religion hsc !!

discuss how aboriginal spirituality is determined by the dreaming: obligations to the land people

• The dreaming is inextricably connected to the land as it is the physical medium through which the dreaming is lived and communicated.

• The land provides the foundation for Aboriginal beliefs, traditions, rituals and laws because the dreaming is embedded in the land, as it is the dwelling place of the ancestral beings

• link made through totemism. Totem is

  an object, animal, landmark which unites tribes under the same ancestral beings which fosters a metaphysical aspect of the dreaming

• the land is their mother, the land owns

  them, they are custodians. IF THEY DO NOT TAKE CARE OF IT and perform sacred ceremonies, the land will lose its ability to renew itself

define the dreaming

metatemporal concept of aboriginal spirituality that encapsulates the spiritual and physical dimensions, giving meaning to all aspects of life

discuss how aboriginal spirituality is determined by the dreaming: kinship

highly sophisticated network of relationships

• governs interactions between clans + creates belonging and responsibilities within the triibe

• strict rules and obligation exist for each kinship which extend to land, who you can marry, ceremonies, hunting parties and raising children

• aboriginal person learns about their spirituality through their kin

• enables the transmission knowledge of the dreaming from elders to young

discuss how aboriginal spirituality is determined by the dreaming: ceremonial life

• enables Aborigines to communicate the dreaming and maintain a connection to ancestral beings

• communication through art, dance, songs expressed in ceremonies - connect to their ancestral spirits and access past events through ceremonial activity

• important for passing on and maintaining beliefs and practices

• initiation ceremonies occur as a rite of passage, denoting the transition from childhood to adulthood. transpires on sacred land, thus exemplifying the inextricable link between the Dreaming and Aboriginal spirituality.

define dispossession

dispossession is viewed as the destruction of “spiritual ties” between aboriginals and the land due to European colonisation

“When you look at a family tree, every person that is within that family tree is born into a spiritual inheritance. And when that person isn’t here, there’s a void” 

discuss the continuing effect of dispossession on aboriginal spiritualities in relation to: separation from the land

• the land and the people have a deeply symbiotic relationship, therefore their separation from the land meant they couldn’t

  fulfil ritual responsibilities or totemic obligations

• policies of protectionism and assimilation severed their connections to their ‘spiritual inheritance’ leading to a loss of sacred sites, spiritual identity and loss of purpose in life

• left aborigines to face a “spiritual void” feeling homeless, displaced: now linked with lower life expectancy, higher rates of infant mortality

“When you look at a family tree, every person that is within that family tree is born into a spiritual inheritance. And when that person isn’t here, there’s a void” 

discuss the continuing effect of dispossession on aboriginal spiritualities in relation to: separation from kinship groups

• kinship systems are the basis of their ‘family tree’s

• destruction of the kinship system broke down cultural transmission in passing on the dreaming, maintaining traditional practices, laws and rituals

• loss of language and ban of trad languages resulted in the inability to pass on the dreaming. this created a void in trying to reclaim their roles

• lose both their individual and collective sense of self

“When you look at a family tree, every person that is within that family tree is born into a spiritual inheritance. And when that person isn’t here, there’s a void” 

discuss the continuing effect of dispossession on aboriginal spiritualities in relation to: the stolen generations

• children were removed from their family trees. and cultural backgrounds, creating a void in the transmission of spiritual inheritance

• children are unable to access the required knowledge about the dreaming and continue to live out their ‘spiritual inheritance

• resulted in a continuing sense of grief and trauma

• ongoing reality of spiritual disconnectedness - higher unemployment rates, higher drug and alcohol abuse, higher rates of infant mortality

define: land rights movement

a religious and political movement for aboriginals, in securing the rights of their land, to ensure the continuation of their spiritualities

outline the importance of the following for the land rights movement: mabo (say the year)

• eddie mabo claimed that merriam people had lived on the land for ‘time immemorial’

• the mabo decision (1992) acknowledged that terra nullius (land belonging to one one) is false - had previously existed for 200+ years

• high court decided that native title existed prior to 1799

• the first official recognition of the rights of Aboriginal peoples to continue to observe and express their spirituality on their traditional lands

• recognised indigenous people have Native Title to land

• didn’t grant new rights for Aboriginal people BUT recognised their

  traditional legal rights - driving force for native title

outline the importance of the following for the land rights movement: native title (say the year)

• native title (1993) recognised that indigenous Australians had continuing

  connection with the land

• acknowledges the existence of traditional ownership, laying down guidelines and structures by which Indigenous people can pursue Native Title in cases

• to make a claim, a community must show they have maintained a traditional connection with the land and that their title has not been legally extinguished

• needed evidence like their identity, connection to country and traditional languages

• assisted some aboriginal groups to gain economic and social independence - enables them to preserve their culture

outline the importance of the following for the land rights movement: wik decision (say the year)

• the wik decision (1996): the High court decided that Native Title could co-exist with the rights of pastoralists. BUT, if an extreme conflict occurs, the pastoral leases would prevail over native title

• it clarified that leasehold

  title (crown land) doesn’t automatically extinguish native title

• decision allowed indigenous people to maintain their spirituality AND acknowledged the deep cultural and spiritual connection Indigenous Australians have with their land.

analyse the importance of dreaming for the land rights movement

• allowed them to reconnect with their traditional lands and their dreaming after generations of separation.

