Topic 1: Nature of Religion Religious Worldview

- Refers to a system of beliefs, ethics and practices, that provide meaning and purpose for an individual or group - Dependent on culture, morals and upbringing

Supernatural Dimension Of or relating to things that cannot be explained according to natural laws; caused by God or Gods; exceeding the ordinary. Polytheistic Religions Monotheistic Religions Multiple Gods – Gods that control of particular happenings in Nature

- Ancient Greece and Hinduism

Only one God which has a relationship with the humans. God has neither form nor gender

- Judaism, Christianity, Islam - Different religions have their own unique responses to the exact nature of the

supernatural dimensionPolytheistic/Monotheistic

Transcendent Religious Worldview Transcendent religions: Religions that believe in a divine being or entity beyond the limitations or comprehensions of humans.

- One which has a belief in a divine power or powers beyond the human existence - Belief that the divine beings can move between the supernatural world and the human

world- May be necessary for afterlife

Example: Christianity, Islam, Judaism Immanent Religious Worldview Immanent Religions: Beliefs that the divine beings live within and is a part of every individual within the known universe.

- Belief that the universe was created by these spirits - Gods, Goddesses or divine spirits live within nature or dwell in sacred spaces, and can

be felt in forces they control.Sacred places: Mountains, streams, forests Forces: Wind, fire, water

Example: Buddhism, Hinduism Difference between immanent and transcendent: transcendent religions believe nature and humans are a reflection of God’s creation whereas immanent religions believe they are god (every living thing is God)

Characteristics of religion

Ethical Teaching Beliefs and Believers Sacred Text Rituals Concerns the justification for accepted norms of behaviour within that tradition.

Based on the life and teachings of a founder, and are sourced through sacred writing and

Beliefs are written down and interpreted in:

1. Creeds

Patterned ways of acting.

They reflect the beliefs of the

Sources of ethical codes:

- Sacred writings and stories

- Beliefs - Life,

experience and teachings of significant individuals within the Tradition

Rituals

stories of the religious tradition.

1. Beliefs about God/s or a sense of transcendence

2. Beliefs about the world and how it came to be

3. Beliefs about life, its meaning and purpose and how it should be lived

4. Beliefs about the afterlife and what happens when we die

Set of beliefs 2. Doctrines

Teaching 3. Dogmas

More than a teaching

4. Catechisms Set of questions and answers

They may first start as oral teachings, and their purpose is to make explicit the truths considered to be the community’s beliefs.

community they reflect/serve

1. Reinforce beliefs

2. Remember key events in the history of religious tradition

3. Mark significant stages in life (rites of passage)

4. Deepen one’s personal relationship with the sacred (rites of personal devotion)

5. Develop and strengthen community identity (rites of public worship)

Words, Actions, Gestures

Buddhism

Ethical Teaching Beliefs and Believers Sacred Text Rituals The Five Precepts 1. Refrain from taking

life (killing)2. Refrain from taking

what is not given freely (stealing)

3. Refrain from misuses of the sense or sexual misconduct

4. Refrain from wrong speech (lying, gossip)

- Nothing is fixed or permanent, change is always possible

- The path of enlightenment is through the practice and development of morality, meditation and wisdom

- The life is both endless and subject to impermanence, suffering and uncertainty

- Tripitaka (Pali Canon)

- Mahayana Sutras - The Tibetan Book

of the Dead

- Meditation: Mental concentration and mindfulness

- Mantras: Sacred sounds

- Mudras: Symbolic hand gestures

- Prayer Wheels: Reciting mantras with the turn of a wheel

- Monasticism - Pilgrimage: Visiting

sacred sites Veneration of Buddha’s and Deities

Christianity

Ethical Teaching Beliefs and Believers Sacred Text Rituals - 10

commandments - Cardinal

- Belief in God the Father, Jesus Christ as the son of God

The Bible Sacraments: 1. Baptism 2. Eucharist

Theological Values - Beatitudes - guidance and

inspiration from the Christian scriptures and traditions

and the Holy Spirit - The death, descent

into hell, resurrection and ascension of Christ

- The holiness of the Church and the Communion of Saints

3. Confirmation 4. Reconciliation 5. Anointing of the

sick 6. Marriage 7. Holy Orders

Hinduism

Ethical Teaching Beliefs and Believers Sacred Text Rituals - The Dharma

‘right way of living’

- Karma

- Truth is eternal - Braham is Truth

and Reality - The Vedas are the

ultimate authority - Everyone should

strive to achieve dharma

- Individual souls are immortal

- The goal of the individual soul is moksha

- Reincarnation

The Vedas 1. Marriage 2. Prayer for

children 3. Prayer for the

fetes 4. Baby shower 5. Celebrating Birth 6. Giving name 7. Piercing earlobesBeginning of education

Islam

Ethical Teaching Beliefs and Believers Sacred Text Rituals The Five Pillars of Islam

1. Shahada – Profession of faith

2. Salat – Prater 3. Zakat –Alms4. Sawm –

Fasting 5. Hajj –

Pilgrimage

1. Belief in the Oneness of God

2. Belief in the Angels of God

3. Belief in the Revelations (Books) of God

4. Belief in the Prophets of God

5. Belief in the Day of Judgment

6. Belief in Premeasurement

7. Belief in Resurrection after Death

The Quaran The Word of God

- The Five Pillars of Faith

- Ritual purity in Islam

- Khitan (circumcision)

Contribution of Religion

Religion has contributed to individuals and society throughout human history through attempting to answer the fundamental questions of human existence, such as:

- Why am I here - Is there a supreme being? - Why do evil and suffering exist? - Is there life after death?

Religion provides humans with an understanding to these questions, and helps to construct meaning, provides ethical guidance, and provides a sense of belonging. Individuals Religion gives individuals guidance in life through complex ethical systems and sacred texts which they can draw on for wisdom. Religious beliefs contribute to an individual’s sense of self, and understanding and belonging. . Example: Martin Luther King Junior – A man who’s religion guided him ethically to make changes. Society and Culture Throughout human history, religion has led to violence when adherents of a particular tradition believed their world view was being challenged.

- Religion changes, shapes and develops human culture to sustain a diverse society. - Different religions and interfaith dialogue builds for a diverse society - Furthermore, religion creates social cohesion by establishing rites of passage within a

culture through rituals and ceremonies - Legal and judicial systems are based off religions - Contributes to society and culture as it helps individuals to understand the meaning of

existence, and to help sustain the knowledge of a deeper meaning of life- Social justice initiatives demonstrated religions contribution to society, and address

issues to society - Inspiration of music, poetry, architecture, sculpture, literature and painting

Example 2: Prayer in Islam The magnitude of people praying in Egypt during Ramadan, whilst buses and trains frequently go past, show how religion is integrated into society and everyday life in Egypt. Australian Aboriginal Beliefs and Spiritualties – The Dreaming Nature of the Dreaming

- The Dreaming is a term used to describe a central concept, which underpins all beliefs, relationships, responsibilities and practices in aboriginal communities.

