Midterm 1

Question 1

What is theology, according to Anselm of Canterbury?

Answer 1

Theology is defined by Anselm as “faith seeking understanding” (“fides quaerens intellectum”).

Question 2

What is the object of study in theology?

Answer 2

The object of study in theology is God and God’s relationship with the world, focusing on divine revelation and human response.

Question 3

What are the three major sources of revelation in Catholic theology?

Answer 3

Scripture (the Bible)
Tradition (teachings passed down through the Church)
Magisterium (teaching authority of the Church) These three are interrelated and work together in guiding theological understanding.

Question 4

According to John Cavadini, what should be the relationship between theology and other disciplines?

Answer 4

Theology should interact with other disciplines (like physics, history, psychology) in a way that deepens the understanding of faith without losing its distinct nature as a discipline focused on divine revelation.

Provides guideleines for and transcends other disciplines

Question 5

What is the major difference between theology and philosophy?

Answer 5

Theology is based on divine revelation and faith, while philosophy relies on human reason alone.

Question 6

Jesus’ ethnic identity:

Answer 6

Jesus was Jewish.

or Hebrew

Question 7

Moses as a “type” of Jesus:

Answer 7

Moses is considered a “type” of Jesus because Moses prefigured Jesus as a liberator and mediator between God and the people.

Question 8

Natures of Jesus:

Answer 8

Jesus is believed to have two natures: divine and human. His heavenly father is God.

Fully human and fuly god, he always existed and then choose to exist by becoming a hyman being

Question 9

Mother of Jesus:

Answer 9

Mary is Jesus’ mother, and her spouse was Joseph.

Human being, god the son ganined her human nature form her.

Question 10

When an angel (Gabriel) announced to Mary that she was going to be pregnant and bear a son, why was she surprised? How did she react despite severe consequences?

Angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary:

Answer 10

Mary was surprised because she was a virgin. Despite the potential consequences, she accepted the angel’s message with faith.

Question 11

Is Mary a goddess in Catholicism?

Answer 11

No, Mary is not a goddess. She is a human being, venerated as the mother of God (Theotokos), and is considered to be in a unique relationship with God.

Question 12

During Jesus’ lifetime, he was called a “rabbi.” What does “rabbi” mean in that context?

Jesus as “Rabbi”:

Answer 12

“Rabbi” means teacher in this context, and Jesus was recognized as a religious teacher during his lifetime.

Rabbi = teacher

Question 13

One of the statues on campus portrays Jesus talking to a Samaritan woman. In what ways does that show that Jesus was a revolutionary figure in the historical period he lived in?

Jesus as a revolutionary figure:

Answer 13

The statue of Jesus speaking to the Samaritan woman shows that Jesus challenged social norms by engaging with a woman from a marginalized group, emphasizing inclusivity.

He was not suposed to talk to a stranger women in public

Question 14

How did Jesus die?

Answer 14

Jesus was crucified.

Question 15

Christians believe that Jesus resurrected from the dead after three days of laying in the tomb.

Belief in Jesus’ resurrection:

Answer 15

Christians believe Jesus resurrected three days after his death.

Resurection of the body, soul is inmortal

Question 16

Three major branches of Christianity:

Answer 16

Roman Catholicism
Eastern Orthodoxy
Protestantism

Question 17

In which century did the great schism happen?

Answer 17

The Great Schism occurred in the 11th century (1054 AD).

two chirches came out of the GS: Catholic and orthodox, protestants came in 16th century

Question 18

When did Christianity start?

Answer 18

Christianity started in the 1st century AD.

Question 19

In which century did the protestant reformation take place? Who started the reformation?

Answer 19

The Protestant Reformation took place in the 16th century, led by Martin Luther.

Question 20

According to Catholic beliefs, who was the first pope (the founder of the Catholic Church)?

Answer 20

According to Catholic belief, Peter was the first pope.

(one of Jesus’ twelve apostles)

Question 21

Christianity originated in Jewish communities. Why did some Jewish people believe that Jesus was the Messiah, which was promised in the prophecies?

Answer 21

Some Jews believed Jesus was the Messiah because his life and teachings fulfilled Old Testament prophecies about the coming of a savior.

Because he was resurected, jews that didn’t believe he was the mesiah remained jewish

Question 22

How many patriarchs were there in the early Church? Which one was believed to be the Pope in Catholic beliefs?

