Paper 1 Key Knowledge Flashcards
What is the Trinity in Christian belief?
God is three in one: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit
This concept explains that God exists in three distinct persons but is one essence.
Define omnipotent.
All powerful
This attribute of God indicates that He can do anything that is logically possible.
Define omniscient.
All knowing
This means that God knows everything, including the past, present, and future.
Define omnibenevolent.
All loving
This suggests that God’s nature is entirely good and loving towards His creation.
What is the significance of the Creation story in Genesis?
It demonstrates that God created everything and that everything He created was good
The story reflects the belief in God’s order and justice in the universe.
What does ‘transcendent’ mean in relation to God?
God is apart from the rest of creation
This implies that God exists beyond and independent from the physical universe.
What is the problem of evil?
The contradiction of God’s omnipotence, omniscience, and omnibenevolence with the existence of suffering
It raises questions about why a loving and all-powerful God would allow evil to occur.
What is the Free-will Defence?
Humans have free will, which leads to moral evil
This argument suggests that God allows evil because He values human freedom.
What is the significance of the Holy Spirit in Christianity?
The Holy Spirit empowers and transforms lives
Examples include giving courage and the ability to perform miracles.
What does ‘incarnation’ mean?
God took on the form of a man
This term refers specifically to Jesus Christ being both fully God and fully human.
What is atonement in Christian theology?
Restoration of the relationship between God and humanity
This is achieved through Jesus’ sacrifice, which reconciles humanity’s sins.
What is the significance of the crucifixion?
It is seen as a deliberate part of God’s plan for salvation
Christians believe it was necessary for atonement of sins.
What does resurrection signify in Christianity?
Proof of life after death and God’s power over death
It assures believers that they will also have eternal life.
What is the Ascension?
Jesus was taken up into Heaven 40 days after his resurrection
This event signifies Jesus’ divine authority and the promise of his return.
What do Christians believe about life after death?
Life after death is necessary to ensure justice and fairness
It provides hope that good is rewarded and evil is punished.
Fill in the blank: The Apostles Creed states, ‘I believe in the ______ and the life everlasting.’
resurrection of the body
This reflects the belief in physical resurrection as part of Christian doctrine.
What is the role of the community in Christian beliefs?
To support and uplift each other in faith and practice
This includes activities like food banks and outreach programs.
What is liturgical worship?
A structured form of worship that follows a set pattern
Common in many Christian denominations, it often includes rituals and prayers.
What is non-liturgical worship?
A more spontaneous and informal form of worship
This type of worship may include contemporary music and personal testimonies.
True or False: Christians believe that God directly intervenes in human affairs.
True
This belief underlines the concept of divine providence and guidance.
What does the term ‘Agape’ refer to?
Unconditional love
This is considered the highest form of love in Christian theology.
What is the ‘Great Commission’?
Jesus’ instruction to his disciples to spread the gospel
This emphasizes evangelism and missionary work.
What do some Christians believe happens to the body after death?
The whole body will be resurrected, restored to health and strength
This belief is supported by the resurrection of Jesus, where he appeared as a real person.
What is the belief about the soul after death held by some Christians?
The soul leaves the body and goes to Heaven or Hell immediately upon death
This contrasts with the belief in a Day of Judgement.
What does the Catholic Church teach about the afterlife?
We will all spend some time in purgatory paying for our sins before entering Heaven
Purgatory is viewed as a purification process.
How do most Christians view descriptions of Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory?
They recognize that these descriptions are symbolic
No one has experienced these states and returned to describe them.
What does C.S. Lewis suggest about Heaven and Hell?
Heaven and Hell may be the same place, experienced differently based on one’s relationship with God
Enjoyment or suffering is based on feelings of guilt or forgiveness.
What do some Christians believe is necessary to get to Heaven?
Doing ‘good works’ and following the example of Jesus
This is illustrated in the Parable of the sheep and goats.
What is the Protestant Christian view on original sin?
All humankind is inclined toward greed and selfishness, and we all have ‘original sin’
This belief states that we are separated from God.
What must one do to be ‘saved’ from Hell according to Protestant beliefs?
Ask for God’s forgiveness and believe in Him
John 3:16 emphasizes belief in Jesus for everlasting life.