- The dreaming can be defined as the past, the present and the future. - In the time of the dreaming, the environment was shaped and humanized by mythic

beings, who took animal or human form, which are eternal. - The dreaming explains why things are the way they are – why the landscape looks as it

does, why certain animals cannot be eaten, how people should behave and what rituals should occur

Origins of the Universe- Not regarded as myth by the Aboriginal people - According to the dreaming, the world came into existence through the actions of ancestral

beings who moved throughout the land, creating land forms, animals, plants and people. After they created the world, they changed and became a part of the landscape (in trees, rocks, etc)

- Metatemporal concept: which incorporates the past, present and future reality - Each group has a particular ancestor spirit associated with them which is called their

totem Bunji: an eagle hawk that Victorian aboriginal tribes consider the supreme creator. Ungar: a supreme mythological snake-like creator spirit believed to have created the

billabongs, rivers creaks and lagoonsSacred Sites - Inextricably connected to the land, as the land is the physical medium through which the

dreaming is present, lived and communicated. - They may be sacred because: they are the direct embodiment of the ancestral spirits, they

were created or formed during the dreaming, they are an imprint or physical proof of the actions of ancestral beings.

- Sacred sites are places for particular ceremonies and rituals – perpetuating the dreaming, making it present to those involved.

- Correct relationships with sacred sites suggest responsibility to care for the site, engage the power of the site and protect the site from inappropriate use and conduct. Uluru – evidence of the actions of the Ancestral Spirits Mititujulu and Tjukurpa Burial sites – aboriginal people believe that a person’s spirit originated in the Dreaming

and must return there and to its own country or totemic site to be reborn Darling river, Blue Mountains, Uluru

Stories of the Dreaming- Sacred stories have different purposes including:

Explaining the origin of creation and various phenomena such as the seasons Addressing moral issues such as good and evil Explaining the nature of humans Setting out laws Teaching children about survival Entertainment

- Stories vary from tribe to tribe Example: Rainbow Serpent creator being rainbow represents snake moving from one waterhole to another

Symbolism and Art - Stories, dance, song and symbolism and art were all used to express the dreaming

because Aboriginal tribes had no written language. They were used as a way of recording and communicating:

When and where to find food Location of waterholes Borders between the land of different tribes The locations of sacred sites and areas to avoid because of evil spirits

- Art was rich in symbolism - It was considered a supernatural power given to all people- Used in various rituals and ceremonies - Artworks were typically engravings, carvings and paintings, imprints and stencils,

sculptures and body art in totemic designs - Materials: rock, bark, wood, sand, humans

Example: Red Hands Cave, Blue Mountains , Corroboree (ritual involving costume, painting, dancing, music)

The Diversity of the Dreaming for Aboriginal People- Changes in dialect affect interpretation, teaching, expression and understanding of the

dreaming. There are over nine hundred language groups across Australia and no two-language groups are entirely identical in belief.

- Impacted by boundaries of nations: tribes who are further apart tend to have different understandings

- Significant commonalities exist between groups especially those, which are geographically close to each other

- Each Aboriginal nation has its own boundaries. Different Dreaming stories are applicable to those boundaries.

- Shared belief about: The bond of the land The place of the dreaming in their belief structures

Importance of the Dreaming for the life of Aboriginal People - Natural and supernatural realms are closely linked - Faith is lived through everyday actions. Life, death, totems and the land are all highly

respected and must not be exploited - Explains origins of the universe, the workings of nature, the nature of humanity and the

cycle of death and life- Shapes and structures Aboriginal life by regulating kinship, ceremonial life and the

relationship between male and female. Network of people, land and spiritsCeremonies/rituals: Corroboree (ritual involving costume, painting, dancing, music)

- The Dreaming stories give responsibility to members of the community, to continue educating others about the beliefs

- Each aboriginal is intimately related to the spirit ancestor and to the totemic animals or plants associated with that spirit spiritual relationship with a particular area of land and with defined sites within that land

- The dreaming offers Aboriginal communities with detailed structures of rights and responsibilities and Aboriginal Law

Kinship Totemism- The system of classes traditionally

accepted by a particular culture and the rights, roles and responsibilities involved

- Governs relationships bewteen members of language groups

- Must be strictly followed - Linked to dreaming stories through

totems and passed on by elders to each generation

Example of an Elder: Bob Randell

- A totem is any object through which a person is connected to the creative spiritual force responsible for their existence

- Totems are the embodiment of each individual in their primordial state

- Totemism: a system of beliefs that gives rise to the connection between human beings and creation

- Totems are a natural part of the clan’s region

- Represent the ongoing life force of the Dreaming

- Totemism dictates a relationship with

nature, eating habits, social, groupings, marriage structure and tribal behaviour, these add a spiritual dimension to one’s life

Example: Birpai Totems, shark, kangaroo, crab

Inextricable connection to the Dreaming, the land and identity Dreaming is the central belief which inextricably connects the land and identity

- The land contains the dreaming, the land gives Aboriginal people their identity - Land and Dreaming sustains Aboriginal lives in every aspect – spiritually, physically,

socially and culturally- Through stories of the Dreaming, land, rivers, mountains, hills, rock formations etc.

have great significance to the Aboriginal people and are regarded as Sacred This connection with the land cannot be broken, it is part of their faith

- Dreaming teaches that such places are the work or resting places of the Creator Beings, who during the creation period, bought life in the form of people, materials and plants

- The land is the medium through which the dreaming is lived and communicated – is the resting place for their ancestral spirit beings

- These sites carry responsibilities for the Aboriginal community Responsibilities include protecting the land, and the Aboriginal practice of only taking what a tribe needs before moving on, letting the land regenerate

- Without the land, dreaming would merely be stories that carry the hopes and values of a people

- Rituals such as corroboree are dedicated to the land in the hope of granting a supply of food, animals, plants

- S. Knight: “we don’t own the land, the land owns us. The land is my mother, my mother is the land.”

In Summary:The dreaming: - meaning to life, past present future, stories of creationsThe land is the basis and connects – it is the expression of the dreaming through ethics, spirituality, responsibilities and family and social connectionsTopic 2: Judaism Abraham and the Covenant; Outline the life of Abraham

- Original known as Abram - Born in the City of Ur in Southern Mesopotamia around 1800BCE - Son of Terah, married to Sarah with no children - First man to acknowledge monopolistic beliefs and practices - God told Abram to leave his family for Canaan and promised protection and blessings

and that his descendants would become a great nation- Founding father of the Jewish faith “I will establish my covenant between me and you, and your offspring after you…” - (Genesis 17:4-7)

Describe the Covenant with the Patriarchs; People and a LandCovenant (B’rit) : A chosen relationship in which two parties make binding promises to each other.

Abrahamic Covenant

- God instructed Abraham to leave his country and follow God - God promised land, people and blessings

(The land of Israel to his descendants, a great nation, becoming the Blessed people)

- Abraham had to walk in God’s ways and live a righteous life; he agreed - Covenant was sealed when Abraham build an altar after God appeared to him- God tested Abraham’s faith and fulfillment to the Covenant; commanded him to

sacrifice his son Isaac upon the altar and when he proceeded, God sent an angel saying he had passed

- The Covenant was renewed with Isaac and Jacob - Sign of the covenant - Brit milah (circumcision)

The covenant with Isaac

- Isaac was the subject of the tenth test of Abraham’s faith – God commanded Abraham to sacrifice Isaac as a burnt offering, but sent an angel to stop the sacrifice

- God appeared to Isaac and reaffirmed His promise of land, descendants, and a blessing to all the nations of the earth. (Gen. 26:4) He encouraged Isaac to be faithful like Abraham.

