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PRELIMINARY RELIGION SYLLABUS STUDY NOTES

NATURE OF RELIGION
Define the supernatural Dimension
The most significant element of a religious worldview is the belief in a
divine being or power, which is greater than humankind and the natural
world. This being or power is believed to be responsible for the creation of
the world, for providing a moral framework for human life and being the
ultimate destiny of a human person at the end of their mortal life.

The Sematic Religions Judaism, Christianity and Islam believe that


the supernatural dimension is a single divine being or power
The Eastern Religions Hinduism and Buddhism, derive from an
understanding of a number of divine beings or powers, a belief
known as polytheism.

Discuss a transcendent religious worldview,


which has a belief in a divine power and/or
powers beyond the human
A transcendent worldview is one, which has a belief in a divine power or
powers beyond the human. The three Semitic religions, Judaism,
Christianity, and Islam emphasise the idea of God being revealed to
humankind from beyond the human spirit. For example, Muslims believe
that the will of Allah has been revealed to the Prophet Mohammed and is
contained in the writings of the Koran. This is a transcendent worldview
because the divine being is seen to be separate and outside of the human
and revealed to humankind through an intermediary.

Discuss an immanent religious worldview


which has a belief in a divine being or powers
dwelling within the individual
An immanent worldview holds the belief that supernatural powers or
divine beings dwell within the human. For the two Eastern religions,
Hinduism and Buddhism, the emphasis is on the finding of truth from
within the human spirit. For example, Buddhists follow the Eightfold Path
prescribed by the Buddha in order to reach Enlightenment. This is an
immanent religious worldview because the divine power is believed to be

found within the human and awaits discovery through following the
prescribed path.

Define the characteristics of religion


Beliefs and believers - Beliefs are the key tenets, doctrines, or
values, which underpin the religious practice of a particular religion
for the believers

Sacred texts and writings - The most important beliefs of a


religion are contained in its sacred texts. Usually these beliefs were
in oral circulation before they were written down in the sacred texts.
These sacred texts contain sacred stories, which explain through
historical or non-historical means, how people are connected to this
supernatural dimension

Ethics - Ethics is the reasoning behind moral decision making. The


ethics and precepts of a religion are the laws which embody the key
doctrinal tenets of a religion and allow for the practical application
of that religion. In other words, ethics offers a system of standards
which regulate moral decision making

Rituals and ceremonies - Rituals and ceremonies are practical


expressions of aspects of a religion. Rituals and ceremonies involve
prescribed words and actions along with the use of symbols.
Together these reflect an understanding of the sacred dimension.
Thus, rituals and ceremonies help to lead to a greater understanding
of the ultimate reality

Explore the ways in which these


characteristics interact to create a dynamic,
living religion
A religion or religious system is a dynamic, living reality. While it can be
identified and studied through characteristics such as rituals and sacred
texts, it is in essence a living thing, which is given expression through all
its characteristics. As dynamic, living realities, religions help provide
meaning for those who follow them. It is not possible for any religion to
exist with doctrines, but without ritual. It is practices, such as rituals,
which give the doctrinal elements a lived expression. All religions need
key tenets or doctrines which act as a general guide and hence unify the

different communities which follow this religion. On the other hand, these
key beliefs allow individual groups to re-interpret the universal meaning to
make it applicable for their particular community. Sacred texts interact
with the key doctrines, as these key doctrines are contained in and
expressed through these sacred writings. Furthermore, in order for religion
to exist as a dynamic, living entity this doctrinal dimension, as contained
in the sacred texts, must also be applicable to the practical demands of
daily life. This is where ethics comes into play, as it is ethics, which
embodies the doctrines in the form of laws and precepts thus allowing for
the practical application of religion. In other words, ethics, which is system
of specific standards by which moral conduct can be judged, is derived
from values, which underpin the religious system. A central part of religion
is response to and interaction with the supernatural or sacred. Through
the understanding of the key doctrines and ethics of the religion, as
contained in the sacred texts believers are able to give expression to their
understanding of the divine. This element is the ritualistic dimension of
religion. The believers of that religion, by partaking in worship, teaching,
and prayers give expression to and come to a greater understanding of
this ultimate reality.

Appreciate the contribution of religion to:


Individuals, society
INDIVIDUALS
Personal search for meaning: Human experience is characterised by a
search for the understanding of the great questions of life. Those
questions include those of origin (where do we come from?), purpose (why
are we here?), and destiny (what happens when we die?) People will look
towards religion for answers to these enduring questions, especially
during times of personal trauma or crisis.
Ethical guidance: Ethics are concerned with the reasoning behind moral
decision-making. Religion has been sought out by people for guidance in
the field of ethics, which enables individuals to act in a morally correct
manner. Individuals have sought ethical guidance from religions for a
broad spectrum of concerns ranging from bioethics and sexual morality to
issues of social concern. Bioethics for example, involves the study of the
moral implications of new biological discoveries in the fields of genetic
engineering and drug research. Concerning sexual morality, religion is a
prominent voice on the appropriateness of matters such as homosexuality
and extramarital sexual activities. Religion also offers guidance in social
concerns. Social concerns relate to matters such as the unequal
distribution of wealth and resources, and the impact of pollution on the
environment.

Sense of belonging: One of the strongest desires that exist in human


experience is the need to feel a sense of belonging. The nature of religion
makes it well suited to providing this sense of community. This is because
religions have the capacity to bring together people of similar ideals and
values and to provide an opportunity for people to express these values in
a supportive environment.
Ritual meaning: Some sort of ritual action or event usually marks
important stages in human experience. These stages include the birth of a
child, the coming of age, a graduation, a marriage etc. Such events are
often ritualised in religious traditions where ceremonies take place to
mark these important events. People place great importance on these
events and the rituals which accompany them. Accordingly, such rituals
are important elements in the contribution of religion to individuals.

SOCIETY
Interaction between culture and religion
There is a close reciprocal relationship between the areas of religion
and culture. Religion is profoundly influenced by its cultural context
because religion cannot be expressed other than through a particular
cultural setting and context. For example, the fact that Theravadan
Sangha in Thailand, do not allow women to become abbesses is a
reflection of how men have been culturally conditioned to accept
restricted roles for women in this form of Buddhism. Conversely, religion
has a strong formative influence on culture given the dynamic ever
changing nature of culture.
Religion as a conservative influence on society
Religion is most often seen to exert a conservative influence on society in
areas regarding sexual morality and bioethics. The recent contributions of
religious groups to social debates on issues ranging from stem cell
research to euthanasia and homosexual relationships is evidence of this
conservatism. Religion is often seen to be quite clearly trying to prevent
society from moving away from traditional values.
Religion as a progressive influence on society
Religion can also act as a progressive influence on society. Religion, with
its emphasis on human dignity, can be readily seen as proactive in areas
such as the advocacy of refugee and Indigenous rights, protection of the
environment, and opposition to military action. This is because religion
has sought to instil a sense of justice in prominent social debates as a

way of attempting to change community views to embrace a new


approach.

ABORIGINAL BELIEFS
Outline the nature of the Dreaming in
relation to:
Origins of the universe:
The Dreaming includes explanations of the origins of the universe, that
is, how the world came into being through the actions of their ancestral
spirit beings, the creation of the physical world and the animals and
plants, which inhabit this world. The Dreaming, however, is not regarded
as myth by the Aboriginal people. The Dreaming is a metatemporal
concept, which incorporates the past, present and future reality as a
complete and present reality.

Sacred Sites:
The Dreaming is inextricably connected to the land, as the land is the
physical medium through which the Dreaming is lived and communicated.
Whilst all land is important to all Aboriginal people, particular sites, known
as sacred sites, have a special significance for particular Aboriginal groups
as they are connected with different events in the Dreaming. Thus,
particular groups of Aboriginal people have special responsibilities to care
for and to learn from these sites, for example by carrying out prescribed
rituals such as balance rites. (walkabout, dreaming tracks, Uluru is a
crossroad for many dreaming tracks and mythological stories)

Stories of the dreaming:


The Dreaming is inextricably connected to the land, as the land is the
physical medium through which the Dreaming is lived and communicated.
Whilst all land is important to all Aboriginal people, particular sites, known
as sacred sites, have a special significance for particular Aboriginal groups
as they are connected with different events in the Dreaming. Thus,
particular groups of Aboriginal people have special responsibilities to care
for and to learn from these sites, for example by carrying out prescribed
rituals such as balance rites.

