Which of the following best describes the attitude of the Puritans toward their religious beliefs?

The Puritans are best described as possessing a strict and disciplined attitude toward their religious beliefs. This stems from their desire to "purify" the Church of England and return to what they viewed as a more authentic form of Christianity. They held a rigorous interpretation of the Bible, emphasizing moral rectitude, personal piety, and communal responsibility to live according to their understanding of God’s will.

This strictness was reflected not only in their religious practices but also in their societal norms, where community and church played central roles in daily life. Their beliefs fostered a sense of discipline that governed both personal behavior and communal interactions. For example, Puritan communities often enforced codes of conduct that regulated activities and behaviors, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining a morally upright society.

Understanding this context is critical in differentiating the Puritans from other religious groups of the time. Their approach was not one of tolerance and acceptance but rather focused on adherence to a set of beliefs that they believed to be divinely ordained. This underscores why "strict and disciplined" accurately encapsulates their religious attitude and practices.