The covenant with Jacob

- Tricked his brother and father into giving him the blessing as the first-born son- Married Rachel, and three other women, and fathered twelve sons - Wanted to reconcile with Esau and wrestled with a man who revealed himself as

an angel- The angel blessed him and gave him the name “Israel” - Jacob’s twelve sons are the ancestors of the tribes of Israel and the ones after

which the tribes are namedMoses, the Exodus and the giving of the Torah

Life - The Israelites were enslaved by Pharaoh in Egypt

- Moses spared from execution as his mother placed him in a concealed ark in the Nile river

- He was discovered and adopted by the Pharaoh’s daughter to be raised as an Egyptian

(Ex 1:8-22)- “every Hebrew boy that is born you

must throw into the Nile, but let every girl live”

Exile - He killed an Egyptian who was beating one of the Hebrews

- He had to flee to save his life, taking refuge in Midian

Exodus 2:11-25- 12 – ‘looking this way and that and

seeing no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand’

Revelation

- Burning Bush revelation with God - God wanted Moses to liberate the Hebrew

people from their captivity in Egypt and take them to the ‘land of milk and honey’

- God made Moses turn his staff into a snake – so that the people would believe he was sent by God

Exodus 3:1-22- Exodus 3:8 “I have come down to

rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey”

Request and Denial

- Moses and Aaron (brother) went to Pharaoh and requested for the people to be set free

- The Pharaoh denied the Israelites their freedom and punished them; he didn’t believe in their God

Exodus 5:1-23- Exodus 5:1 , “This is what the Lord,

the God of Israel, says: ‘Let my people go, so that they may hold a festival to me in the wilderness.’”

Plagues - Pharaoh was unmoved by Moses’ demand that the Hebrews be set free, so God inflicted a succession of 10 plagues upon Egypt

Exodus 7-12 1. Aaron’s staff is changed into a

snake before the Pharaoh 2. Moses turns Nile water into blood 3. Plague of frogs onto Egypt 4. God made the dust on the ground

into Gnats through Aaron’s staff 5. Plague of flies 6. Plague on livestock 7. Plague of boils 8. Plague of hail 9. Plague of locusts 10.Plague of darkness

Exodus

Passover - Final plague: Every Israelite was instructed to take the blood of a sacrificed lamb and paint the doorframe

- During the night, the angel of the Lord passed through the land, killing the first born Egyptian in every house not marked with blood

- Passover ritual takes its name from the passing over of Hebrew households

- Exodus 11:5 “Every firstborn son in Egypt will die.”

Exodus - After Pharaoh’s son died, he allowed the Israelites to leave his land with all their animals and possessions

- Pharaoh changed his mind and sent an army to recapture the chosen people.

- God miraculously parted the Red Sea so that Moses and the Israelites could cross and the waters flowed back over the soldiers to drown them

- Exodus 14:16 “Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.”

Wandering - The Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years in search of the Promised Land

- They continued journeying in the desert until they reached Mount Sinai

- Sustained by quail

- Exodus 16:13-14 “That evening quail came and covered the camp, and in the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp.”

Mt Sinai - The Covenant first made between God and Abraham was reaffirmed

- Moses transcribed the Commandments as a result of direct communication with God and established the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites

- The commandments are the beginning of the Torah

- The other 613 Mitzvot were also highlighted

- Exodus 19:5-6 “If you listen to my voice and keep my covenant you shall be my special possession, dearer to me than all other people. You shall be to me a kingdom of priests, a holy nation"

Promised Land

- God’s promise of land to Abraham reaffirmed; deliver the Israelites into a land ‘flowing with milk and honey’

- After 40 years, the promised Land of Canaan was found

- Deuteronomy 32:49 “Go up into the Abarim Range to Mount Nebo in Moab, across from Jericho, and view Canaan, the land I am giving the Israelites as their own possession.”

Ten Commandments

- Transcribed by Moses on Mt Sinai as a result of direct communication with God

- Exodus 20

Unique Features of Streams of Judaism

Orthodox Conservative Progressive Adheres faithfully to the principles, customs and practices of traditional Judaism 

Conserve essential elements of traditional Judaism but allow modernization of religious practices

Embraces tradition and works to make it meaningful in contemporary life.

- Falls half way between Orthodox and Reform Judaism

- Practices suit needs in current society

- Daily synagogue attendance if possible

- Strict observance of the Sabbath, religious festivals and holy days

- Strict Kosher dietary laws.- Separate seating - Only men rabbis - Follows a defined set of

Halachah determined by the rabbis, which are incumbent upon each individual Jew to observe

- Mixed seating - Female rabbis - Women do not have to

wear head coverings to synagogue

- More lenient halachah determined by modern rabbis who have studied and interpreted the texts and laws for the present day.

- Mixed seating - Female rabbis - Kosher expectations meet

individual and contemporary laws

- Views halachah as a guideline rather than Divine Law, thus observance of halachah is a choice rather than an obligation

Principal Beliefs

One God Monotheistic belief; there is a single creator God

Implications of this belief:- Only one God- God is indivisible- God is unique

The centrality of this belief is reflected in the prayer, the Shema, "Hear O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One”.

Provides adherents with an immanent worldview

God is Omnipresent - Intimately involved with human

history - God’s intervention most evident

through the account of the Exodus

God is Omnipotent- Al powerful and hence all knowing;

can change future events - Human knowledge is finite, God’s is

infinite

God is Pure Spirit - Anthropomorphic depictions unsound- Humans are unable to comprehend

the full nature of God- Understand His nature by witnessing

His intervention, creation and scared texts

Divinely inspired Moral Law

- ‘Ethical monotheism’; a single God who constitutes a moral law for all humanity- God gave Jews a code of ethics to guide ethical decision making in keeping with

their dignity as God’s creation (Mitzvot as revealed through the Torah)

Orthodox: Moral code laid down by God is complete and non-evolving in its application to all situations for the past, present and future. (is not changed)

Conservative: Maintain essential elements of traditional moral code but place greater emphasis on broad moral principles which guide ethical decision making in new situations.

Progressive: Draws guidance from fundamental moral code and interpret these teachings to suit contemporary life

“obey his voice with all your heart” “Love your neighbour as yourself” ethical teachings/commandments

Covenant - Series of agreements found in the Hebrew Bible between God and the people of

Israel. - The Covenant lies at the heart of the Jewish religion and is the cornerstone of

Judaism.

