WORLD RELIGIONS EXAM REVIEW

Question 1

Spirituality

Answer 1

refers to a person’s personal quest for their meaning in life and deals with their relationship with something larger, like a god or goddess.

Question 2

Materialism

Answer 2

the view that the world is entirely dependent on matter, which is the final reality. Strict materialists hold that our minds are merely matter and that our brains are controlled by heredity, chemical reactions, and physical events.

Question 3

Shaman

Answer 3

a medicine man and spiritual leader. Shaman’s are significant to the Native Religion since they help interpret vision quests, pass on and memorize oral teachings, and hold ceremonies.

Question 4

Moses

Answer 4

selected by God to create the next covenant after Abraham’s covenant. A severe drought struck Canaan, and Abraham’s descendants were forced to move to Egypt. The Egyptians enslaved the Hebrews. Moses was born a Hebrew but was raised under the Pharaoh and loved by him as well, until he accidentally killed an Egyptian that was harassing a Hebrew. Moses fled and went to Mount Horeb, where God spoke to him through a burning bush about the cries of the Hebrew slaves. God told Moses that he would have to bring them out and let him into the promised land. When Moses first demanded the Pharaoh, he didn’t do anything. God then sent 10 deadly plagues over Egypt and then killed the Pharaoh’s first born. This finally woke the Pharaoh up and released the Hebrews. God kept the Hebrews safe from this plague too, by making Moses tell them to rub blood on their doors as a sign for the plague to passover. While Moses led them out, he went up Mount Sinai and received the 10 commandments from God. Moses is significant in Judaism because he helped liberate the Hebrews from slavery, renewed God’s covenant, and provided the 10 commandments, while people follow and believe in today.

Question 5

Torah

Answer 5

the sacred writings of Judaism. The word “Torah” is often translated as meaning “law,” or “instruction.” It’s a description of the development of God’s relationship with his chosen people and the books are the 5 first books of the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament; Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The Torah is significant to Judaism since it is one of their primary sacred writings and they believe that it instructs them on how to live as a Jew.

Question 6

Holocaust

Answer 6

a European demonstration of anti-setisim, which resulted in the death of about 6 million Jews. Jewish men were sent to concentration camps produced by Hitler and Nazi Germany. Jews were stripped of belongings, and subjected to working long hours, consuming little to no food, and staying in overcrowded homes. The prisoners were beaten, tortured and humiliated. Some camps killed Jews from non-consensual medical experiments, gas chambers, and alive cremation. At the end, most Jews were so traumatized that they ended their own lives. The Holocaust is significant to Judaism because it was an act of anti-semitism to their religion, killed many families, and also traumatized so many people

Question 7

Orthodox Church

Answer 7

followers of this church rejected the authority of the pope and any other modifications made to Christian belief after the Schism of 1054. Orthodox Churches are constructed with a distinctive cross-shaped floor plan and decorated with religious icons. The Orthodox service is usually long, focused upon rituals established early in Christian history. Followers of this church believe principles such as the idea that only men can be Orthodox priests and are allowed to have been married before their ordination.

Question 8

Protestantism

Answer 8

a branch of Christianity that originated in the 16th century as a result of the Protestant Reformation led by Martin Luther. It emphasizes principles like salvation by faith alone. It is significant because it is one of the Christian denominations worldwide and provides a different way for Christians to practice their faith.

Question 9

Vatican Council II

Answer 9

Pope John XXIII called the Vatican Council in 1962 which was essentially a meeting of the church leadership in Rome, in an effort to modernize the church. Some of the reforms were that the mass was now celebrated in the language of the people rather than Latin. Priests and the altars of the churches were to now face the people. The Church made greater efforts to reopen dialogue with the protestant, orthodox and other churches in interests of Christian unity. The Catholic Church also began to reach out to other faiths, recognizing their wisdom and presence of the Holy Spirit and their teachings. These council’s effects are still being felt today in the church.

Question 10

Qur’an

Answer 10

the holiest book in Islam. The word Qur’an means “recitation” and was orally revealed from God through the prophet Muhammad. Muslims usually recite or chant the Qur’an. The Qur’an is the most significant scripture in Islam because Muslims believe that the revelations that Muhammad received are literally the Word of God and thus, they respect it very highly.

Question 11

The Five Pillars

Answer 11

Shahadah: Declaration of faith. The beliefs that “There is no god but God” and “Muhammad is the Messenger of God.” The Shahadah is Muslims’ announcement to the world that they sincerely believe in and follow the Qur’an.
Salat: Mandatory prayer five times daily.
Zakat: Mandatory almsgiving. Paying the zakat alms is compliance to a divine injunction gladly performed by sincere Muslims for the sake of and in the name of God.
Sawm: Mandatory fasting. For the entire month of Ramadan, Muslims are forbidden to eat, drink, smoke, or have sexual relations from dawn until dusk. The Ramadan fast is an act of worship wherein the Muslim community dedicates a month to considering the benevolence of God and abstaining from some of the pleasures of life in order to develop spiritual purity.
Hajj: Mandatory pilgrimage to Makkah. The mandatory hajj itself is undertaken by any Muslim in the world, male or female, who has the health and means to make the pilgrimage. The last day of the hajj commemorates the day God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son Ismael at Mina.