• land + dreaming = inextricably connected, making the land rights movement an essential step in restoring the spiritual links to the land that the aboriginal people had lost

• re-established the inextricable connection between the land and aboriginal people, where rituals and ceremonies can be carried out. strengthens their sense of ceremonial life and kinship, thus restoring an element of dreaming

• able to continue their oral tradition, ensures spirituality remains metatemporal and animistic.

• public recognition granted them them access to the land to re- establish cultural and spiritual links.

• LINK BACK TO MABO AND WIK (use previous slides)

outline changing patterns of religious adherence from 1945 to the present using

• Since 1945, Australia’s religious landscape has seen great change, due to immigration, denominational switching, new age religions and secularism

• in 1947, Christianity was the main religion (88%). After Australia abolished the White Australia Policy in 1966, migration grew from non-European countries where religions other than Christianity were common. went from 0.7% (1966) to 10% (2021)

• the growth of secularism led to ‘no religion’ becoming apart of the census by the 1970’s

• no religion went from 30.1% (2016) to 38.9% (2021)

• anglicans are decreasing. 39% (1947) to 9.8% (2021)

• pentecostals have increased from 0.2% (1966) to 1.1% in (2016) - revolving door syndrome

• catholics have been decreasing since 1996, now 20% (2021)

  • top 3 religion (in order) in 2016 census islam (2.6%), buddhism (2.4%),+ hinduism (1.9%). NOW, 2021, islam (3.2%), hinduism (2.7%), buddhism (2.4%)

account for the present religious landscape in Australia in relation to: christianity as the major religious tradition

• most First Fleet convicts and settlers were Church of England

• end of ww2, most catholics were anglo-celtic, post ww2 christian growth was attributed to malta, italy etc

• after abolishment of white australia policy, philippines migration was big ]

• increased with migration from Britain and Assisted Passage Scheme

• during 1945, society attend church of england services + Sunday school

  —> reason for 88% being Christian

  - now 43.9% identify, and society has become more secular

• formation of uniting church in 1977 + pentecostal churches in the 1990’s, has aided with the growth of christianity. the uniting church represents 2.6% of the population and pentecostals, 1% (2021 census)/

• christianity is institutionalised in Australia: religious schooling, calendar is linked to christian holidays, the legal political system + dominant daily culture reinforces and perpetuates its position as the predominant religion in Australia

  - however christianity takes a much less obvious role in secular activities in society, increased multi-faith, disenchantment and multicultural society

account for the present religious landscape in Australia in relation to: immigration

• post WW2, + the immigration restriction act 1901, saw migrant coming from Europe through the assisted passage scheme (predominantly catholic + eastern orthodox)

• Jews emigrated from Poland and other european nations as holocaust refugees, primarily after 1980

• abolition of the White Australia Policy in 1973, saw the emergence of multiculturalism, forming the present religious landscape

• The Vietnam war and conflicts in southeast asia led to an influx of refugees from Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, which introduced multiculturalism and Buddhism in aus

• India, Sri Lanka and Fiji brought Hinduism: number of migrants increased from 1990 onwards, especially with the rise of skilled migration programs

• refugees from Lebanon, Turkey and Indonesia brought Islam as they were escaping civil wars

• In 1947 adherents of Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam were too few in

  number to show up as a proportion on the census (each less than 0.1%). have experienced significant changes in number - 2016 census: islam (2.6%), buddhism (2.4%),+ hinduism (1.9%). NOW, 2021, islam (3.2%), hinduism (2.7%), buddhism (2.4%)

account for the present religious landscape in Australia in relation to: denominational switching

• movement between denominations within christianity

• increasing due to increased cultural individualism

• people under 40 years of age are less likely to value ‘lifetime obedience” to a specific denomination compared to those over 60

• people switch due to marriage, relocation of churches and unhappiness with their mainstream church

• anglicans and protestants are more likely to switch denominations; catholics and orthodoxs are least likely

• ongoing growth of pentecostalism can be attributed to denominational switching since the 1980’s, as it continues to attract younger generations through its emphasis on healing and its individualistic nature

• 1996 census reported a substantial increase of 60% in the Pentecostal figures over the past 10 years

• 2016 Census shows their growth has remained constant since 2011 -  neither increasing or decreasing - showing 1.1% in both surveys. 2021 Census shows a slight decline at 1%. do experience revolving door syndrome due to a lack of fulfillment

account for the present religious landscape in Australia in relation to: rise of new age religions

• new age religions are non conventional spiritual practices that generally focus on individual fulfillment, spiritual awareness or higher states of consciousness

• 1970’s was a period in which people valued individualism, self transformation and questioned traditional authority examples: paganism, wicca + satanists

• globalisation allowed for exposure to eastern philosophies

• due to disenchantment with mainstream religions - lack of personal fulfillment

• unhappy with their mainstream church due to outdated views on contemporary issues

• 2021 census saw 38.9% of people claiming to have no religion showing the move towards a secular society

• influence of secularism causes traditional religious authority to decline, meaning new ways of fulfillment are sought out

• greater pluralism: multifaith and multicultural society exposes people to a wide range of beliefs

• aligns with contemporary concerns regarding environmental awareness

account for the present religious landscape in Australia in relation to: secularism

• secularism is the separation of government from religion

• rise of secularism has led to both a drop in the numbers of religious services attendance + an increase in the "No Religion" category