How does belief in an afterlife affect Christians’ lives?
It influences them to live good lives and perform acts of compassion
This belief can provide comfort in bereavement and a sense of justice.
What is worship in Christianity?
Worship is showing God that you believe Him to be worthy of praise
It strengthens the relationship between believers and God.
What is liturgical worship?
Worship that follows a set pattern, often found in Catholic and Anglican churches
It includes collective responses and symbolic actions.
What characterizes non-liturgical worship?
Less formal services without a prayer book, often found in Baptist or Methodist churches
It includes modern music and active participation from the congregation.
What is informal worship?
Spontaneous worship where anyone can contribute, often found in Quaker or House Churches
It can include silent prayer and personal sharing.
What are sacraments in Christianity?
Special rituals that outwardly express an inner spiritual experience
They involve symbolic actions and physical elements.
What is the significance of baptism in Christianity?
Baptism symbolizes the forgiveness of sins and a new life committed to God
It follows Jesus’ example of baptism by John.
What is the difference between infant baptism and believers’ baptism?
Infant baptism occurs for babies, while believers’ baptism is for those who can consciously choose to follow Christ
Believers’ baptism typically involves full immersion.
How do Protestant and Catholic views on Holy Communion differ?
Protestants see it as a remembrance, while Catholics believe the bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Christ
This reflects differing theological understandings of the Eucharist.
What do the Salvation Army and Quakers believe about sacraments?
They do not recognize sacraments as essential, viewing them as potentially unhelpful rituals
They emphasize a personal relationship with God over ceremonial practices.
What does Christmas celebrate in Christianity?
The incarnation of Jesus
It occurs at the end of Advent, a period of preparation for the celebration.
What do Quakers emphasize in their faith practice?
Campaigning for equality and an end to war
Quakers believe these actions are more effective ways of remembering Jesus.
How do Baptists view the concept of baptism?
As a commitment that should be renewed daily rather than a one-time event
They emphasize an ongoing relationship with God.
What does Christmas celebrate in Christianity?
The incarnation of Jesus
It marks the end of Advent, a time of spiritual preparation.
What is the significance of Advent in the Christian calendar?
A time of spiritual preparation leading up to Christmas
Traditionally includes fasting to remember the world before Jesus’ arrival.
What does the special white candle lit on Christmas symbolize?
Purity and goodness of Jesus
This candle is lit on Christmas Day.
What is the duration of traditional Christmas celebrations?
12 days, ending at Epiphany on January 6th
Epiphany celebrates the visit of the Wise Men.
What is the most important Christian festival?
Easter
It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.
What does Lent traditionally involve?
Penitence and fasting for 40 days before Easter
It recalls Jesus’ time in the wilderness.
What event does Palm Sunday commemorate?
Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem
The crowd declared Him King by laying palm branches before Him.
What does Maundy Thursday remember?
The Last Supper of Jesus with His disciples
It includes the washing of the disciples’ feet and the institution of communion.
What event does Good Friday commemorate?
The crucifixion of Jesus
Christians remember this with special services and processions.
What is celebrated on Easter Sunday?
The resurrection of Jesus
Churches may create Easter gardens and hold sunrise services.
What is a pilgrimage?
A journey to a sacred place for spiritual purposes
It can be taken alone or in a group.
What are some reasons people go on pilgrimages?
- To ask for forgiveness
- To seek guidance
- To cure illness
- To experience God’s presence
- To spend time with other Christians
What is Iona known for?
Being a ‘holy island’ and a site of pilgrimage since the 6th century
It was established by Saint Columba.
What is Lourdes famous for?
The site of visions of the Virgin Mary and miraculous healings
Thousands of pilgrims visit to pray and seek cures.
Define persecution in the context of Christianity.
Hostility and ill-treatment due to prejudice against religious beliefs
Jesus and St. Paul warned about persecution of believers.
What percentage of religious persecution is directed at Christians according to the International Society for Human Rights?
80%
This highlights the significant challenges faced by Christians worldwide.
What positive effects can persecution have on Christians?
- Strengthening of faith
- Growth of the church
- Sharing in Christ’s sufferings
What is reconciliation in Christianity?