Question 12

Sunnis

Answer 12

one of the major sects of Islam. The name is derived from the word sunna, which means “well-trodden path.” Sunni groups came into existence after the death of the Prophet. Over time, they have emerged as the most influential group in Islam. They believe in building consensus within the community in order to arrive at a just and equitable society.

Question 13

Black Muslims

Answer 13

typically refers to African American individuals who follow Islam, and many of them are associated with the Nation of Islam, a religious and social movement founded in the United States in the early 20th century. The Nation of Islam incorporates Islamic teachings but also includes unique beliefs, such as self-improvement, empowerment, and the pursuit of economic independence within the African American community. The movement has played a role in addressing social issues, advocating for civil rights, and fostering a sense of identity, pride, and self-reliance among African Americans.

Question 14

Atman

Answer 14

the human soul and one of the fundamental principles in Hindu philosophy. It is the part of our innermost self that is identical to Brahman, the universal soul. A Hindu’s goal in life is to reunite the atman with the Brahman. The atman is eternal and immortal; when one dies, the atman lives on, shedding the lifeless body to enter a new one. Atman is significant to Hinduism because it is a Hindu universal goal and is important for reincarnation

Question 15

Karma

Answer 15

the totality of one’s actions in life, and it determines the form that an individual will take when he or she is reborn. The accumulation of bad karma will result in rebirth at a lower station in life or as a lower form of life, such as an animal. The accumulation of good karma will result in rebirth at a higher station in life which is closer to attaining salvation. In order to achieve salvation, Hindus must work their way up the ladder of existence; they do so by trying to secure rebirth at a higher level which is dictated by the caste system. Karma is significant because it determines a Hindu’s salvation and controls how they live.

Question 16

Moksha

Answer 16

the goal of Hindus is to achieve moksha. Moksha is liberation from the endless cycle of rebirths into this world, and to unite the atman with the Brahman. It is significant because it offers freedom from the worldly illusions and suffering cycle of reincarnation.

Question 17

Asceticism

Answer 17

a severe form of self-denial or self-discipline that avoids any indulgences in Hinduism and some forms of Buddhism. This practice is important in religions and cultures because some believe that it helps you develop spiritually, detach from material desires, and get a deeper understanding of a deity/religion.

Question 18

Ghandi

Answer 18

Mahatma Gandhi was a leader in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. He led campaigns against discrimination, advocating for the rights of the untouchables and promoting religious harmony. Gandhi is significant to Hinduism as he drew inspiration from Hindu spiritual teachings, particularly the Bhagavad Gita, and incorporated these principles into his philosophy of nonviolent resistance.

Question 19

Nirvana

Answer 19

An everlasting state of great joy and peace resulting from the end of desire and suffering. Most observers suggest that nirvana is a state of total liberation and serenity. It is a goal and one of the fundamental principles of Buddhism that, similar to Hinduism, frees one from samsara.

Question 20

Theravada

Answer 20

the southern school of Buddhsim. The name Theravada means “the Way of the Elders,” and it is considered the original and more conservative school of Buddhism. In Theravada Buddhism,the emphasis is on the teachings of the Buddha and not the Buddha himself. Theravada Buddhists do not worship the Buddha as a god; they consider him a human figure on whose teachings they pattern their lives. They rely on individual meditation and insight to attain nirvana.

Question 21

Zen

Answer 21

one of the types of Buddhism. Zen’s emphasis on meditation as the best method for attaining enlightenment. Zen cannot be taught;it has to be experienced.

Question 22

Satori

Answer 22

At some point, the student of Zen, the branch of buddhism, will be ready for the experience of enlightenment called satori. Satori, which is rather like the experience that the Buddha had under the Bodhi Tree, can come quickly or slowly. Satori is significant since it is a transformative and liberating experience, leading to a heightened state of awareness, ultimately contributing to the practitioner’s spiritual growth and enlightenment in the context of Zen practice.

Question 23

Worship

Answer 23

rituals that are freely and willingly performed, flowing from a trusting relationship with mystery and accepts what is sacred and unknown. Worship is an act expressing devotion, faith, and adoration towards a deity, often used in religious prayers, songs, and rituals. Worship is significant because it helps to connect people to their religions and express their devotion to the divine.

Question 24

Sun Dance

Answer 24

a ritual where men pierce their chests as a sign of sacrifice and attach themselves to a tree, where they dance until their chest rips. It is a significant ritual in Native Spirituality because it is a rite of passage for a boy transitioning to a man. It also acts as a communal prayer, renewal, and spiritual purification

Question 25

Sweat Lodge

Answer 25

a ceremony in the Native spirituality that renews the soul and helps to regain focus. Under the direction of a shaman, the participants make a sauna-like construction, called a sweat lodge. The participants crouch and crowd around the steaming stones in the confined space. The intense heat and steam cause them to perspire profusely, thus cleansing the body both physically and spiritually. Usually prayers and a sacred pipe are shared.

Question 26

Prophets

Answer 26

A person who receives a message from God and delivers it to God’s people. They commonly warn the people of an oncoming crisis or something that is about to happen. Prophets are significant since they make up the Tanakh are useful scripture in the Jewish faith. For example, the prophet Isaiah declared that Jesus would be born from a virgin

Question 27

Synagogue

Answer 27

a place for congregational worship in Judaism. They were first created during the Exile, but later grew of more importance after the destruction of the second temple. Synagogues are significant to the Jewish community because it is their place of worship and way to practice their faith.

