Top 10 Largest Religions in the World by Followers (2026 Updated List)

Religion has been one of the most powerful forces shaping human civilization for thousands of years. From ancient belief systems rooted in nature and philosophy to globally practiced monotheistic faiths, religions continue to influence how people live, think, govern, and interact with one another.

In 2026, religion still plays a central role in global culture, politics, education, ethics, and social identity. While the world is home to more than 20 recognized religions and thousands of indigenous belief systems, only a small number account for the vast majority of the global population.

Most of the world’s major religions fall into two broad categories:

• Abrahamic religions, such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism
• Indian-origin religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism

Based on updated demographic studies from global research organizations and long-term population trends, this article presents the Top 10 Largest Religions in the World by Number of Followers in 2026, along with their origins, beliefs, and global influence.

List of the 10 Largest Religions in the World (2026)

1. Christianity
2. Islam
3. Hinduism
4. Buddhism
5. Shintoism
6. Taoism
7. Sikhism
8. Judaism
9. Muism
10. Cao Dai

1. Christianity

Estimated Followers (2026): ~2.4 billion
Founded: 1st century CE
Place of Origin: Israel

Christianity remains the largest religion in the world, representing nearly one-third of the global population. It is based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe to be the Son of God and the savior of humanity.

The Bible, Christianity’s sacred scripture, is divided into the Old Testament and the New Testament. The religion is broadly categorized into three major branches:

• Roman Catholicism
• Protestantism
• Eastern Orthodoxy

Christianity spread rapidly throughout Europe during the Roman era and later expanded globally through exploration, colonization, and missionary work. Today, Christianity has a strong presence in Europe, the Americas, Sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of Asia-Pacific.

Beyond religious practice, Christianity has profoundly influenced global education systems, legal frameworks, art, architecture, music, and moral philosophy. Many modern institutions, including universities and hospitals, were founded on Christian principles.

2. Islam

Estimated Followers (2026): ~2.0 billion
Founded: 7th century CE
Place of Origin: Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Islam is the second-largest and fastest-growing religion in the world. Followers of Islam, known as Muslims, believe in Allah as the one true God and follow the teachings of the Qur’an, which Muslims regard as the literal word of God.

Islam was founded by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the 7th century. The faith is structured around the Five Pillars of Islam, which include faith, prayer, charity, fasting during Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj).

Islam is divided mainly into Sunni and Shia sects, with Sunnis forming the majority worldwide. Muslim populations are concentrated in Indonesia, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and the Middle East.

Islam plays a comprehensive role in daily life, covering spiritual, moral, social, and legal dimensions through Islamic teachings and traditions.

3. Hinduism

Estimated Followers (2026): ~1.2 billion
Founded: Over 4,000 years ago
Place of Origin: Indian subcontinent

Hinduism is widely regarded as the oldest living religion in the world. Unlike other major religions, Hinduism has no single founder and encompasses a wide range of beliefs, philosophies, and rituals.

Sacred texts include the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Puranas. Core Hindu concepts include karma (action and consequence), reincarnation, dharma (duty), and moksha (liberation).

Hinduism is deeply embedded in Indian culture, traditions, festivals, and social structures. While the majority of Hindus live in India and Nepal, Hindu communities exist across Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America.

In recent decades, practices such as yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda have gained global popularity, increasing international awareness of Hindu philosophy.

4. Buddhism

Estimated Followers (2026): ~520 million
Founded: 5th century BCE
Place of Origin: India

Buddhism was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. The religion focuses on overcoming suffering through understanding, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.

The teachings of Buddhism are centered on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which guide followers toward enlightenment (nirvana).

Buddhism has three main branches:

• Theravada
• Mahayana
• Vajrayana

It is widely practiced in China, Japan, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tibet. Buddhism emphasizes non-violence, compassion, mindfulness, and meditation.

5. Shintoism

Estimated Followers: ~100 million
Place of Origin: Japan

Shintoism is the indigenous religion of Japan and is deeply connected to Japanese cultural identity. It revolves around the worship of kami, spiritual beings associated with nature, ancestors, and sacred places.

Shinto has no central scripture or founder and is often practiced alongside Buddhism in Japan. Rituals, festivals, and shrine visits form the core of Shinto practice.

6. Taoism

Estimated Followers: ~12–20 million
Place of Origin: China

Taoism is both a philosophical and religious tradition emphasizing harmony with the Tao, meaning “the Way.” Taoism encourages balance, simplicity, and living in accordance with nature.

The teachings are attributed to Laozi, and the central text is the Tao Te Ching. Taoist ideas have influenced Chinese medicine, martial arts, and spiritual practices.

7. Sikhism

Estimated Followers: ~30 million
Founded: 15th century CE
Place of Origin: Punjab, India

Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak and teaches belief in one God, equality of all humans, selfless service, and honest living. The Guru Granth Sahib serves as the eternal spiritual guide.

Sikh communities are prominent in India, the UK, Canada, and other parts of the world.

8. Judaism

Estimated Followers: ~15 million
Founded: Over 3,000 years ago
Place of Origin: Middle East

Judaism is one of the oldest monotheistic religions and the foundation of Abrahamic faiths. Jewish beliefs are rooted in the Torah and emphasize ethical living, community, and covenant with God.

9. Muism

Estimated Followers: ~10 million
Place of Origin: Korea

Muism, also known as Korean shamanism, is an ancient belief system centered on spirit worship, healing rituals, and harmony between humans and nature.

10. Cao Dai

Estimated Followers: ~6 million
Founded: 1926
Place of Origin: Vietnam

Cao Dai is a syncretic religion combining elements of Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Confucianism into a single faith system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the largest religion in the world in 2026?

Christianity remains the largest religion globally, followed closely by Islam.

Which religion is growing the fastest?

Islam is currently the fastest-growing major religion worldwide.

What is the oldest religion in the world?

Hinduism is considered the oldest continuously practiced religion.

How many religions exist globally?

There are more than 20 major religions and thousands of smaller belief systems worldwide.

Are religions still relevant today?

Yes. Religion continues to influence global culture, politics, ethics, and personal identity.