Answer 22

There were several patriarchs, but the Bishop of Rome was considered the pope.

5 patriarchs

Question 23

Catholics believe in the “infallibility of the Pope.” This does not mean that the Pope as an individual cannot make mistakes. Under what conditions is the Pope considered “infallible”?

Answer 23

The pope is considered infallible only when making official declarations on matters of faith and morals, known as “ex cathedra” statements.

Question 24

What is the most essential function of Catholic priests? (offering sacrifices, conducting sacraments)

Answer 24

The most essential function is offering sacrifices, especially through the sacraments.

Only when he speacs with regard to cathlic doctrines

Question 25

What is a sacrament?

Answer 25

A sacrament is an outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace.

most essential finction of priests

All the sacraments can be conducted by priests

Question 26

How many sacraments does the Catholic Church have? How many sacraments do protestant churches generally have? What are they?

Answer 26

The Catholic Church has seven sacraments. Most Protestant churches recognize only two: Baptism and Eucharist.

Question 27

What is the entry rite into the Catholic Church? What does it stand for? Who can conduct and receive this rite?

Answer 27

Baptism is the entry rite, symbolizing cleansing from sin and entry into the Christian community. It can be conducted by anyone in cases of emergency.

Question 28

For what kind of sins do Catholics need to make confessions?

Answer 28

Catholics must confess mortal sins (serious sins) for forgiveness.

Question 29

Which sacrament is considered the source and summit of Christian life? Why is it so important? Who can conduct sacrament? Who can receive this sacrament? In what way is Christ present during this sacrament?

Answer 29

The Eucharist is considered the source and summit of Christian life. It is important because Catholics believe Christ is present in the Eucharist. Only ordained priests can consecrate the Eucharist, and baptized Catholics who have recieved their forst comunion can receive it.

Iths the wholly meal, christians get nourished, only priests can give it

Question 30

What is the sacrament of holy orders? What can one be ordained to be?

Answer 30

This sacrament ordains men as deacons, priests, or bishops.

cardinals are the ones that can become popes and they vote for the pope

Question 31

Is prayer a sacrament in the Catholic Church?

Answer 31

No, prayer is not a sacrament, but it is a key part of Catholic life.

Question 32

What makes one a saint in the Catholic tradition? Are saints gods, angels, or human beings? Do Catholics worship saints? Why do Catholics pray to saints? Who is considered the queen of all saints?

Answer 32

Saints are human beings recognized for their holiness. They are not gods or angels, they are human beings, and Catholics do not worship them. Catholics pray to saints to intercede with God on their behalf. Mary is considered the “Queen of All Saints.”

they are in the presence of god

Question 33

What are three vows one has to take to join a religious order?

Answer 33

Poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Question 34

Catholics believe that the Bible was inspired by God (not dictated by God).
What does “Testament” in the “Old/New Testament” stand for?

Answer 34

Testament means “covenant” or agreement between God and humanity.

ON THE EXAM

Question 35

Chronological order of major events/figures:

Answer 35

Creation
Fall of Adam and Eve
Cain and Abel
Noah’s Ark
Tower of Babel
Abraham
Isaac
Jacob and his twelve sons
Moses
Mount Sinai
Ruth

Question 36

Why two accounts of creation in Genesis?

Answer 36

The two accounts provide different theological insights and are preserved because of their importance in the Jewish and Christian traditions.

Question 37

In the mesopotamian creation myth, Enuma Elish, what kind of God is Marduk? How did he create the universe (no need to memorize all the details)? Why did he create human beings?

Answer 37

In the Mesopotamian creation myth Enuma Elish, Marduk is portrayed as a powerful and warrior-like god. He defeats the chaos goddess Tiamat and establishes order by creating the universe from her body. Marduk created human beings to serve the gods and to perform tasks like maintaining temples and offerings.

Question 38

Why do we have two accounts of creation (and of the making of the covenant, etc.) in the Hebrew Bible? Why are the two accounts both preserved?

Answer 38

Genesis has two accounts of creation (Genesis 1 and Genesis 2), which were preserved because each reflects different theological themes. The first account (Genesis 1:1-2:3) focuses on the majesty and orderliness of God’s creation over six days, with humanity created last as the pinnacle of creation. The second account (Genesis 2:4-25) presents a more intimate view of God’s relationship with human beings, focusing on the creation of Adam and Eve. Both accounts offer important insights, which is why both were retained in the Hebrew Bible.

