Which clause prohibits government establishment of a state religion while allowing individuals to practice their religion freely?

• A. Establishment Clause
• B. Free Exercise Clause
• C. Free Speech Clause
• D. Equal Protection Clause

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is the separation of church and state in U.S. constitutional law. The clause that bars the government from establishing an official state religion while still allowing individuals to practice their beliefs freely is the Establishment Clause. It prevents the government from creating a national church or endorsing one religion over others, ensuring neutrality toward religion. The protection for individuals to practice their religion freely comes from the Free Exercise Clause, which works with establishment norms to safeguard religious liberty. The Free Speech Clause covers expressing beliefs, not establishing religion, and the Equal Protection Clause focuses on equal legal treatment rather than religion establishment.