• in 1947 only 0.3% of the population identified with '“No Religion", however this has increased to 38.9% according to the 2021 census

• australia’s pluralistic society gives less social significance and authority to religion

• individuals do not want their spirituality institutionalised and aim to find non-religious answers to their quest for meaning

• the increase in scientific developments and biological advances provides other non-religious answers

• hardships tend to a loss of connection between individuals and their religions

• there is a tendency for religions to instill guilt on adherents on the premise of their antiquated and conservative beliefs

define ecumenism

movement to achieving worldwide christian unity amongst denominations. fosters harmony, peace, and understanding between variants - reduces tensions of past sectarianism

describe the impact of christian ecumenical movements in Australia: (say the name 1)

the national council of churches in australia (ncca)

• formed in 1984, made up of anglicans protestants, catholics and orthodox to express unity

• seen through prayer, working and growing together

• promotes collab in social justice initiatives via ‘Act for Peace’ campaign: focuses on providing humanitarian assistance to displaced people uprooted by conflicts + disasters

• they promote global equity: christmas bowl appeal supports these communities

• targets social welfare: safe church program ensures the safety and protection of individuals. support victims of abuse by ensuring access to appropriate care and counseling.

describe the impact of christian ecumenical movements in Australia: (say the name 2)

NSW ecumenical council

• formed in 1948 which comprises of 21 churches in NSW + ACT

• reflects on churches theology in a united way

• undertakes educational initiatives to advocate ecumenism

• eg. peace and justice commission brings together representatives to respond to peace and justice matters such as refugees

• eg. domestic violence information program raises awareness about the incidence and effects of family violence

“ I used to think that interfaith dialogue is something that we do, but I now realise that it’s something we are”

With reference to the stimulus, explain the importance of interfaith dialogue in Australia.

• australia is pluralistic and multi faith

• interfaith dialogue allows for greater respect and appreciation for religious diversity → essential for harmony + peace

• important in healing wounds from historical conflicts

• allows them to work on the worlds biggest issues war and poverty

• breaks down stereotypes and prejudices

• allows for a united voice on issues

• influences government to make changes in laws - eg. bioethics

• 55% of the world’s population is muslim or christian

• eg. australian national dialogue of christians muslims + jews: hosts interfaith events to facilitate discussion on shared values and community concerns to combat prejudice and build mutual respect (might need another example??)

• stimulus suggests that interfaith dialogue is not just about formal meetings or discussions but reflects a continual process of living and interacting harmoniously within a pluralistic society - ongoing

examine the relationship between aboriginal spiritualities and religious traditions in the process of reconciliation

• reconciliation is the ongoing process where ATSI peoples and non-indigenous peoples move into a future with a new relationship based on mutual recognition, understanding and respect

• by acknowledging the past (wrongs), present (understanding the resulting trauma, disadvantage and inequality), and the future (practical solutions for change), the broken relationships between ATSI and non-ATSI can be mended

• necessary to address as ATSI peoples are severely disadvantaged; less likely to finish school, more likely to die young and experience abuse - stolen generations are living examples

• christianity - catholic church: 2024 reconciliation week opened with masses and liturgies to pray for healing and a shared commitment to action for ATSI peoples

• christianity - uniting church: run a program, pinangba delivers a range of services in queensland to ATSI people eg. aged care

• judaism: december 2019, NSW Jewish Board of Deputies hosted a shabbat service and dinner at the great synagogue for Aboriginal community leaders

Outline THREE contributions made by ONE significant person OR school of thought, other than Abraham or Moses, to the development of Judaism. (say the first one)

1. haskalah (jewish enlightenment) is an movement which aimed to modernise jewish life and integrate jewish communities into european communities

• he encouraged, the integration of secular education and jewish teachings

• translation of the Torah and Psalms into German as this was the dominant language in Europe. Did this through the Biur (hebrew commentary).

• Jews, were able to get knowledge of the German language and integrate themselves into society

• he further encouraged the integration of Jewish and german culture by encouraging some of the Maskilim to publish the ‘Ha-Meassef’

Outline THREE contributions made by ONE significant person OR school of thought, other than Abraham or Moses, to the development of Judaism. (say the second one)

1. Jewish emancipation was the process in which Jews were granted equal rights and citizenships in Europe, allowing them to participate in society

• at the time, Jewish people lived in gated communities called Ghetto’s 

• “be a cosmopolitan man in the street, and a Jew at home.” → wear german clothing, speak german + keep kosher, observe sabbath

• through his writings "‘Jerusalem or on religious power and Judaism’ he argued that Jews could maintain faithful to their religious traditions and be citizens of secular society

• believed in the importance of seeking education outside of studying Yiddish and integrate into society

impact of the emancipation & the haskalah (jewish enlightment)

• gained equal civil liberties → access to jobs, education, become citizens and vote

• encouraged Jewish involvement in politics, academia and the arts 

• HOWEVER it did not translate to acceptance socially by non-jews. in some parts of europe, Jews were given civil rights and accepted as equals → in russia, they were treated as inferior and experienced discrimination

• led to the emergence of Reform Judaism. Torah became less of an obligation to God as people pick and chose what fit with their lifestyle

• led to assimilation → religious observance declined as Jews entered the gentile world. more mixed marriages and conversions to christianity occurred

• contributed to a modern ideology → ZIONISM which maintained the belief that Jewish people should return to their homeland, Israel

