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Question 1: Jewish Beliefs (a) Outline three features of the Covenant with Abraham - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 1
Question 1: Jewish Beliefs (a) Outline three features of the Covenant with Abraham. (b) Explain two reasons why the Decalogue is important for Jewish people. (c) ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 1: Jewish Beliefs (a) Outline three features of the Covenant with Abraham - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline three features of the Covenant with Abraham.
Answer
- Chosen People: God designates the Jews as His chosen people, which establishes a unique relationship.
- Circumcision: Abraham is commanded to circumcise all male descendants as a physical sign of the covenant.
- Land Promise: The land of Canaan is given to Abraham and his descendants, symbolizing God's promise and presence.
Step 2
Explain two reasons why the Decalogue is important for Jewish people.
Answer
- Moral Guidance: The Decalogue provides a set of ethical guidelines that serves as a foundation for Jewish law and daily life.
- Covenant Affirmation: It reinforces the covenantal relationship between God and the Jewish people, reminding them of their obligations.
Step 3
Explain two different Jewish beliefs about life after death.
Answer
- Resurrection: Many Jews believe in the resurrection of the dead, where the righteous will be restored to life. This belief is supported by texts such as Daniel 12:2.
- Immortality of the Soul: Some Jews hold that the soul continues to exist after physical death, returning to God who gave it, as referenced in Ecclesiastes 12:7.
Step 4
"The sanctity of life is the most important Jewish belief."
Answer
Evaluation of the Statement
Arguments For:
- Central to Jewish Law: The principle of sanctity of life is foundational in Jewish ethics, affirming that all human life is sacred.
- Scriptural Basis: References in the Torah, such as Genesis 1:27, highlight the inherent value of human life.
Arguments Against:
- Situational Ethics: In certain circumstances, such as saving a life, other Jewish teachings may take precedence, suggesting a complex understanding.
- Different Beliefs: Variations in belief among different Jewish groups may lead to different prioritization of beliefs.
Conclusion:
While the sanctity of life is a critical belief, its importance may vary in context, and other beliefs can also hold significant value within Judaism.