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3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Outline one Buddhist teaching about forgiveness - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 3
3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Outline one Buddhist teaching about forgiveness. (b) Describe what is meant by 'terrorism'. (c) Explain why Buddhists mi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:3. Religion, peace and conflict (a) Outline one Buddhist teaching about forgiveness - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline one Buddhist teaching about forgiveness.
Answer
One key teaching in Buddhism about forgiveness is the principle of letting go of anger and resentment. In the teachings of the Buddha, it is emphasized that harboring these negative feelings leads to suffering, both for oneself and others. Practicing forgiveness helps cultivate compassion and understanding, which are central to Buddhist practice. It is believed that true forgiveness liberates individuals from the cycle of suffering, allowing them to achieve a more peaceful state of mind.
Step 2
Describe what is meant by 'terrorism'.
Answer
Terrorism refers to the use of violence or threats to intimidate or coerce, especially for political or ideological goals. This often involves unlawful acts that instill fear in the population, targeting civilians to achieve wider objectives. It can manifest in various forms, including bombings, shootings, and other violent acts aimed at creating a sense of dread and instability in society. The motivations behind terrorism can vary widely, from political grievances to religious extremism.
Step 3
Explain why Buddhists might have different views about the importance of working against social injustice.
Answer
Buddhists might hold varying perspectives on social injustice due to differing interpretations of the core teachings of Buddhism. Some may emphasize compassion and the call to reduce suffering, advocating for active involvement in social justice issues as a manifestation of these teachings. Others might focus on the practice of non-attachment, suggesting that being overly involved can lead to suffering and distraction from personal spiritual growth. Additionally, cultural contexts and regional practices also influence these views, leading to a spectrum of beliefs within the Buddhist community.
Step 4
Discuss the statement: 'Working for peace is the most important thing a Buddhist can do.'
Answer
The significance of working for peace in Buddhism is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Buddha, who advocated for non-violence (ahimsa) and compassion (karuna). This viewpoint posits that by cultivating inner peace, individuals can contribute to the larger harmony of the world. Peaceful actions are seen as a spiritual practice that not only benefits oneself but also encourages others to follow the path of non-violence. However, some may argue that other actions, such as personal meditation and self-reflection, are equally important in achieving broader social peace. Evaluating these perspectives, working for peace is often considered a foundational aspect of a Buddhist’s life, as it aligns with the ultimate goal of alleviating suffering for all beings. Thus, while important, this view may be integrated with a holistic understanding of Buddhist practice.