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15 Largest Religious Groups Around the World in 2025
Christianity Continues To Lead With Over 2.4 Billion Followers
Christianity remains the most widespread religion globally, with approximately 2.4 billion adherents in 2025. Spanning numerous denominations, from Catholics and Protestants to Orthodox communities, Christianity has maintained its influential presence for centuries. Its teachings, centered on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, continue to shape cultures, laws, and societies across continents.
Islam Maintains Its Second Place Position With 1.8 Billion Followers
Islam retains its position as the second-largest religion worldwide, boasting close to 1.8 billion followers. The faith, founded on the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, boasts a diverse global community spread across the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, and increasingly, Western countries. The Muslim population continues to grow steadily, especially in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.
Hinduism Holds Steady With Over 1.2 Billion Practitioners
Hinduism is the third-largest religion, with approximately 1.2 billion followers, primarily concentrated in India and Nepal. Known for its rich tapestry of philosophies, rituals, and deities, Hinduism influences countless aspects of daily life, including festivals, cultural practices, and social norms. The religion’s natural connection with Indian culture ensures its continual prominence.
Buddhism Attracts About 600 Million Followers Worldwide
Buddhism, with roughly 600 million adherents, continues to thrive across parts of Asia and increasingly in the West. Its teachings emphasizing mindfulness, compassion, and spiritual liberation have gained significant popularity among diverse populations. Countries like Thailand, Myanmar, and Japan are traditional strongholds, while many Western nations see a growing interest in Buddhist philosophies.
Taoism Encompasses Around 170 Million People
Taoism, a spiritual tradition rooted in China emphasizing harmony with nature and the Tao (the Way), counts approximately 170 million followers. While often intertwined with Chinese culture and folk practices, Taoism also influences holistic approaches to health and wellness globally.
Shinto Practices Engage Approximately 65 Million Followers
Shinto, Japan’s indigenous spirituality, boasts around 65 million followers. Centered on kami (spirits or gods), Shinto influences many cultural practices, festivals, and rituals across Japan. Despite its deep roots in Japanese life, its global reach remains relatively localized.
Sikhism Counts 30 Million Followers
With an estimated 30 million adherents, Sikhism originated in the Indian subcontinent. Focused on devotion, equality, and truth, Sikh communities are particularly prominent in Punjab, India, but have spread worldwide, especially in countries like Canada, the UK, and the United States.
Judaism Encompasses 18 Million People Globally
Jewish communities, totaling about 18 million, maintain a significant cultural and religious presence worldwide. While concentrated in Israel and the United States, Jewish influence extends through historical, cultural, and religious contributions globally.
Jainism Has Approximately 12 Million Practitioners
Jainism, an ancient Indian religion emphasizing non-violence and asceticism, counts around 12 million followers. Its principles influence ethical practices and ecological sustainability worldwide.
Bahá’í Faith Reaches Nearly 8 Million Followers
The Bahá’í Faith, focusing on unity across religions, races, and nations, has about 7.9 million adherents. It promotes peace and global harmony and has communities spread extensively across Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Confucianism Continues To Influence With 6.1 Million Followers
Confucianism, rooted in Chinese philosophy, maintains around 6.1 million followers. Its teachings on morality, social harmony, and filial piety continue to shape East Asian cultures significantly.
Cao Đài Gathers 3 Million Devotees
Cao Đài, a syncretic religion founded in Vietnam, has approximately 3 million followers. It blends elements of Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Confucianism in its spiritual practices.
Cheondoism Counts 3 Million Believers
A Korean religious movement emphasizing righteousness and social justice, Cheondoism has around 3 million adherents and remains active mainly in South Korea.
Tenrikyo Has 2 Million Followers
Founded in Japan, Tenrikyo promotes joy and gratitude, with a following of about 2 million. Its practices focus on community and spiritual harmony.
Wicca and Modern Paganist Movements With About 1 Million Followers
Wicca, a contemporary pagan religion emphasizing nature worship and magic, has gained popularity, especially in Western countries, reaching around 1 million practitioners. It reflects a broader interest in spiritual spirituality outside traditional organized religions.
Source: Wikipedia, CDA | As of 2025
Note: Followers of these religions are often part of complex, overlapping cultural identities and may belong to multiple traditions.
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