Abrahamic Covenant - God’s Promise: Abraham's people will be given the Promise land of Canaan - Obligation: Abraham must walk in God's way, by living in a righteous and just

way.- Sign of the covenant : Brit milah (circumcision)

Sinai Covenant - God’s Promise: Liberate the Hebrew’s from slavery in Egypt- Obligation: Hebrews were obliged to accept the Ten Commandments - Sign of the Covenant: Animal (lamb’s blood) sacrifices to God Observance of the mitzvot fulfills requirements of the Sinai Covenant

Covenant with David - God’s promise: Shepherd David will become a powerful and victorious King - Obligation: David has to walk in God’s ay by being a fair ruler

“I will establish my covenant between me and you, and your offspring after you…” - (Genesis 17:4-7)

Sacred Texts and Writings

Sacred Texts Description Importance The Hebrew Bible (Tanakh)

- Collection of writings that was first compiled and preserved as the sacred books of the Jewish people

- Consists of three main sections; the Torah/‘Teachings’, Nevi’im/‘Prophets’ and Ketuvim/‘Writings’

- Includes the Torah and significant stories such as the Creation Story, Story of Noah and the Ark, the Covenant and Exodus

- Also includes 613 Commandments: govern every aspect of Jewish life, rituals to be practiced in regard to worship and sacrifice: Shabbat and circumcision, actions to abstain from: kosher dietary requirements

- Aims at maintaining the traditional customs and practices of the Jewish religion

- Provides adherents with examples of how to live in accordance to the will of God, such as Abraham and the Patriarchs

- Enables adherents to fulfil the Sinai Covenant through observance of the Mitzvot

The Talmud - Comprehensive written version of the Jewish oral law

- Consists of two sections; the Mishnah and the Gemara

- Mishnah: the original written version of the oral law

- Gemara: details rabbinic discussions regarding the writing of the oral law, inclusive of their differences in view.

- The Talmud must accompany written laws (Torah) in order to gain a deeper understanding of these expectations.

- Provides a clearer understanding of the beliefs and rituals in the Jewish tradition

- Central text used by Jewish rabbis and the primary source of religious law and theology from which Halakha is derived

- Provides Jew’s with fundamental ethical codes and laws, which guide practices and day-to-day life

“People die without law and order” reinforces importance of Jewish laws and teachings

Core Ethical Teachings

The Commandments of the Torah

The Commandments guide ideals for human life, and morals and guidance for daily activates.

- 613 Mitzvot including the Ten Commandments – dictates principals of behavior and expressions of God’s will

- Halachah refers to living out the Torah in daily life and dictates how a Jew should act and behave

- They teach about the value of human life, reinforcing the Abrahamic Covenant

- The purpose of these commandments is to provide adherents with guidance regarding their behaviour towards the universe, creation and each other, inclusive of political, criminal and religious law.

Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it Holy,” 4th Commandment from Torah

The Prophetic Vision, including social justice and Tikkun Olam-the repair of the world

- Prophetic Visions supports the world in engaging with acts of service to God.

- Prophets aim to reveal God’s word to the Hebrews with particular emphasis on social justice intended to return the world to the harmonious state in which it was created

- Remind people of Covenant and importance of social justice - Repairing the world: righting the wrongs of the world – Jews being

the chosen people, partnership with God to bring the world back into order

- Living out covenant through observance of the Mitzvot - Blessed for living according to God, whereas consequences for

breaking God’s Law- Prophets fought for social Justice: poverty, protection of the poor - Today tikkun olam takes the form of volunteering for the

community and taking social responsibility

“All that God created, He made to be improved.” Tikkun Olam as repair of the world

The Book of the Proverbs-wisdom, righteousness, purity and generosity of spirit

Framework for practical life and gives examples of proper conduct in relation to truthfulness, being a good family member and being generous to the poor.

- Written by King Solomon and contains ethical and moral instruction - Collection of moral and philosophical sayings represented in poetic

form- This writing is extremely important and is studied by Jewish

adherents in order to remind them of ethical practices, such as how to live moral, peaceful lives in harmony with God’s creation

- Framework for practical life and gives examples of proper conduct- Topics such as truthfulness, being good family members, being

generous to the poor, self-control

Proverbs 16:3, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans,”

Observance

Description Importance - Shabbat commemorates the day that God

rested after creating the world - “Six days you shall work, but on the

seventh day you shall rest.” (Exodus

- It is first holy day mentioned in the Bible, hence is observed with special rituals.

- Allows for reconnection with both family and faith

34:21)- Jewish adherents engage in a period of

“no work”, based on the list of Avot Melachah in the Mishna.

- From sundown on Friday until Saturday night, focus is placed on family bonding, prayer and studying the Torah.

- Level of adherence with traditional Shabbat services vary between the streams of Judaism

- Evident through the debate of using electricity; Orthodox Jews maintain that the kindling of a spark is prohibited, whilst Conservative Jews tend to follow a more lenient interpretation., Progressive Jews observe Mitzvot as a guideline rather than Law, hence Shabbat is a choice rather than an obligation.

Topic 3: Christianity Context Christianity branched off from its parent religion, Judaism in the first century CE

- The sacred books of the first Christians were the scriptures of the Jews - First Christians went to the Temple to worship and pray –gradually Christian people

became a separate movementBegan in Judea; under the power of the Roman’s

- Romans wanted land for power, Jew’s though it was the promised land - Romans were polytheistic - Jesus was controversial → Radicle in his anti-authority stance - The romans killed Jesus, → he was a threat to their authority

Principal Events in the life of Jesus Christ

Event Time Description Birth Announcement

The angel, Gabriel came to Mary and delivered news of Jesus' birth, Mary agreed to God's will and from there, she embodied the Immaculate Conception.

Birth Circa 6BCE, as determined by the Gospel’s of Matthew and Luke.

Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem in search for an inn and in a stable, Mary gave birth to Jesus. Jesus was visited by shepherds and the three wise men.

Circumcision Circumcised 8 days after birth (Lk 1:21)

When Jesus was circumcised, he was given his name by an angel. After 8 days, this practice had occurred.

Bar Mitzvah Aged 12 At age 12, Jesus had his Bart Mitzvah and was heavily involved in his faith and helping his father in Carpentry.

Baptism Baptised by John the Baptist

Jesus was baptised at the River Jordan by John the Baptist.

Last Supper/betrayal

Thursday night Jesus shared a meal with his disciples at Passover. He broke bread and wine, said the blessings and shared it with his disciples. He also washed their faith and instructed them to be humble and do the same for others.

Crucifixion/death Good Friday. Died Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane and was

aged 33. brought before Pontius Pilate, he was then crucified at Golgotha and died.

Resurrection Resurrected 3 days later.

Jesus resurrected on the Third Day and appeared to his disciples and urged them to carry on his legacy by tending to his sheep and proclaiming the Good News.

Ascension 40 days after death.

Jesus ascended into heaven body and soul and vowed to return one day in the Second Coming.