Symbolism and art:


Symbolism in art explains the creation of the natural world and the laws,
which stem from this. This is an important way of teaching Aboriginal
children about right and wrong behaviour in society. However, symbolism

in art cannot be taken at face value for Aboriginal art is esoteric, and has
multiple layers of meaning.

Discuss the diversity of the Dreaming for


Aboriginal peoples
There are approximately nine hundred Aboriginal nations within Australia
and subsequently there is an enormous diversity in the way the Dreaming
is expressed. Each Aboriginal nation has its own dialect, and since
language is esoteric, each nation's understanding of Aboriginal spirituality
will vary. In other words, language is critical for the Dreaming to be learnt
and understood authentically. Another significant reason for the diverse
expression of Aboriginal spirituality is that each Aboriginal nation has its
own boundaries and subsequently different Dreaming stories, which are
applicable to those boundaries. This also means that groups, which are
geographically close to each other, will share some common elements.
Overall, however, the belief in notion of the Dreaming is the overriding
commonality, which binds different Aboriginal nations together.

Recognise the importance of the Dreaming


for the life of Aboriginal peoples

The Dreaming is a term used to refer to the concept, which underpins all
beliefs and practices in Aboriginal communities, and hence represents all
knowledge and understanding among Aboriginal societies. The Dreaming
determines all relationships and responsibilities for Aboriginal people. The
Dreaming is metatemporal, that is it incorporates the past, present and
future into a complete and present reality. The Dreaming is inextricably
linked to the land, as the land is the physical medium through which the
Dreaming is communicated. It is from the land that the dreaming flows with
stories of ancestor spirits which explain different aspects of creation. For
Aboriginal communities the telling and learning of the Dreaming stories is a
life long process. The Dreaming is communicated through art, song, dance
story and ritual.

Investigate the inextricable connection of the


dreaming, the land and identity
The Dreaming is inextricably linked to the land because the land contains
the Dreaming and is the medium through which the Dreaming is lived and
communicated. That is, the land is where the Dreaming and its stories

take place, and subsequently forms the resting place for their ancestral
spirit beings. These sites are regarded as being of sacred significance and
carry with them ritual responsibilities for the Aboriginal community. Thus,
the identity of an Aboriginal person can be said to be inextricably linked
with the land. Hence, a critical part of learning about the Dreaming
includes knowing the features of the land, which they regard as a mother,
in intricate detail. Whilst traditionally, all Aborigines regard all land as
important, particular sites hold a particular significance for some groups of
Aboriginal people. These sites are known as sacred sites, and contain
certain aspects of the Dreaming, which are believed to have taken place
there. Subsequently, ceremonial responsibilities such as balance rites are
attached to these sacred sites because Aboriginal people see themselves
as related to and a part of this natural world. Balance rites are special
ceremonies to increase the reproduction of a particular animal, which is
the representation of an ancestral spirit being from the Dreaming. This
belief that an animal or a feature of the natural world is an embodiment of
the individual in his or her primordial state, is known as totemism.
Subsequently, the loss of land, which results in the inability to fulfil ritual
responsibilities, is an insurmountable obstacle to effectively live the
Dreaming.

JUDAISM
Outline the life of Abraham
Covenant Promise: Abraham (Abram) who with his wife Sarah received the
promise of God that they would be the ancestors of descendants that
would number as many as the stars in the sky (Genesis 15:5). This
promise, known as Covenant, expresses the commitment of God to the
people known as the Hebrews or the people of Israel.
Canaan The Promise Land: According to the tradition of the Torah,
Abraham and his family left the territory of "Ur of the Chaldeans" (Genesis
11:31) and moved to the land of Canaan which is the modern day location

of the state of Israel. When he reached Canaan Abraham built an altar to


God who had appeared to him.
Gods Promise of Descendants: Abraham again experienced an encounter
with God in which he received the promise of a great reward (Genesis
15:1). During this encounter with God Abraham laments that his marriage
to Sarah has not seen the birth of any children and that he had no heir to
inherit all that God had promised to him. It is here that God promises that
Abraham's descendants would number as many as the stars in the
sky (Genesis 15:5).
Ishmael: Despite this promise the continued childlessness of the marriage
led Sarah to offer her servant girl Hagar as a concubine to Abraham so
that he could have a child. The result of this union was the birth of
Ishmael (Genesis 16:15). However, the relationship between Abraham and
Hagar became a source of great animosity between Hagar and Sarah.
Circumcision: After the birth of Ishmael God appeared once again to
Abraham. This encounter with God led to the Covenant known as
the Covenant of circumcision. Abraham once again experienced God's
promise that he would be the ancestor of many and that his offspring
would live in the land of Canaan.
Isaac: In the context of this Covenant Abraham is told that he will indeed
have his own son with Sarah, this despite the fact that they are already of
advanced years. The Covenant made with Abraham is to be passed on
through his son who is to be named Isaac. Despite the promise of the
Covenant, considerable time passes before Sarah becomes pregnant and
gives birth to the son who is named Isaac. In keeping with the Covenant
Isaac was circumcised when he was eight days old.
Sacrifice of Isaac: Later God calls Abraham to take his son Isaac to the
land of Moriah and offer him as a holocaust. The tradition shows that
Abraham is obedient to God's call and takes his son to the place where he
is to be sacrificed. As they approach the designated place Isaac asks his
father where the animal is for the holocaust. Abraham replies saying "God
will provide" (Genesis 22:8). Abraham continues with the preparations to
sacrifice Isaac until at the last moment an angel of God intervened and
instructed Abraham not to sacrifice Isaac.
Renewal of the promise of land and descendants: In response to
Abraham's obedience the angel declares that because of Abraham's
fidelity in not withholding his son he would be blessed abundantly and
that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars of the sky and
the sands of the seashore, that he would possess the land promised to
him and that through his descendants all the nations of the earth would
find blessing (Genesis 22:15-18).

Rebekah and Jacob: Following the death of Sarah in Hebron, Isaac married
Rebekah. The tradition says that Abraham died at the age of one hundred
and seventy-five years and was buried next to his wife Sarah. From the
marriage of Isaac and Rebekah Jacob and Esau were born. Isaac and
Jacob, along with Abraham are known as the patriarchs of Judaism.

Describe the Covenant with the Patriarchs,


including the promises of a People and a
Land.
The next expression of the Covenant is in relation to Abraham. It begins
with the call of Abraham in Genesis 12:1 where he is called by God to
leave his own territory and move to the land shown to him by God. This
call includes the promise that he will become a great nation.
Abraham's covenantal obligations: In Genesis verses 9-14 Abraham is
commanded that he and his descendants must keep the Covenant with
God throughout the ages and that circumcision is to be the sign of
this Covenant.
Isaac: The elements of the Covenant are confirmed in response to
Abraham's obedience in relation to the sacrifice of his son Isaac. The story
in chapter 22 of Genesis affirms that because of Abraham's fidelity in not
withholding his son he would be blessed abundantly and that his
descendants would be as numerous as the stars of the sky and the sands
of the seashore, that he would possess the land promised to him and that
through his descendants all the nations of the earth would find blessing.
2 key elements of promise - descendants and land: The Covenant with
Abraham has two essential elements of promise. The first is that
Abraham's descendants would be numerous and would lead to the
formation of a great nation. This promise was made at a time when the
marriage of Abraham and Sarah remained childless and when they
were both beyond childbearing age. The second element of the
Covenant promise is the possession of a promised land (Canaan).
Canaan: The land of Canaan is the land ultimately conquered and
settled by Joshua and the tribes of Israel after the death of Moses. Over
time the land has been threatened and captured by various invading
forces yet it has remained an important element in the Jewish
understanding of the Covenant.

Outline the story of the Exodus and the


giving of the Law at Sinai, including the Ten
Commandments
Abrahams Descendants in Egypt: When famine forced Jacobs family to
move to Egypt, changing political circumstances, saw Jacobs descendants
as slaves. God sent Moses to organise their escape from Egypt.
Exodus = The Freedom of the Hebrews = Passover
Desert Encounter: God instructs Moses as his messenger and Prophet to
rescue the children of Israel from slavery and lead them back to Canaan.
He asked Moses to go to the Prophet to Let his people go.
Gods Intervention:
-

10 plagues were ordered from God to punish the Egyptian Pharaoh.


