TEP - religion, peace and conflict

What is reconciliation?

The restoration of friendly relations after conflict or disagreement.

Define peace.

An absence of conflict, which leads to happiness and harmony.

What is war?

Fighting between nations or groups to resolve issues.

What does justice entail?

Bringing about what is right and fair, according to the law, or making up for a past wrong.

What is forgiveness?

Showing grace and mercy and pardoning someone for what they have done wrong.

How does war differ from murder in terms of legality?

While all countries have laws against murder, killing is considered acceptable in war.

What is the Christian perspective on war?

Many Christians may oppose war based on Jesus' teachings, but some are willing to fight for their country or faith.

What do Quakers believe about war?

Quakers will never take part in war, regardless of the reasons for it.

What is the ultimate goal of those fighting in a war?

To create peace once the war is over.

What does Isaiah 2:4 say about peace?

It looks forward to a time when God will bring peace and settle disputes between nations.

How is justice linked to equality?

If people are not given the same opportunities, it may be seen as unfair and lead to resentment, causing conflict.

What is conscription?

The compulsory enlistment for state service, typically into the armed forces.

What was the National Service Act of 1939?

An act that imposed conscription on all males aged between 18 and 41 when Britain declared war on Germany.

What exemptions were allowed under conscription?

Those medically unfit and others in key industries such as baking, farming, medicine, and engineering.

What is the significance of conscientious objectors?

They had to appear before a tribunal to argue their reasons for refusing to join-up and could receive exemptions.

What was the second National Service Act passed in 1941?

It widened conscription to include unmarried women and childless widows aged 20 to 30.

What is one main reason for war according to the text?

Greed, as it can lead countries to invade others for land or resources.

What does the Bible say about the love of money?

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10).

What is considered morally acceptable regarding self-defense?

Most people believe they have the right to defend their values and beliefs.

What justification is there for fighting in self-defense?

It is acceptable if all other ways of solving the problem have been attempted and failed.

What is retaliation in the context of war?

Wars are sometimes fought in retaliation against a country that has done something very wrong.

What advice did Jesus give regarding retaliation?

He advised against resisting an evil person and suggested turning the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-39).

What did Jesus advise regarding retaliation?

He advised not to resist an evil person and to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-39).

What event on September 11, 2001, led to military action by the US?

Terrorists from al-Qaeda hijacked four passenger aircraft, crashing two into the World Trade Center and one into the Pentagon.

What was the death toll from the September 11 attacks?

2996 people died.

What was the US government's response to the September 11 attacks?

They ordered military action against Afghanistan, believing it sheltered al-Qaeda.

How many British military personnel died in the Afghanistan campaign?

454 British military personnel.

What biblical verse is often cited regarding the love of money?

'For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.' (1 Timothy 6:10)

What justification was given for the use of atomic bombs in World War II?

The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were seen as necessary to end the war.

What was the estimated death toll in Hiroshima immediately after the bomb was dropped?

Around 60,000 people died.

What is the total estimated death toll from the atomic bombing of Hiroshima by the end of the year?

Around 140,000 people.

What is the usual justification for possessing nuclear weapons?

They serve as a deterrent to prevent world wars.

What do some Christians believe about nuclear weapons?

Some believe they are justified as they help keep the peace.

What do other Christians argue against nuclear weapons?

They argue that nuclear weapons can destroy God's creation and kill innocent people.

What is the principle behind Just War theory?

It outlines conditions under which war is justifiable and ethical.

Who was one of the first Christians to write about the morality of war?

St. Augustine.

What are the six conditions for a war to be considered just?

1. Just cause 2. Correct authority 3. Proportionality 4. Last resort 5. Good intention 6. Reasonable chance of success.

What does the acronym CAPRI stand for in Just War theory?

Cause, Authority, Proportional, Resort, Intention, Success.

What does Christianity teach about justice?

Justice comes from God, and people should work for justice in all situations.

What is a biblical teaching that supports the idea of defending others?

'Defend the rights of the poor and orphans; be fair to the needy and helpless.' (Psalms 82).

What does Matthew 22:39 teach about love?

'Love your neighbor as you love yourself.'

What is the Christian perspective on righteous anger?

Righteous anger is sometimes justified, especially in defense of others.

What is the significance of the phrase 'You shall not murder' in the context of war?

It emphasizes that only God has the right to take life (Exodus 20:13).

What is the impact of nuclear weapons according to critics?

They can kill millions and cause immense suffering, threatening the planet.

What do proponents of nuclear weapons argue regarding their necessity?

They argue that they should be used as a last resort to prevent greater suffering.

What is the moral dilemma faced by Christians regarding war?

War may be necessary and right, even though it may not be good.

What role did Pope Benedict XVI attribute to self-defense?

He stated that defending oneself and others is a duty.

What is the relationship between peace and nuclear weapons according to some Christians?

Nuclear weapons are seen as tools that help maintain peace.

What is a Holy War?

A war fought for a religious cause that is controlled by a religious leader.

What contradiction do people see in the concept of a Holy War?

They believe that killing people cannot have religious inspiration or justification.

What historical events are considered Holy Wars in Christianity?

The Crusades, which were battles between Christians and Muslims from the 11th to 14th centuries.

What are the three features of a Holy War for Christians?

