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Through their teachings, all religions communicate to their followers why the world is the way it is - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 2
Question 3
Through their teachings, all religions communicate to their followers why the world is the way it is. Religious teachings provide explanations for human concerns, su... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Through their teachings, all religions communicate to their followers why the world is the way it is - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 2
Step 1
The nature of divinity
Answer
For the purposes of this response, let’s consider African Traditional Religion:
- Supreme Being: They believe in the existence of a Supreme Being, often referred to by different names according to local customs, such as Bembe in Central Africa.
- Intermediaries: Communication with the Supreme Being occurs through intermediaries like ancestors, who are viewed as the living dead.
- Existence of other deities: Many tribes acknowledge various gods and goddesses that represent different aspects of life.
Step 2
The conflict between good and evil
Answer
In African Traditional Religion:
- Moral Responsibility: Individuals are considered to possess both good and evil tendencies, often influenced by their ancestors' actions.
- Consequences of Actions: Good deeds lead to divine rewards, while misdeeds can result in punishment, underlining the moral framework of this belief system.
- Community Influence: The community plays a crucial role in encouraging moral behavior through societal norms and expectations.
Step 3
Life after death
Answer
African Traditional Religion believes that:
- Transition to Ancestors: When a person dies, they transition from the living realm to the spirit world, becoming part of the ancestors.
- Rituals for the Dead: Rituals and ceremonies are essential to appease the spirits of the deceased and ensure safe passage.
- Intercession: The living may seek intercession from their ancestors for guidance and blessings, fostering a continuous bond between the two realms.
Step 4
List FIVE hermeneutical principles
Answer
- Grammar and historical context: Understanding the original language and historical background of texts.
- Clearest meaning: Seeking the obvious interpretation of texts in their context.
- Plan, purpose and time: Considering the intended message and purpose behind the texts.
- Meaning of words: Analyzing the specific meaning and connotation of words used in sacred texts.
- Figurative language: Recognizing the use of metaphors and allegory in understanding the texts' deeper meanings.
Step 5
Discuss the importance of sacred books in religion
Answer
Sacred books serve several critical functions in religion:
- Guidance: They provide moral and ethical guidelines for believers to follow.
- Historical Reference: Sacred texts act as primary records of religious history and teachings.
- Preservation of Beliefs: They help in preserving the core beliefs and practices of a religion across generations.
- Community Cohesion: Sacred writings foster a sense of belonging and community among followers.
- Spiritual Connection: They serve as a means to connect worshippers with the divine, often being used in prayers and rituals.