Question 28

Ghettos

Answer 28

Europeans forced Jews into neighborhoods called the ghettos, with poor living conditions , limited access to resources, over-crowded homes, diseases and pushed them to starvation. This was done to segregate the community into a beat region, so that they were forced to assimilate their own identity to gain a better life.

Question 29

Zionism

Answer 29

a belief and movement that supports the establishment of a homeland for the Jewish people in Israel. Its significance today lies in the existence and identity of the modern state of Israel, which was founded in 1948 as a fulfillment of Zionist aspirations. Zionism continues to influence discussions and policies related to the Middle East and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Question 30

Martin Luther

Answer 30

posted the Ninety- Five Theses on a Roman Catholic Church that debated certain beliefs and practices, like the sale of indulgences. He was excommunicated, but then started the Lutheran Churches, with his set of beliefs. Luther is significant to Christianity because he helped begin the Protestant Reformation and from that, more churches emerged.

Question 31

Reformation

Answer 31

the protestant reformation is the second greatest division of the church in 1517 CE that was led by a German monk named Martin Luther. He caused a dramatic change that called for a simple inner faith, free-form long-established rituals, and outwards shows of devotion, like charity. His followers established the Lutheran Churches and the Protestant Reformation to reform and challenged the Catholic authority and western practices.

Question 32

Night of Power and Excellence

Answer 32

a special night during the last ten days of the Islamic month of Ramadan. It is believed to be the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad by the Angel Gabriel. Laylat al-Qadr is of great significance in Islam as it is considered more spiritually powerful than a thousand months. Muslims believe that prayers and good deeds performed on this night are especially blessed, and the Quran describes it as a night of peace and divine guidance.

Question 33

Mecca

Answer 33

the birthplace of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Not only was this his birthplace but Muhammad also meditated on the hills of Mecca and with his wife, gave away most of their wealth to the sick and poor in Mecca. After Muhammad encountered Angel Gabriel, he kept receiving revelations, which now make up the Qur’an and he continued to preach them around the city. Eventually, in 630 CE after two smaller pilgrimages, Muhammad led a group of 10 000 into Makkah, in what is commonly referred to as the “Conquest of Makkah.” Now, today these pilgrimages to Mecca, also known as hajj, are mandatory for any muslim man or woman who is able.

Question 34

Shias

Answer 34

known as the “party of Ali.” Shi’ahs believe that, prior to the death of Muhammad, the Prophet chose his son-in-law, Ali, as his successor. Later, these developed into doctrinal differences. Shi’ahs believe that, after the death of Muhammad, a series of infallible leaders called Imams took charge of Islam and guide the community.

Question 35

Malcolm X

Answer 35

a prominent African American Muslim minister and civil rights activist. He played a crucial role in the Nation of Islam, a Black nationalist and religious movement, before breaking away and embracing Sunni Islam. Malcolm X is recognized for his passionate advocacy for the rights of African Americans, his emphasis on self-defense, and his call for racial pride and empowerment. Malcolm X’s journey to Mecca was a transformative experience where he encountered Muslims of various races and ethnicities, fostering a more inclusive understanding of Islam. This experience influenced Malcolm X to reconsider his previous racial separatist views and to embrace a more universal and humanistic approach to social justice.Malcolm X is significant for his transformation from a charismatic spokesperson for the Nation of Islam to a more inclusive and human rights-focused leader, leaving a lasting impact on the civil rights movement

Question 36

Maya

Answer 36

the illusion of the material world. In Hindu thought, the physical world in which we live is temporary, artificial, and not the true reality. Understanding Maya is crucial for spiritual seekers, as it highlights the impermanence and illusory nature of the material world. By transcending Maya, individuals can strive for a deeper understanding of the ultimate reality (Brahman) and attain liberation (moksha) from the cycle of suffering and rebirth, as described in Hindu teachings.

Question 37

Samsara

Answer 37

the endless cycle of rebirth or reincarnation. Samsara is significant since Hindu’s AND Buddhist’s ultimate goal is moksha, to liberate themselves from this cycle for true spiritual freedom and enlightenment.

Question 38

Brahman

Answer 38

Brahman is an entity without form and quality. It’s the soul of the universe from which all existing things arise and into which they all return. It is everything and everywhere. The essence of Brahman is divine, invisible, unlimited, and indescribable. In Hindu philosophy, achieving an understanding of Brahman is a central goal, emphasizing the unity of all existence and the recognition of divinity within oneself and others. The significance of Brahman is that it is the source and sustainer of the cosmos, uniting the diverse manifestations of reality and guiding individuals toward spiritual realization and liberation (moksha).

Question 39

Buddha

Answer 39

Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as the Buddha, was born into a princely family. Shielded from the outside world, he lived a life of luxury. The turning point in his life came when he encountered the “Four Sights” – an old man, a sick person, a corpse, and a wandering ascetic. Disturbed by the suffering he witnessed, Siddhartha renounced his princely life and embarked on a spiritual quest for truth and liberation.After years of ascetic practices, Siddhartha sat under the Bodhi tree, vowing not to rise until he attained enlightenment, which he did, after a night’s rest. This event marked his transformation into the Buddha, the “Awakened One.” Significant to Buddhism, the Buddha’s teachings, known as the Dharma, focus on the Four Noble Truths – the nature of suffering, its cause, its cessation, and the path to its cessation (the Eightfold Path), which is important because it helps guide people to liberate themselves from the cycle of rebirth.

