Reconnaissance in the blank areas of religious history

The question of the origin of religion is explored. It is hypothesized that there are two areas where the structure, or fundamental pattern, of religion becomes visible. The first hypothesis is that in the early tribal experience of human beings rites and rules embodied in religion have survival value. The second hypothesis is that for the individual religion replaces the mother as reassurance against the threat of death.Dr. Faber was Professor of Psychology of Religion and Pastoral Psychology at the University of Tilburg, Lindelaan 2, 3951 XT, Maarn, the Netherlands.