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Question 15 — Sacred Writings and Stories (20 marks) (a) Demonstrate the importance of ONE extract of sacred writing in ONE religious tradition - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 15 - 2002 - Paper 1
Question 15
Question 15 — Sacred Writings and Stories (20 marks) (a) Demonstrate the importance of ONE extract of sacred writing in ONE religious tradition. (b) Compare how ON... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 15 — Sacred Writings and Stories (20 marks) (a) Demonstrate the importance of ONE extract of sacred writing in ONE religious tradition - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 15 - 2002 - Paper 1
Step 1
Demonstrate the importance of ONE extract of sacred writing in ONE religious tradition.
Answer
One significant extract to consider is from the Bhagavad Gita, a central text in Hinduism. In Chapter 2, Verse 47, it states: 'You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.' This extract is crucial because it emphasizes the concept of selfless action (karma yoga), guiding believers to act without attachment to the results. This principle helps practitioners focus on their responsibilities and maintain equanimity in success and failure, thereby aiding in spiritual growth.
Step 2
Compare how ONE of the following is interpreted through the sacred writings of TWO religious traditions: death.
Answer
In Christianity, death is often viewed as a transition to eternal life, as emphasized in John 11:25-26, where Jesus states, 'I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.' This shows a positive view of death as a gateway to heaven for believers.
In contrast, Buddhism perceives death as a part of the cycle of samsara, or birth and rebirth. The Tibetan Book of the Dead discusses how one can navigate the bardo, the intermediate state after death, and stresses the importance of mindfulness in life to influence the next rebirth. Thus, while Christianity views death as a path to salvation, Buddhism regards it as a crucial moment in the ongoing cycle of existence.
Step 3
Evaluate how sacred writings from TWO religious traditions give guidance to believers in ONE of the following: direction for the spiritual life.
Answer
In Islam, the Qur'an serves as a comprehensive guide for all aspects of life. For instance, Surah 2:286 states, 'Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear,' which provides believers with assurance and direction to live a life that aligns with their faith, despite challenges.
Similarly, in Taoism, the Tao Te Ching offers profound insights into living in harmony with the Tao, or 'the way.' It teaches that by aligning with this natural order, one can achieve peace and fulfillment. Both texts encourage believers to follow a path that fosters spiritual growth, whether through submitting to God's will in Islam or embracing simplicity and harmony in Taoism.