Religious Economy and Karl Marx's Notion of Religion as the "Opium of the Masses" Introduction R eligious economy is a concept that delves into the intricate relationship between religion and economics within society. This relationship has long been a subject of interest for scholars seeking to understand how religious beliefs and practices interact with economic factors. One prominent perspective on this matter is the viewpoint put forth by Karl Marx, who famously referred to religion as the "opium of the masses." This article explores the essence of religious economy and delves into Marx's assertion about religion's role in society. Understanding Religious Economy Religious economy encompasses the complex interplay between religious institutions, beliefs, and practices with the economic environment of a society. This framework acknowledges that religious organizations often operate in a manner similar to economic entities, competing for followers, re...