Which Amendment protects religious rights, including the right to free exercise religion?

The First Amendment is specifically designed to protect several fundamental rights, including the freedom of religion. It states that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. This dual protection means that individuals are guaranteed the right to practice their religion freely without government interference, and the government cannot favor one religion over another or establish a national religion. This foundational principle is integral to the American value of religious liberty, ensuring that diverse religious beliefs can coexist in a pluralistic society. The First Amendment thus enshrines protections that have had profound implications for the relationship between religion and government throughout U.S. history.