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Briefly outline TWO Jewish ethical teachings in ONE of the following areas: - Bioethics - Environmental ethics - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 5 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 5
Briefly outline TWO Jewish ethical teachings in ONE of the following areas: - Bioethics - Environmental ethics. - Sexual ethics. How does ONE ethical teaching outl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Briefly outline TWO Jewish ethical teachings in ONE of the following areas: - Bioethics - Environmental ethics - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 5 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
Briefly outline TWO Jewish ethical teachings in ONE of the following areas: Bioethics
Answer
Jewish bioethics often emphasize the sanctity of life and the moral obligation to preserve it. One teaching is that life is considered priceless and should be safeguarded whenever possible. Another teaching is the principle of 'pikuach nefesh,' which states that saving a life overrides almost all other religious commandments.
These ethical teachings are supported by scriptural references such as the commandment 'You shall not murder' (Exodus 20:13), which highlights the importance of life.
Step 2
How does ONE ethical teaching outlined in part (a) influence the lives of adherents?
Answer
The principle of 'pikuach nefesh' profoundly influences the lives of Jewish adherents by prioritizing the preservation of life over other religious obligations. This means that, in emergencies, a Jew might break dietary laws or perform work on the Sabbath if it means saving someone's life. This demonstrates a practical application of the ethical teaching in daily life, encouraging individuals to be proactive in saving lives.
Step 3
Analyse the significance for the individual of ONE significant practice drawn from the following: Death and mourning
Answer
The practice of mourning in Judaism, particularly through 'shiva,' plays a significant role in the individual's spiritual and social life. During shiva, family members gather to mourn the deceased, which fosters a sense of community support and shared grief. The practice emphasizes the importance of remembering the dead while providing a structured timeframe for grieving.
Additionally, it reflects Jewish beliefs about the afterlife and the continued connection to loved ones beyond death, reinforcing communal bonds and individual responsibilities toward the deceased.