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Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 2
Question 4
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow. Each religious tradition has a beginning, a source, which is normative. People return to normative sour... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 2
Step 1
The role of sacred texts in various religions
Answer
Sacred texts play a crucial role in shaping the beliefs and practices of various religious traditions. They serve as the foundational stones upon which the doctrines are built, especially in Abrahamic faiths such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. For instance, the Bible in Christianity and the Quran in Islam are not merely texts but are considered the ultimate authority guiding moral behavior, rituals, and societal norms.
In many religions, these texts have also transitioned from oral traditions to written forms, helping to preserve teachings for future generations. Sacred texts often act as a yardstick for measuring right and wrong, thus guiding the moral and ethical frameworks of a community. Over time, the reliance on these texts has generally increased, with many religious practices becoming more prescriptive as societies evolve.
Step 2
The role played by inspiration in the development of any ONE religion
Answer
Inspiration plays a vital role in the development of Christianity. The concept of inspiration is rooted in the belief that the Holy Spirit actively guides individuals in their understanding and expression of faith. Notably, the founder figure, Jesus Christ, was inspired by the Holy Spirit to perform miracles and teach divine truths. This inspiration was not limited to Christ alone; his apostles, through their teachings, were also influenced by divine inspiration, as described in the Acts of the Apostles, where the apostles were guided to spread the Gospel.
Many contemporary Christians believe that inspiration continues to be a driving force in their spiritual lives today, either through personal experiences or through the teachings provided by church authorities.
Step 3
Discuss the reaction of any ONE religion to Darwin's theory of evolution
Answer
The reaction of Christianity to Darwin's theory of evolution is multifaceted. While some branches of Christianity vehemently reject the idea of evolution, asserting the literal interpretation of the Genesis creation account, others have sought to reconcile scientific findings with faith.
Progressive Christians often argue that understanding evolution does not negate the existence of God. They suggest that God could have used the process of evolution as a means of creation, viewing it as part of a divine plan. This perspective allows for the acknowledgment of scientific evidence while maintaining a belief in the spiritual and intentional creation of the universe.
Conversely, fundamentalist groups argue that Darwin's theory undermines the biblical account, leading to a conflict between science and faith. This faction tends to advocate for a creationist view, asserting that all life forms were created by God in their present form and that evolutionary changes do not exist.