Religion Peace and Conflict

Question 1

What are reasons for going to war?

Answer 1

1. Greed
2. Self defence
3. Retaliation

Question 2

How do Buddhists and Christians view “greed” as a reason?

Answer 2

Christians: “You can not serve both money and God” - Matthew 6
Buddhists: Green is one of the three poisons.

Question 3

How do Buddhists and Christians view “self defence” as a reason?

Answer 3

Christians: “If a thief is found breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no bloodguilt for him”. Exodus 22
Buddhists: Try to follow Metta and Karuna instead of self defence.

Question 4

How do Buddhists and Christians view “retaliation” as a reason?

Answer 4

Christians: “Turn the other cheek” Matthew 5, “do not repay anyone evil for evil…live at peace with everyone” romans 12.
Buddhists: “of those who rap themselves up in it hatred is not quenched” Buddha Dhammapada

Question 5

Christian quotes against terrorism and violet protests?

Answer 5

1. “all who draw the sword die by the sword” - Matthew 26
2. “blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be the children of God” - Matthew 5

Question 6

Buddhists beliefs and teachings against terrorism and vioence?

Answer 6

1. Hatred is one of the three poisons.
2. Metta and Karuna
3. The first precept - do not harm life.
4. Ahimsa

Question 7

Evidence for Chrstians against weapons of mass destruction?

Answer 7

1. “Thou shall not kill” - Exodus 20
2. The sanctity of life - life is sacred and belongs to God.

Question 8

Who made the Just War Theory?

Answer 8

1. Thomas Aquinas

Question 9

What are the six conditions in the Just War Theory?

Answer 9

1. Just cause
2. Correct Authority
3. Just intention
4. Last resort
5. Reasonable chance of success
6. Must be proportional

Question 10

What are the three rules for fighting a just war?

Answer 10

1. Must be fought by just means
2. Only appropiate force should be used
3. Internationally agreed conventions must be obeyed.

Question 11

What are Christian quotes that are pro-conflict?

Answer 11

1. “If you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.” - Luke 22:36
2. “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” - Matthew 10:34
3. “There is time for everything… a time for war, and a time for peace” Ecclesiastes 3:1, 3:8

Question 12

What is a holy war?

Answer 12

1. A holy war is a war fought for a religious cause, to defend your religion.
2. It is authorised by a religious leader.