Water of the Nile turned to blood
Infestation of frogs and maggots
Every firstborn child from every Egyptian family would die
Hebrews were instructed to mark the front of their doors with the
blood of a lamb, the Passover angels would see this and the Hebrew
children would be spared.
10th plague convinced pharaoh to free the Hebrews. Moses escaped
with the children of Israel. They travelled through the terrain of
Mount Sinai. The Exodus marked a crucial movement. The
experience continues with the great theophany where Moses
encounters God face to face on Mount Sinai.
In this encounter Moses receives the Ten Commandments (Exodus
20:1-17). These commandments are the beginning of what is
referred to as the Sinai law. This law is the Torah, the very heart of
the Jewish tradition. The Torah spells out the expected response of
the Jewish people to the requirements of the Covenant. The Ten
Commandments are followed immediately in the text by numerous
laws governing all aspects of community life. Interspersed
among these laws are statements ratifying the Covenant (Exodus
24:1-11). The chapters of laws amount to 613 including the Ten
Commandments. These are the 613 mitzvoth of the Torah which are
required to be followed by observant Jews.

Outline the unique features of: Conservative


Judaism, Orthodox Judaism, Progressive
Judaism
Orthodox Judaism:
-

Traditional branch of Judaism


Strict observance to traditional practices and rituals
Pray daily, observe weekly Sabbath worship
Men and women sit separately in worship
Only men can be Rabbis

Progressive Judaism:
-

AKA Reform Judaism, began in the 19th century


Represents a creative Jewish response to challenges of the modern
world
Men and women seen as equal partners with no segregation in
synagogues
Females can be Rabbis
Synagogue worship is simplified and modernised
Services said in the everyday language of people

Conservative Judaism:
-

Middle Ground rejects any dogmatism and inflexible thinking


Conservative Judaism fosters the practice of traditional Judaism
while embracing modernity.
Mixture of both orthodox and reform beliefs and practices
Allows for men and women to sit together in a synagogue
Women are allowed to read from the Torah
Worship is said in both Hebrew and English

Discuss the belief in the one God and the


attributes of God
God

is One

1.

Only one God

2.

God is indivisible

3.

God is unique

The centrality of this belief is reflected in the prayer, the Shema,


"Hear O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One.

God

is Eternal

1.

God has always existed and will always exist.

2.

God is the source of all creation, since God existed before


creation.

3.

God will exist even after creation ceases to exist.

4.

The ultimate destiny of human beings lies with God in eternity.

God is Omnipresent

1.

God is everywhere and is intimately involved with human


history.

2.

God's intervention in history is most evident in the account of


the Exodus.

3.

The liberation from slavery in Egypt is regarded as the


foundational and defining moment in Jewish history.

God is Omnipotent

1.

God is all powerful and hence all knowing.

2.

God can change future events.

3.

The events of the Exodus demonstrate that no obstacle is too


great for God to overcome.

4.

It is difficult to reconcile the notion that God knows and can


control the future with the concept that human beings have free will.

5.

Maimonides said that we cannot sufficiently answer this


question because human knowledge is finite, whereas God's knowledge is
infinite.

1.

2.

God is Pure Spirit


The anthropomorphic depictions of God (eg hand of God, eye
of God) are rationally unsound because the finite limit of human
knowledge is unable to comprehend the full nature of God.
God's spirit is manifested throughout the universe.

3.
4.

Human beings cannot know God through direct means.


Human beings come to understand the nature of God as being
pure spirit through mediated knowledge such as witnessing His
intervention in human history, creation and the sacred texts.

Outline the concept of a divinely inspired


moral law

God gave Jews a code of ethics which is intended to guide them in


relation to ethical decision making in keeping with their dignity as God's
creation.

Since theological understanding is secondary to practice in Judaism,


the primary responsibility of Jews is to study the Torah, which the principal
source of God's revelation, in order to behave appropriately in response to
moral questions.

Orthodox Judaism - The moral code laid down by God is complete


and non-evolving in its application to all situations for the past, present
and future.

The main role of Talmudic scholars and halakhic lawyers is to find


the exact authority within the text to justify behaviour for the case at
hand.

Progressive Judaism - The Written Torah is open to some reinterpretation in light of changing circumstances as the text does not
represent the literal word of God.

Progressive Judaism - Place greater emphasis on the broad


principles established in the moral to guide ethical decision making in new
situations.

The most basic formulation of the moral law is found in the Ten
Commandments.

The aim of the Ten Commandments is to lay down a path for


humans to follow, so that they can relate to another in a way that is in
accordance with their creation as God's creatures.

The theme of liberation from oppression, as drawn from the events


of the Exodus underpins the moral code provided by God.

Identify the importance of the Covenant for


the Jewish people.

Definition - The Covenant is a series of agreements recorded in the


Hebrew Bible between God and the people of Israel.

Importance of the Covenant - The Covenant lies at the heart of the


Jewish religion and is the cornerstone of Judaism.

There are four main expressions of the Covenant made between


God and the people of Israel:

1.

Noah
God's promise - God saves Noah and his family from the

flood.

Obligation - Noah and his family are called to live in


God's image and to walk in God's path by caring for the earth, humankind
and all of creation.

Blessings/curses - God will exact vengeance for wrongful


acts. However, if Noah is faithful to his covenantal obligations, then a
disaster like the flood will not happen again.
Sign of the covenant - Rainbow

2.

Abraham
God's promise -

1. Abraham's descendants will be as numerous


as the stars, and he will be the head of a
great nation.
2. Abraham's people will be given a land of
their own, the land of Canaan (Promised
Land).

Obligation - Abraham is obliged to walk in God's way, by


living in a righteous and just way.
Sign of the covenant - (circumcision)

2.

Moses and the People of Israel


God's promise - Liberates the Hebrews from slavery in

Egypt.

Obligation - Hebrews were obliged to accept the Ten

Commandments.

Importance of this covenant - This covenant is the


foundational event in the history of Judaism. This Covenant is essentially a
reflection of the Israelites discovering a God who is interested in their
welfare and gave them an identity by intervening in their fate. The
implication of this belief is that:
1. The people of Israel discover that they are the
Chosen People.
2. Shows God's care for the people of Israel in
granting them freedom.

Identify the importance of the:


The Hebrew Bible
The Talmud

Examine extracts from the Hebrew Scriptures


which demonstrate the principal beliefs of
Judaism
God is One
Deuteronomy 6:4-9.
Known as the shema, taken from the Hebrew word for "hear". It
Begins with the imperative "hear O Israel the Lord our God, the
Lord is one".
Occurs in the context of a renewal of fidelity to the Covenant.
Reminder of the centrality of the notion of the monotheism of
Judaism.
Psalm 83:19 "you alone are the Lord, the most high over all the
earth".
Psalm praying for protection in the face of a hostile enemy.
Includes a statement which affirms the power of God in the face
of threats of idols.
God is Eternal
"It was I who made the earth and created mankind upon it. It was
my hands that stretched out the heavens; I gave the order to all
their host" (Isaiah 45:12).
Affirms the role of God as creator.
Reminds the Jewish people of the eternal character of God during
a time when they were suffering in exile.
"the Lord shall reign forever; your God, O Zion, through all
generations" (Psalm 146:10).
Expresses the belief that God's reign is eternal.
God is omnipresent
"even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know
the whole of it." (Psalm 139:4).
God is portrayed as an ever present companion who knows every
element and every aspect of life.

Notion of God's design pervading the life of the Psalmist.


