creed

n. formula or confession of religious faith, belief

A creed is a statement or confession of belief — usually religious belief — or faith. The word derives from the for I believe. It is sometimes called symbol , signifying a "token" by which persons of like beliefs might recognize each other.The most definitive creed in Christianity is the Nicene Creed, formulated in AD 325 at the first of the Seven Ecumenical Councils. Affirmation of this creed, which describes the Trinity, is generally taken as a fundamental test of orthodoxy. The Apostle's Creed is also broadly accepted.Judaism recognizes a single creed, the Shmah. "Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One."
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v. believe, have faith in, think to be true; suppose, presume to be true

(v. t.)
To believe; to credit.
  

(v. t.)
Any summary of principles or opinions professed or adhered to.
  

(v. t.)
A definite summary of what is believed; esp., a summary of the articles of Christian faith; a confession of faith for public use; esp., one which is brief and comprehensive.
  

Noun
1. any system of principles or beliefs
(synonym) credo
(hypernym) doctrine, philosophy, philosophical system, school of thought, ism
(hyponym) testament
2. the written body of teachings of a religious group that are generally accepted by that group
(synonym) religious doctrine, church doctrine, gospel
(hypernym) doctrine, philosophy, philosophical system, school of thought, ism
(hyponym) confession