Question 39

How did Genesis respond to Enuma Elish in its portrayal of how God came into power, how God created the world and why God created human beings?

Answer 39

The Book of Genesis contrasts with Enuma Elish by portraying God (Yahweh) as a peaceful and sovereign creator who brings order through words rather than violence. Genesis presents God as creating the universe out of love and purpose, rather than out of conquest. Additionally, humans are not created merely to serve the gods but are made in God’s image and entrusted with stewardship over creation.

Enuma Elish is not part of the bible, it is a document that the authors responde to

Question 40

The three relationships in both creation account: God and human beings, man and woman, human beings and non-human animals
The relationship of God and human beings: God is the creator; human beings are creatures.

Answer 40

God is the Creator, and humans are His creatures, made in His image. Humans are given authority over creation but are ultimately dependent on God.

Question 41

Man and woman: according to Genesis, were man and woman created as equal? Why? What does Eve being created out of Adam’s rib signify? How should we understand God creating Eve as Adam’s “helper”? In what ways did Eve help Adam, when they first met?

Answer 41

According to Genesis, man and woman are created as complementary equals. Genesis 1 states that both were created in God’s image, while Genesis 2 says that Eve was created from Adam’s rib to be his companion. Eve being created from Adam’s rib signifies their closeness and equality, though with distinct roles in the partnership. As Adam’s “helper,” Eve is a partner in life, contributing to the fulfillment of God’s plan for humanity.

Question 42

Human beings and non-human animals: Human beings have dominion over animals. If so, why is it wrong for human beings to abuse animals?

Answer 42

Humans are given dominion over animals, as seen in Genesis 1. However, this dominion is meant to be responsible stewardship rather than exploitation. Genesis portrays humans as caretakers of God’s creation, and it would be wrong for them to abuse animals because they too are part of God’s creation.

Question 43

Exodus
Key figures:

Answer 43

Abraham and Sarah (look at family tree)
Isaac (son of ^)
Jacob (renamed Israel)
Jacob’s sons (Levi(his trube is the tribe of jewish priests) , Judah (most important one), Joseph(important rolle in book of exodous), Benjamin)

Question 44

What was the purpose of the Exodus? In other words, by the time of the Exodus, which part of God’s covenant with Abraham had already been fulfilled and which part had not yet been fulfilled?

Answer 44

The Exodus fulfilled part of God’s covenant to give Abraham’s descendants a land of their own.

Question 45

Who was given the name “Israel” by God?

Answer 45

acob was given the name Israel by God. In the Book of Genesis (Genesis 32:28), after wrestling with an angel (or God) through the night, Jacob is told: “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with humans and have prevailed.”

Question 46

Jacob’s Twelve Sons (Focusing on Levi, Judah, Joseph, and Benjamin):

Answer 46

Levi
Mother: Leah
Significance: Levi is the third son of Jacob and Leah. His descendants became the Levites, the priestly tribe entrusted with religious duties and the care of the Tabernacle (and later the Temple in Jerusalem). Notable descendants include Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.
Judah
Mother: Leah
Significance: Judah is the fourth son of Jacob and Leah. The tribe of Judah became one of the most prominent tribes, settling in the southern part of Israel. King David and, according to Christian tradition, Jesus are descendants of the tribe of Judah.
Joseph
Mother: Rachel
Significance: Joseph is the eleventh son of Jacob and the first son of Rachel. Known for his “coat of many colors,” he was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt. His two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, each became the patriarchs of their own tribes, effectively giving Joseph a double portion in Israel.
Benjamin
Mother: Rachel
Significance: Benjamin is the twelfth and youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. The tribe of Benjamin settled just north of Judah. Notable figures from this tribe include King Saul, the first king of Israel, and the Apostle Paul (originally Saul of Tarsus) in the New Testament.

Question 47

What was the purpose of the Exodus?

Answer 47

The purpose of the Exodus was to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and lead them to the Promised Land of Canaan, establishing them as a nation under God’s laws.

liberating the Israelites and leading them to the Promised Land, a fulfillment of God’s covenant with Abraham, which was still in progress at that time.

Question 48

By the time of the Exodus, which part of God’s covenant with Abraham had already been fulfilled, and which part had not yet been fulfilled?

