What are some of the explanatory, emotional, and social functions of religion?

Answer 1

I will attempt to give you my thoughts as I understand what you are asking.

Explanatory: We all have basic questions in our lives we need to answer, namely how did we get here, what is my purpose for being here, and what happens when I die? Religion attempts to answer these questions.

Emotional: No matter what school of thought you come from, one would have to admit that we all have some need inside of us all that we attempt to fill. For some, religion helps fill that need.

Social: All religions, regardless of focus, emphasize brotherhood, unity, and teamwork. Even for working on the "inner self", you at least are compelled to affiliate yourself with like-minded people.

All these, by the way, are most easily and best met by following Jesus Christ.