Explain why Jesus is the model for Christian life Prayer - Communication with God, maintaining the relationship which God had started with

mankind through Revelation - Jesus was constantly aware of the need to pray. - Jesus recognised his need for God and his need to return to God in everything, for

God is the source of love and life - Matthew 6:10- “Your kingdom come, you will be done”- In this passage, Jesus teaches people how to truly pray: in the privacy of their

household!Ministry/service

- Jesus lived his life in loving service to others - Never turned away anyone who needed his help - The washing of the feet - clear example of servant leadership - (John 9) Jesus heals a blind man

Love and forgiveness

Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:43-44) - Jesus died for our salvation and the forgiveness of our sins

Advocacy for the poor

- In Jesus’ society, many people were treated unfairly and unjustly.- Jesus showed compassion, loving care and generosity. John 9: Jesus heals a blind man: Jesus tells his disciples that the blind man wasn’t a sinner, and sin isn’t the reason for the blindness, so He went to the blind man and healed him

Development of Early Christian Communities Pentecost (Acts 2:1-15)

- Jesus’ death and resurrection is announced to the Jews and others - Marks the birth of the Christian Church - The apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit and able to speak in different tongues,

whilst the people listening were given the ability to hear them in their own tongues.

Phillip and Stephen

- Those who left Jerusalem took with them the message of Christ - Philip took it to Samaria (Acts 6:5)- Stephen (first martyr) spread Christianity to the entire world (Acts 6:8)

Peter - Peter was the main leader and teacher emulating Jesus’ request Matthew 16:18 “ And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church”

- Peter was forced to leave Jerusalem and went to Rome, becoming the first Bishop of the Roman Church

- Peter opposed the Law of Moses (circumcision) - To settle this issue, the Council of Jerusalem was called. They decided:

No one could deny that God had accepted Gentiles Gentiles could become Christians without first becoming Jews (didn’t need to

circumcison)

Paul/Saul - Saul of Damascus was a scholar and persecuted Christians in Damascus. - After receiving a vision from God, he was baptised and became Paul. - Faced persecution from the Jews because he converted, and they wanted to kill him.

- Embarked on 3 missionary journeys to found and convert people to Christianity - He set up structure of the religion and confirmed its status- Paul recognised that Jesus’ message was not intended solely for Jewish people. - His letter writing properly established Christianity (13 letters/epistles of Paul)

Christian denominations unique features Anglicanism - 16th century schism

- Henry Vlll formalized the split main motive was that the Pope denied his divorce from his wife

- Importance of scripture, reason and tradition in determining matters related to beliefs and practices

- Does not have Pope as central authority

Catholicism - Largest and most wide spread. - God’s teachings preserved through guidance of the Holy Spirit and the teaching

authority of the church. - Seven sacraments- Transubstantiation: conversion of the bread and wine into the body and blood of

consecration- Divided into different rites: Armenian, Coptic, Maronite, Roman- Increased focus on Mary and the Saints, Heaven, Hell and Purgatory- Structured under authority of the Pope (Papal authority)

Orthodoxy - Great Schism (1054) and split between the Eastern and Western Church - Eastern Orthodox Church, Oriental Church - Beliefs derived from scripture and traditions that are sacred to the church’s

teachings. - Regarding scripture and tradition to be of equal value. - Decisions of seven ecumenical councils are highly respected

Pentecostalism

- Emphasises direct personal experience of God through Baptism with the Holy Spirit - Emphasis on the ‘encounter’ with God, a direct experience of God’s presence;

driven by the power of God moving within them- Evangelist faith - Base their theology on the Bible which they believe to be the word of God without

error. - Pastors have authority

Protestantism

Movement of religious groups in Europe that opposed the doctrine of the Catholic Church and the Papal authority

- 16th century Reformation: movement against perceived errors of the Catholic Church Began with Martin Luther’s 95 theses protesting the political, social and theological changes in Europe. Didn’t like the corruptions which existed in the Catholic Church (indulgences) and supremacy of the Pope

- Recognition of two sacraments: Baptism and Holy Communion – symbolic rituals of the Gospels

- Consubstantiation: The host is just a symbol of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection

Principal Beliefs The Divinity and Humanity of Jesus

- Trinity: Jesus was both fully human and fully divine Shows how God and humans are interrelated

- The incarnation of Jesus as a human was an act of love from God for humanity - Jesus is God and has the power to defeat evil archetype (model) for human

behaviour

Christ - Jesus’ suffering and death were real and experienced by him. - John 1: 14 ‘the word became flesh and made his dwelling amongst us, We have

seen his glory of the One and Only who came from the father’- Luke 1:35 ‘So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.- John 5:17-23 – he is spoken of as equal to God. “Whatever the Father does the Son

also does.”

The Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ

- Was crucified for being a political threat to the Roman Empire, died and resurrected 3 days later

- Jesus died as a sacrifice to atone for sin and reconcile humankind with God example of eternal love

- Believers will one day be reunited with God and transformed beyond death – provides hope for afterlife

- Luke 24: 6-8 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’

- Luke 9:22 – “he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.”- 1 Corinthians 15:12 – “ If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ

has been raised.”The nature of God and the Trinity

- Christianity is a monotheistic religion - The Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Trinity) are unique, equal and eternal; not 3 separate

gods - There are three persons but only one divine being, they dwell in each other- The trinity is a mystery beyond human comprehension - God is one and the creator of all things – known as creator of all, Jesus the son of God

and Holy Spirit - Related to three key functions: creating, sanctifying and redeeming- Expressed in the sign of the cross and clarified in the Nicene Creed Nicene Creed: “We believe in One God”…“We believe in one Lord Jesus Christ”…”We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life” - Matthew 28:19 ‘Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of

the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit’- 1 John 5:1-12 ‘Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and

everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. - 2 Corinthians 13:14 - The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the

communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you’ - John 5:17-23 – he is spoken of as equal to God. “The Son can do nothing by

himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.”

Revelation - Knowledge given by God to humans which were previously hidden or unknown; focused on Jesus

- God’s self-communication to human beings; a loving and free invitation to join in friendship with God

- God revealed his will, law and moral principles to humanity; preserved for us through the Bible

- Bible is a source of absolute truth about God - Can be seen as a call to engage in action, belief and faith - Christians see Christ’s life, death, resurrection and sending of the Holy Spirit as part

of the process of divine self-disclosure God revealing himself to mankind- 2 Peter 1:21 ‘ For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets,

though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.’- John 20:31 ‘These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the

Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name’ - John 3:34 ‘For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives

the spirit without limit’

Salvation - The belief that humans require deliverance from sin and can only attain it through relationship with God

- Jesus’ death was salvific atoned for the sinfulness of humanity - Salvation is seen as delayed until the afterlife- God has the intention to save however obstacles in present life (sin) interrupt this –

instead it is achieved through the Grace of God- Deliverance from sin, afterlife, being healed through the power of the divinity and

uniting with God. - Matthew 1:21 – “…he will save his people from their sins.” - John 3:18 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son so that everyone

who believes in him may not perish, but may have everlasting life” - John 3:16-17 ‘For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but

to save the world through him’

Sacred Texts and Writings Bible A collection of writings that Christians believe are of divine and human origin source

of absolute Truth - Accepted by Christians as authoritative for belief and practice - Inspired word of God aimed at guiding adherents to live in commitment with

God’s will

The Old Testament - The original Hebrew Bible and sacred scriptures of the Jewish faith. Includes the five

books of the Torah, containing the Ten Commandments. The New Testament - The Gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The first three are known as the

synoptic Gospels. - Acts of the Apostles – recorded events that occurred to Jesus’ followers after his

death - The Epistles – Letters by Paul or other early followers of Jesus - Revelations – interpretations of the end of the world.

