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2 (a) Outline three Jewish beliefs about forgiveness - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 2
2 (a) Outline three Jewish beliefs about forgiveness. (b) Explain two Jewish teachings about crime. (c) Explain two Jewish teachings about the treatment of crimina... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2 (a) Outline three Jewish beliefs about forgiveness - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline three Jewish beliefs about forgiveness.
Answer
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Forgiveness requires repentance: In Jewish belief, forgiveness is contingent upon an individual showing genuine remorse for their actions. Without this contrition, forgiveness cannot be granted.
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The Ten Days of Repentance: This period, from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur, is traditionally a time for Jews to seek forgiveness from both God and fellow humans, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation during this sacred time.
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Genuine forgiveness: Jews believe that a person should be genuinely forgiven if they ask for forgiveness sincerely, embodying the idea that while one may be hurt, showing compassion is paramount.
Step 2
Explain two Jewish teachings about crime.
Answer
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Fair trial requirement: According to Jewish law, all criminals deserve a fair trial. Deuteronomy states that two witnesses are required for a conviction, ensuring justice and protecting the rights of the accused (Deuteronomy 19:15).
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Corporal punishment: The Torah allows corporal punishment for specific crimes (Deuteronomy 25:2-3). However, this practice has evolved, and contemporary Judaism may limit or interpret these teachings differently.
Step 3
Explain two Jewish teachings about the treatment of criminals.
Answer
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Protection until proven guilty: Jewish teachings advocate for the protection of individuals until they are proven guilty, highlighting the value of justice and the presumption of innocence until conviction.
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Punishment reflecting wrongdoing: Punishments should be proportional and reflective of the crime committed. For example, the principle of 'an eye for an eye' (Exodus 21:23-25) underscores the notion that punishment should correspond to the offense.
Step 4
Evaluate the statement: 'Suffering is not caused by the Almighty.'
Answer
Arguments for the statement:
- Natural disasters: Non-religious perspectives suggest that suffering such as natural disasters is a part of the world's ecosystem and not caused by divine intervention.
- Free will: Jewish teachings argue that while God gave humans free will, misuse of that free will leads to suffering, suggesting a natural cause rather than divine will.
Arguments against the statement:
- Divine responsibility: Traditional Jewish beliefs hold that God is ultimately responsible for creation and should therefore take responsibility for the suffering caused by natural and human actions.
- Purpose of suffering: Some teachings suggest suffering has a purpose, such as spiritual growth or as a reminder to adhere to religious teachings.
Conclusion:
While both perspectives provide valuable insights, it is crucial to analyze the complex relationship between human actions, societal structures, and divine will when discussing suffering.