by her Catholic faith. She founded the Missionaries of Charity, a religious congregation that provided care and support to the destitute and dying. Mother Teresa's strong devotion to Catholicism and her humanitarian efforts made her a widely recognized and respected figure within the Catholic Church and beyond.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Would you tell me if the Dalai Lama is ...?
- A.
Catholic
- B.
Jewish
- C.
Buddhist
- D.
Mormon
- E.
Hindu
- F.
Don't know
Correct Answer
C. BuddhistExplanation
The question asks for the religious affiliation of the Dalai Lama. The correct answer is "Buddhist" because the Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism. He is considered to be the reincarnation of previous Dalai Lamas and is highly respected within the Buddhist community.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Would you tell me if Joseph Smith was ...?
- A.
Catholic
- B.
Jewish
- C.
Buddhist
- D.
Mormon
- E.
Hindu
- F.
Don't know
Correct Answer
D. MormonExplanation
Joseph Smith was the founder of the Mormon religion, also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Therefore, it is logical to conclude that he himself was a Mormon.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Would you tell me if Maimonides was ... ?
- A.
Catholic
- B.
Jewish
- C.
Buddhist
- D.
Mormon
- E.
Hindu
- F.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. JewishExplanation
Maimonides was a Jewish philosopher and physician who lived during the 12th century. He was a prominent figure in Jewish intellectual history and made significant contributions to the fields of philosophy, law, and medicine. His most famous work, the Mishneh Torah, is a comprehensive code of Jewish law. Maimonides' Jewish identity is well-documented and widely recognized, making the answer "Jewish" the correct choice.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which of the following statements best describes what the U.S. Constitution (including amendments) says about religion?
- A.
Christianity should be given special emphasis by the government
- B.
The government shall neither establish a religion nor interfere with the practice of religion
- C.
The Constitution does not say anything one way or the other about religion
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. The government shall neither establish a religion nor interfere with the practice of religionExplanation
The correct answer is that the U.S. Constitution (including amendments) says that the government shall neither establish a religion nor interfere with the practice of religion. This principle is known as the separation of church and state and is enshrined in the First Amendment of the Constitution. It ensures that the government remains neutral and does not favor or endorse any particular religion, allowing individuals to freely practice their own religion or no religion at all.Rate this question:
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- 22.
According to rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court, is a public school teacher permitted to lead a class in prayer?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
- C.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. NoExplanation
According to rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court, a public school teacher is not permitted to lead a class in prayer. This is because it violates the separation of church and state, as public schools are government institutions and should not promote or favor any particular religion. The Supreme Court has consistently held that school-sponsored prayer in public schools is unconstitutional and infringes upon the First Amendment rights of students. Therefore, the correct answer is "No."Rate this question:
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- 23.
Do you happen to know what religion most people in India consider themselves?
- A.
Buddhist
- B.
Hindu
- C.
Muslim
- D.
Christian
- E.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. HinduExplanation
Most people in India consider themselves Hindu because Hinduism is the dominant religion in India, with the majority of the population identifying as Hindus. Hinduism has deep historical and cultural roots in India and is practiced by a significant majority of the population. It encompasses a wide range of beliefs and practices, making it a diverse and complex religion.Rate this question:
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- 24.
According to rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court, is a public school teacher permitted to read from the Bible as an example of literature?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
- C.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
According to rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court, a public school teacher is permitted to read from the Bible as an example of literature. The First Amendment allows for the study of religious texts in an objective and academic manner, as long as it is not used to promote or endorse any particular religion. Reading from the Bible as a piece of literature falls under this category, as it is done for educational purposes rather than religious indoctrination.Rate this question:
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- 25.
According to rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court, is a public school teacher permitted to offer a class comparing the world's religions?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
- C.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
According to rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court, a public school teacher is permitted to offer a class comparing the world's religions. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religion, and this includes the ability to teach about different religions in an educational setting. As long as the teacher presents the information objectively and does not promote or endorse any particular religion, it is considered permissible.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Do you happen to know what religion most people in Indonesia consider themselves?