• people began to integrate and assimilate into their countries

Outline THREE contributions made by ONE significant person OR school of thought, other than Abraham or Moses, to the development of Judaism. (say the third one)

1. Education/ Freie Schule was the process in which Jews were granted equal rights and citizenships in Europe, allowing them to participate in society

• promoted idea → Jewish texts should be studied in the context of secular knowledge 

• first Haskalah school was founded in 1778 (Freie Schule) where poor children could receive an education on german, geo, hebrew & bible studies

• this allowed Jewish children to gain both religious and secular knowledge, empowering them to contribute to the European society + maintain Jewish identity.

impact of the freie schule

• sparked debates within the Jewish community about how to balance tradition with modernity

• Influence still seen in the ongoing tensions within the Jewish community about secularism, religious observance and the role of Judaism in the modern world

How has ONE significant person OR school of thought, other than Abraham or Moses, encouraged adherents to follow the command ‘to love the Lord your God and to walk in His ways’?

(his impact; reference doc)             

• Moses Mendelssohn advocated for adherents to ‘to love the Lord your God and to walk in His ways’ by promoting rational thinking whilst balancing their love of God within the Jewish faith

• His efforts in translating the torah through the use of the buir emphasised the importance of understanding the Law of God.

• Jews connected spiritually with God while also integrating into European society

• He demonstrated that faithfulness to God could coexist with modernity, seen through the formation of freischule which allowed jews to study secular subjects and traditional jewish subjects simultaneously

• this helped to maintain devotion to God, aiding them with ‘walking in his ways’ while continuing to engage with the secular world

• Mendelssohn encouraged adherents to ‘walk in his ways’ by living life ethically, being respectful, promoting justice and living harmoniously as a reflection of God’s teachings

• His focus on education allowed jews to not only express love of the Lord through jewish practices but also by living a life that embodies God’s core values

list the 4 ethical teachings on life in judaism

• sanctity of life and all human life has infinite value (pikuach nefesh)

• humans’ bodies belong to God

• illness and death are a natural part of life (goses)

• improvement of a patients quality of life is a constant commitment

unpack the ethical teaching: sanctity of life and all human life has infinite value (pikuach nefesh) - reference scripture

• the ten commandments instructs adherents that “you shall not kill” in exodus 20:3 as no human has the right to destroy God’s unique creation aligns with Pikuach Nefesh as it embodies the infinite value of life

• human beings are ‘duty bound to violate any other law in order to save human life’ eg, breaking shabbat laws - pikuach nifesh

• the value of human life is so great, that it must be protected

• holds individuals accountable for valuing life not just through avoidance of harm but through their duty to preserve and honor it as the human body must be used to attain holiness

unpack the ethical teaching: human bodies belong to God - reference scripture

• “The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” psalm 24:1

• God gave human beings their bodies and their lives in sacred trust, therefore human beings are stewards of their bodies and have a duty to maintain their own health because their bodies belong to God

relate ethical teachings to euthanasia

• euthanasia: ending the life of a person who is terminally ill and experiencing unbearable pain

• opposes the sanctity of life (pikuach nefesh)

• all life is of infinite value, regardless of its duration or quality, because “God created humankind in his image” - genesis 1:27

• killing a dying person (a goses) is murder

• eg, a doctor cannot do anything that hastens death, however in some circumstances a doctor can remove whatever is preventing the dying person's soul from departing

• Some rabbis hold that artificial means should not be used to prolong a dying patient’s life, if it only extends suffering without curing the illness.

• jews are instructed to preserve the dignity of life. they can however pray for a person to be removed from

  pain and suffering. pro-life stance reflects the teaching that humans are made in God's image (Gen 1:27), and all life is equal

describe and explain jewish ethical teachings on bioethics (1 for short answer, 2 for essay) - abortion

• abortion: premature expulsion of a fetus

• judaism does not forbid abortion BUT does NOT permit abortion on demand

• Jewish law does not sanction abortion for convenience and does recognise the foetus as potential life. although not independent, it is worthy of respect and procreation

• Mishnah (Sanhedrin 4:5):

  Whoever destroys one life is as if he destroyed a whole world

• PERMITS abortion when the mother’s life is in danger → danger to the mother must be clear and substantial → Mishnah states that where there is danger to the mother’s life, an abortion can be performed at any stage of conception until the head of infant emerges

• PERMITS if the mother is under mental distress → has NO consistent view as to the level of mental distress needed to justify abortion —> rabbis agree that if the mother would commit suicide, then abortion is justified

• PERMITS if there is rape or incest therefore permitted if there is sufficient distress to endanger her health

• PERMITS for the sake of the baby. some rabbis would give permission if there is a prospect of having a deformed baby

• mothers life is more important than the foetus

• first forty days of pregnancy, embryo is of ‘low value’ → not a person until birth

variant differences for abortion

orthodox: permit abortion in limited circumstances

• abortion of demand is not permitted (inconvenience, not married, finances)

• danger posed by the foetus must be probable and substantial to justify it

• Orthodox poskim forbid abortion in cases of abnormalities or deformities

• encourage people to seek other avenues eg. counselling, adoption

conservative: justifiable if continuation of pregnancy might cause the woman to experience physical or psychological harm or foetus has severe abnormalities

