Photo AI
Read the extract statement below and answer the questions that follow with reference to any ONE religion you have studied - NSC Religion Studies - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 1
Read the extract statement below and answer the questions that follow with reference to any ONE religion you have studied. All religions have a set of beliefs about... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the extract statement below and answer the questions that follow with reference to any ONE religion you have studied - NSC Religion Studies - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Discuss the nature of the world.
Answer
According to Islam, the world is a carefully created and purposeful place. Allah created the universe in six phases, each designed to sustain life. The world is not viewed as meaningless or accidental; rather, it is a manifestation of divine will. The interdependence of living organisms highlights the balance and harmony of the ecosystem, as every creature plays a vital role in maintaining it. Furthermore, the universe is believed to have a finite lifespan, signifying that it is not eternal, thus emphasizing the importance of life and existence.
Step 2
Discuss the nature of the divinity.
Answer
In Islam, divinity is encapsulated by the belief in a singular, omnipotent, and transcendent God, known as Allah. Allah is understood to be the creator and sustainer of all life, embodying attributes such as mercy, compassion, and justice. The divine is not only an abstract concept but also a guiding presence in believers' lives, as defined in the Qur'an. This spiritual connection is integral, shaping the moral and ethical framework within which Muslims operate.
Step 3
Discuss the place and responsibility of humanity in the world.
Answer
Humanity, in Islamic belief, holds a significant position as stewards of the earth, known as vicegerents (Khalifah) of Allah. This role entails a dual responsibility: to uphold moral values and to safeguard the environment and its resources. Humans are given free will, enabling them to choose good over evil, and they are accountable for their deeds during their life, culminating in judgments in the hereafter. Thus, their responsibilities extend beyond personal actions to include collective societal duties.
Step 4
To what extent do you think human beings are fulfilling the responsibilities you discussed in QUESTION 1.3?
Answer
While many Muslims strive to fulfill their God-given responsibilities, there are varied interpretations of what this entails. On one hand, many actively engage in community service, environmental conservation, and promote social justice, embodying the virtues of compassion and stewardship. However, there are instances where some human actions contradict these responsibilities, such as engaging in conflict, environmental degradation, or discrimination. These contradictions signal a divergence from the ideal of being a responsible vicegerent, showcasing the ongoing struggle within humanity to achieve moral and ethical ideals.
Step 5
Explain how the sacred text(s) of this religion developed.
Answer
The sacred scripture of Islam is the Qur'an, believed to be the direct word of God revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over 23 years. The Qur'an was initially memorized and orally transmitted among the Prophet's companions before being compiled into a singular text. The text is regarded as unaltered and is traditionally recited in Arabic, which enhances its sanctity. Its preservation is viewed as crucial, and the meaning is considered inseparable from its linguistic form. The Hadith, supplements to the Qur'an, further elucidate the teachings and practices of Islam, forming a comprehensive guide for Muslims.