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Question 4 — Islam (15 marks) (a) Outline the contribution to Islam of ONE significant person or school of thought other than Muhammad and the Four Rightly Guided Caliphs - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 4 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 4
Question 4 — Islam (15 marks) (a) Outline the contribution to Islam of ONE significant person or school of thought other than Muhammad and the Four Rightly Guided Ca... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 4 — Islam (15 marks) (a) Outline the contribution to Islam of ONE significant person or school of thought other than Muhammad and the Four Rightly Guided Caliphs - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 4 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline the contribution to Islam of ONE significant person or school of thought other than Muhammad and the Four Rightly Guided Caliphs.
Answer
One significant person in Islam is Al-Ghazali, a key figure in the 11th century who contributed greatly to Islamic philosophy and theology. He emphasized the importance of reconciling reason and faith, advocating that rationality should serve to strengthen belief in God rather than challenge it. Al-Ghazali's work, especially in his book 'The Incoherence of the Philosophers', sought to defend Islamic orthodoxy against the perceived threats of Greek philosophy, thereby reinforcing Islamic thought and practice.
Step 2
How effective has the significant person or school of thought identified in part (a) been in the development and/or expression of Islam?
Answer
Al-Ghazali's contributions have been highly effective in developing Islamic thought, particularly in bridging the gap between rationalism and faith. His influence was profound, as he shaped the way subsequent generations approached Islamic philosophy and theology. His emphasis on mysticism alongside rational thought allowed for a broader interpretation of Islam that integrated intellectual traditions with spiritual insights. This dual approach has continued to resonate in modern Islamic scholarship, making his work pivotal in both historical and contemporary contexts.
Step 3
Explain ethical teaching in Islam in one of the following areas: Bioethics.
Answer
In the area of bioethics, Islamic teachings emphasize the sanctity of life, guiding ethical decisions around issues such as medical interventions, organ donation, and end-of-life care. The Quran and Hadith provide a framework for understanding the value of human life and the moral implications of medical practices. The concept of 'ahirah' (the afterlife) plays a crucial role in considerations of medical ethics, as actions affecting life and death are viewed in light of spiritual consequences. Thus, bioethical decisions in Islam are made with a focus on preserving life while adhering to moral and religious principles.