An exemplar based religion is a religion that centres the identity, life, and actions of a central figure, typically the religion's founder. Exemplar based religions ask their adherents to live their lives in emulation of such a figure. Examples of exemplar based religions include Christianity, Islam, and Sikhism, whose exemplar figures are Jesus, Mohamed, and the Guru Nanak .
A principle based religion is a religion that centres an overarching principle, ideal, or value in its doctrine. Principle based religions ask their adherents to live their lives in pursuit of these principles. Examples of principle based religions include Taoism, and certain sects of Hinduism.