• should consult with biological father, other members of family, her rabbi or any person that can help with moral issues

reform: permits abortion not only when woman’s life is at stake, but rape or incest pregnancy and when child is determined to have a disease that will cause death or severe disability

• woman’s decision, backed up by those whom she trusts

• value the right of individuals to act as moral agents on their own behalf.

describe and explain jewish ethical teachings on bioethics (1 for short answer, 2 for essay) - euthanasia

euthanasia: ending the life of person who is experiencing a terminal illness or unbearable pain

• FORBIDS active euthanasia and regards it as murder - passive euthanasia is allowed

• acceptable to ask God in prayer to relieve a person of their pain

• wrong to shorten a human life, as every moment in human life is considered equal in value to many years of life

• jewish law (Halacha) states that doctors have a duty to preserve life however they cannot do anything that hastens death

• cannot take away a life but cannot unnaturally prolong life- God gives and takes life

• “there is a time to be born and a time todie” (Ecc 3:2)

• The omnipresence of God andomnipotence also means it is prohibited for a Jew to euthanise, even if one is willing to beeuthanised as it is God’s job, “he is the one who giveth, and he shall take away” (Ecc 3:12)

describe ONE significant practice within Judaism drawn from marriage

• marriage is the union and covenantal relationship of a man and woman sanctified in the eyes of God

• Jews are expected to live a fulfilled and holy life

• one of the fundamental purposes of marriage is companionship and love as “it is not good that man should be alone” (Gen 2:18).

• another essential purpose is procreation. Jews are called to “be fruitful and multiply” (Gen 1:28) to ensure the continuation of the Jewish faith. The talmud deems this completed after a couple has one child

• marriage contributes to social order, consequently the third purpose of marriage is to establish family as the basic social unit and the home as a “little sanctuary” provided by God (ez 11:16)

• the kiddushin (engagement) and the nissuin (actual wedding) reflect these purposes through the signing of the ketubah and the giving of the ring

• the signing of the ketubah outlines the chatans (orthodox) rights and responsibilities to the kallah eg. food, clothing and financial protection in the event of divorce or death. in reform movements, it includes the kallahs responsibilities to the chatan as well

• the giving of the ring makes the marriage official as it legalises the marriage. it is symbolic of a life-long commitment with the chatan + kallah. orthodox jews allow only the kallah to receive a ring on the forefinger (torah reading finger). reform jews allow the chatan to also receive a ring

demonstrate how this practice expresses the beliefs of Judaism: marriage

• principal beliefs of Judaism are clearly apparent in the practice of marriage

• First, the belief “in a single God who is the creator of the universe” is expressed when the Kallah circles the Chatan 7 times (Orthodox), symbolising the 7 day creation story evident in Genesis

• Further expressed in the Sheva Brachot as the blessings solidify the belief in God’s distinct role as the creator and sanctity of marriage. It is “blessing God for bringing this couple together”, highlighting the divineness of marriage decreed by God

• belief in the ‘concept of a moral law prescribed by God’ is made evident in In the giving of the ring, during the kiddushin. the words, “behold you are consecrated to me with this ring, according to the laws of moses and Israel” are stated which highlights the sacred and divine commitment they make with one another and God as the giver of moral law. It is of great importance to “To take a wife by kiddushin, the sacrament of marriage” (Deut. 24:1), as these laws provide a moral foundation on which one’s union is based upon. This allows a couple to uphold the sanctity and dignity of marriage as this framework promotes righteousness and glorifies God

• belief in the covenant is reflected in the signing of the ketubah. It outlines obligation and responsibilities in marriage eg. food, clothing, shelter, which parallels God's covenant with Israel as marriage further mirrors the divine partnership between a man and his wife. It has a higher purpose than the individuals desires, but rather exalts God for uniting two souls (bashert) made through his creation, in his glory

analyse the significance of marriage for the individual

• jewish practice of marriage is deeply significant for the individuals (couple getting married)

• couple fulfills their religious duties and establish a new identity

• First, they experience secular changes including change of legal and social status and new financial commitments

• but a religious marriage reinforces the individuals own faith by reflecting on God’s works and the fulfilment of their covenantal relationship with him

• renews the couples faith in the understanding of the principal beliefs..

• Through the jewish duty to conceive children, the kallah and chatan create a new family in the eyes of God fulfilling the commandment to be fruitful and multiply.

• structures the life of the couple through new responsibilities: father is expected to attend the synagogue regularly (three times on shabbat) and pass on his knowledge in educating the children on the jewish way of life

• the mother also has responsibilities in educating the children to keep the home as the ‘little sanctuary’ and keeping the home ‘kosher’

• ultimately the individual fulfils the mitzvah and their religious duty

analyse the significance of marriage for the community

analyse the contribution of one significant person on christianity

• paul is one of the most significant persons in christianity as he led to a greater development of christianity as a religious tradition

• one of paul’s most influential contributions was his role in evangelising the Good News of Jesus Christ, ultimately allowing Christianity to expand beyond Judaism

• Through his 3 missionary journeys around the mediterranean into Europe, Israel, Asia Minor and Greece, he converted and baptised many people

• He preached in the synagogues to Jews regarding the coming of Jesus. As a result, Christianity is a globalised and universal tradition today

• Paul’s missionary provided a model for contemporary christian missions such as Methodist ministers in Africa and the Pacific, teaching about the Risen Christ

