Stephanie Young - SORII Preliminary HSC NOTES Table of ...€¦ · 1. Origins of the Universe The...

Stephanie Young - SORII Preliminary HSC NOTES

Table of Contents

Nature of Religion and Beliefs 2

Australian Aboriginal Beliefs and Spiritualities - The Dreaming 5

Religious Tradition - Judaism 8

Origins 8

Principal Beliefs 11

Sacred Texts and Writings 13

Core Ethical Teachings 14

Observance 15

Religious Tradition - Christianity 16

Origins 17




Personal Devotion 23

Religious Tradition - Islam 23

Origins 23




Expression of Faith 29

Religion in Australia - Pre 1945 30

Religious Traditions in Australia 31

Ancient Religions- 34

2.

Nature of Religion and Beliefs

SST DEFINITION

Monotheism Belief that there is only one god.

Polytheism Belief that there is more than one god.

Pantheism The belief that God consists in everyone and everything. That all-things compose

an all-encompassing, immanent god.

Theism The belief in the existence of there being a Supreme Being or deities that rises

above. Believes there is a God who made and governs all creation.

Deity A god or divine being that is perceived as divine or sacred in a specific religion.

Semitic Refers to the Abrahamic religions, including Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Religion A system of beliefs related to the worship of an all-powerful, Supreme Being,

followed by a series of rules and ceremonies that provide its adherents with a

meaning and purpose to life.

Variant A version of something that differs in some respect from other forms of the initial

or standard nature of it.

Doctrine A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a Church, political party or other

group.

Denomination A subgroup within a religion that operates under a common name, tradition, and

identity.

Religion as a Worldview:

The framework of ideas and beliefs through which a religious individual, group or culture interprets the world

and interacts with it. Each religion promotes a unique worldview, to which its adherents comply to.

The Supernatural Dimension:

● The Semitic Religions (Judaism, Christianity & Islam) believe the supernatural dimension is a single

divine power/being.

● The Eastern Religions (Hinduism & Buddhism) derive from an understanding of a number of divine

powers/beings.

● The dimension relies upon a divine revelation or revealed faith, exceeding the laws and capacity of

nature, and cannot be explained in normal terms of the physical world.

3.

● The spiritual dimension can be described as metaphysical or miraculous.

Discuss a Transcendent Religious Worldview, which has a belief in a divine power; powers beyond the human.

● Transcendence is defined as the concept of being existent beyond the universe (physical world) to

which it is perceived as a supernatural element.

● A transcendent religious worldview is one that refers to the Divine as being above or superior to the

world, the highest Being and the ultimate cause of the universe.

○ The central God exists beyond the human world, yet guides humanity through existence. ● Christianity, Judaism and Islam - have a transcendent worldview.

Discuss an Immanent Religious Worldview, which has a belief in a divine being; powers dwelling within an

individual.

● Immanence is defined as the concept of being within; inherited.

● It recognises a divine being or powers as a constant reality – an active and continuing presence among

● believers and this world. (it is present, not beyond the limitations of the universe)

● An immanent worldview is one where a divine being or powers dwell within the individual.

● Buddhism and Hinduism - have an immanent worldview.

Characteristics of Religion:

1. Beliefs and Believers

● Belief defines the worldview of the believer & is central to all religious traditions; makes the

beliefs specifically applicable to that community.

● A believer is somebody that adheres to a religion’s central teaching.

2. Sacred Texts and Writings

● Beliefs and key doctrines derive from the sacred texts and writings.

● At the centre of each religion, there are oral and/or written sacred texts, writings, or other

types of stories that strengthen the specific religion or central tradition.

● Texts contain rules and directions on how to live as well as prayers and rituals central to the

tradition.

3. Rituals and Ceremonies

● Give doctrinal elements a lived expression.

● Celebrate & reinforce the central belief system & structures for that religion, led by religious

leaders.

● Strengthen the adherents relationship with the supernatural.

4. Ethics

● Govern what an adherent of a religion must do & their obligations to their God/s, fellow humans

& their environment. -- Must be applicable to the practical demands of daily life.

● Embodies the doctrines present in the form of ‘laws’.

● Derives from the key values of the religion, ie. sacred text.

4.

How do these characteristics of religion interact to create a dynamic, living religion?

A dynamic religion is one that can be interpreted according to the needs of the times without losing the central

ideas. A living religion is practical, real & immersed in everyday human existence, whilst maintaining its core

beliefs, sacred texts, ethics and rituals. When these characteristics interact, they help to nurture a religion that is

alive, dynamic and active in the lives of its adherents and the society it exists within.

The Contribution of Religion to Individuals, Society & Culture:

Individuals Society & Culture

● Answers life’s profound questions – explains

the creation of the universe, human nature

and life’s purpose.

● An identity, sense of belonging, helps the

person understand what it is to be human.

● Behaviour – how to treat themselves, others

and the environment.

● Present role models, guidance and direction

for individuals to develop their understanding

of their faith and.

● Offers a system of beliefs to help guide

individuals to behave appropriately (Ethics).

● Assists individuals in celebrating significant

life events (Rite of passage, Marriage)

● Defines an individual's attitudes & ideas.

