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5.1 State FIVE principles of hermeneutics - NSC Religion Studies - Question 5 - 2016 - Paper 2
Question 5
5.1 State FIVE principles of hermeneutics. 5.2 Discuss how normative sources were developed in any ONE religion. 5.3 What is meant by secular world views? 5.4 Nam... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:5.1 State FIVE principles of hermeneutics - NSC Religion Studies - Question 5 - 2016 - Paper 2
Step 1
State FIVE principles of hermeneutics.
Answer
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Grammar and Historical Context: Understanding the language and context in which the text was written is crucial. This includes discerning the literary genre and the author's intent.
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Plan, Purpose, and Context: One must consider why the text was written and the overall structure. This helps in grasping the main message.
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Meaning of Words: Words can have different meanings in different contexts. It’s essential to analyze original meanings to interpret the text accurately.
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Figurative vs. Literal Meaning: Recognizing the difference between figurative and literal interpretations can influence understanding the text's message.
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Other Sacred Texts: Cross-referencing with other sacred texts can provide deeper insights into understanding the specific text in question.
Step 2
Discuss how normative sources were developed in any ONE religion.
Answer
In Hinduism, the normative source is primarily the Vedas. The Vedas are a collection of ancient scriptures that form the foundation of Hindu knowledge.
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The Vedas were revealed to wise sages (rishis) and consist of four parts: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda.
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These texts were orally transmitted for centuries before being written down, marking their historical significance as eternal truths.
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Krishna Dvaipayana compiled the Vedas and disseminated them to his students, ensuring a structured understanding of religious knowledge in Hindu society.
Step 3
What is meant by secular world views?
Answer
Secular world views refer to perspectives that are not influenced by religious doctrines. They emphasize a reality that is based on human reasoning and empirical evidence, rather than faith or spiritual beliefs.
- Such views advocate for a separation between religion and state, promoting morality and governance grounded in rational thought.
Step 4
Name any TWO secular world views. State any SIX similarities and FIVE differences between the two world views.
Answer
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Atheism: The belief that there is no divine being or god.
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Agnosticism: The viewpoint that the existence or non-existence of a deity is unknown or unknowable.
SIX Similarities:
- Both question traditional religious beliefs.
- They emphasize the importance of reason over faith.
- They encourage critical thinking and scientific inquiry.
- Both advocate for ethical behavior based on rationality.
- They reject absolute truths provided by religions.
- Both align with secular humanist principles.
FIVE Differences:
- Atheism denies the existence of a deity, while agnosticism maintains that such knowledge is uncertain.
- Atheists are confident in their belief, whereas agnostics remain open to possibilities.
- Atheism often views religious practices as unnecessary, while agnosticism may not dismiss them outright.
- Atheists might actively campaign against religious institutions; agnostics often encourage open dialogue.
- The degree of skepticism about religion differs; atheists generally adopt a more dismissive approach.