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3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Describe one Muslim teaching about attitudes towards violence in society - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
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3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Describe one Muslim teaching about attitudes towards violence in society. (b) Describe how Muslims might help to work for peace... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Describe one Muslim teaching about attitudes towards violence in society - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe one Muslim teaching about attitudes towards violence in society.
Answer
One Muslim teaching that addresses violence in society is found in the Quran, specifically in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:193). This verse emphasizes that fighting is permitted in self-defense, but it also encourages reconciliation and peace. It states that violence is only a means of achieving justice when all other options have failed. Thus, Muslims are taught to prioritize peaceful resolutions while recognizing the right to defend themselves and others against oppression.
Step 2
Describe how Muslims might help to work for peace.
Answer
Muslims can participate in various peace-building initiatives by following principles outlined in Islamic teachings. For example, they might engage in community outreach programs or interfaith dialogues to foster understanding. During events like Eid, Muslims promote peace through charity and nurturing relationships within their communities. The Quran further advises Muslims to incline towards peace whenever possible (Quran 8:61), encouraging members of the community to seek peaceful coexistence and address conflicts through mediation and compassion.
Step 3
Why might a Muslim want to challenge social injustice?
Answer
Muslims may feel compelled to challenge social injustice due to the prophetic teachings that advocate for fairness and justice. Islam underscores the concept of 'Amr bil ma'ruf wa nahy an al-munkar' (commanding good and forbidding wrong), leading Muslims to take a stand against oppression. Additionally, references in the Quran highlight the importance of standing against injustice, as seen in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), which calls upon believers to be just, even against themselves or their kin.
Step 4
'Muslims cannot be pacifists.' Discuss this statement.
Answer
The statement 'Muslims cannot be pacifists' can be explored through various lenses within Islamic teachings. On one hand, Islam advocates for peace and reconciliation, emphasizing forgiveness and compassion towards others. However, there are instances where self-defense and standing against oppression are deemed necessary. The Islamic perspective on justice involves taking a proactive stance in the face of wrongdoing, which might contradict a purely pacifist approach. Therefore, while Muslims strive for peace, they are also encouraged to respond to injustices and defend the oppressed. This duality suggests that Muslims hold a complex perspective that allows for intervention alongside a commitment to peace, illustrating the importance of context in evaluating the notion of pacifism within Islam.