Photo AI
The existence of Allah (a) Give three forms of religious experience - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 2
The existence of Allah (a) Give three forms of religious experience. (b) Outline Muslim beliefs about Allah as good. (c) Explain how reading scripture might help ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The existence of Allah (a) Give three forms of religious experience - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Give three forms of religious experience.
Answer
- Mystical Experience: This could involve individuals feeling a connection with the divine or experiencing a profound sense of unity with the universe.
- Ritual Experience: Participation in rituals such as prayer, fasting, or pilgrimage can lead to deep religious feelings and a sense of commitment to faith.
- Conversion Experience: A transformative experience where an individual changes their beliefs, often marked by a personal encounter with Allah.
Step 2
Outline Muslim beliefs about Allah as good.
Answer
Muslims believe that Allah possesses 99 names, representing various attributes that highlight His goodness and mercy. One foundational belief is that Allah is the most benevolent and merciful being, offering guidance through the Qur'an.
Additionally, Allah created everything, including humans, with purpose and wisdom, granting them the free will to choose. The concept of 'Rahma' emphasizes His compassion and love, showcasing that His decisions for humanity are rooted in ultimate goodness. Furthermore, the teachings of Prophet Muhammad exemplify the application of Allah’s goodness in everyday life.
Step 3
Explain how reading scripture might help Muslims believe in Allah.
Answer
Reading the Qur'an is critical for a Muslim's faith as it provides direct guidance and insight into Allah’s nature. The Qur'an is viewed as the literal word of Allah, and engaging with its text fosters a deeper understanding of His qualities.
Moreover, scripture often includes stories of past prophets and their experiences with Allah, which can strengthen the believer's relationship with Him. This process can lead to reassurance and confidence in Allah’s existence and goodness, as individuals witness His consistent justice and mercy portrayed throughout the text.
Step 4
Discuss this statement. In your answer, you should: Draw on your learning from across your course of study, including reference to beliefs, teachings and practices within Islam. Explain and evaluate the importance of points of view from the perspective of Islam.
Answer
The statement raises important ethical questions within Islamic teachings. Islam teaches that humans are stewards (Khalifah) of the Earth and are responsible for treating the world’s resources with care and respect. While Islam permits resource use, it also emphasizes accountability and the need to avoid wastefulness.
The concept of 'Zakat' further highlights that sharing wealth and resources is a duty, promoting social responsibility. Moreover, the Qur'an encourages sustainable practices, urging Muslims to consider their impact on the environment and future generations. Thus, from an Islamic perspective, the unrestricted use of resources contradicts the ethical obligations prescribed in the faith.