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3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Describe one Muslim teaching about attitudes towards violence in society - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
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3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Describe one Muslim teaching about attitudes towards violence in society. (b) Describe how Muslims might help to work for peace... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Describe one Muslim teaching about attitudes towards violence in society - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe one Muslim teaching about attitudes towards violence in society.
Answer
One significant teaching in Islam regarding violence is found in the Quran, specifically in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32), which states, 'If anyone kills a person unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land, it would be as if he killed all mankind.' This verse emphasizes the sanctity of life and illustrates that taking a life unjustly is a grave sin. Muslims are therefore taught to value peace and to seek non-violent means of resolving conflicts whenever possible.
Step 2
Describe how Muslims might help to work for peace.
Answer
Muslims contribute to peace in various ways. Firstly, they engage in community outreach programs that aim to foster understanding and cooperation among different cultural and religious groups. Through initiatives like interfaith dialogues, Muslims promote respect and tolerance, combating misconceptions about Islam.
Additionally, Muslims are encouraged to participate in charitable activities, such as sponsoring orphanages or alleviating poverty. By addressing the root causes of conflict, such initiatives are essential in building a peaceful society. Furthermore, during religious observances like Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to foster compassion and community togetherness, reinforcing societal bonds.
Step 3
Why might a Muslim want to challenge social injustice? You should refer to sources of wisdom and authority in your answer.
Answer
A Muslim might challenge social injustice based on the principles of equality and justice deeply embedded in Islamic teachings. The Quran (4:135) instructs believers to 'be steadfast in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves.' This command encourages Muslims to uphold justice, which is paramount in addressing and rectifying social injustices, such as poverty or discrimination.
Additionally, the example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) serves as a model for fighting inequality, as he advocated for the rights of marginalized individuals, including women and the poor. Thus, challenging social injustice is not just a moral obligation but also aligns with key Islamic teachings.
Step 4
'Muslims cannot be pacifists.' Discuss this statement.
Answer
'Muslims cannot be pacifists' can be examined from multiple perspectives within Islamic doctrine. While the Quran promotes peace, it also acknowledges the necessity of self-defense in times of aggression (Quran 2:190). This duality indicates that, unlike a strict pacifist stance, Islam permits fighting under circumstances where justice is under threat.
However, this position does not mean that Muslims reject peace; rather, they are called to seek peaceful resolutions. For instance, the concept of 'Sulh' (peace-making) is a significant principle in Islam that advocates for reconciliation.
Thus, the statement can be nuanced: Muslims are not pacifists in the absolute sense, as they can engage in conflict when justice demands it. Yet, they are primarily guided by the principles of peace and the striving for justice in every aspect of life. The significance lies in balancing these teachings to address conflicts while upholding peace.