1) It must be authorized by a religious leader. 2) Its purpose should be to defend or spread the Christian faith. 3) Participants believe they will gain spiritual rewards.

Who initiated the First Crusade?

Pope Urban II in 1095.

What did Pope Urban II promise to those who participated in the First Crusade?

He promised absolution of all sins.

What was the outcome of the First Crusade?

The Crusaders captured Jerusalem after brutal fighting.

How did the conduct of Crusaders breach modern just war ethics?

The residents of Jerusalem were brutalized and slaughtered by the Christian invaders.

What is the general attitude of most Christians in the UK towards violent responses to attacks on their faith?

They believe Christian teachings do not encourage a violent response.

What period in Northern Ireland is known for tensions between Protestant and Catholic denominations?

The troubles, which lasted from 1968 to 1998.

What do many Christians believe about the use of violence according to Jesus' teachings?

Jesus' teachings suggest that violence is never justified.

What did Jesus say about turning the other cheek?

He taught that we should 'turn the other cheek' and 'love our enemies.'

What is one instance where Jesus used violence?

He drove out those exploiting the pilgrims in the Temple.

What is a pacifist?

A person who believes that war and violence are never justified.

Do all Christians identify as pacifists?

No, some believe that war and violence can be justified under certain criteria.

What do Christian pacifists emphasize about peace?

They believe that war and violence are incompatible with peace.

Who are the most famous Christian pacifists?

The Quakers.

What is a conscientious objector?

A person who refuses to fight in wars for moral or religious reasons.

What roles did conscientious objectors often take during the World Wars?

They joined non-combat roles such as doctors, nurses, cooks, and mechanics.

What group volunteered for non-combat roles in both World Wars?

The Friends' ambulance unit, founded by the Quakers.

What biblical passage suggests that Jesus warned his disciples to be prepared for danger?

Luke 22:36, where Jesus advises his disciples to buy a sword.

What does Matthew 26:52 indicate about violence?

Jesus said, 'Put your sword back in its place, for all who draw the sword die by the sword.'

How do Christian non-pacifists justify the use of violence?

They cite instances like Jesus using violence in the Temple as justification.

What is the purpose of the Crusades according to Christian belief?

To capture sacred places in the Holy Land and right wrongs done against Christianity.

What is the modern Christian response to perceived attacks on their faith?

Most Christians prefer to use the power of argument rather than military strength.

Who was Desmond Thomas Doss?

A United States Army corporal who served as a combat medic in World War II.

What notable action did Doss perform during the Battle of Okinawa?

He saved 75 men and became the only conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor.

What were Doss's beliefs regarding combat?

He refused to kill an enemy soldier or carry weapons due to his Christian pacifist beliefs.

Which biblical verse reflects Doss's pacifist beliefs?

Matthew 5:9: 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.'

What are some consequences of war mentioned in the notes?

Casualties affect families financially, and destruction of workplaces and crops can lead to starvation.

What support is provided in the UK for military personnel killed or injured in war?

Financial systems are in place to support families, and injured personnel receive free health care.

What is the Christian belief regarding helping victims of war?

Many Christians support organizations that help victims of war, reflecting the belief to 'love your neighbor as yourself.'

What is Caritas?

A Catholic organization that serves the poor and promotes charity and justice, providing aid to those suffering from conflict.

What assistance did Caritas provide to Syrian refugees in 2015?

They provided food, shelter, translators, and legal services to help refugees understand their rights.

What is the mission of Christian Aid?

To bring aid to end poverty, particularly for victims of war and refugees.

What is the slogan of Christian Aid?

'We believe in life before death.'

What is Christian Aid Week?

An annual fundraising event in May where envelopes are distributed for donations.

What is the right to protest in the UK?

It is a fundamental democratic freedom allowing public demonstrations, with police notification required for marches.

Who was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.?

A Christian pastor who led peaceful protests during the Civil Rights movement to address racial and social inequalities.

What is the Christian perspective on violence?

Christianity generally does not promote violence, though views differ on whether violence is justified in certain situations.

What is terrorism as described in the notes?

The use of terror by individuals or groups to further their cause, often targeting civilians.

What do most Christians believe about terrorism?

They consider terrorist acts wrong, as victims are usually innocent people, and prefer peaceful resolutions.

What does Romans 12:17-19 advise regarding conflict?

'Do not repay anyone evil for evil... live at peace with everyone.'

What is the significance of the parable of the Good Samaritan in Christianity?

It teaches that everyone is our neighbor and we should love and care for all, regardless of differences.

What is the role of local organizations in Christian Aid's approach?

They believe local people are best equipped to address their own problems when well supported.

What does the phrase 'Faith without works is dead' imply?

It emphasizes the importance of actions in conjunction with faith.

What does the phrase 'Eye for an eye' suggest?

It reflects the idea of retributive justice, though many Christians advocate for forgiveness.

What does 'Turn the other cheek' signify in Christian teachings?

It promotes non-violence and forgiveness in the face of aggression.

What does 'You shall not murder' signify?

It is a fundamental moral commandment against taking a life.

What does 'Blessed are the peacemakers' mean?

It highlights the value of those who work towards peace and reconciliation.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Love your enemies'?

It encourages compassion and forgiveness towards those who oppose us.

What is peace according to the notes?

Peace is the absence of conflict.