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Read the two extracts below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 4
Read the two extracts below and answer the questions that follow. AN UNEASY CALM Israel and Gaza* have experienced repeated cycles of an uneasy peace followed by f... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the two extracts below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
4.1 What role does religion play in the conflict?
Answer
Religion plays a significant, yet complex role in the conflict between Israel and Palestine. The land of Israel/Palestine holds sacred significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, making it a focal point of spiritual attachment.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is revered in Islam as one of its holiest sites, while Jerusalem itself is considered sacred by Christians as the location where Jesus Christ was crucified. Furthermore, Jews regard Jerusalem as the site of the Temple Mount, which is critical to their religious beliefs.
These sites hold historical significance and were occupied by various tribes long before the establishment of the state of Israel, which adds layers to the conflict. Thus, religious convictions are often intertwined with political and territorial disputes.
Step 2
4.2 Explain how other factors have contributed to this conflict.
Answer
Several non-religious factors contribute significantly to the conflict. The continuous occupation of Palestinian land by Jewish settlers has been a major issue. Numerous UN resolutions have criticized this occupation, indicating a need for intervention.
The building of illegal settlements on Palestinian land exacerbates tensions, leading to frequent outbreaks of violence between Palestinians and Israelis, impacting peace agreements and negotiations.
Additionally, external influences, such as US support for Israel, can undermine international efforts for peace and further complicate the conflict.
Conflicts among various Palestinian factions, such as Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, add further complexity, leading to internal divisions that hinder unified efforts toward resolution.
Step 3
4.3 How can religious organisations help with the conflict?
Answer
Religious organizations can play a critical role in addressing the conflict by promoting dialogue and understanding. They can help foster an awareness of the necessity for peaceful coexistence among diverse faiths and cultures.
Engaging in community-building activities is essential to mitigate stereotypes and encourage collaboration on mutual concerns, like humanitarian efforts. Additionally, combating misinformation about different religions can help bridge divides.
By promoting shared values and moral teachings, religious organizations can encourage followers to adopt a more peaceful and reconciliatory approach, which is essential in resolving underlying tensions.
Step 4
4.4 IFAPA is an organization committed to promoting interreligious relationships. Explain the various roles and work done by IFAPA.
Answer
IFAPA, or the Interfaith Federation for Awareness and Peace Advancement, engages in several initiatives to foster interreligious dialogue and cooperation.
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Promoting Understanding: They organize workshops and seminars that bring together representatives from various religions to discuss common values and beliefs, thus fostering mutual respect.
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Interfaith Projects: IFAPA facilitates interfaith community projects, encouraging participants to work collaboratively on social issues such as poverty alleviation and education, highlighting shared human values.
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Conflict Resolution Training: The organization offers training for religious leaders and community advocates on conflict resolution strategies, helping them mediate and resolve tensions within and between communities.
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Advocacy: IFAPA actively advocates for policies that promote religious freedom and tolerance at local and global levels, aiming to create environments conducive to peaceful coexistence.
Through these initiatives, IFAPA plays a critical role in building bridges between different faith communities and fostering a culture of peace.