Religious belief is a complex concept that encompasses many different aspects. A creed is a set of beliefs or principles, usually religious in nature, that are held to be true by a group or individual. FAITH is a strong belief in something, often without proof or evidence. Tenets are a set of beliefs or doctrines that form the basis of a religion or philosophy. Deism is a belief in a higher power or God, but without any formal religious structure or DOGMA. DOGMA is a set of beliefs or principles that are accepted as true and not open to question. Tao is a Chinese philosophical concept that is often translated as 'the way' or 'the path'. Dao is a similar Chinese philosophical concept, also meaning 'the way' or 'the path'. Taoism is a Chinese philosophical and religious tradition based on the teachings of the Tao. Theodicy is an attempt to explain why a good God would allow evil to exist in the world. PERSUASION is the act of convincing someone to believe or do something.