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Read the extract below and answer questions that follow - English General - NSC Religion Studies - Question 1 - 2016 - Paper 2
Question 1
Read the extract below and answer questions that follow. No religion is a solid, monolithic unity. They all have many internal differentiations and have had such di... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the extract below and answer questions that follow - English General - NSC Religion Studies - Question 1 - 2016 - Paper 2
Step 1
1.1.1 Teachings
Answer
One of the religions with notable internal differences is Christianity. Within Christianity, the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, and Protestantism embody diverse teachings.
- Roman Catholic Church: This branch believes in the Sacraments as vital for salvation, viewing the Eucharist as the true body and blood of Christ. It emphasizes the authority of the Pope and tradition.
- Eastern Orthodox Church: They believe in the continuity of the faith through the unbroken succession of their bishops and maintain the significance of Holy Tradition.
- Protestantism: This branch varies widely; for instance, some focus solely on the Bible (sola scriptura) as the authoritative source of faith, while others may emphasize personal faith and grace.
Thus, each branch illustrates how interpretations of core teachings can differ significantly among them.
Step 2
1.1.2 Practices
Answer
Focusing on the practice aspect, the internal differences are also evident within Christianity.
- Roman Catholic Church: Practices include the rituals of the Eucharist, confession, and the veneration of saints.
- Eastern Orthodox Church: Their practices incorporate elaborate liturgies, iconography, and a strong emphasis on communal worship.
- Protestantism: These practices may involve sermons, singing hymns, and a more informal approach to worship compared to the ritualistic nature of Catholicism and Orthodoxy.
This highlights the significance of how divergent practices impact congregational life and worship among different Christian denominations.
Step 3
1.2 Evaluate the possible consequences of internal differences for religions.
Answer
The presence of internal differences can lead to various consequences for religions.
- Increased sectarianism: Internal differences often result in the formation of sects or denominations, leading to fragmentation within the faith.
- Intolerance: Different interpretations can foster intolerance, as adherents may feel their way is the only valid one, potentially leading to conflict.
- Loss of followers: Disputes over beliefs and practices may also cause individuals to leave their faith in search of a more unified community.
- Interfaith dialogue: Conversely, understanding these differences can promote dialogue between various religious groups, fostering respect and cooperation.
Step 4
1.3 List any FOUR hermeneutical principles and explain the significance of each principle in the interpretation of sacred texts.
Answer
Four significant hermeneutical principles include:
- Historical Context: Understanding the time and circumstances in which the text was written is crucial to grasp its intended meaning.
- Clear Meaning: Interpreting texts to determine the most straightforward and evident meaning provides clarity and reduces ambiguity.
- Plan, Purpose, and Context: Evaluating the overall structure and objective of the text aids in interpreting its parts correctly.
- Figurative Language: Recognizing figurative language used in sacred texts helps avoid misinterpretation, ensuring the message is understood as intended.
These principles facilitate deeper insights and encourage more faithful applications of sacred texts in various contexts.