Question 40

Four Noble Truths

Answer 40

the Buddha’s treatment to unhappiness, revealed in his first sermon. These Four Noble Truths include:
To live is to suffer- On a very basic level, this suffering includes the experiences of birth, old age, disease,death, sorrow, and frustration. Other types of suffering include being around those whom we dislike, being apart from loved ones, and not getting what we want.
Suffering is caused by selfish desire- Every kind of suffering has its origins in craving or selfish desire,which is the result of ignorance or delusion. People, greedy for the wrong kind of pleasures, do harmful things to their bodies and peace of mind.
To end suffering, end selfish desire- The goal of Buddhism is to end suffering. Reaching nirvana will be possible only when the urge to possess more and more things is destroyed. To cut off greed means changing one’s views and living a more natural and peaceful life. The person attaining nirvana is in a blissful, happy, and content state where nothing whatsoever causes any kind of suffering, physical or mental.
Follow Noble Eightfold Path- To end suffering, one must adopt the Middle Way by following the Noble Eightfold Path. TheNoble Eightfold Path is a blueprint for a happier life.

Question 41

Mahayana

Answer 41

one of the schools of Buddhism that came to be after the Buddha’s death. This more liberal school of Buddhism considers the Buddha a divine being and believes that the heavens are populated with buddhas, or divinities, to whom people can pray. Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the role of the Bodhisattvas, or compassionate beings who have almost achieved enlightenment but choose to be reborn in one of the heavens in order to help others who pray to them. They believe that humans are involved with others, the key virtue is compassion, religion is also for the lay person, the ideal being is the Bodhisattva, and that Buddha is a saviour. Aswell, they pray for requests and their scriptures are in Sanskrit.

Question 42

Bodhisattva

Answer 42

A Bodhisattva is a person who has attained nirvana but chooses to be reborn within samsara in order to help others on their path to enlightenment. A Bodhisattva practices the Six Perfections: giving, morality, patience, vigour, meditation, and wisdom. These people are important because they help people, especially in the Mahayana school of Buddhism. When people pray to these Bodhisattva’s, they ask for blessings and guidance along their spiritual journeys.

Question 43

Religion

Answer 43

comes from the latin word “religio” which translates to “to bind together”. Religion refers to faith, belief, community, teachings, worship, values, and scriptures.

Question 44

Axial Period

Answer 44

refers to the period of time from 600BCE- 600CE, where the founders of the great religions emerged and established their faiths. Buddha, Mahavira, Confucius, Lao Tzu, Hebrew prophets, Jesus of Nazareth, and the prophet Muhammad are all examples of founders who established their religions during this period. This period is of keen significance to scholars of comparative religions because of the explosion of religious ideas that exploded all around the world.

Question 45

Vision Quest

Answer 45

a rite of passage and spiritual journey undertaken by indigenous peoples that typically involves solitude and fasting in a remote natural setting, guided by a shaman or elder. The seeker’s aim is to connect with the spirit world, receive guidance, and gain insight into their life’s purposes. The vision quest is significant because it helps with personal transformation, self-discovery, and receiving revelations that can help guide someone on their path.

Question 46

Patriarchs

Answer 46

Abraham, Isaac and Jacob are the 3 patriarchs of Judaism. God promised Abrham promised land (Canaan) and offspring, in return that every male was circumcised, he changed his name from Abram to Abraham, and that he leads all the chosen people. Isaac was born from Abraham and is proof of God’s fulfillment of the covenant. Isaac then would have children who would raise a great nation for God, one of which was Jacob. Jacob was renamed Israel because he wrestled with an Angel and received Isaac’s blessing. Jacob then had 12 sons, who led the 12 tribes of Israel and began the basis of the Israelite nation. These 3 patriarchs are significant because the covenant with God is passed down through these generations.

Question 47

Rabbi

Answer 47

a Jewish leader, scholar or teacher, especially of the law. Rabbis are often responsible for leading worship services, providing pastoral care, and teaching religious texts. They are significant for fostering the spiritual and communal well-being of their communities, preserving Jewish traditions, and serving as authoritative figures in matters of faith, ethics, and community life.

Question 48

Talmud

Answer 48

rabbnic teachings, commentary and interpretations of the Mishnah (teachings on living life in accordance with the Torah). It is a significant piece of Jewish sacred writings because it translates the Jewish lessons from the medieval period to the present day for better comprehension. It also guides Jewish law, ethics, customs and traditions and shapes the faith in Judaism.

Question 49

Pogroms

Answer 49

Anti-Jewish pogroms were violent and often organized attacks against Jewish communities, particularly in Eastern Europe during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These attacks consisted of widespread violence, destruction of Jewish homes, businesses, and religious institutions, as well as physical harm on Jewish individuals. The significance of these events is rooted in the immense human suffering they caused, prompting waves of Jewish migration and contributing to a broader understanding of the importance of combating anti-Semitism.

Question 50

1948

Answer 50

At this time, the modern state of Israel was reborn out of Palestine. This was caused by the Jews who survived the Holocaust and wanted to live the Zionist dreams. Because other people inhabit this land, there is continuous warfare and atrocities in this region. This time period of 1948 is significant in Judaism because they displaced and disrupted Palestines who resided there with violence. This violence and anger causes warfare between these countries today.

Question 51

Ecumenism

Answer 51

promoting unity and cooperation among different christian denominations or even between different religious traditions. It involves fostering dialogue, understanding, and collaboration to find common ground and overcome doctrinal differences. The goal is to promote a sense of shared purpose and community among diverse religious groups.

