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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 pivotal role in various religious traditions, serving as authoritative sources that guide moral conduct, beliefs, and rituals. For instance, in Abrahamic religions, the Bible and the Quran are considered paramount, as they provide the foundational narratives and commandments that shape the life of adherents.
These texts act as benchmarks for measuring right and wrong, establishing ethical frameworks. Additionally, with advancements in technology, the role of these texts has evolved from oral traditions into more fixed and prescriptive written forms. Therefore, they serve not only as custodians of language and culture but also as sources of identity and community for believers.
Step 2
The role played by inspiration in the development of any ONE religion
Answer
Taking African Traditional Religion (ATR) as an example, inspiration is vital in its development. In ATR, inspiration refers to a higher knowledge or insight that individuals receive, often believed to come from ancestors or spiritual entities. It manifests through rituals and practices where diviners act as mediators, conveying the ancestral messages. Individuals inspired by these revelations influence their communities by imparting knowledge, healing, and guidance. Thus, inspiration serves as a continual source of normative teachings that inform practice and belief.
Step 3
Discuss the reaction of any ONE religion to Darwin's theory of evolution
Answer
Christianity presents a significant perspective on Darwin's theory of evolution. Many Christians accept the science of evolution while viewing it within a framework that sees God as the Creator. They argue that evolution may be the process God used to create life, thereby reconciling faith with scientific inquiry.
However, there exist sects that outright reject Darwinian evolution, believing it contradicts the Biblical creation narrative. This divide highlights the ongoing discourse in Christianity regarding the interpretation of sacred texts in light of modern scientific understanding.