The call of Moses (Exodus 3:4-10).
Encounter between God and Moses at Horeb
Moses witnesses the phenomena of the burning bush.
Moses is called by God to liberate the Hebrew people living in
captivity in Egypt.
God has witnessed the treatment of the Hebrew people at the
hands of the Egyptians (Exodus 3:7).
Affirms the presence of God even in the worst of times.
God is all powerful
The song of Moses, Exodus 15:1-18.
Immediately follows the parting of the Red Sea.
The ability to manipulate nature is a classic sign of power
Confirmation of the awesome power of God.
"Your right hand, O Lord, magnificent in power, your right hand, O
Lord, has shattered the enemy" (Exodus 15:6)
"At a breath of your anger the waters piled up the flowing waters
stood like a mound, the flood waters congealed in the midst of
the sea" (Exodus 15:8).
Stories of creation (Genesis 1:1-2:7).
To bring creation into being is evidence of remarkable power.
Bears witness to the creative power of God
Creation coming into being at the word of God.
"Then God said, "let there be light" and there was light" (Genesis
1:3).
God takes the clay from the ground from it fashions the human
beings (Genesis 2:7).
God breathes the breath of life into the nostrils of the man "and
so man became a living being" (Genesis 2:7).

Llink between the breath of God and the life of the human being.
God's breath is the life giving force.

God is pure spirit


God is pure spirit and therefore has no physical form,
Anthropomorphisms are common but not to be interpreted in a
literal sense.
Symbolic or figurative statements expressing the activity of God.
The belief that God is pure spirit is not stated explicitly in texts
from the Tenak.
Understood implicitly through reflecting on the meaning of some
key texts.
The creation stories (Genesis 1:1-2:4).
Image of a time before creation where God dwelt over a formless
void.
Prior to the first act of creation there is nothing but God in a
formless void.
No form and yet God exists.
The giving of the 10 commandments (Exodus 20:1-17).
"you shall not carve idols for yourself in the shape of anything in
the sky above or on the earth below or in the waters beneath the
earth" (Exodus 20:4).
Prohibition is to prevent the people of Israel from abandoning
their monotheistic beliefs and adopting the beliefs in other gods
Also emphasises that images of any created thing cannot be
used to represent God.
Any attempt at a representation of God is false and thus
regarded as idolatry.
The moral law

God has set down a way of living which is life giving and
sustaining.
The moral law set down in the Torah
"it is something very near to you, already in your mouths and in
your hearts; you only have to carry it out" (Deuteronomy 30:14).
"choose life, then, that you and your descendents may live, by
loving the Lord, your God, heeding his voice and holding fast to
him" (Deuteronomy 30:19-20).
The moral law strongly expressed in the Nevi'im.
Prophets provide a reminder to Israel of its obligations to
faithfully follow the law
Strong emphasis on moral action reflecting justice towards one
another.
Isaiah 10 focuses on the failure to live justly with one another
Isaiah 10:1-2 condemns the actions of those who create unjust
laws and allow situations of oppression to exist
"depriving the needy of judgment and robbing my people's poor
of their rights. Making widows their plunder and orphans their
prey" (Isaiah 10:2).
Judaism has a strong emphasis on providing for the needs of the
most vulnerable in the community.
The Covenant
Covenant is fundamental for understanding Judaism
The requirements of the Covenant are expressed through the
texts in the Tenak.
Genesis chapter 17- the Covenant with Abraham.
God promises that Abraham will become "the father of a host of
nations" (Genesis 17:4).
The Covenant also includes the promise of land
"I will give to you and to your descendents after you the land in
which you are now staying, the whole land of Canaan as a
permanent possession" (Genesis 17:8).

Promises of descendents and the land


Abraham is required to walk in the presence of God and be
blameless (Genesis 17:1).
Circumcision is to be the sign of the Covenant between God and
the people of Israel (Genesis 17:12).
Giving of the Torah to Moses at Sinai (Exodus 19-20).
The Covenant governs and regulates all aspects of Jewish life.
Principles set down in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17)
Total of 613 mitzvot expressed in the Torah.

Outline the principal ethical teachings of


Judaism:
The Commandments of the Torah
The most important source of ethical guidance for Jews is the Torah,
which encompasses the Written, and Oral Torah.
Jewish ethics is derived from the covenantal relationship where they
were protected and taught their responsibilities towards God and other
people.

613 mitzvot
The 613 mitzvot/commandments offer the broadest application of
Jewish ethical principles.
Significance - These mitzvot represent the foundational tenets of
Jewish ethics.
The 613 mitzvot consists of both negative (commands to refrain
from performing an act) and positive mitzvot (commands to
perform an act).
10 commandments (Decalogue)

Significance - It is regarded as the distillation of the 613 mitzvot.


The Ten Commandments consist of positive and negative mitzvot.
The positive mitzvot are concerned with the relationship between
God and the Hebrews.
The negative mitzvot governs the behaviour of individuals within
the human community.
Oral Torah
Significance - The Oral Torah provides guidelines for the detailed
application of the broad principles of the 613 mitzvot to the dayto-day life of Jews.
Ongoing Rabbinic discussion ensures that the core tenets of
Jewish ethics can be prudently applied to changing
circumstances.

The Prophetic Vision, including social justice and Tikkun Olam the repair of the world
Prophetic tradition
The Prophets were individuals who were called by God to
proclaim the message that people were straying from the path
laid down by the Torah by perpetuating the status quo of society.
The Prophets advocated a pro-active stance to reforming social
structures by emphasizing the broad themes of justice, equality
and peace during a time when these concepts were of secondary
importance compared to observance of law and ritual.
The Prophets were actively concerned with bettering the plight of
the poor, the needy and the oppressed and did so by challenging
the authority figures of society.

Tikkun Olam
Definition - Repair/transformation of the world.

Tikkun olam is the notion that if a person saves another human


being it is as if that person had saved the whole world.
Significance - The overarching principle of tikkun olam in Jewish
ethics is intimately connected with the idea of social justice.
The implication of this notion is that all individuals have the dual
responsibility of rectifying inequalities in society by helping the
poor and needy, and acting as a steward by caring for the earth.
The aim of tikkun olam is to achieve a perfected world, or
"haMascheach".
Gemilut Chasidim
Definition - Acts of loving kindness such as visiting the sick,
feeding the poor and comforting the mourner.
Significance - It is identified as the characteristic that
encapsulates the Jewish identity.
Gemilut Chasidim is intimately tied with the notion of leading a
righteous life and having a good heart which are prerequisites of
being a truly devout

The Book of Proverbs - wisdom, righteousness, purity and


generosity of spirit
The Book of Proverbs is one of the most significant collections within
the genre of Wisdom literature.
The Book of Proverbs is a collection of short, pithy statements, which
offer practical and simple advice on how to lead a moral life and
behave prudently.
Wisdom
The major theme dealt with in the Book of Proverbs is that of
wisdom.
God is the source of wisdom.
Wisdom is also the means by which a person comes to know God.

Wisdom is a powerful force that will bring well being to those who
seek it. (Proverbs 24:5)

Righteousness
A person who lives righteously and with integrity will live a happy
life regardless of their situation (Proverbs 19:1)
A person's lack of integrity or faith will ultimately lead to their
ruin (Proverbs 11:3)
Purity
Purity, which is linked to integrity, is a virtue that has true value
and hence should be praised (Proverbs 11:4).
Generosity of spirit
Generosity of spirit involves helping society's poor and vulnerable
(Proverbs 24:10).
God will bless those who are generous to the poor and needy,
while those who do not will suffer negative consequences as a
result of their selfishness (Proverbs 28:27)

Describe the importance of ethical teachings


in the life of adherents.

Jews are expected to place considerable emphasis on the extensive


ethical teachings of the tradition in making informed moral choices.

Since Judaism is essentially a practical religion the halakhah assists


Jews to apply the general principles contained in the Torah to daily
ethical issues.

Talmudic scholars and halakhic lawyers have a central role in


providing the day to day guidance on ethical matters.

The general ethical direction in the life of a Jewish person is


determined by the Ten Commandments.

The Ten Commandments contained in Exodus 20:1-17 and


Deuteronomy 5:6-21 is regarded as a distillation of the 613 mitzvot
contained in the Torah.

These 613 mitzvot contain both positive mitzvot ("to do"


commands) and negative mitzvot (commands to refrain from doing
something).

The general themes of righteousness, purity and justice underpin


the specific halakhic laws that guide Jewish ethical decision making.

Describe the importance of Shabbat


Significance

Human beings are called to imitate God who rested on the seventh
day after creating the world.

Shabbat is the most significant liturgical event of the week.

Shabbat is significant because:

1.

It reminds the Jewish people of the greatness of God in


creating the cosmos.

2.