Question 52

Gospels

Answer 52

the Gospels were written between 50-100 years after Jesus’ life and are based upon a document known as Q now lost to history. This document was made up of sayings of Jesus. The Gospels are also based upon the stories that circulated about Jesus in the early church from his followers and those who knew him. The 4 synoptic gospels are:
Matthew- this Gospel was written for convert Jews and contains many references to the Old Testament about Jesus pointing to him as the fulfillment of the Jewish Torah and the Hebrew Scriptures and Prophets. This Gospel was written probably in Syria between 70-90 CE.
Mark- this Gospel was written in Rome for Roman Christians during a time of persecution. Therefore, he emphasizes the sufferings of Jesus. This was the earliest Gospel written and was likely also a source for Matthew and Luke.
Luke- this Gospel was written in Greece around 70-90 CE for Greek Christians. This Gospel focuses especially on Jesus’ concern for the poor, the sinner, the sick, and the outcast. Luke is also especially favorable to women.
John- this Gospel was written in the Greek city of Ephesus after 90 CE and was written for Christians of all backgrounds. He stresses that Jesus is the long awaited Messiah and Son of God. Jesus has come to bring a richer and fuller life to all people

Question 53

Muhammad

Answer 53

the Prophet Muhammad is the central figure in the Islamic faith who received revelations from God through Angel Gabriel. He was born into a well respected tribe in Mecca. His parents died, and he was raised by his uncle and his grandfather. During his early adulthood, after being a trusted businessman with his family, he sought out isolation for contemplation and meditation for his spiritual journey. He eventually got married and he and his wife would share their wealth with the sick and impoverished people in Mecca. One day when he was on his retreat in a cave at Mount Hira, he felt the presence of Angel Gabriel and was instructed to read a passage that was embedded in his heart. He continued receiving revelations for 23 years, and formed the Qur’an out of these ideas. Muhammad also began to take groups of people on pilgrimages to Mecca and died preaching his prophecies. He is a significant figure since he founded the Islamic tradition

Question 54

Ramadan

Answer 54

the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims worldwide observe fasting from dawn to sunset. During this time, Muslims engage in increased prayer, reflection, and acts of charity. Ramadan is significant for Muslims as it commemorates the month in which the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was believed to have been revealed to Prophet Muhammad, and the fasting is seen as a way to develop self-discipline, empathy, and spiritual closeness to Allah.

Question 55

Medina

Answer 55

a city in Saudi Arabia that holds great importance in Islam. Prophet Muhammad migrated to Madinah from Mecca in 622 CE to escape persecution. This migration, known as the Hijra, marks the start of the Islamic calendar. Madinah is significant for Muslims as it became the first Islamic state, where Prophet Muhammad established a community based on justice, unity, and religious principles, shaping the early foundations of Islam

Question 56

Sufis

Answer 56

one of the major sects of Islam. The Arabic word suf, which the word sufi is derived from, means “wool,” so it is likely that the Sufis were named after the clothing that they wore. Others say that sufi is derived from the word safa which means “purity.” According to the Sufi tradition, the goal is to develop spiritually, both inwardly and outwardly, in order to discover the reality of God. Sufis emphasize sincerity and excellence, performing prayers and meditations. To develop a constant and deep concentration, the Sufis employ physical methods such as playing Sufi music, chanting the name of God over and over again, or dancing.

Question 57

Jihad

Answer 57

Jihad: translated by some to mean “holy war.” When Muhammad moved to Medina, he successfully formed a government that was based on Islam. However, the Quraysh of Makkah was threatened by Islam and tried to annihilate Muhammad’s leadership, by providing him things like wealth or women, but he didn’t accept any of it. So they decided to battle with him. Three battles proved to be significant in the unification of Arabia under the religion of Islam. BADR: Muhammad’s army of 313 defeats Makkah’s army of 1000. UHUD: Makkans return with an army of 3000 to score a victory. Despite their apparent victory, the Makkans return home instead of proceeding an additional three kilometers and sacking Madinah. BATTLE OF THE TRENCH: Makkans return with an army of 10 000. Muhammad orders his men to build a trench around the city of Madinah. The Makkans are unable to take the city, thwarted by the trench and the hot desert climate.

Question 58

Ahimsa

Answer 58

one of the Buddha’s Five Precepts. Ahimsa is the doctrine of non-violence toward all living beings. It is significant because it is one of the Precepts that Buddhists follow in their daily lives and accounts for Buddhists’ non-violent behaviour.

Question 59

Dharma

Answer 59

the teachings of the Buddha and his idea of the “truth” concerning the “laws” of the universe. After the Buddha reached enlightenment, he stayed there for 7 days in that state where he pondered about how he was going to publicize his teachings.When the Buddha gave his first sermon in Deer Park, he “set in motion the wheel of the Dharma.” The symbol of the eight-spoke wheel was chosen by him to represent the eight steps of the path. The center of the wheel represents nirvana, which is the only fixed point. As the spokes of a wheel are needed for the wheel to keep turning, Buddhists need to follow each step of the path to reach the end of suffering. The Buddhist’s dharma is really significant in Buddhism because the followers need to implement his teaching into their life if they want to achieve Nirvana.