Restoring harmony after relationships have broken down
It is one of the seven sacraments in the Catholic Church.
What does the Cross of Nails symbolize?
Friendship, hope, and reconciliation
It originated from the ruins of Coventry Cathedral.
What does Christian Aid focus on?
Tackling poverty through emergency relief, long-term aid, and campaigns
It aims to help communities lift themselves out of poverty.
What role does the Church play in local communities?
Acts as the body of Christ, helping those in need
It emphasizes charitable love and support for the marginalized.
What are foodbanks and why are they needed?
Provide emergency food and support due to rising costs and welfare cuts
Many local churches participate in foodbank initiatives.
What is the purpose of Street Pastors?
To help vulnerable people and relieve pressure on emergency services
They wear uniforms and patrol the streets to assist those in need.
What year was the Trussell Trust foodbank initiative started?
1997
How many Trussell Trust foodbanks are there in the UK?
420
What is the primary aim of Street Pastors?
To help vulnerable people
Who started the Street Pastors initiative?
Rev Les Isaac
In what year did Street Pastors begin?
2003
How many trained volunteers are part of Street Pastors?
Around 14,000
What uniform do Street Pastors wear?
Blue ‘Street pastor’ uniform
What is evangelism in Christian context?
The mission to spread the good news that Jesus is the Son of God
What is the Great Commission?
Jesus instructed his disciples to make disciples of all nations
What year did the Alpha Course start?
1977
Where did the Alpha Course begin?
Holy Trinity Brompton, London
What does the Alpha Course explore?
The meaning of life and discussions about the Christian faith
Give two forms of prayer in Christianity.
- Adoration
- Confession
Give two ways Christian churches respond to persecution.
- Prayer
- Advocacy
Give two ways Christians might show their commitment to church growth.
- Evangelism
- Community outreach
Name two sacraments in Christianity.
- Baptism
- Eucharist
State two ways Christians celebrate the incarnation.
- Christmas services
- Nativity plays
Give two places of pilgrimage in Christianity.
- Jerusalem
- Lourdes
State two forms of religious persecution.
- Discrimination
- Violence
Give two ways Christians are involved in LEDCs.
- Humanitarian aid
- Development projects
State two ways the church might engage within the local community.
- Food banks
- Community events
Explain two different ways that baptism is celebrated.
- Infant baptism
- Believer’s baptism
Explain two contrasting examples of Christian worship.
- Liturgical worship
- Charismatic worship
Explain two contrasting examples of Christian pilgrimage.
- Pilgrimage to Jerusalem
- Pilgrimage to Canterbury
Explain two ways in which Christians remember the crucifixion of Jesus.
- Good Friday services
- Stations of the Cross
Explain two reasons why Christians go on pilgrimage.
- Spiritual growth
- Seeking healing
Explain two ways in which Christians respond to news of persecution around the world.
- Prayer
- Fundraising for relief
Explain two ways in which street pastors help the local community.
- Preventing anti-social behaviour
- Providing assistance to vulnerable individuals
Explain two Christian teachings about the Eucharist.
- Represents the body and blood of Christ
- Commemorates the Last Supper
Explain two ways in which the worldwide church works for reconciliation.
- Mediation in conflicts
- Promoting peace initiatives
Explain two ways in which a worldwide Christian relief organization carries out its mission overseas.
- Providing food aid
- Offering medical assistance
Explain two ways in which Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.
- Easter Sunday services
- Sunrise services
Explain two Christian beliefs about persecution.
- It can strengthen faith
- It is part of the Christian experience
Explain two Christian beliefs about poverty.
- It should be alleviated through charity
- The poor are blessed
Explain two Christian beliefs about helping our neighbours.
- It is a moral obligation
- It reflects Christ’s love
Evaluate the statement: ‘Private worship has more meaning for a Christian than public worship’.
[Evaluation needed]
Evaluate the statement: ‘The sacraments are unnecessary and may be unhelpful’.
[Evaluation needed]
Evaluate the statement: ‘Easter is more important than Christmas’.
[Evaluation needed]
Evaluate the statement: ‘Pilgrimage is a waste of time and money’.
[Evaluation needed]
Evaluate the statement: ‘Reconciliation is the most important Christian Teaching’.
