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2. (a) Name three features of a synagogue - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 2
2. (a) Name three features of a synagogue. (b) Describe one tradition associated with Pesach. (c) Describe what Jews mean by the term 'Sanctity of Life'. d) Expl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2. (a) Name three features of a synagogue - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Name three features of a synagogue.
Answer
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Star of David: A symbol commonly found on synagogues, representing Judaism and Jewish identity.
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Bimah: An elevated platform from where the Torah is read, signifies the importance of the Torah in Jewish worship.
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Ark (Aron Kodesh): A cabinet that houses the Torah scrolls, symbolizing the holiness of the scriptures.
Step 2
Describe one tradition associated with Pesach.
Answer
One significant tradition of Pesach (Passover) is the Seder meal. During the Seder, families gather to retell the story of the Exodus from Egypt. The meal includes symbolic foods such as matzah (unleavened bread) and maror (bitter herbs) that represent the hardships faced by the Jews in slavery.
Step 3
Describe what Jews mean by the term 'Sanctity of Life'.
Answer
The term 'Sanctity of Life' in Judaism signifies that all human life is sacred and created in the image of God. This principle entails a strong ethical obligation to preserve life, highlighting the value of human dignity and the importance of actions such as saving lives whenever possible.
Step 4
Explain why the Promised Land is important to most Jews.
Answer
The Promised Land, or Israel, holds significant spiritual and historical importance for Jews. It is viewed as a land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Culturally, it is a center for Jewish identity, religious practice, and historical narratives, including the establishment of the Jewish state in contemporary times.
Step 5
'All Jews should get married.' Discuss this statement.
Answer
The statement can be analyzed from multiple perspectives within Judaism. Some view marriage as a fundamental institution, essential for personal and spiritual fulfillment. In Orthodox communities, marriage is often seen as a duty that ensures the continuation of Jewish lineage and adherence to commandments.
Conversely, other perspectives suggest that personal choice should guide marital status, acknowledging that not all individuals may wish to marry or are able to do so. From a source of wisdom perspective, texts like 'Genesis' affirm the importance of companionship, while others emphasize individual autonomy.
Evaluating these points highlights the diversity of thought within Judaism regarding marriage, encapsulating both communal values and personal freedoms.