religion, peace and conflict

Question 1

how do christians feel about war?

Answer 1

the church teaches killing is wrong but many christians have been prepared to fight for faith or country

Question 2

give an example of some Christian who feel war is wrong

Answer 2

quakers (they’re pacifists)

Question 3

what is the main message of islam?

Answer 3

peace (Salam means peace/safety)

Question 4

what sorts of fighting are justified in islam?

Answer 4

fighting in self-defence/defence of faith are justified; fighting without cause is against will or god and muslim teachings

Question 5

what are some important concepts for muslims and christians in the aftermath of conflict and in preventing conflict?

Answer 5

1. peace
2. justice
3. forgiveness
4. reconciliation

Question 6

describe how peace is an important concept for muslims and christians in the aftermath of conflict and in preventing conflict

Answer 6

• may be hard to achieve through war as aftermath often instability/resentment
• christians/muslims seek inner peace/tranquility through prayer/meditation
• prophet Isaiah spoke of time when god will bring peace and Qur’an emphasises peace

Question 7

describe how justice is an important concept for muslims and christians in the aftermath of conflict and in preventing conflict

Answer 7

• Isaiah says god (ultimate judge) will establish justice
• justice linked to equality of opportunity
• if more privileged parts of world seen to be cause of injustice, conflict may result
• in islam ‘the Just’ is one of 99 names for god

Question 8

describe how forgiveness is an important concept for muslims and christians in the aftermath of conflict and in preventing conflict

Answer 8

• christians taught to forgive others if they wish to be forgiven (Lord’s Prayer)
• forgiveness doesn’t mean no action should be taken to right a wrong but after conflict it should follow
• actions need to establish peace/justice need to be taken to avoid future conflict
• muslims and christians believe god offers forgiveness to all who ask in faith

Question 9

describe how reconciliation is an important concept for muslims and christians in the aftermath of conflict and in preventing conflict

Answer 9

• reconciliation means a conscious effort to rebuild relationship which has been damaged by conflict
• important in prevention of conflict

Question 10

give a reference to scripture about conflict in christianity

Answer 10

“He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples…Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.” - Isaiah 2:4

Question 11

give a reference to scripture about conflict in islam

Answer 11

“The servants of the Lord of Mercy are those who walk humbly on the earth, and who, when aggressive people address them, reply with words of peace.” - Qur’an 25:63