• Furthermore, Paul’s 13 epistles comprise almost 25% of the New Testament

• His letters formalised the theology of Jesus and developed a code of ethics. For example he emphasised that agape love is a key virtue, and promoted equality in christ for christians are “all one in Jesus Christ” (Galatians 3:28)

• Further, he explicitly taught about salvation through grace and helped communities settle disputes regarding faith

• His epistles are profoundly evident in christianity today as they from a foundational basis for christian principal beliefs such as salvation through grace

• Therefore, Paul’s contribution are evident in Christianity today

analyse the impact of one significant person on christianity

• Paul of Tarsus immensely impacted the development and expression of christianity today

• he led to a greater understanding of Christianity through the 3 missionary journeys he undertook. These journeys around the mediterranean into Europe, Israel, Asia minor and Greece allowed Christianity to become a widespread, inclusive and universal tradition

• his ability to speak greek and attain roman citizenship, allowed him to preach the Good News in the language of the gentiles

• Beyond increasing the accessibility of Christianity, he established and strengthened church communities by establishing rituals such as prayer and baptism. This is still central to the expression of christianity today

• Paul greatly informed the significance behind the practice of baptism as “just as christ was raised from the dead…. we too may live a new life (Romans 6:4).

• His approach to evangelism thorough preaching to both jews and gentiles has left a lasting impact on how Christians view theological virtues of “faith, hope and love” (1 cor 13:13)

• Pauls 13 epistles are utilised within marriage, funeral and sunday services as a source of ethics, ultimately guiding christian living

• Paul expanded on Jesus’ teaching to “love thy neighbour by emphasising that agape love fulfils the law. He emphasised that “love is patient, love is kind (1 cor 13:4), making it a Christian virtue that is of great importance

• Paul called christian’s to “flee sexual immorality” which reinforced the idea that the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit

• Moreover, teachings on salvation and justification by faith is foundational in guiding the church and believers on how to live life, ultimately becoming a theological foundation for christianity

• therefore, Paul of Tarsus has immensely impacted the development and expression of christianity

analyse the importance of one significant practice to the individual

• baptism is a rite of initiation into the christian community

• it is a means of identifying with Jesus Christ and the church, which expresses a belief that one begins a new life committed to Christ

• This christian practice is significant for the individuals (candidate) and the wider christian community (friends + family)

• Firstly, baptism is an act of repentance for adherents as it removes original sin and guides them towards living a Christian life

• They are called to live a new way of life, following the teachings, practices and beliefs of the Christian church. as a result, the individual becomes a disciple of Jesus Christ, with its rights and responsibilities

• Baptists requires candidates to give a public testimony of faith in reflection of this

• Furthermore, baptism allows adherents to participate in the death and resurrection of Christ. Through the pouring of the Holy Water and Holy Spirit, the become part of the “Body of Christ”

• The catholic church believes baptism is the first step on the path to grace from God. It also enables adherents to participate in other sacraments such as Holy Communion

• Along with Catholics, Orthodoxs see it as necessary for salvation for “he who believes and is baptised will be saved” (Mark 16:16)

analyse the importance of one significant practice to the community

• Baptism influences the community as they act as a source of support and guidance

• godparents and parents are expected to raise the child in Christian faith and act as role models, living a life of faith

• They are required to teach core beliefs and values surrounding God’s plan and give counsel eg. giving advice when moral dilemmas arise

• Furthermore, those who bear witness to the baptism, profess the creed of faith or renew their baptismal promises

• This allows them to repent, ask for forgiveness and provide redirection in life

• It reminds adherents of their own baptism and the choices they made when joining the Christian community

• The community fulfills Jesus’ command to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them” (Matthew 28:19), therefore it is of profound significance to all adherents

explain how one significant practice expresses the beliefs of christianity

• The principal beliefs of Christianity are profoundly evident in the practice of Baptism

• Firstly, the belief in the ‘Nature of God and the Trinity’ can be witnessed when the candidate is baptised using holy water as the priest or minister professes “i baptise you in the name of the father, son and holy spirit”

• In catholicism, baptism is completed through affusion, while in Orthodox ceremonies, the infant is immersed

• Additionally, the candidate, parents or godparents complete the profession of faith, state the creed and baptismal promises where they reject sin and satan

• They profess their faith in the Triune God and commit to living according to biblical teachings

• In catholic ceremonies, the celebrant anoints the newly baptised with the sacred chrism. The Holy Spirit is active in the candidate and this strengthens them for their mission as a Christian

• Secondly, the belief in ‘Salvation’ is witnessed through the use of Holy water, which is symbolic of the cleansing of original sin, making one more worthy of salvation

• Catholicism and Orthodoxy believe the sacrament of baptism achieves this and transforms the person. As a result, they are able to love out their christian call to service and love

• Baptism is of great importance for salvation as “no one can enter the kingdom of heaven unless they are born of water and the Spirit”

name and explain her first contribution

1. Shared her knowledge of the Quran

• She contributed to Islam when Muhammad was alive, but contributed even more in the 46 years she lived after he died. 

• Aisha was witness to some of the prophet's revelations from Allah, so therefore she had an intricate knowledge and understanding of the Quran (which is Allah's revelations).

• As a result she knew which verses were revealed when and why - the context of revelations, which often occured in relation to a problem or situation.

• she became a hafiza i.e someone who has completely memorised the Quran. 

