Traditionally, religious knowledge and identity were inherited. In other words, a person born into a specific community would naturally acquire and adhere to the religious beliefs and practices of that community.

For example, if you were born in a small town in India where everyone practiced Hinduism, you'd likely be a Hindu too, understanding and living by Hindu customs and values.

As people become more mobile and independent, they now face the opportunity and challenge of shaping their own religious and spiritual identities. This has created friction, or tension, in some places.

Sociologist Peter Berger described this shift as a transformation from destiny to choice. In the past, a person's religious belief was often a given, predetermined by their community. However, globalization and secularism have allowed people to imagine and explore other possibilities.

Imagine this: you've moved from your small hometown to study in a bustling city like New York or London. Here, you'd meet people from various religious backgrounds - Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Atheists, and many others. This exposure could prompt you to re-evaluate your inherited religious beliefs, consider others, or even create a unique blend that suits you best.

In many cosmopolitan cities, religious diversity is both celebrated and feared. It enriches human experience, but can also trigger insecurities in those uncomfortable with change. Reverend angel Kyodo williams notes that where diversity is accepted, people's identities and sense of wellbeing aren't tied to religious sameness.

Think about attending a multicultural festival in a city like Toronto. Here, the variety of religious customs, music, and food doesn't provoke conflict, but rather a shared joy and appreciation for the world's diversity.

However, not all communities welcome religious diversity. Fear or misunderstanding of different religious practices can result in hostility or exclusion.