Reminds the Jewish people of the Covenant between God and


the People of Israel which lies at the heart of Judaism (Exodus 31:16).
Shabbat rituals

Shabbat observance is essentially guided by two key


commandments:

1.

"Remember the Sabbath day" (Exodus 20:8) which means


refraining from all forms of work.

2.

"Keep the Sabbath day" (Deuteronomy 5:12) which refers to


reciting the Kiddush over a cup of wine.

Significance of prohibition from all forms of work - Acknowledgement


that God as the ultimate creator ands reminds the people that creation is
a gift from God.

Talmudic scholars and halakhic writers have written extensively on


the types of work prohibited and have expanded the four basic categories
of prohibited work contained in the Torah to 39 categories.

Muktzeh are objects and utensils which cannot be handled on the


Sabbath.

Just as the Sabbath festival is about to begin, the wife lights two
candles which represent the dual injunctions of keeping and remembering
the Shabbat.

The wife prays over the lit candles for the welfare of her husband
and children.

On Friday night, the most significant celebration is the Shabbat


dinner which is eaten with family and friends.

The table is laid with two loaves known as hallot which represent the
dual Shabbat commandments.
The father blesses the children before Kiddush is recited over the

wine.
Saturday morning is spent in the synagogue in Torah study.

The recitation of the prayer, Havdalah takes place to mark the end
of the Shabbat celebration at sunset.

The havdalah candle is lit as a sign of the end of the Shabbat, where
lighting a fire is permissible again.

CHRISTIANITY
Outline the historical and cultural context in
which Christianity began

Christianity grew out of Judaism in the first century CE


St Paul was a great influence on Christianity
Jesus lived in Palestine between 6BC and 30CE

During this time, Palestine displayed the following:


1. It was occupied by the Romans

2. Rome allowed the practising of Judaism and Palestine had a


Jewish context
3. The Jews claimed they were in The Promised Land due to
their covenant with God
4. Jews suffered deprivation and hardship under the Roman rule
5. Fierce sectarian rivalry existed between the different Jewish
sects, particularly between the Pharisees, Sadducees and the
Zealots who sought to control the direction of the religion
6. Palestine had suffered oppression by the Assyrians,
Babylonians, Russians and the Greeks

Examine the principal events of Jesus life


-

Whilst Jesus is typically known as the founder of Christianity, he did


not seek to establish a new religion. Rather he intended to oppose
the legalism of Judaism and reform the tradition in the spirit of the
prophets

The main focus of Jesus' preaching was the reign of God

The reign of God envisages a world where God's values such as


love, peace and cooperation are realised. This vision, that was
inaugurated through Jesus' ministry, will be completed at the end of
time. Until then it is the responsibility of the followers of Jesus to live
in accordance with these values and to lead others to them.
Subsequently, the reign of God is considered to be a present yet
future reality

Jesus is believed to have been born of a virgin in Bethlehem

Jesus travelled from Nazareth to Galilee where he was baptised by


John the Baptist

He preached around the region of Galilee and attracted disciples


some of whom were women and many were socially disadvantaged

Jesus taught in parables mostly concerning the reign of God

In the Gospels he is frequently depicted as a healer or a miracle


worker

Jesus' preaching brought him into conflict with the Jewish authorities

Jesus' ministry took him to Jerusalem where he stayed for the


Passover

He was arrested and sentenced to death by crucifixion

He was placed in a tomb on the eve of the Passover and appeared


to his disciples after being raised on the third day

The synoptic problem and modern biblical scholarship reminds us


that the Gospels were written for a particular target audience as a
way of passing on the faith of the community rather than with the
intent of providing an accurate historical account of the life of Jesus

Explain why Jesus is the model for Christian


life
-

Jesus is the model for Christian life because he embodies the reign
of God, that is God's dream for humankind that lies at the heart of
Jesus' life and ministry
The reign of God refers to the realisation of God's vision for the
world, where the values of love, justice and peace prevail. Jesus
inaugurated God's dream for the world through his ministry, and
showed people how to bring about the reign of God, which will be
completed at the end of time
Jesus' embodiment of the reign of God can be identified according to
four significant aspects of Jesus' life and ministry: Jesus lives a life of
prayer, Jesus lives a life of service to others, Jesus acts as an
advocate for the poor and Jesus loves and forgives others
The Gospel portraits of Jesus show him to be a man of prayer, often
withdrawing from the pressures of daily life to pray in a quiet place,
and does so especially as he approaches key moments in his
ministry and during times of personal crisis

Describe the early development of Christian


communities after the death of Jesus
-

The Jesus movement which lasted from approximately 30-60 CE


describes a period immediately following the death of Jesus where
the infant Christian community saw itself as a sect which existed
within the Jewish tradition

Little emphasis was placed on laying down the infrastructure of the


movement because the followers believed that they were living in
the last days before the Parousia, the second coming of Christ.

Small groups of Palestinian Jews followed Jesus through the


preaching of disciples such as Peter in and around Palestine

Larger groups of Diaspora Jews and Gentiles responded to the


preaching of Paul

Paul is typically considered as the second founder of Christianity


because he helped to set up the structure of this new religion and
hence confirm the status of Christianity vis--vis Judaism

The Council of Jerusalem in 49 CE formally resolved the debate


which divided the Pauline and Palestinian groups. The Council
accepted Paul's argument that Gentiles need not undergo
circumcision in order to become Christians. This Council is an
attempt to overcome differences within the infant Church. Despite
the formal resolution of the problem the tensions between the two
early communities continued for some time

The New Testament period which lasted from approximately 45 to


100 CE saw the gradual formalisation and centralisation of the
Christian Churches which meant that this new religion was
increasingly seen as distinct and separate from Judaism. The need
to institutionalise the charism of the movement came about as a
result of the delay of the Parousia and the death of the Apostles

Outline the unique features of: Anglicanism,


Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Pentecostalism,
Protestantism
Anglicanism:

Emerged from the context of the Roman Catholic Church in the 16th
century during the reign of King Henry VIII.

Distinguishing features:
o

Authority- Declared independence from papal control, The


English monarch became the supreme governor of the Church.
However, no international, juridical authority.

Justification- salvation is attained by faith in Jesus and through


the grace of God.

Priesthood- Eliminates idea of hierarchy and gives equal


power to all people of the Church.

Eucharist

Distinctive to Anglicanism is the book of common prayer, put


together during the reformation.

Catholicism:

Developed after the great schism in 1054.

Distinguishing features:

Authority- The Bible, tradition/sacraments, Pope- Feed My


lambs Tend My sheep Feed My sheep. (Jn 21:15) Jesus
makes Peter his representative on Earth.

Justification- salvation from faith AND good works- need


human cooperation. Stresses a sacramental view of human
existence.

Eucharist- Jesus is literally present in the bread and wine. By


the consecration the transubstantiation of the bread and wine
into the Body and Blood of Christ is brought about (catechism
of the Catholic Church).

More emphasis on Mary and the saints.

Orthodoxy:

Heart of Orthodox worship is the divine liturgy- celebration of the


eucharist

Use of icons in worship- highly ornamented imaged of Christ, Mary,


saints etc. Justify as God is clearly visible and accessible to humans.

Masses- long (2hrs), incense, fully sung liturgies, rich in symbolism.

Strong emphasis on sacraments

Pentecostalism:

Beliefs stem from Pentecost in 30CE. Broke away from Methodist


sect in early 20th century in the USA.

Distinguishing Features:
o

Seeks to restore the gifts of the holy spirit.