● Contributed greatly to the survival and

development of human kind.

○ Humans have survived and

developed because of their capacity

to make sense of the world around

them and to use various materials to

improve their life.

○ Religion has been one such system by

which humans have made sense of

their place within the universe and

what it is they need to do in order to

survive both here and after death.

● Religion helps maintain order and well-being

for most members of society.

○ Through principal teachings that

acknowledge the ultimate

responsibility of individuals towards a

divine being and their obligations and

duties towards their neighbour,

religion has instructed generations on

the means of preserving peace and

harmony.

○ Human society rests on the essential

basis of maintaining order to ensure

safety & security of its members.

5.

Australian Aboriginal Beliefs and Spiritualities - The Dreaming

SST DEFINITION

Folklore Traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, passed through the

generations by word of mouth.

Everywhen At any or all times the universal operation of Spirit manifested everywhere and

everywhen.

Law The system of rules which a particular country or community recognises as

regulating the actions of its members

Lore A body of traditions and knowledge on a subject or held by a particular group.

Metatemporal A concept which incorporates the past, present and future reality as a complete

and present reality.

Inextricable Impossible to separate or escape from.

All-encompassing Broad in scope and content, as a whole.

The Dreaming is a significant collection of indigenous Australian Aboriginal beliefs that provides its descendants

a social and spiritual base, heightening their cultural heritage. The philosophies of the Dreaming represent their

perceptions on how the world came to be based on the interrelation of all people and all things.

Outline the Nature of the Dreaming in Relation to:

1. Origins of the Universe

● The Dreaming explains the creation of the physical world having been the actions of ancestral

beings.

● No sense of creation or the first creator.

● The origins of the Dreaming are metatemporal as its teachings are still represented, even though

they derive from over 50 000 years ago.

2. Sacred Sites

● An individual’s connection to the land, which gives life, food & shelter & is where their ancestors

dwell. Sacred sites carry significance because of the association with various dreaming events.

● Aboriginals are responsible to care and learn from these sites.

3. Stories of the Dreaming

● Stories, songs, art and ceremonies recall the journeys of ancestral beings such as shaping the

land, laying down the law and prominent responsibilities.

● When Aboriginal communities take part in kinship, song, dance, art, rituals and stories, it reflects

how the

6.

● Dreaming is a lifelong process.

● Since ancestors never disappeared this makes the Dreaming a never ending story, linking the

past, present and future

○ “Our story is in the land ... it is written in those sacred places ... My children will look

after those places, That's the law.” – Bill Neidjie, Kakadu elder.

● EXAMPLE:. ○ The Rainbow Serpent: The serpent is pictured as a being representing the divinity. It is

depicted as the creator and protector of all people; and the punisher of law breakers.

This specific creation story indicated to those of Aboriginal descent they were to obey

the various rules created to receive the reward of new life, this is represented in the

story through the animals being turned into humans once they display a recurring

obedience.

○ The serpent is the giver of life due to its ongoing connection to all the natural elements

on our earth; it sends conception spirits to all the watercourses, as it is in control of

producing rainfall.

4. Symbolism and Art

● Art played a significant role in the vital traditions and ceremonies of Aboriginal life, it was

perceived as a supernatural power granted by their ancestral beings.

● Most artworks contain a heavy amount of mythological symbolism (they represent stories of

supernatural beings and events:

○ 1st layer – obvious and open to everyone

○ The lower layer – some degree of experience or relationship with Aboriginal people or

culture

○ The deepest layer – only available to the Elders. They are sacred and therefore

protected and secret. Only initiated Elders can fully understand and appreciate the full

story and understand the meaning and significance of it

● Explains the creation of the natural world and laws.

Discuss the Diversity of the Dreaming for Aboriginal peoples

● There were over 500 different clan groups or 'nations' around the continent, many with distinctive

cultures, beliefs and languages.

● As a result of this, the Dreaming stories developed from each nation differ greatly as they each have

different accounts of the Dreaming through their different dialects.

Recognise the importance of the Dreaming for the life of Aboriginal Peoples

● Envelopes the most essential aspects of their society such as creation, history, ancestry, folklore, laws,

rituals, ceremonies, culture and philosophy.

● Dreaming gives an identity and meaning to Aboriginal life & sets the law for the present.

● All their rules, laws, way of life and humanitarian way of being is shaped by the stories and experiences

that occurred throughout The Dreaming.

7.

Investigate the inextricable connection of the Dreaming, the land & identity

● The sacred land is immensely significant to the Aboriginal people as their beliefs and dwellings of their

Ancestral Beings; whom were the believed creators of the universe, reside in these landforms.

● From the Aboriginal attitude to the environment, we can infer that respect was a key characteristic in

their way of life not only to the communities they surrounded themselves with, but with the

environment.

● Aboriginal people refer to the land as their mother as the land nurtures them and is the provider of all

human needs. Everything they required to survive was derived from the environment, the land.

○ The land provides them with identity.

Spirituality VS. Religion

● Religion and Spirituality ARE NOT the same thing.

