Photo AI
All religions display a number of internal differences - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 2
Question 3
All religions display a number of internal differences. Discuss the internal differences within any ONE religion under the following headings: 3.1.1 Governance 3.1.... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:All religions display a number of internal differences - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 2
Step 1
Governance
Answer
In the context of Islam, governance can vary significantly between Sunni and Shia sects:
-
Sunni Islam: The leadership is primarily through community consensus. An 'imam' is seen as a leader of congregational prayers but does not hold any formal religious authority beyond that. The concept of leadership is decentralized, relying on various community leaders without a hierarchical structure.
-
Shia Islam: Leadership is more centralized. The descendants of the Prophet Muhammad, particularly Ali and Fatima, play a significant role in religious authority. There are established schools of thought, such as Akbari and Usuli, which govern practical aspects of faith and jurisprudence.
Thus, Islam's internal differences in governance reflect these distinct interpretations and practices within its two major sects.
Step 2
Practices
Answer
Religious practices in Islam are also split between Sunni and Shia:
-
Sunni Practices: The practices are closely aligned with the Sunnah, emphasizing the teachings of the Prophet as documented in Hadith. Rituals, such as prayer and fasting, follow stringent guidelines without deviation.
-
Shia Practices: Shia Muslims have additional rituals, including pilgrimages to sites like Karbala, which are crucial to their faith. The concept of Muttah (temporary marriage) is acceptable in Shia Islam, while it is largely rejected in Sunni traditions.
Thus, the internal practices also show significant divergence rooted in foundational beliefs.
3.2 Discuss the origin and development of any ONE religion's primary sources. For example, the origins of Hinduism's sacred texts are as follows:
Hinduism traces its origins back to the Indus Valley around 2500-1700 BCE. The evolution of Hinduism has transformed its sacred texts into two main categories:
- Shruti: This category includes the Vedas, which are considered timeless and revealed knowledge.
- Smriti: This category consists of texts remembered and transmitted by sages, such as the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
The Bhagavad Gita, part of the Mahabharata, serves as a philosophical guide.
This division illustrates how the internal structure and development of sacred texts varied, reflecting the dynamic evolution of Hindu thought.