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a) Describe what is meant by the term conditional pacifism - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 3
a) Describe what is meant by the term conditional pacifism. Conditional pacifism is the belief that while a person or group typically opposes violence and war, ther... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:a) Describe what is meant by the term conditional pacifism - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe what is meant by the term conditional pacifism.
Answer
Conditional pacifism is the belief that while a person or group typically opposes violence and war, there may be specific conditions under which they believe that violent action can be justified. This perspective acknowledges that although peace is the preferred state, there are circumstances—such as when innocent lives are at risk—that may require a response that contradicts their usual pacifist stance.
Step 2
Outline the concept of Holy War in Islam.
Answer
Holy War in Islam, often referred to as Jihad, signifies the struggle or effort exerted by Muslims in the name of faith. It encompasses both the personal, spiritual striving to live according to Islamic principles and the collective obligation to defend the faith against aggression. The concept emphasizes that any warfare must adhere to specific ethical guidelines and is ultimately seen as a means to achieve peace and justice, rather than mere conquest.
Step 3
Explain the importance to Muslims of working for peace and justice.
Answer
Working for peace and justice is pivotal in Islam since it reflects the core principles of the faith. The Quran emphasizes justice as a fundamental virtue, encouraging Muslims to advocate for fairness in all aspects of life. Additionally, the teachings of the Prophet Mohammed highlight the value of compassion and consensus in society. Thus, striving for peace is not only about conflict resolution but also about fostering harmony within the community, which is essential for practicing one's faith.
Step 4
Discuss this statement. 'Muslims should always forgive their enemies.'
Answer
The statement prompts an exploration of the Islamic belief system surrounding forgiveness. In the Quran, forgiveness is highly regarded as a virtuous trait, where believers are encouraged to forgive those who wrong them. Yet, forgiveness does not imply passivity; Islam teaches that while one should strive for forgiveness, it should also coincide with justice. Evaluating the balance between mercy and justice reveals the nuanced approach Islamic teachings advocate. Therefore, forgiveness can be seen as a pathway to peace, yet it must be complemented by justice to uphold the dignity of individuals.