Which of the following are the two major branches of Christianity?

The two major branches of Christianity are indeed Catholicism and Protestantism. This distinction emerged during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, when individuals like Martin Luther sought to reform what they viewed as corrupt practices within the Roman Catholic Church. As a result, several new denominations broke away from the Catholic Church and formed various Protestant churches.

Catholicism, characterized by its sacramental system, the authority of the Pope, and traditions such as the Mass, represents the largest branch of Christianity. Protestantism includes a wide array of denominations, such as Lutheranism, Anglicanism, Baptism, and Methodism, emphasizing the authority of Scripture and the belief in salvation through faith alone. This bifurcation has shaped the theological, practical, and cultural dimensions of Christianity throughout history, influencing millions of believers worldwide.

The other options presented refer to branches of different religions. Sunni and Shia are the two primary sects of Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism represent two distinct religions in the Indian spiritual landscape, and Daoism and Shinto are traditional religions native to China and Japan, respectively.