Importance of the Bible

All variants of Christianity view the Bible as the fundamental source of belief, practice and ethical teaching- It is the central sacred text for and provide guidelines for the everyday behaviour of

Christians - Contains key ethical teachings (10 Commandments, Beatitudes) and principal 5

beliefs - Shows how Jesus is the fulfilment of the Hebrew Bible - Used for individual spiritual development, devotion and understanding of God. - Underpins their practices of prayer and liturgy– used in domestic rituals such as

grace before meals, prayers and blessings.

Core Ethical Teachings Christian ethics refers to the moral norms and guidelines that are seen to be distinctive of Christianity- Based on God’s revelation about how a person can achieve salvation through love of God,

neighbour and self- Belief that the human person is an image of God with intellect, choice and power of self-

determination- Based on a range of sources including the Bible, the Church Councils, Conferences and the

Pope – main source is the New Testament containing the Gospels - Christian Churches stress the importance of both faith and works (good moral actions)

along with community, prayer and sacraments.The Ten Decalogue transcribed by Moses from God in Exodus 20:2-17

Commandments - As a result of direct communication with God "Written with the finger of God"

(Exodus 31:18). - Christians see the ten commandments as rules to be practiced out of Love of God,

not for fear of damnation - Instructions on how to live in accordance to the will of God - Beyond and outside the Ten Commandments is a life of sin, alienation and

unhappiness

1&2 importance of worshipping ONE God “No other God’s before me” “Make no idols” 3&4 importance of respecting God and sacred Sabbath Last 6 guidelines for human interaction/how to treat others “you shall not murder, steal, covet”

The Beatitudes

- The foundational passage of Christian ethics - Given by Jesus on the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:2-12) - Encourages humans to aspire to certain virtues or to celebrate the potential of

future rewards. - Provide warning against an approach to life which values only material strength and

power

The Beatitudes are at the heart of Jesus’ preaching. They demonstrate the actions and attitudes needed to live a Christian life and offer individuals hope in the midst of suffering. Jesus gave us simple statements that guide adherents to God's kingdom, and by following them, individuals can emulate the love and actions of God.

Some examples: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God.” - "Poor in spirit" signifies to be humble. Humility is the understanding that all your

blessings originate from the love of God. Those who are humble are able to admit their fragile nature, repent, and permit the love of God to guide them to reformation. This encourages adherents to be gentle, kind and accepting of others and themselves.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”- "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful" (Luke 6:36). God is defined by his Mercy

towards mankind and by showing Mercy to others, individuals emulate the loving nature of God. This supports adherents in living in accordance to the Bible as guided through the word of God.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”- To be “pure in heart” means to be free of all selfish purposes and self-seeking

motives. Jesus was the ultimate example of this as He sacrificed his own life for the redemption and salvation of mankind.

Commandment of Love

John 15:12 “This is my Commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” - Requires offering one’s whole self to God through unconditional love and respect for

all people - It is a call to adopt the principles of the Decalogue and Beatitudes

Importance - Provides a guide for adherents, highlighting what they must and must not do in order to obtain salvation

- Enables adherents to make informed moral choices according to the principles - Uses the example of the life and ministry of Jesus so adherents are able to model

their lives on his- Helps them in relation to current ethical issues – drawing on the Bible, conscience,

tradition and authority e.g. sexual morality and bioethics

Personal Devotion – Prayer "You will make your prayer to him, and he will hear you,"Pray without ceasing for this is the will of God." 

Blessing and adoration

Acknowledges Christian’s dependence on God and the need for his presence in their lives- Act of Contrition

Petition Asks God for spiritual and physical blessing and opportunities

- Good health, promotions

Intercession Prayers that are mad on behalf of others - Praying for a sick relative, mother who wants kids

Thanksgiving Thanks God for what he has done, his gifts and blessings

Praise Expresses a Christian’s love for God - Songs, psalms, dances, scripture

Personal Vocal Spoken or sung; often in a family/communal setting - St Augustine states “To sing is to pray twice”

Mental Meditation or contemplation in one’s mind; often done in private

Topic 5: Islam Pre –Islamic Arabia and cultural/historical context for the development

- Many polytheistic religions (multiple gods) worshipping aspects of nature- Many small cults with temples adherents participated in rituals such as human/animal

sacrifices- Selling of false idols at the Ka’bah- Pilgrims would travel to Mecca and purchase idols from local merchants thriving and

successful business - These idols were known as the Hubal- Minority of Jewish and Christian adherents- The most powerful tribe were the Quraysh controlling most of the economy in Mecca- The Quraysh made profits from pilgrims they were disliked by other tribes due to their

sexploitation of the pilgrims and control over society- Mecca and Madina were the two main cities associated with the development of Islam

The Prophet Muhammad

Early Life as an ordinary person (571-610)

- Born into the Quraysh tribe in the Arabian city of Mecca in 570 CE became an orphan

- Influenced by Bedouin culture- Adopted by his Uncle Abu Talib - At 25, he married his employer Khadijah, a wealthy widow and businesswoman - He had seven children with her – three sons who died during their childhood

and four daughters which lasted into adulthood - As a young man, Muhammad associated with the hanif, who favoured

monotheism - Muhammad started to meditate about his views on the hanif and became a

regular nightly ritual on Mount Hira

Mission in Mecca as a religious minority (610-

First Revelation – - In 610 CE while praying in a cave on Mount Hira, Muhammad claimed he saw a

vision commanding him to ‘recite’- It is believed that this message was delivered by the angle Jibrael (Gabriel)

622)- It was confirmed that he was the prophet chosen by god to carry out his

messages and further out his teachings- Muhammad wrote the revelations into a book known as the Qur’an

Opposition and Revelation – - Muhammad began to attract some followers and to preach against Polytheism - Came across a threat to the wealthy Meccans as Islam had the potential to put

down the trade which was an important source of income for the country - Therefore, he was chased out of Mecca Hijra – - In 622 CE, Muhammad had quite a few followers and decided to move 320km

away from Mecca to another town Medina - Medina became the first Muslim city - In 624 CE, Muhammad rallied his troops again to head back to Mecca in hope

they would be able to change the minds of many other traders and fortunately were successful

Independent community and polity in Medina (622-632)

Muhammad’s final years – - In 632 CE, Muhammad accompanied by multiple followers, performed his large

pilgrimage to Mecca - He then returned to Medina briefly but due to sickness he died on the 8th of

June 632 CE- Islam continued to spread after his passing as a way of continuing his legacy

Muhammad as the final messenger and model for Muslim’s

Last of the prophets – - The Qur’an reveals that Muhammad is the seal and or last of the prophets

therefore had a more lasting impact on Muslim adherents - “Muhammad…is the messenger of Allah” – Qur’an 33:40 - "Verily in the messenger of Allah you have a good example for him who looks

unto Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah much." (Surah al-Azhab, 21) reinforces that Muhammad was Allah’s final guidance intended to assist adherents in living a life committed in faith.