Sacraments- differentiate between baptism and conversion/


reception of sacraments, signified by breaking into tongues

Considered evangelical

Salvation- brought about by gift of the Holy Spirit

Strong emphasis on community involvement- involves


spontaneity, singing

Protestantism:

Reformation of 16th century-key leaders were Martin Luther & John


Calvin formed eight religious sects

Distinguishing features
o

Authority- Bible is only source of revealed truth, do not


acknowledge Pope

Justification- salvation by faith alone

More emphasis on preaching word of God and less on


sacraments

Universal priesthood of all believers

Principal Beliefs, Sacred Texts and Writings,


Core Ethical Teachings
Christianity is a diverse religion with many denominations forming the
crux of the faith. Christianity is defined as a devotion of faith based on the
person and teachings of Jesus Christ. Currently in the modern era,
Christianity is a widely respected and followed dynamic and living religion.
In order to achieve the recognition, it has today, many factors such as the
Principle, Foundational Beliefs of the faith, Core Ethical teachings and
Sacred, Holy Texts are all influential and promoting a living religion and a
religion that is adaptable to change for adherents and applicable from
within a modern context.
Christianity over the years has organised its beliefs into a systematic
theology, drawing from the sacred texts and writings and traditions of the
early church in order to promote a dynamic and living religious tradition.
These key principal beliefs highlight the divinity, human representation of
Jesus, his death and resurrection, Gods relationship with the Trinity,
revelation and salvation. As Christianity progressed through the Roman
Empire, an explanation had to be proven to explain Jesus relationship to
God and an understanding of how he could have been divine and human
at the same time. At this time, many early viewpoints emerged to try and
explain this notion. Docetism disregards the humanity aspect of Jesus
because it claims that Jesus is fully divine and God merely adopting the
appearance of being human. Arianism believed Jesus was of a higher
importance than the rest of humanity, however he is also unequal to
God as he is the Son of God and not God himself. Despite these
differences regarding beliefs about the divine nature of Jesus and his
humanity, Councils such as the Council of Nicaea formed in 325 CE saw
further development of the Doctrine of the Trinity and the Nicene Creed,
a Christian statement of faith still used in a modern context for readings.

In the New Testament, which is read frequently In Christian Masses all


over the world, there are clear statements about both Jesus divinity and
humanity. For example, Acts 10:36 calls him the Lord of All. This is
relevant for Christian adherents, as they can understand that Jesus will be
a present being for them in heaven and a ruler over humanity in the
current modern context. Adherents hear about Jesus humanity and
divinity through readings in the gospels and New Testament. The death
and resurrection of Jesus Christ has many meanings for Christians. The
belief in Jesus holy resurrection of his body is depicted in the Nicene
Creed, which testifies not only to the resurrection of Jesus but also to the
resurrection of deceased in general as a foundational Christian belief
aspect. The Nicene Creed recites on the third day he rose again in
accordance with the scriptures; he ascended into heaven. These
scriptures are read in a theological critical reading so that this belief is
relevant in a modern context. Readings of Mark and Lukes account of
Jesus death and resurrection, although different highlight the reason of
how the resurrection of Jesus is the event that signifies to adherents of an
eternal life that breaks the limitations from within the bounds of human
morality. Belief in God and the trinity is a central tenant of Christianity. To
Christians God is omniscient, which is all knowing, omnipotent, which is
all-powerful and omnipresent, meaning he is always with us. Christians
also believe that God is a transcendent and immanent single being
embodied in not one but three persons, God the Father, Son and Holy
Spirit. The plurality in god is significant in that Jesus calls God Abba
meaning Father. In a similar context, early Christian churches came up
with a liturgical Trinitarian formula In the name of the Father, Son and of
the Holy Spirit which is still used today to mark the start and end of
prayer. These phrases and creeds were early Christians way of expressing
this key belief in formal statements to develop a further understanding
and respect for the nature of God and the Trinity. Christians believe that
God is revealed to humanity through the events and occurrences that take
place throughout human history. Christians can identify that God is the
scribe of revelation. For example, the Holy Spirit nourishes faith within the
souls of Christians and provides them with knowledge of Gods existence.
The Holy Spirit is cardinal in the aspect of revelation as the spirit
immanently assists Christians in concerns surrounding a modern context
such as moral dilemmas. The writing of the Bible is based of an inspiration
of the Holy Spirit and in turn the Bible encourages the Christian
community to teach the infidelity and truth to modern adherents to
promote a dynamic faith. Christians believe that salvation is one of Gods
gifts. This is presented in the context of the resurrection and death of
Jesus Christ. Modern groups within Christianity emphasise a different
meaning of salvation. Born Again Christians hold to the belief that an
individual should accept Jesus Christ as their lord and savior. Other
Christians believe that works of merit and how people treat the most
vulnerable of the human race in society will lead to a sense of salvation.
Through the adherence to the principal beliefs of the Christian church, a
dynamic and living religious tradition is achieved.

The Christian Bible is a selection of holy, ancient writings that is believed


to be of divine and human origin. Sentiments and writings in the Bible
such as the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John and the Epistles of
St. Paul hold significant relevance for Christian adherents in a modern
context by promoting a dynamic and living Christian faith. The Gospels are
important in a modern context because Christians acquire a fair amount of
their knowledge and understanding about Jesus from the Gospels. The
thirteen epistles that Saint Paul wrote to early Christian leaders contained
in the New Testament describe his impact on early Christianity and how
that impact is still relevant today. In his letters, St. Paul Hellenised the
early Christian faith that gave it the warming appeal that it has today. In
Pauls second letter to Timothy he writes You must keep to what you have
been taught and know to be true; remember who your teachers were.
This is relevant in the modern Christian context because it is saying that
the principal beliefs and values that we have grown up learning as
Christians will ultimately guide us through life. The Bible is an important
text in the dynamic nature of Christianity because in the New Testament,
a strong focus is retained on the life of Jesus. It depicts to adherents that
Jesus was not a religious revolutionary but also an incarceration of God on
Earth. The Bible also is used in the liturgy in public prayer services; it is
the foundations for prayer and provides moral and ethical guidelines for
Christians to adhere to. Therefore, the sacred text of the Bible is
extremely significant in promoting a dynamic living faith of Christianity.
The Ethical Principles of the Christian faith span from a variety of sources
such as the Hebrew Bible, The Gospels and The New Testament. In
developing these ethics, Christians stress the importance of tradition and
reason and also an individuals conscience in developing these ethics. The
three ethical teachings used to promote a dynamic and living Christian
faith are The Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes and Jesus Great
Commandment of Love. The Ten Commandments are 10 moral
statements given to Moses by God. The Ten Commandments are a
succinct summary of Christian ethics that emphasise the importance of
human life as well as having respect for family and personal integrity. For
example the seventh commandment Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery
signifies that women and men must be faithful in a marriage; It represents
an ethical concern about love and respect attaining to a marriage, but
also ensures that there is no risk of property disputes from within a family.
The Beatitudes are considered a summary of Jesus Sermon atop of Mount
Sinai. The Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount reflect the importance
of motives that underlie ethical behavior. For example Blessed are the
merciful, for they shall obtain mercy is relevant to a dynamic Christian
context today because it suggests that people receiving unjust
persecution in this world will see heaven in the next life. Jesus
Commandment of Love, in Matthew 33:37-39 recites that You shall love
the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your
mind It pertains a meaning that Jesus own life and ministry were
motivated by love. In the dynamic nature of Christianity, Jesus

Commandment of Love is important because it signifies that God loves his


children and in return humanity should love God and one another equally
and this aspect of Christianity has not changed since its early stages.
Therefore, the Core Ethical Teachings of Christianity are all bound together
in creating a dynamically diverse and living Christian religion.
To conclude, Christianity is an extremely diverse religion bound by the
faith in Jesus and the love of God. Although there is much history of
Christianity in terms of origins and early foundation, what has stemmed
from this early theology has made Christianity into the dynamic and living
religion that it is today. Through Principal Beliefs, Core Ethical Teachings
and the Sacred Texts and Writings of Christianity, pertaining aspects of the
faith are still applicable today in a modern context in the lives of Christian
adherents.

ISLAM

Pre-Islamic Arabia as the cultural and


historical context for the development of
Islam
-

Islam began during the seventh century CE in the Arabian


peninsular

People of the region were mostly shepherds and merchants

Makkah and Madinah were the two main cities associated with the
development of Islam

Most of the local religious beliefs were polytheistic

Judaism and Christianity were well established minority religions of


the region

Makkah was regarded as a sacred city due to the presence of the


Ka'bah

The Ka'bah was a site of great religious significance and attracted


many pilgrims

There was a considerable industry in existence in Makkah based on


the sale of idols and other elements of the worship at the Ka'bah

Examine the principal events in Muhammad's


life
-

Muhammad was born in 570CE

There are many legends concerning the birth of the prophet which
point to his extraordinary life

Despite these, Muslims are careful to not elevate Muhammad's


status beyond that of a human being

Muhammad's mother Aminah died when he was a young child.

Muhammad was raised by his uncle Abu Talib who was a wealthy
merchant.

