Forgiveness

Question 1

SOWAA for God as a forgiving God.

Answer 1

‘turn from their wicked ways, then i will… forgive their sin’

Question 2

SOWAA for God’s mercy.

Answer 2

‘he who confesses… will obtain mercy.’

Question 3

Explain two reasons why Jews are expected to forgive those who wronged them. (4)

Answer 3

• One reason is because Judaism teaches that God forgives those who turn to him in true repentance. This means that the sign of true repentance is to seek forgiveness for
  your own sins and be prepared to forgive others their sins.
• A second reason is because rabbis encourage Jewish people to forgive those who wrong them. This is because they can become reconciled with them.

Question 4

Outline three reasons why restorative justice is important for criminals. (3)

Answer 4

• One reason is because it makes them realise the effects of their crime.
• A second reason is because it brings them face to face with their victims.
• A third reason is because it helps them turn their backs on crime.

Question 5

Explain two reasons why Jews support
restorative justice. (5)

Answer 5

• One reason is because it is the only way of bringing peace and reconciliation between the criminal and the victim. This is important as the Tenakh, Talmud and Mishneh encourage this.
• A second reason is because restorative justice is helping the criminal to follow the advice of the Psalms. This is because Psalms teaches to ‘turn from evil and do good.’

Question 6

Explain two different businesses that help bring offenders back into the community. (4)

Answer 6

• One business is Bad Boys’ Bakery which is a restaurant in Brixton. This is important as they provide paid employment for those who’ve completed their training in the Bad Boys’ Bakery.
• A second business is Timpson a key cutting and shoe repair business. This is important because the company goes into prisons and offers training workshops.

Question 7

Explain two charities that help ex-offenders to become law-abiding citizens. (4)

Answer 7

• One charity is the Apex Charitable Trust which helps people with criminal records to obtain appropriate jobs. This is because they help them break down the barriers to their employment.
• A second charity is Nacro which offers information and advice to ex offenders. This is because they serve prisoners, their friends and families through a helpline.

Question 8

SOWAA for justice.

Answer 8

‘seek justice, correct oppression.’