Question 60

Caste System

Answer 60

Is a social hierarchy passed down through generations. It is important because it is what dictates the path that the person is allowed to take in a profession, and social life, as well as their married life. Classes of this system include and in order are; Brahmins (priests, teachers), Kshatriyas (rulers, and warriors), Vaishays (landowners, and merchants), and lastly, sudras (servants, unskilled workers). This is significant because it is what determines many things in a person’s life like their holiness, and purity and has different rights because of it.

Question 61

Middle Path

Answer 61

refers to the Buddhist understanding of practical life. The Middle Path avoids the extremes of self-denial and self-indulgence. The Buddha concluded that the Middle Way was the best course when seeking for enlightenment. To attain the Middle Path, a Buddhist must follow the Noble Eightfold Path. The significance of following this path leads to liberation from suffering and enlightenment, as taught by the Buddha.

Question 62

Arhat

Answer 62

Arhat is a Buddhist term which means “One who is worthy” it’s a perfected person who has gained insight into the true nature of existence and has achieved nirvana. They have equanimity in all circumstances, impartiality towards others, compassion, and loving kindness.

Question 63

Koan

Answer 63

A riddle used in Zen Buddhism to demonstrate the inadequacy of logical reasoning and to provoke enlightenment. The koan can also be represented as a story, dialogue, question, or statement. This is significant because it provides great doubt and helps thinkers to move past the idea of dualistic thinking to reach enlightenment.

Question 64

Name and explain three important elements of the message of Jesus?

Answer 64

God Loves You: Jesus emphasized the concept of a loving and compassionate God. He taught that God’s love is unconditional and extends to all people, regardless of their background, sins, or shortcomings. Bad things don’t happen to you because God doesn’t love you; that bad thing might reveal something about you, teach you a lesson, or help you.
Kingdom of God: This wasn’t just a physical realm but rather a spiritual and moral domain where God’s rule and righteousness prevail. Jesus encouraged his followers to imply spiritual values, such as justice, righteousness, love, grace, kindness and respect. Jesus also preached forgiveness and how important it was to forgive everyone. Jesus emphasized the importance of seeking forgiveness from God for one’s sinsThrough repentance and seeking God’s forgiveness, individuals align themselves with God’s will and acknowledge their dependence on His mercy. Additionally, Jesus stressed the significance of forgiving others.By forgiving others, individuals participate in the ethic of the Kingdom of God, promoting reconciliation and harmony.
Love Others and Enemy: Central to Jesus’s teachings was the command to love both neighbors and even enemies. The famous “Golden Rule” captures this idea: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Jesus challenged his followers to extend love, compassion, and forgiveness not only to those who were close to them but also to those who might be considered enemies. This emphasis on love as a guiding principle is one of the distinctive features of Jesus’s moral teachings

Question 65

Explain three factors that led to the Orthodox/Roman Catholic division of the 11th century.

Answer 65

The distance and linguistic challenge: The East and West did not speak the same language, which may have caused errors in translations. Aswell, Constantinople and Rome were quite a distance apart, meaning that the messengers may have forgotten part of the message or misspoke. These 2 factors lead to miscommunication, causing the Churches to separate.
Power struggle: The East and West also fought over authority and who had the most power, which resulted in tension between the 2 sides.
The disputes of principles: The two sides had different opinions about principles involving the Church. For example, one side loved the idea of adding the filioque clause to the Nicene Creed, whereas the other side did not.

Question 66

Eightfold Path

Answer 66

The eightfold path is a path of Buddhist practices leading to liberation from samsara, the painful cycle of rebirth, in the form of nirvana. According to the Buddha the eight steps consist of:
Right View: We need a “blueprint” to guide us through life; therefore it is essential that we know the doctrine of the Four Noble Truths.
Right Thought: The mind has to be freed from sensual desire, ill-will, and cruelty. We are what we think, so nurture good thoughts because they produce good, strong character.
Right Speech:By using kind speech, we will be respected and trusted; therefore, we should not lie, criticize unjustly, use harsh language, or engage in gossiping.
Right Action: It is accomplished by observing the Five Precepts.
Right Livelihood: Earn a living through occupations that do not cause harm to living things.
Right Effort: Conquer all evil thoughts and strive to have good thoughts. Individuals must do their best at all times and have goodwill toward others.
Right Mindfulness: A person has to recognize what is important and must not be led astray by unwholesome acts or thoughts. Full attention must be given to proper thoughts, words, and deeds, as explained in the Five Precepts.
Right Concentration: The final step involves focusing the mind on one thought or object at a time. This concentration leads to true peace of mind and tranquility.

Question 67

Briefly explain three factors leading to the Reformation.

Answer 67

Corruption: some church positions were granted based on financial contributions or nepotism rather than qualifications. Aswell, the clergy lived luxurious lives, which contrasts Jesus’ teachings of simplicity. Another way that they were corrupt was that because they had limited supply of Scriptures and linguistic differences, clergy would abuse the teachings, since not many other people could understand or interpret it.
Indulgences: a fee/payment that freed an individual from spending a specified period of time in purgatory. These indulgences were sold for profit and personal gain of the Catholic Church and exploited innocent followers of Christianity.
Martin Luther: He posted the Ninety-Five Theses on a Roman Catholic Church that debated certain beliefs and practices, like the sale of indulgences. He was excommunicated, but then started the Lutheran Churches, where there was no corruption and the scriptures were more easily accessible in German.

Question 68

Explain three differences between Catholic and Protestant traditions.

