Short Answer 
Religious songs emphasize themes of faith and spirituality with a purpose of worship and community engagement, often performed in sacred settings. In contrast, non-religious songs cover diverse topics for entertainment and commentary, performed in various venues, with less emphasis on audience participation and a broader range of instrumentation.
Step 1: Understand the Key Differences in Lyrics and Themes
Religious songs typically focus on themes central to faith and spirituality. Their lyrics often include:
- Expressions of praise for deities
- Yearning for spiritual enlightenment
- Retelling of sacred stories
On the other hand, non-religious songs explore a wide array of topics such as love, societal concerns, personal journeys, and fictional tales, showcasing a broader range of human experience.
Step 2: Recognize the Distinct Purposes and Contexts
The purpose behind religious songs is primarily to cultivate an atmosphere of worship, comfort the faithful, and express one’s beliefs. In contrast, non-religious songs aim for various objectives, including:
- Providing entertainment
- Offering political commentary
- Facilitating artistic expression
Moreover, religious songs are often performed in sacred spaces like places of worship, while non-religious songs enjoy a more diverse array of venues such as concerts, nightclubs, and personal gatherings.
Step 3: Analyze Audience Participation and Instrumentation
Audience engagement significantly differs between the two categories. In religious settings, participation is frequently encouraged, with congregations singing along or responding during services. Meanwhile, audience involvement varies in non-religious performances, with little to no expectations for active participation.
Additionally, the instrumentation varies greatly; religious music often employs traditional and sacred instruments, while non-religious genres may feature a wide range of both modern and unconventional instruments, enhancing their expressiveness.