- A.
Buddhist
- B.
Hindu
- C.
Muslim
- D.
Christian
- E.
Don't know
Correct Answer
C. MuslimExplanation
Most people in Indonesia consider themselves as Muslims. Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world, with around 87% of the population identifying as Muslims. Islam is the dominant religion in the country, and it plays a significant role in shaping the culture, traditions, and daily lives of the Indonesian people. The presence of numerous mosques and Islamic institutions throughout the country further supports the fact that Islam is the most widely practiced religion in Indonesia.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Do you happen to know what religion most people in Pakistan consider themselves?
- A.
Buddhist
- B.
Hindu
- C.
Muslim
- D.
Christian
- E.
Don't know
Correct Answer
C. MuslimExplanation
Most people in Pakistan consider themselves Muslim because Islam is the dominant religion in the country. The majority of the population follows the teachings of Islam and practices its rituals and customs. The country has a long history of Islamic influence and has been shaped by Islamic traditions and values. Islam is also the state religion of Pakistan, further solidifying its significance in the lives of its people.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What was the name of the person whose writings and actions inspired the Protestant Reformation?
- A.
Martin Luther
- B.
Thomas Aquinas
- C.
John Wesley
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
A. Martin LutherExplanation
Martin Luther is the correct answer to the question because he was a German theologian and religious reformer whose writings and actions played a significant role in inspiring the Protestant Reformation. Luther's Ninety-Five Theses, which he famously nailed to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg in 1517, criticized the Catholic Church's practices and sparked widespread debate and reform efforts. Luther's teachings emphasized the concepts of salvation by faith alone and the authority of scripture, challenging the authority of the Pope and the Catholic Church. His actions and writings had a profound impact on the religious and cultural landscape of Europe during the 16th century.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which one of these preachers participated in the period of religious activity known as the First Great Awakening?
- A.
Billy Graham
- B.
Jonathan Edwards
- C.
Charles Finney
- D.
Don't know
Correct Answer
B. Jonathan EdwardsExplanation
Jonathan Edwards participated in the period of religious activity known as the First Great Awakening. The First Great Awakening was a religious revival movement that took place in the American colonies during the 18th century. Edwards was a prominent preacher and theologian during this time, known for his powerful sermons and writings that emphasized the need for personal conversion and a deep spiritual experience. His famous sermon, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," is considered one of the most influential sermons of the Great Awakening.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Do you happen to know the name of the holy book of Islam?
- A.
Islam's Holy Book
- B.
The Bible
- C.
Qur'an
Correct Answer
C. Qur'anExplanation
The Qur'an is the holy book of Islam. It is believed to be the word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is considered the most important and sacred text in Islam and serves as a guide for Muslims in matters of faith, worship, and daily life. The Qur'an contains teachings on various aspects of life, including morality, ethics, laws, and guidance for personal conduct. It is recited and memorized by Muslims around the world and is considered the ultimate source of authority in Islam.Rate this question:
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- 31.
What is the first book of the Bible?
- A.
Book of Genesis
- B.
New Testament
- C.
Old Testament
- D.
Book of Exodus
Correct Answer
A. Book of GenesisExplanation
The first book of the Bible is the Book of Genesis. It is the opening book of both the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. Genesis narrates the creation of the world, the origins of humanity, and the stories of the patriarchs such as Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, and Joseph. It provides the foundation for the rest of the Bible and sets the stage for the events that follow.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Will you tell me the names of the first four books of the New Testament of the Bible, that is the Four Gospels?
- A.
Matthew, James, Luke, John
- B.
Jude, James, Timothy, Luke
- C.
Matthew, Mark, Luke, John
Correct Answer
C. Matthew, Mark, Luke, JohnExplanation
The first four books of the New Testament, known as the Four Gospels, are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These books provide accounts of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each Gospel is written by a different author and presents a unique perspective on the events and teachings of Jesus. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are considered essential texts for understanding the life and ministry of Jesus in Christian faith.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Apr 23, 2011Quiz Created by
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