Answer 68

Catholic:
Ordinance/Celibacy: Priests and clergy are required to take a vow of celibacy.
Sacraments: They recognize seven sacraments, including baptism, confirmation, Eucharist (Holy Communion), penance, anointing of the sick, holy orders, and matrimony.
Tradition and Teaching: Catholics believe in the dual authority of the Bible and the teachings handed down through apostolic succession, which includes the Pope’s interpretations. Tradition, as interpreted by the Magisterium (the teaching authority of the Church), is seen as essential for understanding and interpreting the Bible.

Protestantism:
Ordinance/Celibacy: Protestant traditions do not require celibacy for clergy, allowing ministers, pastors, and priests to marry
Sacraments: Protestant traditions generally recognize fewer sacraments, often focusing on baptism and the Eucharist as the primary ones.
Tradition and Teaching: Protestants, on the other hand, adhere to the principle of “sola scriptura” (Scripture alone). They believe that the Bible is the sole authoritative source for Christian faith and practice.

Question 69

Describe the impact of European culture on the native peoples of North America.

Answer 69

The European colonization of North America had a range of effects on the Native Americans such as starvation, loss of land and culture, disease, and slavery. When the first colonists began to colonize America, they brought with them many diseases.

The European settlers took indigenous land through sneaky treaties, forced communities to relocate to reserves, tried to assimilate their culture and identity, started conflicts/wars/disputes, aimed to Christianize the people, created discriminatory laws and traumatized generations of indigenous people. Some specific examples of how the indigenous were harmed include:
The Indian Act is one policy that harmed the Indigenous people. It controlled Indigenous spirituality/religious practices, restricted their human rights, land ownership, and self-governance.
The Europeans forced the residential school system that took children away from their communities and families to try to assimilate their culture.
The battle involving Crazy Horse, Sitting Bull, and the American Government impacted them as well. The government wanted to expand into Lakota Sioux land for oil extraction and used violence to remove the people. These people were displaced, killed and traumatized deeply.

Question 70

Outline the central components of religious belief common to most of the Native people of North America.

Answer 70

Many of the religious beliefs of the indigenous people come from creation stories, supernatural beings, and sacred organizations.
As something that they look up to they have many spirits and Gods that guide them through, and their traditional ways are often and usually intertwined within their traditions. Creation stories are an example of how their traditions are tied to their religion. These stories can be anything from Turtle Island, to the sun and the moon. Not only are the stories related to their history and lessons, but also the heavens and humans’ relationship to the earth, and one another.
Sacrifices are something that is commonly used to represent their thankfulness to God.
The religion is very spiritual, and they do many things like throat singing in order to connect deeper with the ideas of the Native people.

Question 71

What can be learned from native culture in terms of respect for nature and the natural environment?

Answer 71

We can learn about respect for nature and the natural environment that they regard as sacred. They also believe that they are one with the natural world and that they need to protect it for future generations.
We can also learn that they take pride in maintaining the land, how they treat it with such respect, and take only what they need and use all of what they take. They also tend to the land regularly and dispose of everything in a sacred way.
By being so connected to the land they sustain a way of life that has a lot of knowledge of the things around them, like nature, which makes them so good at living in the conditions that they live in no matter the weather.

Question 72

Why are Jews considered the chosen people?

Answer 72

The idea states that they have been chosen by God and that they are his special people. This term only applies to the people who worship him and only him, to fulfill his mission of proclaiming the truth.

Question 73

What three things are responsible for the strong identity of the Jewish people?

Answer 73

The Patriarch’s Covenants with God: Abraham, Isaac and Jacob are the 3 patriarchs of Judaism. God promised Abrham promised land (Canaan) and offspring, in return that every male was circumcised, he changed his name from Abram to Abraham, and that he leads all the chosen people. Isaac was born from Abraham and is proof of God’s fulfillment of the covenant. Isaac then would have children who would raise a great nation for God, one of which was Jacob. Jacob was renamed Israel because he wrestled with an Angel and received Isaac’s blessing. Jacob then had 12 sons, who led the 12 tribes of Israel and began the basis of the Israelite nation.
Torah: the sacred writings of Judaism. The word “Torah” is often translated as meaning “law,” “revelation,” “teaching,” or “instruction.” The Torah is used to refer to the Law of Moses, as well as to the entire belief system of the Jewish faith. It’s a description of the development of God’s relationship with his chosen people and the books are the 5 first books of the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament; Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The Torah is significant to Judaism since it is one of their primary sacred writings and they believe that it instructs them on how to live as a Jew.
Shema: The Shema is a central prayer in Judaism that begins with the words “Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is One.” It is significant to Jews because it addresses the fundamental monotheistic belief in the oneness of God, emphasizing devotion and faith. The Shema is recited daily and holds a crucial role in Jewish worship and helps build a strong religious identity by reinforcing a core lesson of Jewish faith and connecting individuals to their heritage through the continuity of this ancient and meaningful prayer.

Question 74

How have the Jews as people been shaped by the immense suffering they endured throughout our history?

