What are religious doctrines?

Religious doctrines refer specifically to the official teachings and beliefs that are established and recognized within a religion. These doctrines serve as the foundation for the faith, guiding followers in their understanding of spiritual truths, moral obligations, and the nature of the divine. They often encompass theological concepts, ethical values, and prescribed rituals, providing a framework for the adherents' beliefs and practices.

This emphasis on established teachings distinguishes doctrines from shared myths, cultural practices, and historical events. While myths may convey important narratives or lessons within a religious tradition, they do not necessarily capture the formal tenets of faith. Cultural practices relate to the customs and rituals shaped by societal influences rather than the core beliefs themselves. Historical events, while significant in the context of a religion's development, do not constitute the doctrinal beliefs that inform worship and ethical conduct.

Therefore, the answer identifying religious doctrines as official teachings and beliefs aligns accurately with the authoritative nature of doctrinal statements within religious communities.