religion and life Flashcards
what does christianity teach about the origins of the universe?
many christians believe god created the universe as described in genesis 1-2. some interpret this literally (creationists) while others see it as a symbolic story compatible with the big bang theory
what does judaism teach about the origins of the universe?
jewish teachings also refer to genesis, stating that god created the universe in six days and rested on the seventh. orthodox jews may interpret this literally, whereas reform jews may accept scientific explanations alongside religious belief
how does christianity view the relationship between scientific views (e.g. big bang) and religious teachings?
some christians reject the big bang, while others see it as god’s method of creation. the catholic church accepts the big bang as part of god’s design
how does judaism view the relationship between scientific views (e.g. big bang) and religious teachings?
many jews, particularly in the reform and conservative branches, accept the big bang and see it as aligning with god’s creative power
what is the value of the world in christianity?
the world is seen as god’s creation, and humans are stewards (genesis 2:15). humans must care for the earth responsibly
what is the value of the world in judaism?
the world is a gift from god, and jews have a duty (tikkun olam) to repair and protect it
what does christianity say about environmental issues?
many christians promote environmental stewardship. pope francis’ “laudato is” emphasises caring for creation
what does judaism say about environmental issues?
jews believe in bal tashchit (“do not destroy”) which teaches the importance of preserving resources and avoiding waste
what are christian perspectives on animal experimentation?
some christians oppose animal testing (sanctity of life) while others accept it if it benefits humans
what are jewish perspectives on animal experimentation?
jewish law permits animal experimentation for medical purposes but prohibits unnecessary cruelty (tza’ar ba’alei chayim)
what does christianity teach about the origins of human life?
genesis states that god created humans in his image (imago dei). some christians reject evolution, while others accept it as god’s method
what does judaism teach about the origins of human life?
similar to christianity, orthodox jews may take genesis literally, while reform jews often accept evolution as part of god’s creation
what is the concept of the sanctity of life in christianity?
life is sacred and god-given (psalm 139:12). only god has the right to give and take life
what is the concept of the sanctity of life in judaism?
pikuach nefesh (saving a life) is a key jewish principle, emphasising that life is precious
what are christian views on abortion?
catholics oppose abortion in all cases, except to save the mother’s life. protestants may allow it in certain circumstances (rape, risk to mother’s life)
what are jewish views on abortion?
orthodox jews oppose abortion but permit it if the mother’s life is at risk. reform jews may allow it in broader circumstances
what are christian views on euthanasia?
most christians oppose euthanasia as it goes against the sanctity of life, but some accept passive euthanasia
what are jewish views on euthanasia?
euthanasia is generally forbidden in judaism, but pain relief that may shorten life is sometimes permitted
what does christianity teach about the afterlife?
belief in heaven and hell. some believe in resurrection, while others believe in the soul’s immortality
what does judaism teach about the afterlife?
jewish beliefs vary: some believe in resurrection (olam haba) while others focus of life’s actions rather than the afterlife