Answer 74

Jews throughout our history have suffered from anti-semitism. Examples of this would include:
During Moses’ time, the Jewish community was discriminated against and oppressed as slaves by the Egyptians and the Pharaoh.
The Exile or the Babylonian Captivity is where the Assyrians invaded the territory of Israel, evicted the Jews, and then later captured the Jewish citizens of Judah. The Babylonians also destroyed Solomon’s temple and over 10,000 Jews were taken prisoner and sent into exile in Babylon.
In 70 CE, the Romans overtaxed the Jews, created unjust situations for them and controlled the Second Temple. The Romans then fought the Jewish resistance by destroying the Second Temple.
Europeans forced Jews into neighbourhoods called the ghettos. The ghettos had poor living conditions, overcrowded homes, limited access to resources (food), and was filled with disease. This was done to segregate the Jews into a terrible region, so that they were forced to assimilate their own identity in order to have a better life.
The Holocaust resulted in the death of 6 million Jews. Jewish men were sent to concentration camps produced by Hitler and Nazi Germany. Jews were stripped of belongings, and subjected to working long hours, consuming little to no food, and staying in overcrowded homes. The prisoners were beaten, tortured and humiliated. Some camps killed Jews from non-consensual medical experiments, gas chambers, and alive cremation. At the end, most Jews were so traumatized that they ended their own lives.

Question 75

Name the two major divisions of Islam.

Answer 75

Sunnis: one of the major sects of Islam. The name is derived from the word sunna, which means “well-trodden path.” Sunni groups came into existence after the death of the Prophet. Over time, they have emerged as the most influential group in Islam. They believe in building consensus within the community in order to arrive at a just and equitable society. Sunnis follow the traditions of the Prophet as well as the four schools of Sunni law (Hanafi, Shafi’i, Hanbali and Maliki)
Shias: known as the “party of Ali.” Shi’ahs believe that, prior to the death of Muhammad, the Prophet chose his son-in-law, Ali, as his successor. Ali was not chosen as leader in favour of Abu Bakr creating a political division within the Muslim community. Later, these developed into doctrinal differences. Shi’ahs believe that, after the death of Muhammad, a series of infallible leaders called Imams were to take charge of Islam and guide the community.

Question 76

Describe in detail the Hindu concept of ahimsa and how it is applied through cow worship.

Answer 76

Ahimsa: One of the Buddha’s Five Precepts. Ahimsa is the doctrine of non-violence toward all living beings. It is significant because it is one of the Precepts that Buddhists follow in their daily lives and accounts for Buddhists’ non-violent behaviour.
In Hinduism the cow is considered to be a symbol of wealth, strength, and motherly love, but it is also a symbol of nonviolent generosity.
It is the idea to understand the absence of desire to harm living things. As the hindu’s ideal belief is nonviolence the cow is used as a symbol to represent that and so that they don’t do anything that will harm it.

Question 77

Outline the stages of life for a devout practitioner.

Answer 77

Student: discipline mind and body, gain knowledge, learn rules and rituals of Hinduism, show respect toward Elders.
Householder: marry and have a family, provide for the family, give to charity, care for family elders, practice social and religious traditions
Forest Dweller: retire and transmit household duties to wife or son, read and study, participate in religious pilgrimages
Ascetic: give up worldly life, wander, meditate, attain salvation

Question 78

Describe the 3 major divisions of Buddhism.

Answer 78

Mahayana: one of the schools of Buddhism that came to be after the Buddha’s death. This more liberal school of Buddhism considers the Buddha a divine being and believes that the heavens are populated with buddhas, or divinities, to whom people can pray. Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the role of the Bodhisattvas, or compassionate beings who have almost achieved enlightenment but choose to be reborn in one of the heavens in order to help others who pray to them. They believe that humans are involved with others, the key virtue is compassion, religion is also for the lay person, the ideal being is the Bodhisattva, and that Buddha is a saviour. Aswell, they pray for requests and their scriptures are in Sanskrit.
Theravada: the southern school of Buddhsim. The name Theravada means “the Way of the Elders,” and it is considered the original and more conservative school of Buddhism. In Theravada Buddhism,the emphasis is on the teachings of the Buddha and not the Buddha himself. Theravada Buddhists do not worship the Buddha as a god; they consider him a human figure on whose teachings they pattern their lives. They rely on individual meditation and insight to attain nirvana
Vajrayana: found mostly in Tibet, Bhutan, and Nepal. This school, which emerged at a later date than the other two, is also known as esoteric or Tantric Buddhism because of its emphasis on rituals, such as mantras, and on visualization in creations, such as wall hangings and mandalas. The Vajrayana Buddhist views these visual representations with great concentration in his or her quest to achieve enlightenment.

Question 79

Outline the three stages of Gautama’s life. What experiences led him to each stage?

Answer 79

Life in Luxury: Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as the Buddha, was born into a princely family. He was a prince and lived a very wealthy life in his castle/home, not really being able to experience the world.
The Four Sights and Realization: The turning point in his life came when he encountered the Four Sights which included an old man, a sick person, a corpse, and a wandering ascetic, 3 of which are examples of great suffering, 1 of enlightenment. Disturbed by the suffering he witnessed, Siddhartha renounced his princely life and embarked on a spiritual quest for truth and liberation.
Journey to Enlightenment and His Preaching: After years of ascetic practices, Siddhartha sat under the Bodhi tree, vowing not to rise until he attained enlightenment, which he did, after a night’s rest. This event marked his transformation into the Buddha, the “Awakened One.” Significant to Buddhism, the Buddha’s teachings, known as the Dharma, focus on the Four Noble Truths – the nature of suffering, its cause, its cessation, and the path to its cessation (the Eightfold Path), which is important because it helps guide people to liberate themselves from the cycle of rebirth