Faith on the move: Unpacking the surprising data on which Religion is fastest growing in Australia today

Q: Why is 18 a lucky number in Judaism?

Why 18 is a Lucky Number in Judaism In Jewish tradition, the number 18 carries deep symbolic meaning—far beyond simple arithmetic. Its significance comes from the Hebrew word chai, which means “life.” The word is composed of two letters: chet (ח) and yud (י). In gematria, the ancient practice of assigning numerical values to letters, chet equals 8 and yud equals 10. Together, they add up to 18. Because of this, 18 has become synonymous with life and good fortune. It's common for people to give

Q: Can a husband lick his wife's private parts in Islam?

Intimacy and Purity in Islamic Teachings Intimate relations between spouses are viewed in Islam as not only permissible but encouraged, provided they occur within the boundaries of marriage and respect the principles of modesty and purity. When it comes to specific acts such as oral contact, Islamic scholarship offers guidance rooted in both scripture and interpretation. The question of whether a husband may lick his wife's private parts touches on matters of Taharah—ritual purity—and scholarl

Q: What does John 112 say in the Bible?

Children of God by Divine Grace It’s easy to skim over a verse like John 1:12–13, especially when scrolling through Scripture. But when you pause and let it sink in, it’s life-changing. This passage doesn’t just speak of belief—it speaks of belonging. “But to all who did receive him (Jesus), who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God…” That word right isn’t earned; it’s given. It’s a gift, not a reward. What’s striking is what this new identity isn’t based on. John m

FrContext editorial team · Updated April 21, 2026 · 1 min read

Philosophy and Religion Religion

When asking which religion is fastest growing in Australia, the raw data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals a dual reality: while Hinduism is the fastest-growing faith by percentage, Islam and "No Religion" are expanding rapidly in sheer numbers. According to the 2021 Census, Hinduism grew by hundreds of thousands of adherents, fueled primarily by skilled migration from South Asia. This shift represents a seismic recalibration of the Australian spiritual landscape, moving away from its historically monolithic Christian roots toward a more fragmented, vibrant, and pluralistic mosaic of belief. The pews are changing, and they are changing fast.

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Why is 18 a lucky number in Judaism? ›

Why 18 is a lucky number in Judaism

In Jewish tradition, the number 18 carries deep symbolic meaning—far beyond simple arithmetic. Its significance comes from the Hebrew word chai, which means “life.” The word is composed of two letters: chet (ח) and yud (י). In gematria, the ancient practice of assigning numerical values to letters, chet equals 8 and yud equals 10. Together, they add up to 18.

Because of this, 18 has become synonymous with life and good fortune. It's common for people to give gifts or donations in multiples of 18—$18, $36, $180, as a way of symbolically “giving life.” This practice is especially popular during holidays, birthdays, and weddings, when celebrating life is central.

The concept goes deeper than superstition. Life is sacred in Judaism, and the word chai appears throughout religious texts and rituals. Amulets and jewelry often feature the number or the word itself as a reminder of gratitude for life and divine protection. In fact, many visit gravesites and leave small stones with “chai” inscribed on them as a sign of remembrance and respect.

This tradition also reflects the broader Jewish emphasis on community and generosity. Giving charity in increments of 18 not only honors the recipient but also strengthens the collective sense of vitality and continuity.

So while 18 may seem like an ordinary number elsewhere, in Jewish culture it pulses with meaning. It’s more than lucky, it’s a celebration of existence, resilience, and the enduring value of life itself.

Can a husband lick his wife's private parts in Islam? ›

Intimacy and purity in Islamic teachings

Intimate relations between spouses are viewed in Islam as not only permissible but encouraged, provided they occur within the boundaries of marriage and respect the principles of modesty and purity. When it comes to specific acts such as oral contact, Islamic scholarship offers guidance rooted in both scripture and interpretation.

The question of whether a husband may lick his wife's private parts touches on matters of Taharah—ritual purity—and scholarly opinions vary. While there is no clear prohibition (Haram) stated in the Quran or authentic Hadith, some scholars, including the respected Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradȁwi, consider such acts Makruh (disliked) if they lead to ejaculation. This is primarily due to concerns about maintaining ritual cleanliness and modesty, not because the act is inherently sinful.

The broader context of marital intimacy in Islam emphasizes mutual affection, respect, and fulfillment. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known to have a warm and affectionate relationship with his wives, including playful and tender moments. As long as acts fall within the lawful boundaries of marriage and do not involve harm or impurity, they are generally considered acceptable.

Couples are encouraged to maintain a balance between physical intimacy and spiritual mindfulness. Open communication, mutual consent, and attention to hygiene play vital roles in ensuring that intimacy strengthens the marital bond without compromising religious values.

As with many personal matters in Islam, discretion and sincerity are key. The goal is not merely to follow rules, but to cultivate a relationship grounded in love, mercy, and mutual respect, as taught in the Quran and the Sunnah.

What does John 112 say in the Bible? ›

Children of God by divine grace

It’s easy to skim over a verse like John 1:12–13, especially when scrolling through Scripture. But when you pause and let it sink in, it’s life-changing. This passage doesn’t just speak of belief—it speaks of belonging. “But to all who did receive him (Jesus), who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God…” That word right isn’t earned; it’s given. It’s a gift, not a reward.

What’s striking is what this new identity isn’t based on. John makes it clear: becoming a child of God isn’t about bloodlines, personal ambition, or human effort. You can’t inherit it just because of your family. You can’t will it into existence through discipline or willpower. It comes from God alone. “Born not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor the will of man, but of God.” This is divine birth—a spiritual awakening initiated by God Himself.

In a world obsessed with status, achievement, and self-made identity, this truth is quietly revolutionary. It levels the playing field. No one earns their way in. Everyone who receives Jesus, regardless of past, background, or baggage, is welcomed into the family. Not as an outsider, but as a child.

It means your worth isn’t tied to performance. Your identity isn’t shaped by popularity or success. You’re not striving to be accepted, you already are, through Christ. This isn’t just theology; it’s freedom. The kind that lets you breathe, rest, and live with quiet confidence.

So next time you feel like you’re not enough, remember John 1:12. You’re not trying to become God’s child. You already are, by grace, through faith, and because of a love that chose you first.

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Faith on the move: Unpacking the surprising data on which Religion is fastest growing in Australia today

People also ask

Why 18 is a lucky number in Judaism

Intimacy and purity in Islamic teachings

Children of God by divine grace

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