Exemplary Wayfarer – - Known as the spiritual exemplar for lives; Muhammad ‘The walking Qur’an’- Muhammad’s own journeys became a metaphor for the requirements for

following the straight path- A social and political reformer caring for the poor, eliminating slavery and

seeking improved conditions for women.- Submitted to the will of Allah - Introduced Zadak; a practice of obligatory charity focused on giving to the

poor became a part of the 5 Pillars of Faith common to both Sunni and Shia variants

The Four Caliphs

- The first four leaders of Islam that succeeded the Prophet Muhammad. - Called "Rightly Guided" Caliphs because each of them learned about Islam directly from

Muhammad - Served as Muhammad's closest friends and advisors during the early years of Islam.

Abu Bakr (632-634)

- Accompanied Muhammad on the Hijra (moving from Mecca to Medina) - Suppressed the tribal, political and religious uprisings (riddah) restored Mecca

under Muslim control - Began conquests against the Byzantines

- The first written compilation of the Qur’an is said to have taken place during his caliphate

- Died from illness

Umar (634-644)

- His Arab armies conquered Mesopotamia and Syria; began conquests of Iran and Egypt

- Removal of Christians and Jews from Arabia - Assassinated - Six-man council he had appointed selected his successor

Uthman (644-656)

- Muhammad’s son in law - Unassuming, wealthy and generous business man - Muslim forces moved into Egypt and North Africa

Formed a committee of professional reciters to establish the correct recitation of the Qur’an known as the ‘Uthmanic text

- Assassinated; death left the Islamic state fragmented and in turmoil

Ali (656-661) - Fought in the early battles of Islam - Highly regarded by Muhammad's companions because of his extensive knowledge

of the Qur'an and scholarly endeavours.- The question of his right to the  resulted in the only major split in Islam, into

the Sunni and Shiʿi branches

Acceptance of Caliphs

- Shi’a wasn’t happy with Abu Bakr, Umar and ‘Uthman but they were the minority and it was the start of Islam Therefore both groups acknowledged them as Caliph at that time.

- Ali was a cousin of Muhammad’s, therefore came from his bloodline Shi’a considered him to be the true appointed Caliph.

Emergence of the Sunni and Shia The divide originate with a dispute over who should succeed the Prophet Muhammad as a leader of the Islamic faith. - The choice of Muawiya after Ali’s assassination triggered the schism

Sunni Shia Leader should be chosen from descendants of a tribe of Muhammad; NOT NECESSARILY his family

- 90% of Muslims

Leader MUST be a direct descendant of Muhamad - Imam – rightful leader (part of bloodline)- Believe final Imam vanished without dying

and will appear to Muslims in times of need

- 10% of Muslims

Principal Beliefs

1. Tawhid – Belief in One Allah

Centre of Islamic Theology - Oneness of God; creator of everything - Shirk; sin of idolatry and worshipping more than One God/Allah worst sin - One in being and in person; nothing can happen that is not His will - Transcendent unknowable, unfathomable - 99 attributes of Allah; the compassionate, the giver of all things - Forbidden to represent him in visual or symbolic form

“It is only revealed to me that your Allah is one Allah.”(Chapter 21, Al Anbiya;)“He is Allah, the One, Allah is Eternal and Absolute…” (Sura 112)

2. Mala’ika - Angels

- Central to Islam Qur’an was given to Muhammad by Angel Gabriel - Pure and spiritual beings created from light; no gender - Chosen messenger of Allah; communication with humankind - Right records good deeds, left records bad deeds and are presented

on the day of judgement

“Praise be to Allah…who made the angels, messengers with wings”. (Fatir 35:1) “Every man has two angels appointed over him who are recording whatever he does and says” (Qaf 50:17-18)

3. Rusul - Prophets

- God was revealed to humans through prophets; teachings were made into Allah’s books

- Muhammad is the seal of the prophets chief, best, last - 25 prophets in the Quran - Chosen messengers of God

"Verily in the messenger of Allah you have a good example for him who looks unto Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah much." (Surah al-Azhab, 21) Muhammad as the Prophet

4. Kutubu’llah - Books of the Prophets

- Revealed scripture sent to Earth - Allah’s revelation and His intentions - 4 most important: Torah of Moses, Psalms of David, Gospels of Jesus,

Qur’an - Belief that all revealed books have been changed/corrupted Quran is the

only text preserved in its original form; serves as a complete, perfect and eternal word of Allah which is capable of guiding mankind in all ages

- Quran serves as the final revelation complete guide for life of mankind - Qur’an left in Arabic because it is read in the truest form - As Allah is one, his revelation is also one

‘Believe in what has been sent down to thee Muhammad and what has been sent down before thee” (Surah 2:4)

5. Akhira - Judgement Day

- Muslims believe that this world is only temporary; merely passing through it- Final destination lies in the hereafter or the afterlife- Given this life as a test to do good, worship Allah and live in accordance

with the teachings of Islam- Everyone is endowed with their own free will, thus have the freedom to

choose what they do Everyone is held accountable for their good/bad deeds at the end of time

- Allah omits bad deeds and multiplies their good deeds form of Grace

“To God we belong and to Him we shall return” (Quran 2:156).On that Day, people will come forward in separate groups to be shown their deeds (99:6-8)

6. Al-Qadr – Predestination

- People will be held accountable at the end of time - Allah is sovereign and decides peoples fate and lives - Allah is in control of the fortune of Muslims (whether they live or die) - Heaven/paradise Jannah - Idea of predestination and Allah’s Decree

‘Inshallah’ which means ‘if god wills’ used whenever a statement about the future is made‘Mashallah’ which means ‘what god has willed’ acceptance/ thanks for what has happened

Note: Some Muslims may not believe in the 6th article

Sacred Texts and Writings

Qur’an - Most important Holy Book/ Scripture; basis for

Islam - Believed to be the literal word of Allah - Revealed in stages to the Prophet Muhammad

over 23 years - Qur’anic revelations regarded as the sacred

word of God, intended to correct any errors in previous Holy Books such as the Old and New Testaments

Importance - Central religious text used by most Muslims to

guide their prayer rituals, worship services, and family traditions

- Provides principle beliefs and ethical teachings intended in guiding adherent to live in submission to the will of Allah

1. Belief in one God - “It is only revealed to me that your Allah is one

Allah.”(Chapter 21, Al Anbiya; The Prophets)- “He is God the One, God the Eternal.” (Qur’an,

112: 1-4)

2. Angels - “Praise be to Allah…who made the angels,

messengers with wings” (Fatir 35:1) - “Every man has two angels appointed over

him, who are recording whatever he does and say,” (Qaf 50:17-18)

3. Prophets - "Verily in the messenger of Allah you have a

good example for him who looks unto Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah much." (Surah al-Azhab, 21)

4. Books of the Prophets - ‘Believe in what has been sent down to thee

Muhammad and what has been sent down before thee” (Surah 2:4)

5. Judgement Day - “To God we belong and to Him we shall return

(Quran 2:156) - “On that day, people will come forward in

separate groups to be shown their deeds.” (99:6-8)

Hadiths - Various collections of texts which record the

words and teachings of Prophets Muhammad

Importance - Revered and received as a major source of

religious law and moral guidance, second only to the authority of the Qur’an

- Provide interpretation of the Qur’an and Muslim issues not even details in the Qur’an

