After A War – Reconciliation And Forgiveness

Question 1

Peace

Answer 1

The criteria for just war say that the aim should be to bring about peace. ‘ Peace’ does not just mean ‘no war’. It is possible to live in a country that is not fighting a war, but where the citizens do not live peaceful lives. For example they might have no food, or no way to earn a living; or they might be afraid of the police or the government. In a peaceful society everybody has enough to live comfortably, so there is no need for conflict and arguments. When we fight a war we should ensure that we bring about peace for citizens from both sides.

Question 2

Reconciliation

Answer 2

Reconciliation takes place after a conflict and involves a conscious effort to rebuild a relationship with your enemy:

1. War crimes on both sides must be tried
2. Prisoners of war released
3. The peace treaty must not punish one side unfairly (or this could lead to future wars).
4. Countries should be given help to re-build their infrastructure (roads, schools, hospitals, police and justice systems, they might need help setting up democratic elections for a new government etc.)
5. There might be new trade deals
6. International events will be organised to bring countries together (sport, music etc)

Question 3

Caritas

Answer 3

Caritas is a Christian organisation that serves those who are suffering as a result of conflict. For example they provided food and shelter for Syrians fleeing the bombing of their country. They also provided translators and lawyers to help refugees make informed choices about their futures. They also work to reunite children who were separated from their families, and find relatives to take care of those orphaned by war.

Question 4

The Tzu Chi Project

Answer 4

The Tzu Chi Project helps victims of war. For example they have set up a clinic in Istanbul for Syrian refugees. They also distribute food and other basic necessities. One way Buddhist help victims of war is by giving them psychological and spiritual help. They might have experienced psychological trauma which means that they now feel anger and bitterness. Buddhism teaches that these feelings are self destructive. Cultivating compassion for their aggressors helps victims of war overcome their past.

Question 5

Lord’s Prayer

Answer 5

In the Lord’s Prayer Jesus taught us to say ‘forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us,’

Question 6

Jesus teaching

Answer 6

Jesus said ‘Turn the other cheek’

Question 7

Metta

Answer 7

Metta is loving kindness for all creatures – including your worst enemies. Buddhists practise this through a loving kindness meditation where you visualise happiness first for yourself, then friend, then a neutral person, then an enemy. This means that you can forgive and let go of your anger (which is self destructive)