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Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 5
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow. INTERRELIGIOUS RELATIONSHIPS Religious communities have become leaders in peace education. They recogn... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
'Religious communities have become leaders in peace education.' Do you agree with this statement? Give reasons to support your answer.
Answer
Yes, religious communities have indeed become leaders in peace education. This is primarily because:
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Trust and Mediation: Religious leaders are often respected and trusted within their communities. They are called upon as mediators and negotiators in times of conflict. Their role as trusted figures allows them to effectively promote peace messages.
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Core Values: The teachings of most religions emphasize love, peace, compassion, and service to humanity. As such, religious institutions actively spread these values, inspiring communities to strive for peaceful coexistence.
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Educational Endeavors: Many religious organizations have established schools and outreach programs. These initiatives are designed to educate individuals about the importance of peace, tolerance, and understanding between different belief systems.
Step 2
Looking back at the history of religions, state THREE examples where a difference in belief contributed to religious intolerance.
Answer
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The Crusades: Initiated in the 11th century, the Crusades were characterized by religious fervor where Christians and Muslims clashed over control of holy sites, leading to significant bloodshed and intolerance.
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The Spanish Inquisition: Established in the late 15th century, this was a period marked by the persecution of Jews, Muslims, and others who were accused of heresy, demonstrating intolerance against differing beliefs.
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The Protestant Reformation: This movement in the 16th century led to divisions within Christianity, resulting in wars and conflicts as differing interpretations of faith created factions that could not coexist peacefully.
Step 3
'Religious people have shown a great ability for reconciliation and service to others.' Name TWO well-known South African religious leaders you would put in this category and give reasons for your answers.
Answer
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Archbishop Desmond Tutu: He rallied churches to combat apartheid and advocated for peace and reconciliation throughout South Africa. His commitment to non-violence and justice earned him the Nobel Peace Prize, highlighting his role in promoting healing.
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Chief Albert Luthuli: A prominent figure in the anti-apartheid movement, Luthuli was known for his dedication to peaceful protest. His efforts in advocating for equality and justice made significant strides towards reconciliation in a divided society.
Step 4
Discuss the work done by the National Religious Leaders' Forum (NRLF) in South Africa.
Answer
The National Religious Leaders' Forum (NRLF) serves as an advisory body and advocate for various religious groups in South Africa. Its key functions include:
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Promoting Unity: The NRLF works to unify different faith communities to address common social issues, thus fostering collaboration among diverse groups.
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Addressing Social Issues: It tackles pressing issues like gender-based violence and HIV/AIDS, conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public.
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Morality and Ethics: The NRLF promotes moral regeneration and seeks to influence national policies regarding ethics and social justice, emphasizing the role of religion in creating a just society.
Step 5
Discuss a variety of ways in which the 'educational structures' of a religion promote a culture of peace among their followers and in society as a whole.
Answer
Educational structures within religious communities play a crucial role in fostering a culture of peace:
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Curriculum Inclusion: Religious schools often incorporate teachings on tolerance, respect for diversity, and conflict resolution, ensuring that students learn the importance of peaceful coexistence.
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Community Outreach: Many religious institutions engage in community service projects that bring together individuals from different backgrounds, promoting unity and understanding.
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Workshops and Seminars: Faith-based organizations frequently host events aimed at educating members about peacebuilding strategies and the importance of dialogue among differing beliefs, creating environments conducive to peaceful interactions.
Step 6
Discuss the state of religious cooperation in South Africa prior to the democratic elections in 1994.
Answer
Before the 1994 democratic elections, religious cooperation in South Africa was significantly hampered by the apartheid system, which enforced racial segregation and discrimination.
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Divided Religious Practices: Religious groups were often segregated along racial lines, with many non-Christian faiths marginalized or excluded from mainstream religious activities.
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Resistance Movements: Despite the divisions, some religious leaders and organizations actively resisted apartheid, albeit in a fragmented manner. Cooperation was limited due to differing doctrines and racial tensions, which made interfaith collaboration challenging.
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Grassroots Cooperation: However, there were notable efforts where some leaders from different faiths worked together to oppose injustice, paving the way for broader interfaith dialogue that began to take shape as the push for a democratic South Africa gained momentum.