• She had her own copy of the Quran and could place chapters and verses according to how they were revealed.

• engaged in scholarly process of quranic exegesis or tafsir

• contributed greatly to debate and understanding of the meaning + purpose of quran verses

name and explain her first impact

• provided the first muslims with guidance for muslim living through islamic schools → guided believers to avoid behaviours displeasing to God, as “God does not love those who do evil.”

• was regularly asked to interpret muhammad revelations and was seen as one of the foremost scholars of the quran. her knowledge was critical for the people of islam and teaching to do ‘things that are right’ (eg. submission to Allah) 

• LONG LASTING: quran is foundation text of islam, she added to people's understanding of the teachings of the quran which is still relevant today (eg, provided context on how women could remain prayerful on periods)

  Her contributions to the Quran have influenced all aspects of Muslim life by deepening the understanding of Tawhid (the oneness of God) and reinforcing the significance of the Shahada, as Muslims strive to fully submit to the will of Allah."

name and explain her second contribution

1. Shared her knowledge of the sunna of Muhammad (contributing to the hadith)

• Aisha was a scholar and narrator of 2210 hadith, which is now evidently the secondary text of Islam today (to the Quran).

• close companion of Muhammad, therefore Aisha had knowledge of his words and actions 

• without her, much of the hadith would not have been recorded and preserved. 

• "Hadith provides practical guidance from the Prophet Muhammad on living out the Qur’an — including fulfilling the Five Pillars of Islam and submitting to the will of Allah — in order to guide Muslims to 'do things that are right.' → affirms the significance of Muhammad as the final messenger of Allah.

• Aisha’s close companionship with the Prophet Muhammad enabled her to provide insightful commentary on Hadith, explain what he said and the reasons behind his guidance — often in response to real-life situations

• Her contributions helped Muslims understand how to submit to Allah in daily life, reinforcing the belief that 'He will reward them' for doing what is right

name and explain her second impact

• Aisha’s narrations of Muhammad’s words, his practical insights into submission to God, continue to guide adherents to “believe and do what is right”. 

• The Hadith inform Muslims of the prophet's personal behaviour and provide them with information about different ways of living in submission to Allah → IMPORTANT greater jihad (inner struggles), ritual purity allowing women to fully participate in muslim life, separate prayer spaces for men and women allowing for greater submission to allah 

• For example hadith 211-" If anyone of you feels drowsy while praying he should go to bed (sleep) till his slumber is over because in praying while drowsy one does not know whether one is asking for forgiveness or for a bad thing for oneself." raised submission questions; people being excessive with their submission/ intentions are unclear when people are sleepy. As a result Aisha's hadith gave meaning and practicality of Salat today i.e. Muslims should be alert and focused for prayer. If they are tired or unwell it is better that they get rested so their prayer is done properly, with the intent being the most important, when worshipping Allah.

• sharia law is informed today by muhammad’s sunnah, transmitted by aisha  ‘one-fourth of the laws of the shariah are based on the hadith”→ give them their jurisprudence (ethics)

• In transmitting the Hadith, A'isha became a source of knowledge and wisdom for both men and women, from the beginning of Islam through to today

name and explain her third contribution/ impact

1. Aisha was a catalyst for revelations to Muhammad 

• In addition to the hadith, it is accepted that three of Aisha’s experiences resulted in Muhammad receiving a revelation from Allah. 

• VERY IMPORTANT EXAMPLE: Quran 24:11-13 Scandal of the Slander

• Allah revealed that there needs to be 4 witnesses to testify for the accusation - in this instance the infidelity of Aisha (cheating) - adultery

• As “God does not love those who do evil,” Muslims are guided to act with moral integrity, assuming the best of others and avoiding unethical behaviour such as gossip or false accusation.

• A persons’ unethical behaviour - lying or contributing to the lie will be documented by angels and used by Allah for Judgement.

• VERY IMPORTANT EXAMPLE: Sura 5:6 Loss of Aisha’s Necklace

• second revelation occurred after Aisha lost a necklace and the subsequent search caused the group to have no water to perform wudu at the time when prayer was required. 

• Instead, Muslims are now able to use fine dust or sand when water is not available. (dry ablution) is discussed in the following sura.

• take for yourself clean sand or earth, and rub with it your face and hands. (Sura 5:6)

name and explain her fourth contribution

• diligent in all expressions of faith, doing “things that are right” by engaging in the Five Pillars of Islam, Shahada, prayer, fasting, charity and pilgrimage

• known for her austerity in religious rituals and practices

• would spend nights worshipping Allah and days fasting, but was content despite her sacrifices

• she was the scholar of scholars

• Aisha was a model of generosity, taking care of others in the community after Muhammad’s death

name and explain her fourth impact

• She was part of the hijrah - the journey to Medina and the establishment of the umma → through her relationship with the prophet, and her actions, she became a model of Islamic living in submitting to Allah. A muslim's worship and submission comes through the practice of the five pillars: a framework through which believers strive to do what is right, trusting that 'He will reward them' for their faith and righteous actions.

• Aisha's courage demonstrated in the battle, provides a role model for Muslim women today (leadership and women's rights in general). E.g Malala Yousafzai (women's education in Pakistan) and the breakdown of Jahiliyya (time of ignorance) - e.g. lack of women's rights. However her failure to win the battle, is used today to exclude women in political affairs in a couple Shiite Muslim countries.