[Evaluation needed]
Evaluate the statement: ‘Aid is the most important Christian action’.
[Evaluation needed]
Evaluate the statement: ‘A Christian should love God first, and help his brother after’.
[Evaluation needed]
What significant event happened in Siddhartha’s life at the age of 29?
He renounced his old life for a journey of discovery.
What are the Four Noble Truths?
- Everybody suffers
- The cause of suffering is desire
- We can end suffering by detaching from desires
- Following the Eightfold Path overcomes suffering
What does Dukkha mean in Buddhism?
Suffering
What is the Eightfold Path?
The path to end suffering through ethical conduct, meditation, and wisdom
What does Nibbana literally mean?
Extinction or snuffing out
What are the Three Marks of Existence in Buddhism?
- Suffering (dukkha)
- Impermanence (anicca)
- No fixed self (anatta)
What does Anicca mean?
Impermanence
What is the ultimate aim of Buddhism?
To break free from the cycle of samsara
What is Samsara?
The cycle of birth, death, and re-birth
What is Dependent Arising?
Inter-relatedness; nothing exists or happens on its own
What are the Three Refuges in Buddhism?
- Buddha
- Dhamma
- Sangha
What is Dhamma in Buddhism?
The truth about the universe discovered by the Buddha
What is the significance of the Four Noble Truths?
They provide understanding of suffering and a path to overcome it
What is the significance of the Buddha’s life for Buddhists today?
Provides inspiration for renouncing luxury and seeking enlightenment
What does Anicca mean?
Anicca means impermanence. Everything is constantly changing.
How do living things demonstrate Anicca?
All living things grow, mature, and then die.
What is the relationship between Anicca and Dukkha?
Anicca and dukkha are interconnected; we suffer because we do not want things to change.
What does Anatta mean?
Anatta means that the self is not fixed or permanent.
What are the five aggregates that make up a person according to Anatta?
- Form (our body shape) * Sensation (our feelings) * Perception (our recognition of things around us) * Mental formations (our thoughts) * Consciousness (our awareness of who we are)
What analogy is often used to illustrate Anatta?
Nagasena’s analogy of the chariot.
What is an Arhat?
An Arhat is a ‘perfected person’ who has overcome suffering.
What is the ultimate goal for Theravada Buddhists?
The ultimate goal is to achieve Nibbana.
What is Mahayana Buddhism characterized by?
Mahayana Buddhism has many groups and believes that the Buddha interacts with the world.
What is the concept of ‘Buddha nature’ in Mahayana Buddhism?
Buddha nature is the belief that everyone has a seed of enlightenment within them.
What does becoming a Bodhisattva entail?
A Bodhisattva uses their enlightenment to help others.
What is Pure Land Buddhism based on?
Pure Land Buddhism is based on faith in Amitabha, a transcendent Bodhisattva.
What is the goal of a Pure Land Buddhist?
The goal is an after-life in Sukhavati with Amitabha.
What are the symbolic offerings made during worship?
- Candle for wisdom * Flowers for impermanence * Incense for purity
What is the importance of meditation in Buddhism?
Meditation is central for calming the mind and controlling thoughts.
What is Samatha meditation focused on?
Samatha meditation focuses on mindfulness of the body and breath.
What does Vipassana meditation help develop?
Vipassana meditation helps develop insight into the true nature of reality.
What is the significance of chanting in Buddhist worship?
Chanting serves as an educational tool and calms the mind.
What are the three jewels in Buddhism?
- Buddha * Dhamma * Sangha
Fill in the blank: The Buddha taught that people are made up of five _________.
aggregates.
True or False: Theravada Buddhists believe the Buddha can appear in visions.
False.
Explain two ways in which the Four Sights influenced the Buddha’s teachings.
Explain two Buddhist teachings about the causes of suffering.
Explain two differences between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism.
What is the aim of meditation in Buddhism?
To give your full attention to whatever is going on in your mind at the time
This includes being mindful of thoughts and understanding their true nature.
What is ‘zazen’ in Zen Buddhism?
A form of meditation where practitioners focus on their thoughts and experiences.
How does visualization differ from using a kasina?
In visualization, the object of focus is imagined rather than physically present.
What do Tibetan Buddhists often visualize during meditation?
