Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the redemption that draws out particular cultural expressions in both sports and religion primarily as expressed in the Bible. It describes the biblical expression of the chosen concept and its classic Western religious commentary. The book considers the use of the concept in sports by athletes and fans alike. It contextualizes the concept in the contemporary American religious landscape with special attention paid to the analyses of social theorists. The book draws on insights in order to disclose how sports and religion come together around the concept in contrast to the use of the concept in contemporary cultural debates. The concept of ‘belief’ has been applied by athletes, fans, and religious leaders. The relationship between sports and religion is approached in order to convert sports into a new religion or to classify it as a purely secular activity.