Photo AI
Do you think the article above refers to a religious conflict? Give reasons to support your views - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 4
Do you think the article above refers to a religious conflict? Give reasons to support your views. Identify ONE area of recent conflict, anywhere in the world, and ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Do you think the article above refers to a religious conflict? Give reasons to support your views - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Do you think the article above refers to a religious conflict? Give reasons to support your views.
Answer
Yes, the article illustrates an attempt by one religion to dominate another during the historical context of the Muslim-Christian rivalry in Portugal and Spain.
This era was marked by the Crusades, which were aggressive military actions sanctioned by the Church. These actions aimed specifically to reclaim Holy Lands and enforce conversions to Christianity. Additionally, the period saw the onset of the Spanish Inquisition, further indicating the religious motivations behind the conflict. However, it must be noted that this conflict also bore political and economic dimensions, such as territorial control and influence. Therefore, while the article does indeed refer to a religious conflict, it is also embedded within broader socio-political struggles.
Step 2
Identify ONE area of recent conflict, anywhere in the world, and discuss:
Answer
4.2.1 The causes of the conflict
One significant area of recent conflict is the Israel-Palestine conflict. This conflict stems from a complex historical backdrop, including the Balfour Declaration issued by Britain, which established a Jewish homeland in Palestine that was already inhabited by Palestinians. Following declarations of independence by Palestinians in 1948, and the establishment of Israel, tensions escalated, leading to military confrontations and deep-seated grievances.
4.2.2 The extent to which religion is involved in the conflict
Religion plays a nuanced role in this conflict. For many Orthodox Jews, the land is a manifestation of their religious beliefs, making territorial claims deeply tied to faith. However, for Muslims, the conflict is primarily political, with religious ties contributing to the intensity but not the root cause of the conflict. Efforts for resolution often overlook the significance of shared religious spaces.
4.2.3 What religions can do to resolve the conflict
To resolve the ongoing conflict, the Abrahamic religions should foster dialogue aimed at understanding and respecting one another’s beliefs. They could promote interfaith initiatives that encourage collaboration on communal lines, focusing on shared values rather than differences. Additionally, religious communities should engage in peacemaking processes, actively advocating for non-violence and reconciliation.
Step 3
Discuss ONE religious leader who has worked to bring about interreligious harmony.
Answer
One notable religious leader who has championed interreligious harmony is Pope John Paul II. Throughout his papacy, he emphasized the importance of dialogue and reconciliation among different faith communities.
In 2000, he was the first pope to speak publicly about the need for peace in the Middle East, acknowledging the complexities of the Palestinian-Israeli situation. He took significant steps toward fostering interfaith relations, including visiting the Western Wall in Jerusalem as a gesture of respect towards Judaism. Furthermore, he recognized the historical grievances of Muslims and Jews, seeking to heal old wounds through apologies and symbolic gestures, making a lasting impact on interreligious dialogue.