A deity such as a Bodhisattva and the qualities of its character.
What is the purpose of a Buddhist retreat?
To deepen understanding of Buddha’s teachings through meditation, rituals, and community.
What is Vassa in Theravada Buddhism?
An annual retreat lasting three months during the rainy season where monks focus on meditation and study.
What is celebrated during Wesak?
Buddha’s enlightenment, typically during the full moon in May.
What symbolizes liberation during Wesak in Singapore?
Releasing birds into the sky.
What does Parinirvana Day commemorate?
The Buddha’s passing into Parinirvana.
What is the central focus of Parinirvana Day?
Anicca (impermanence).
What is the significance of a shrine at a Theravada funeral?
It displays a picture of the deceased alongside an image of the Buddha.
What is a ‘sky burial’ in Tibetan Buddhism?
Leaving the body in a high place for vultures as a reminder of impermanence.
What is kamma in Buddhism?
The law of consequences based on actions.
What are ‘skilful actions’ in Buddhism?
Actions rooted in generosity, compassion, and understanding that lead to happiness.
What does Karuna mean?
Compassion; the desire for others to be free from suffering.
What is Metta?
An attitude of loving kindness towards all people.
List the Five Moral Precepts in Buddhism.
- To abstain from taking life
- To abstain from taking what is not freely given
- To abstain from misuse of the senses
- To abstain from wrong speech
- To abstain from intoxicants that cloud the mind
What are the Six Perfections required to be a Bodhisattva?
- Generosity
- Morality
- Patience
- Energy
- Meditation
- Wisdom
What is the purpose of meditation in developing Buddhist ethics?
To control thoughts and actions, fostering good habits and kamma.
What is the role of wisdom in Buddhism?
Acquired through studying Buddha’s teachings, living morally, and meditating.
What does the concept of anatta represent in Buddhism?
The belief that people have limitless potential to change for the better.
Give two examples of religious practices performed at a Buddhist temple.
- Meditation
- Rituals
Provide two of the Five Moral Precepts.
- To abstain from taking life
- To abstain from wrong speech
List two artefacts a Buddhist might use to aid meditation.
- Thangkas
- Mandalas
Give two of the Six Perfections in the Mahayana tradition.
- Generosity
- Wisdom
State two qualities required to become a Bodhisattva.
- Compassion
- Wisdom
Explain two contrasting Buddhist rituals associated with death and mourning.
- Theravada funerals focus on charity rather than spending money on the funeral
- Tibetan sky burials emphasize returning the body to nature
Explain two contrasting ways in which Buddhists mourn the dead in Japan and Tibet.
- Japanese Buddhists may perform elaborate ceremonies
- Tibetan Buddhists favor sky burials
Describe two ways a Buddhist might worship in a temple.
- Participating in meditation sessions
- Attending teachings or lectures
Explain two teachings about Kamma.
- Actions bring consequences upon oneself
- Skilful actions lead to happiness and unskilful actions lead to suffering
Explain two reasons why meditation is important for Buddhists.
- It helps develop concentration
- It fosters understanding of the nature of reality
Explain two Buddhist teachings which tell us how we should treat each other.
- Practice compassion (Karuna)
- Cultivate loving kindness (Metta)
Explain two reasons why Wesak is important for Buddhists.
- It celebrates Buddha’s enlightenment
- It symbolizes the application of Buddha’s teachings to escape suffering
Explain two ways in which shrines are important in Buddhist worship.
- They serve as a focal point for meditation
- They remind practitioners of the Buddha’s teachings
Evaluate the statement: ‘For Buddhists, worship in the temple is more important than worship in the home.’
This can depend on individual beliefs and practices.
Evaluate the statement: ‘The best way to understand the Buddha’s teachings about the Three Marks of Existence is by meditating.’
Meditation provides personal insight and understanding.
Evaluate the statement: ‘Good deeds are more important than meditation.’
Both are essential for cultivating positive kamma.
Evaluate the statement: ‘Wesak is the most important Buddhist festival.’
Wesak is significant, but other festivals also hold importance.
Evaluate the statement: ‘It is impossible for Buddhists to always act with compassion (karuna).’
While challenging, Buddhists strive for compassion in their actions.