In the course of working for his uncle, Muhammad met his future
wife the wealthy widow Khadija

The marriage of Muhammad and Khadija saw the birth of six


children

After spending considerable time in prayer and spiritual searching


Muhammad experienced the night of power "Laylat-ul-Qadr

It was here he received the command to proclaim the message of


Allah

The revelation to Muhammad was brought by the Angel Jibril

After the initial revelation there was a period of waiting before the
proclamation the message began

After two years Jibril appeared again and this brought on the
beginning of Muhammad's preaching

During the course of his life from this point Muhammad continued to
preach while receiving further messages and instructions from Allah.

Muhammad's preaching was of the message of one true God

Due to the monotheism of the preaching there was no place for the
worship of idols

Muhammad's preaching was rejected by the people of Makkah and


he was exposed to ridicule because of his message.

619 CE was the Year of Sorrows where both Khadija and Abu Talib
died

Soon after Muhammad experienced the miraculous night journey to


Jerusalem and through the seven realms of heaven to be in the
presence of Allah.

In the course of the night journey he received the instruction


regarding the requirement for daily prayer

Soon after he was visited by a delegation from Yathrib asking him to


come to their city

Muhammad undertook a perilous journey and experience a


miraculous escape from his enemies in a cave

The journey from Makkah to Yathrib is known as the Hijrah

In Yathrib, Muhammad built a house which is regarded as the first


mosque

The name of the city was changed from Yathrib to Madinah

This year 622 CE marks the beginning of the Muslim calendar

In Madinah Muhammad received the revelation to face Makkah


during prayer and also of the Ramadan fast

Conflict with Makkah continued throughout the time Muhammad


was in Madinah

Ultimately Makkah was captured in 630CE

After this Makkah became the holy city of Islam, dedicated to Allah

The Prophet Muhammad died at 63 years of age in 632 CE

The Prophet Muhammad as the final messenger is


the model for Muslim life.
-

Muhammad is a sublime example of surrender to the will of Allah

Muslims ensure that respect for the Prophet Muhammad does not
become a form of worship

Muhammad comes in the tradition of the Prophets, he is the last and


greatest of the Prophets of Allah

He is known as the seal of the Prophets

The traditions of the Hadith and Sunna are used by Muslims to learn
from the wisdom of the words and actions of the Prophet

Muslims place great significance of the Prophet's life and actions

Muhammad proved himself to be a wise and capable leader

Throughout his life and even before the night of power, Muhammad
showed himself to be a person devoted to prayer and spiritual
searching

Muhammad displayed profound faith, trust and patience in


dedicating himself to the will of Allah

He showed himself to be a fearless preacher

He demonstrated his trust in Allah in making the perilous journey


from Makkah to Yathrib

Muhammad showed himself to be a prudent and just leader in


Madinah

Under his leadership the Muslim community had many strong


characteristics such as integrity, sexual morality, just and fair
dealings and care for the poor

The development of Islam after the death of


Muhammad under the leadership of the Four
Rightly Guided Caliphs and the emergence of the
Sunni and the Shi'ia
-

After the death of Muhammad the leadership of the Muslim


community was carried out by the four Rightly Guided Caliphs

These are regarded as having preserved orthodoxy in Islam

1. Abu Bakr
- Abu Bakr was a long time
friend and associate of
Muhammad's
-

He was the only person


allowed to accompany
Muhammad during the Hijra
His main contribution
restoration of stability after
the death of Muhammad
Following the death of many
huffaz during a battle he
began the process of
developing a written version
of the Qur'an

3. Uthman ibn Affan


- 'Uthman ibn Affan was the
third of the rightly guided
caliphs
-

Conditions were placed on the


Caliphate after the death of
`Umar
These conditions were ejected
by Ali, accepted by 'Uthman

2. Umar ibn al-Khattab


-

`Umar ibn al-Khattab was the


second of the rightly guided
caliphs

He oversaw the extension of


Muslim empire

`Umar was an effective


military leader

Among his contributions was


the capture of Jerusalem and
the restoration of the temple
site - now the Dome of the
rock

4. Abi Talib
- Ali ibn Abi Talib became the
fourth of the rightly guided
caliphs after the death of
'Uthman
-

Ali was the son in law of the


Prophet Muhammad

During the caliphate of Ali


Internal tensions came to the
surface leading to a period of
civil war

Ali was assassinated in 661CE

Sunni and Shia Muslims:


-

The Sunni and the Shi'ia groupings in Islam today trace their origins back to the
disputes of this time

Sunni make up 90% of the world's Muslims. Shi'ia make up most of the remaining
10%

Shi'ia Muslims believe that the leader of Islam should be a descendent of the
Prophet Muhammad

Sunni Muslims believe that the leader should be chosen from among the tribe of
Muhammad but that it does not have to be one of Muhammad's direct
descendents

Shi'ia Muslims use the term Imam to designate their leader as they believe the
caliphate has been discredited

The implications of Tawhid (One God) for Muslim


belief
-

Aqida is an Arabic word meaning creed

It refers to the five basic articles of belief in the Qur'an

The five articles are belief in Allah, belief in the prophets, belief in
angels, belief in the scripture and belief in the Day of Judgment.

Tawhid refers to the belief about Allah

It affirms that there is one true God

Nothing can rival Allah, nor can there exist anything that is even
remotely like Allah.

Existing separately from creation in a transcendent way

Allah is all knowing and all powerful. Allah is also eternal.

The ways of Allah are beyond human understanding.

Allah is also understood as being close to the heart of every person

The concept of Tawhid it is incompatible with pride or arrogance

All individual gifts and talents are attributed to the gift of Allah

Possessions are in essence on loan from Allah regarded as transitory

Tawhid affirms that all things happen for a purpose

Whatever the circumstances this is what Allah has allowed

Acceptance of this leads trusting in the great love and compassion


of Allah

Allah knows all things

Therefore to act with impure motives which in effect seek to deceive


others and deceive Allah

Tawhid is also contravened by a false sense of personal holiness

Allah is not fooled by appearances.

Any belief that diminishes this faith in the oneness and absoluteness
of Allah is referred to as shirk.

Tawhid leads to a greater surrender to the will of Allah,

It reminds Muslims that they are accountable for their actions and
for their use of worldly possessions

The principal beliefs about Angels, the life after


death and fate/predestination
Angels
-

There exist other beings which are outside the material or physical
world

They are not of physical or material form

They cannot be understood by human beings nor can they be


depicted in any way

There are two identifiable types, angels and jinn

Angels are understood to be the messengers of Allah

Muslims believe angels to be creatures of light which exist


everywhere throughout the universe and are constantly interacting
with human beings

Some people are occasionally able to see angels.

The angel usually appears in human form as the angel Jibril did
when appearing to Muhammad.

Muslims believe that each person has two angels designated to


keep a record of their deeds, good and bad.

The Qur'an names a number of angels and designates specific


purposes to each.

Jibril is the messenger bringing the word of Allah to those who are
the chosen ones.

At the time of death the angel Azra'il will be present at the side of
the person dying to receive their soul as it leaves them.

The angel Israfil has the role of calling all souls of the Day of
Judgment.

The angel Mika'il has the special role of guarding places of worship

The angels Munker and Nadir have the role of the questioners of
souls

Iblis is the devil.

Other beings are known as Jinn

Jinn possess neither good or evil tendencies

Iblis is regarded as the leader of the jinn

Life after death


-

Human life on earth is a test and the outcome of this test


determines the fate of the person for eternity.

Human life on earth is a test and the outcome of this test


determines the fate of the person for eternity.

Muslim's believe in a life after death which is known as "akhirah"

Human beings experience all kinds of situations and states in life

Each individual is called to respond positively to the will of Allah and


submit to it

Their choice to do so or to refuse to do so is the key factor in their


destiny.

Muslims believe that everything that takes place is the will of Allah

They believe that they have been given free will in order to respond
to those things and it is this response that is important.