1. Belief in one God - “None has the right to be worshipped but

Allah” (Prophet Muhammad)

2. Angels - “The angels stand at the gate of the mosque…

writing the names of the persons coming to the mosque…” (Sahih al-bukhari 929)

3. Prophets “Every prophet was given miracles because of which people believed.” (Muhammad)

4. Book of Prophets - Bestow on him the knowledge of the Book

(Qur’an)”; Muhammad

5. Judgement Day“When the people of Paradise will enter Paradise.” (Muhamad)

Core Ethical Teachings Why are ethics needed? Human Nature, Good and Evil

- Human being has a nafs Egotistical soul that acts as the interface between the spirit and the physical body. All human evil is a product of the un-purified nafs

- Choices are negatively influenced by the emotions, desires and the selfish impulses of the ego. “Honoured with goodness” (Qur’an, 17:70) Created with innate capability to

recognise goodness and virtue “Caretaker on earth” (Qur’an, 2:31-33) charged with the duty of upholding goodness

and righteousness. Given “the trust” (Qur’an, 33:72) interpreted self-awareness and freedom of choice

Sharia Law Islamic religious law understood as God’s guidance for happiness in this world and the next. Governs religious rituals, as well as aspects of daily Muslim life. - Sharia ‘the way’ and ‘source of water’

Sources of Sharia Law (4)

1. The Qur’an As the primary source of God’s revelation, the Qur’an is the sourcebook of Islamic principles and values. - Only about 300 verses can be considered strictly legal

E.g “do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.” (Qur’an 17:23) - Do not say a word of disrespect to parents

“Do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just.” (Qur’an 5:8) - Be just regardless

1. Sunnah of the Prophet

Words, actions and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad as the messenger of God. An individual report narrated is called a hadith.- Thousands of hadith report collectively make up the body of

Sunnah.

“Do not kill any child, any woman, any elder or sick person.” (Prophet Muhammad) - Taken from Islamic rules of war declared by Muhammad

3. Analogical Reasoning (Qiyas)

Extending established legal precedence to new matters by identifying a common cause and comparing with the teachings of the Qur’an or Hadith

Ban of trading after the last call for Friday Prayers (Qur’an, 62:9) extended to other transactions and activities such as agricultural work and administration

Drug abuse; contemporary wine drinking is haram and since both have the same effects (loss of consciousness), which is forbidden, drug abuse is banned as well

4. Consensus (Ljma)

Consensus of the community of scholars over a solution to a legal and practical issue. - Test of time: After a while more and more jurists as well as

people accept the ruling achieving a consensus over that matter

Some scholars believe smoking is Makruh (not haram but not recommended), others believe it is completely prohibited (haram)

Categories of Sharia Law

Summarized under four broad categories 1. Creed (Aquidah) 2. Religious Worship and Practice (Ibadah) 3. Morality and ethics (Anklaq) 4. Social relations (Muamalah)

Further broken down as:

Aim of Sharia Law

Provides moral and legal codes based off teachings of the Qur’an, Prophets and other

sources- To achieve justice, beauty and mercy whilst protecting 5 basic human rights:

Attempts to seek a balance between Islamic Law, Public Morality and Individual conscience - Everything is fundamentally allowed unless stated otherwise

Islamic Definition ExampleFard – Compulsory

Commandments of God which are based on evidence from the sources of Islam

- Fasting during Ramadan

Sunnah - Recommended

Verbal advice and acts approved by Prophet Muhammad

- Fasting on Monday and Thursday

Makruh – Disliked

Acts that are disliked in Islam and technically contradict the practice of Prophet Muhammad

- Smoking (Prohibited by some scholars)

Haram – Forbidden

Acts decisively forbidden by Islam - Murder/theft

Halal – Permissible

Any action which is allowed - Anything not Haram

1. Life Right to live in safety and earn a livelihood

2. Property Right to own and preserve one’s personal property

3. Human Mind No one, including the self, society and state, should coerce or remove the ability to think freely

4. Belief and Religion

No compulsion in religion; every person has a right to keep and pass their religion to future generations

5. Family and Lineage

Humans have the right to raise a family

Individual Conscience

“Actions are judged according to intentions. Whatever someone intends to do, he gets its reward...” (Prophet Muhammad)

Public Morality “And from among you there should be a party who invite to good and enjoin what is right and forbid the wrong.” (Qur’an, 3:104)

Islamic Jurisprudence (Figh)

Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh): Scholarly interpretation and human understanding of Sharia through examination of the Qur’an and hadith.- Process of applying these principles is known as qiyas

Ijtihad: When there is no direction mention of a major issue in the Qur’an or hadiths (society has evolved), Muslim scholars must make a religious judgement through collecting evidence, analysis, interpretations and conclusions - A major scholar who carries out ijtihad mujtahid

Fatwa’s: Non-binding religious opinions made by the judgement of religious leaders - Religious scholar who makes a fatwa mufti

Expression of Faith: 5 pillars of faith Religious obligations that all Muslim’s must satisfy to live in accordance to the core beliefs and practices of Islam. 

1/ Shahada – Profession of Faith

The belief that "There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God" is central to Islam. - One becomes a Muslim by reciting this phrase with conviction - Underpins the monotheistic nature of Islam - Extremely popular phrase; appears in Arabic calligraphy on buildings,

manuscripts, books, etc. - Freedom from fear and incentive based earthly masters

“He is God the One, God the Eternal.” (Qur’an, 112: 1-4)2/ Salat - Daily Prayers

Expected to pray 5 times a day. - At dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and after dark - Muslims can pray anywhere; not just in Mosque must face Mecca (qibla) - Counters distractive effects of daily and affairs and brings focus back to Allah

“Do not rebel against your Lord; establish 5 daily prayers…” [Tirmidhi, Jumiah, 80]3/ Zakat – Alms

Muslims must donate a portion of their income to community members in need - Obligatory charity aims at easing the suffering of others - Many rulers and wealth Muslim’s build mosques, drinking fountains, hospitals and

schools as a religious duty and to secure blessings associated with charity - Removes materialism and attachment to possessions and money

“My Mercy encompasses all things, but I will specify it for the righteous who give Zakat.” (Qur’an 7:156).

4/ Sawn - Fasting

Obligatory Fasting during Ramadan (9th month in Islamic calendar) - All healthy Muslims are required to abstain from good and drink - Temporary deprivation aims at renewing awareness/gratitude of what God has

provided them with - Qur’an was first revealed during this month - Share the hunger and thirst of the needy; reminder of religious duty to help less

fortunate (zakat) - Encourages self-restraint against limiting and destructive inner impulses

“Allah is with those who restrain themselves,” (Qur’an 16:128)5/ Hajj - Pilgrimage

Every able Muslim must visit Mecca at least once in their lives - Ka’ba (cubical structure) is at the centre of the Haram Mosque in Mecca - Muslims beliefs that it was the house of Abraham built for God and pray in its

direction - Believers gather at the Ka’ba on the 8th and 12th day of the final month in the

Islamic Calendar - Removal of racism and tribal attitude to religion

“Allah has prescribed Hajj upon you, so perform it.” (Prophet Muhammad)