Unit 3 AOS 1 DP#3: Role and nature of religion Flashcards
What is the role of religion.
The role of religious beliefs in the search for meaning is to assist in the universal quest to explore existential questions and provide some direction.
The starting point for answering these questions is the belief in the ultimate reality. The belief in the ultimate reality becomes the focus, that opens up individuals and communities to other categories of belief such as nature and purpose of human life etc.
Life experiences, human reason, faith and religious beliefs all work together to provide religious adherents with a religious world view which informs their search for meaning.
Nature: Identity of religions
Religious traditions are given a unique identity through their religious beliefs, this identity helps religious adherents to form a religious world view which they share in their religious community. Beliefs help to form this identity and can be categorised in the following ways: Foundational, Fundamental, Subsequent, Distinctive.
Foundational
Beliefs that existed form the beginning of a religious tradition.
Help to identify and define what a religious tradition is.
Essential to the tradition.
E.g.
Foundational/
Fundamental The belief in monotheism (one God) is shared by Judaism, Catholicism and Islam -> Distinct: The belief in one God who is three persons (Father Son and Spirit) is unique to Catholicism and most other Christian denominations
Fundamental
Beliefs that other beliefs have been built upon. They shape the traditions world view and are vitally influential in shaping adherents understanding of meaning.
Subsequent
These beliefs form later and are not essential to the tradition. But they do help to shape the character of a religious tradition and give it a unique place amongst other religions and denominations.
Distinctive
Beliefs which are unique to a religious tradition. These can be beliefs that are only found in one religious tradition or be different interpretations of foundational beliefs.
