In The Crucible, religion is a central theme that influences the actions and beliefs of the characters. The play is set in Salem, a Puritan community where religion and state are intertwined, creating a theocracy. This religious framework is meant to unify the community and protect it from external threats. However, the rigid religious structure also fosters division and conflict, as seen in the witch trials that unfold. The characters' interactions with religion reveal their personal struggles and the broader societal tensions within Salem.

John Proctor's relationship with religion highlights the hypocrisy and materialism he perceives in Salem's religious leaders. Proctor's irregular church attendance is a form of protest against Reverend Parris, whom he sees as more concerned with wealth than spiritual matters. Proctor criticizes Parris for demanding golden candlesticks for the church, stating, "

Since we built the church there were pewter candlesticks upon the altar; Francis Nurse made them y'know, and a sweeter hand never touched the metal. But Parris came, and for twenty week he preach nothin' but golden candlesticks until he had them. I labour the earth from dawn of day to blink of night, and I tell you true, when I look to heaven and see my money glaring at his elbows--it hurt my prayer, sir, it hurt my prayer. I think, sometimes, the man dreams cathedrals, not clapboard meetin' houses.<\/blockquote>" This quote illustrates Proctor's belief that Parris's materialism undermines the purity of worship.

The conflict between Proctor and Parris extends to Proctor's decision not to have all his children baptized by Parris. Proctor's mistrust of Parris's intentions reflects his view that Parris is unworthy of performing religious ceremonies due to his focus on material wealth. This distrust is emblematic of the broader discontent with religious authority in Salem. Proctor's actions demonstrate a personal rebellion against the theocratic system that prioritizes appearance over genuine faith.

Salem's theocratic society is designed to maintain order and unity through religious conformity. The opening narration of the play describes this system: "

[T]he people of Salem developed a theocracy, a combine of state and religious power whose function was to keep the community together, and to prevent any kind of disunity that might open it to destruction by material or ideological enemies.<\/blockquote>" However, this rigid structure also leads to exclusion and persecution, as those who do not conform to the religious norms are marginalized or accused of witchcraft. The witch trials become a tool for the theocratic elite to assert control and distinguish the "elect" from the "damned," reflecting the Puritan belief in predestination.