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2 (a) State three parts of the Brit Milah ceremony - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 2
2 (a) State three parts of the Brit Milah ceremony. 1. The community gathers to welcome the newborn boy and celebrate. 2. The circumcision is performed by a mohel, ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2 (a) State three parts of the Brit Milah ceremony - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Describe why the Ark is an important feature of a synagogue.
Answer
The Ark, or 'Aron Kodesh', is a sacred cabinet that houses the Torah scrolls. It is positioned at the front of the synagogue, signifying its significance in Jewish worship. The presence of the Ark emphasizes the centrality of the Torah in Jewish life and community gatherings; it acts as a focal point during prayers and services.
Step 3
Describe one reason why the State of Israel is important for many Jews.
Answer
The State of Israel is seen as the historical and cultural homeland of the Jewish people, fulfilling a promise and hope that has persisted for centuries. For many Jews, it represents a safe haven where they can practice their faith freely and preserve their identity, particularly in light of historical adversities faced by Jews around the world.
Step 4
Outline Jewish beliefs about life after death.
Answer
Jewish beliefs regarding life after death vary widely. Some Jews believe in an afterlife, where the righteous are rewarded and the wicked are punished. This can be seen in concepts such as 'Gan Eden' (the Garden of Eden) for the righteous and 'Gehinnom' for the wicked. Others take a more symbolic view, focusing on the legacy one leaves behind through their actions in life, rather than a physical afterlife.
Step 5
'Jewish dietary laws have no place in the modern world.' Discuss this statement.
Answer
In discussing this statement, one must consider the diverse views within Judaism regarding dietary laws (kashrut). Some Jews advocate for the strict adherence to these laws, citing the importance of tradition, spirituality, and community identity. They argue that following these laws helps maintain a connection with their heritage and fosters a sense of belonging.
Conversely, some argue that the modern world, with its advancing scientific understanding and changing societal norms, renders these dietary restrictions less relevant. They may emphasize ethical consumption or health considerations over traditional laws.
Overall, this discourse highlights the struggle between tradition and modernity within the Jewish community, where various views coexist, contributing to the conversation around the relevance of dietary laws today.