Answer 48

Fulfilled: The promise that Abraham’s descendants would become a numerous people; the Israelites had multiplied greatly in Egypt.
Not Yet Fulfilled: The promise that they would possess the land of Canaan; they had not yet taken possession of it.

Question 49

Why did God cause ten plagues in Egypt?

Answer 49

God caused the ten plagues to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. The plagues demonstrated His power over the Egyptian gods and served as judgments against Egypt for oppressing His people. Each plague challenged the authority of a specific Egyptian deity, showing that the God of Israel was the one true God.

Question 50

What was the significance of the Passover Laws?

Answer 50

The Passover Laws instructed the Israelites to sacrifice an unblemished lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood. This act signified their obedience and faith in God. During the final plague—the death of the firstborn—God “passed over” the homes marked with the lamb’s blood, sparing the Israelites. The Passover became a foundational ritual, commemorating their deliverance from slavery and God’s protection.

The first comand the isrealites rev=cieved form god

Question 51

1. Why did God want to make a covenant with the Israelites at Mount Sinai?

Answer 51

God wanted to make a covenant with the Israelites at Mount Sinai to establish them as His chosen people and provide them with a set of laws and guidelines for righteous living. This covenant, often called the Mosaic Covenant, was meant to define the relationship between God and the Israelites, setting them apart as a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exodus 19:6). It outlined their responsibilities to God and to each other, fostering a community based on divine law and moral principles.

Question 52

What was the relationship between this covenant and the covenant God made with Abraham?

Answer 52

The covenant at Mount Sinai built upon the earlier covenant God made with Abraham. While the Abrahamic Covenant promised Abraham descendants, land, and that all nations would be blessed through him (Genesis 12:1-3), the Sinai Covenant provided the laws and commandments necessary for the Israelites to live as a unified nation in that promised land. Essentially, the Sinai Covenant was a fulfillment and expansion of God’s promises to Abraham, moving from personal promises to a national constitution for his descendants.

Question 53

Why were the Ten Commandments (Decalogue) inscribed on two tablets?

Answer 53

The Ten Commandments were inscribed on two tablets to represent the two categories of laws:

First Tablet: Commandments related to the Israelites’ relationship with God (e.g., no other gods, no idols, not taking God’s name in vain, keeping the Sabbath).

Second Tablet: Commandments related to interpersonal relationships among people (e.g., honoring parents, not murdering, not committing adultery, not stealing, not bearing false witness, not coveting).
Another interpretation is that both tablets contained all ten commandments, serving as duplicate copies of the covenant—one for God and one for the Israelites—following the ancient Near Eastern practice of making two copies of a treaty for the parties involved.

Question 54

1. Why did Naomi say to her daughters-in-law, “Do I still have sons in my womb that might become your husbands? Turn back, my daughters.” What law was she referring to in this remark?

Answer 54

Naomi was referring to the Levirate marriage law, where a widow would marry her deceased husband’s brother to produce offspring in his name (Deuteronomy 25:5-6). Since Naomi had no more sons and was too old to bear more, she told her daughters-in-law to return to their own families.

Question 55

What is the purpose of the Levirate marriage provision in ancient Israelite tradition?

Answer 55

The purpose of Levirate marriage was to continue the family line of a man who died without children. It ensured his name and property remained within the family and provided support and protection for the widow.

Question 56

In the Book of Ruth, which is very intent on mentioning names, the name of Ruth’s next-of-kin was never mentioned. Why?

Answer 56

The unnamed next-of-kin declined to redeem Ruth and fulfill his family duty. His name is deliberately omitted to highlight his failure, contrasting with Boaz, who acted righteously. This omission underscores the importance of loyalty and responsibility.

Question 57

Why did Boaz praise Ruth for her willingness to marry him?

Answer 57

Boaz praised Ruth because she chose to marry him, an older relative, instead of pursuing younger men. Her willingness demonstrated loyalty to her late husband’s family and kindness toward Naomi, ensuring the family’s lineage continued.

Question 58

From the perspective of the Book of Ruth, who counts as “God’s people?”

Answer 58

“God’s people” includes all who are faithful to God, regardless of their nationality. Ruth, a Moabite, became part of God’s people through her devotion to Naomi and commitment to the God of Israel, showing that faith and loyalty define belonging.

Question 59

Moses was the leader God selected to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

Answer 59

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