The Meaning of 'Religion' in the First Amendment

60 Pages Posted: 1 Mar 2012

Date Written: January 1, 2001

Abstract

This Article articulates the original meaning of “religion” in the First Amendment. This Article contends that “religion,” in 1791, meant: belief in a God, with concomitant duties in this life, and a future state of rewards and punishments. Religion did not encompass atheism.

Keywords: religion, First Amendment, Free Exercise Clause, Establishment Clause, original meaning

Suggested Citation

Strang, Lee J., The Meaning of 'Religion' in the First Amendment (January 1, 2001). Duquesne University Law Review, Vol. 40, 2002, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2014023

Lee J. Strang (Contact Author)

Ohio State University (OSU) ( email )

Blankenship Hall-2010
901 Woody Hayes Drive
Columbus, OH OH 43210
United States

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