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Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 2
Question 4
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow. Each religious tradition has a beginning, a source, which is normative. People return to normative sour... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 2
Step 1
The role of sacred texts in various religions
Answer
Sacred texts play a crucial role in many religious traditions, serving as the foundation for beliefs and practices. In Abrahamic religions, for example, sacred texts such as the Bible and the Quran are seen as ultimate authorities on moral and ethical issues. They provide guidance, dictate ceremonies, and help establish community identity.
Furthermore, sacred texts have transformed the nature of oral traditions into more fixed doctrines, allowing religious teachings to be preserved in written form. This transition has also allowed them to serve as custodians of language and culture, maintaining the lifestyle and values of specific communities. Over time, the role of these texts often evolves to become more prescriptive, guiding adherents in their daily lives.
Moreover, sacred scriptures are often viewed as benchmarks for measuring right and wrong within communities, establishing a moral compass and providing the normative framework for their followers.
Step 2
The role played by inspiration in the development of any ONE religion
Answer
Inspiration is a vital element in many religious traditions, serving as a source of knowledge and authority. For instance, in African Traditional Religion (ATR), inspiration is understood as the intrinsic connection to the ancestors and the living dead, which guides religious practices and rituals. ATR practitioners believe that their understanding of the world and their moral decisions are influenced by insights gained from their ancestors.
This process of inspiration allows for continuity and the preservation of practices passed down through generations. It provides legitimacy to rituals and healing practices within the community, as traditional healers often rely on such inspiration to diagnose and treat patients. Thus, inspiration not only shapes the belief system but also serves as a dynamic source of guidance that evolves with contemporary needs.
Step 3
Discuss the reaction of any ONE religion to Darwin's theory of evolution
Answer
The reaction of Christianity to Darwin's theory of evolution has been diverse, ranging from outright rejection to acceptance. Many conservative Christian groups reject the theory outright, asserting that the biblical account of creation is a literal truth that invalidates evolutionary science. They believe that an intelligent designer, or God, played a direct role in the creation of life as described in Genesis.
On the other hand, some modern Christian denominations embrace the theory of evolution, seeing no conflict between scientific findings and their faith. They argue that God could work through the natural processes of evolution and that understanding these processes enriches their understanding of creation. This acceptance is often seen in contexts where believers see science and faith not as opposing forces but as complementary avenues to understanding existence.