The first part of life is mortal and temporary

The second part is the eternal life which follows death

The mortal human life is believed to be a test of character

Given that Allah is all knowing, there is no possibility of feigning


good character

Muslim belief holds that each person is entirely responsible for their
own actions

Every action and every thought in a person's lifetime is recorded


and will be revealed at the time of judgment

This record is kept by the two guardian angels which are assigned
to each person

The opportunity to pass the test is limited to a person's earthly life

Muslims believe that Allah has sent witnesses to each generation to


show them clearly what is right and wrong and what is expected of
them

Therefore there can be no claim of ignorance or uncertainty

Forgiveness is available for all people during the course of their


lifetime

Evil actions or intentions can be forgiven by asking Allah for


forgiveness

Fate/predestination
-

Muslims understand that Allah is all knowing.

Muslim's also believe that nothing happens by chance or randomly.

It all happens by design, with a purpose and it is Allah the creator


who determines what will happen.

The idea that all things happen through the plan of Allah is called
"Al-Qadr"

Muslims believe that while Allah already knows our destiny, it is our
free will and our choice, which determines it.

Each person is given the freedom to choose and Allah respects this
free will absolutely. Muslims are rejecting any notion of fate.

Fate is not compatible with free will and as such is rejected by


Muslim beliefs.

Importance of the Quran and Hadith


Quran
-

The Qur'an is the fundamental text for all Muslims.

It is believed to contain the revelation of Allah, complete and


unaltered

The Qur'an is organised into 114 surahs or chapters

The order of the Qur'an today is not the same order in which the
revelations were received.

The order is according to an instruction given to the Prophet


Muhammad

Each surah has a name, which is linked to a feature, or a word


contained in it.

Muhammad was not a literate person.

Qur'an had to be memorised.

A person who knows the entire Qur'an off by heart is known as a


hafiz

Abu Bakr began the process of having a written version of the


Qur'an developed

He commissioned Zaid ibn Thabit to make the first written version of


the Qur'an.

Hadith
-

The term "hadith" means that which has been recounted or told.

The hadith refers to the collection of traditions of the words and


deeds of Muhammad.

There are two types of hadiths.

Those known as Prophetic Hadiths and those known as Sacred


Hadiths.

The Sacred Hadiths or Hadith Qudsi are regarded as the most


important.

Hadith Qudsi are regarded as words from Allah, which were


communicated to Muhammad, however, these messages were
passed on in the words of Muhammad.

The traditions came to be gathered together in collections, which


came to be the basis for the hadiths.

Extracts from the Qur'an and Hadith which


demonstrate the principal beliefs of Islam
-

The principal beliefs of Islam are:

Tawhid

Angels

Books of Allah

Rusul

Akhira

Fate/predestination

Tawhid
-

"He is Allah, the One, Allah is Eternal and Absolute. None is born of
Him, He is unborn. There is none like unto Him". (surah 112)

"No vision can grasp Him, but His grasp is over all vision. He is
above all comprehension, yet it acquainted with all things" (surah
6:103)

"It was We who created man, and We know even the secret
suggestions his soul makes to him; for We are nearer to him than his
jugular vein" (surah 50:16)

Angels

"The Lord said to the angels."when I have created Man and breathed
My spirit into him then fall ye down and worship him." So all he
angels bowed down in worship, all of them together. But not so Iblis
the chief jinn: he refused to be among those who bowed down"
(surah 15:28-31)

"Behold two guardians appointed to learn his doings, one sitting on


his right and one on the left. Not a word does he utter but there is a
sentinel by him, ready to note it." (surah 50:17-18).

"He sends forth guardians to watch over you and when death
overtakes you, the messengers will carry away your soul." (surah
6:61)

Books of Allah

"Those who say "Allah does not send down revelations to humans"
do not judge rightly. Who sent down the book which Musa brought a light and guidance for humanity? But you have made it into
separate books for show, and you conceal much of its contents"
(surah 6:91)

"believe in what has been sent down to thee Muhammad and what
has been sent down before thee" (Surah 2: 4).

Rusul

"Allah chooses for Himself whoever He pleases, and guides to


Himself those who turn to Him" (surah 42:13).

"Who can be better in faith than one who submits his whole self to
Allah, does good and follows the way of Ibrahim, the true in faith?
For Allah did take Ibrahim for a friend." (surah 4:125)

Akhira
-

"One burdened soul shall not bear the burden of another. And even
if the heavy-laden soul should cry out for its burden to be carried
not one bit of it shall be carried, not even by the next of kin" (surah
35:18).

"Your good actions will benefit only you, while evil harms only the
person who does it." (surah 41:46)

Fate/predestination
-

"Whatever Allah grants to humanity out of His mercy, no one can


withhold and what He withholds no one can grant apart from Him.
He is the source of Power, the All-Knowing" (surah 35:2)

"If Allah lay the touch of trouble on you, no one can deliver you from
it save Allah alone; and if He wills good for you, no one can prevent
His blessing. He confers them on His servants as He chooses" (surah
10:107).

The Principal Ethical Teachings within Islam


Sharia Law: Legal code of Islam based on teachings of the Quran and
other Islamic Sources. It covers every aspect of life in a traditional society.

Islamic law (Sharia) is a comprehensive legal system, which includes


religious, civil, criminal, business, family, inheritance and divorce
laws. Sharia deals with the preservation of life, wealth honour and
religion.
Sections of the Quran + Sections of Hadith = Sharia Law

Islamic Jurisprudence: Fiqh is a systematic organisation of and guide to


Islams legal provisions. (Guide to Shaira). It is the discovery of the law
from Islamic Scriptures and Sacred Texts.
Process:
1. Quran: When Muslims seek a way to deal with issues in their lives,
their first and greatest authority is the Quran.

2. Hadith: Hadith is a source of Muslim authority only when the Quran


does not provide the answers. Muhammads actions and sayings can
be used to define a religious response to issues for Muslims.
3. Ijma Consensus of Islamic scholars: A Fatwa or ruling can be
sought from a leading community leader
4. Qiyas: A scholar or believer can develop an idea about the legality
of an issue because of a Quran or Hadith injuction

Halal and Haram:


-

The first is to consider the views of respected people and leaders in


the community

If the consensus of these respected people is against doing


something then it would be wise to avoid it, even if it were not
haraam

The second aspect is to look at the precedent of previous decisions

In all but a few cases there will have been similar circumstances
faced in the past and the precedents of the decisions taken should
strongly guide the response to the present situation

The third aspect is that of the common or public good

This involves the welfare of others and an overall concern for justice

An action which is not forbidden may still be evidently harmful to


many people in the given situation and accordingly should be
avoided

Some things are regarded as forbidden (haraam) and should never


be done

Permitted or halal actions fall under a number of categories or levels

The most important are those things which are required actions or
behaviours. Those things which are required actions are known as
fard or wajib

For most Muslims, fard and wajib are identical

In some schools of thought fard refers to obligations stemming from


revelation while wajib refers to obligations stemming from reason

The second level of halal actions are known as mandub or mustahab

These are actions that are desirable or recommended

The third level of halal actions are known as mubah

These actions fall into the realm of the unclear and require the
prudent exercise of personal judgment

Mubah refers to situations where there is no clear guidance in the


Qur'an or in judgments of authorities in Islam

In these situations an individual must choose the correct action


based on the principles outlined above

The final level of halal actions are those which are not
recommended or are not approved

These actions are known as makruh and are officially regarded as


hateful, yet are not absolutely forbidden

These actions should be avoided when ever possible

Five Pillars of Islam


1. Shahada (Confession of Faith):
No God but Allah and Muhammad is his Prophet
I bear witness that there is no diety but God and I bear witness that
Muhammad is the messenger and servant of God.
2. Salat (Daily Prayers):
Prayer or Salat must be performed five times a day:
- Five times a day
- Towards Mecca
Salat is the central pillar of Islam - Muhammad
3. Zakat (charity):
Consists of giving 2 1/2 % of wealth (Surplus possessions to the poor
and needy)
Those who establish and practice regular Zakat (charity), to them
will recieve a great reward(Quran 4:162).

4. Sawn (Fasting):
Every Muslim must fast in the month of Ramadan between sunrise
and sunset
- The fast consists of no food, drink or sexual relations.
- Read the Quran every night
O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you and you are
expected to be truly obedient (Quran 2:183).
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage):
Every Muslim who is physically and economically able must make
pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.
Pilgrimage to the house (Kabah) is a duty mankind owes to God,
those who can afford the journey; but if any deny faith, God stands
not in need of any of his creatures (Quran 3:96-97).

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