• her courage demonstrated in the battle of Basra, where Aisha calls for the revenge of Uthman's death, standing up for justice. She leads an army to Basra to fight Ali, but is defeated and is escorted back to Medina. This resulted in the split and division of the Islam into today, what is known as Sunni and Shia Islam.

define bioethics

the ethics involved in biotechnologies and the human person 

name the 3 ethical teachings

1. Allah is the owner of life which has been made sacred 

2. Ensoulment makes a distinction between biological life which begins at the moment of fertilisation and human life

3. suffering and illness compensates for one's sins

describe Allah is the owner of life which has been made sacred 

• every human life is sacred in islam and every person has been granted God-given fundamental and universal rights at the time of ensoulment (120 days) 

• the saving of one life = saving the life of all of humanity → be pro life in choices 

• obligation to heal the sick and protect life 

• scientific and medical developments which foster improvements in quality of life is encouraged 

QUOTE: it is allah who gives life and sees all that you do (Quran 3:156)

describe Ensoulment makes a distinction between biological life which begins at the moment of fertilisation and human life

• the embryo is a ball of cells, without special moral status, but during its development it reaches full personhood following receipt of the ruh, hence it deserves special protection 

• at time of ensoulment, embryo receives God’s plan eg. date of death and actions. angel of allah breathes a soul into the developing embryo

describe suffering and illness compensates for one's sins 

• enduring suffering patiently atones for one's sins, as the adherent accepts God’s will. This raises the adherent spiritually, making them worthy of paradise in the afterlife

define euthanasia and the islamic stance briefly

 alleviating the pain of a person with an incurable disease or unbearable suffering

• Euthanasia is haram, forbidden, in Islam, due to a range of ethical teachings. Treatment of the sick and dying in Islam must be underpinned by the goal of using medicines and science to improve and/or enhance the quality of life, even for a terminally ill person.

relate Allah is the owner of life which has been made sacred to euthanasia

• human beings are trustees of their body and health → ultimate owner is Allah

• Euthanasia and suicide are perceived by muslims yo be morally equivalent 

• a person has no right to end his or her own life that God has entrusted to them for a temporary period 

• ONLY God owns life, therefore he has the sole right to end life 

• considered to be suicide → major sin (shirk) in islam

• hardships and suffering of this life are a test of a persons iman (faith) and taqwa (God’s consciousness) therefore muslims are required to live optimistically + not give up 

• QUOTE: that is why the quran implores people to ‘not kill yourselves indeed, God is merciful to you’ (Quran 4:29) 

• Active Euthanasia (deliberate killing of a person eg. lethal injection in the body) has NO PLACE IN ISLAM → death time is allotted by God 

• QUOTE: nor can a person die except by God’s leave ’ (Quran 4:29) 

• BIG POINT: death is a part of a natural, predetermined cycle 

relate suffering and illness compensates for one's sins to euthanasia

• claim of killing for painful hopeless illness is refuted, for there is no human pain that cannot be largely conquered by medication or by suitable neurosurgery 

• QUOTE: O no soul does Allah place a burden greater than it can bare (Quran 2:286) 

• patience and endurance are highly regarded and highly rewarded (in Akhira) values in Islam 

• QUOTE: those who patiently persevere will truly receive a reward without measure 

• Islam considered suffering in a terminal sickness as an opportunity to compensate for one's past sins or to rise to higher ranks of spirituality in the court of God. Although painful there is a promise of a great reward (Akhira)

QUOTE: the sins of a person fall like a leaves off a tree (hadith 5647) Prophet Muhammad → if a person endures suffering 

what is the special circumstance/ethical dilemma?

• BIG DILEMMA ARISES when the dose of the painkiller necessary to alleviate pain approximates or overlaps with the lethal dose that could bring about death

• doctors are called to avoid this situation, from an islamic point of view, the doctors intention to kill or alleviate is important 

• → intention cannot cannot be verified by law but it cannot escape the omniscient eye of Allah

relate Ensoulment makes a distinction between biological life which begins at the moment of fertilisation and human life to euthanasia

• ensoulment helps distinguish between mere biological function and full human life.

• Islam SUPPORTS PALLIATIVE CARE 

• if person is brain dead or in a vegetative state, majority of scholars believe life support can be removed because their life has ended → decision however rests with family and professionals 

• passive euthanasia is appropriate → prolonging life by supportive machines is unacceptable when quality of life is nonexistent → death should take natural course based on the divine will of Allah

identify the following expressions of the religious dimension in human history:
animism

• everything has a soul eg. plants, spirit → spirits need to be revered (worshipped) to avoid natural disasters and to keep continuity of the creation eg. aboriginal spirituality 

• a belief that all living things have a soul

• animists worship nature for its important role in human existence now and in the future 

• in an animist’s world everything is interrelated

identify the following expressions of the religious dimension in human history:
polytheism

• many gods. the individual gods control certain aspects of life or the destiny of humans eg. hinduism 

• meaning: believers in many gods

• often see that each god is unique, has their own personality & plays a role in human lives.

• the gods are worshipped → can have pure or evil intentions.

identify the following expressions of the religious dimension in human history:
monotheism

• one God, the creator of the universe and humanity. there is an agreement (or covenant) between adherents and God → abrahamic religions 

• belief in the oneness of God

• believe their God is omnipresent, omnipotent & om