RELIGION SIMILARITIES SPIRITUALITY

● What practices and rites

should I adhere to?

● What is right and wrong?

● What is true and false?

● Belief

● Comfort

● Reflection

● Ethics

● Where do I find meaning?

● How do I feel connected?

● How should I live?

● To seek meaning with

something bigger than

yourself.

● Having a sense of peace and

purpose.

● Gaining perspective.

8.

Religious Tradition - Judaism

SST DEFINITION

Bri’t Jewish term for covenant

Halakah Jewish Law

Gemara Further commentaries elaborating on the Mishnah

Kiddush Prayer over wine to sanctify the Shabbat

Messiah The awaited Saviour of the Jewish nation.

Mishnah Compilation of the oral law recorded by Rabbi Judah around 200 CE

Mitzvot The 613 commandments prescribed to Moses; mitzvah is one.

Tikkun Olam Jewish concept meaning, repairing the world.

Torah First five books of the Hebrew Scriptures, or TaNak, containing the Law.

Origins

Outline the life of Abraham

● Abraham's encounters with God:

● God promises Abraham that:

○ He will become the head of a great nation.

○ God will provide him with a land of his own, the Promised Land of Canaan. God then instructs

him to leave his own territory in southern Mesopotamia.

● In Hebron, God promises that:

○ Abraham's descendents will be as numerous as the stars, in response to Abraham's plea for a

child from his marriage to Sarah, despite their advanced years.

● Following the birth of Ishmael, Abraham encounters God again where the promise of descendants is

reaffirmed. Abraham is obliged to walk in the presence of God and be blameless. This covenant is known

as the covenant of circumcision.

● God requests the sacrifice of Isaac, the only son of Abraham and Sarah, and Abraham complies with this

command. At the last minute the angel of God intervenes and saves Isaac from death. God reaffirms the

dual promise of descendants and land in response to Abraham's fidelity.

9.

Describe the Covenant with the Patriarchs

● Importance of the covenant - the Covenant lies at the heart of the Jewish religion.

● It expresses the intimate relationship between God and the people of Israel that is the cornerstone of

Judaism.

● The keeping of the mitzvot of the Torah is now the fundamental measure of fidelity to the Covenant.

● There are four major covenants recorded in the Hebrew Bible:

○ Noah

■ God's saving actions - Saves Noah and his family from the flood.

■ God's promise - The earth will be destroyed again by flood.

■ Obligation - Noah and his descendants are called upon to live according to the ways of

God, by tending to and caring for God's creation.

○ Abraham

■ God's promise - Abraham's descendants will be as numerous as the stars and will lead to

the formation of a great nation. This will begin with the birth of Isaac, whose son Jacob

is the father of the twelve tribes of Israel.

● To live in the promised land of Canaan.

■ Obligation - Abraham is required in the presence of God and be blameless.

○ Sinai covenant with Moses following the Exodus.

○ Covenant with David regarding the Monarchy.

Outline the story of the Exodus and the giving of the law at Sinai, including the Ten Commandments

● Exodus is defined as a going out. The story of Exodus is the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery by

the Egyptians. It's key highlight of the story is the Israelites being led out of Egypt to the promised land.

● Exodus starts off with Pharaoh's daughter discovering an abandoned child, who she chooses to nurse

and name Moses. Over time, God becomes concerned for the immense suffering of the Israelites and

appears to Moses in the form of a burning bush. He informs Moses of his plan to return the Israelites to

Canaan; “a land flowing with milk and honey”.

● Moses confronts Pharaoh demanding the release of the Hebrew people, but Pharaoh just increases the

workload. God responds by inflicting the 10 Plagues of Egypt; Egypt’s livestock with a disease, creates

festering boils on humans and animals, and sends thunder, hail, and fire that destroy crops, livestock,

and people. God sends swarms of locusts, and covers Egypt with “a darkness that can be felt” (10:21).

● The tenth and final plague kills all the firstborn males in Egypt. Before the plague, Moses instructs the

Hebrew people to cover their doorposts in the blood of a sacrificed lamb as a sign for the angel to spare

their homes from the killings. This day is commemorated as the festival of Passover, named for God’s

protection from the final plague.

10.

● The Israelites quickly fled Egypt after the incident, in the case that Pharaoh changed his mind; to which

he did. Moses, at God’s bidding, parts the sea for the people to cross. Pharaoh follows and Moses

closes the waters back again, drowning the Egyptian army. Witnessing the miracle, the people decide to

trust Moses.

● Once the Israelites and Moses arrive at Mt Sinai, Moses makes his way up to receive two tablets from

God with the ten commandments inscribed onto them. God explains to Moses that if the people will

obey these regulations, he will keep his covenant with Israel and will go with them to retrieve from

the Canaanites the land promised to Abraham. Once Moses comes down, he is furious to find that the

Israelites and Aaron have now erected a new idol; a direct defiance of the ten commandments.

● At Moses’s discretion, the Israelites renew their commitment to the covenant by erecting a tabernacle

to God according to the exact specifications God has outlined. God planned to destroy the people,

however, Moses intercedes on the Israelites’ behalf, begging God to relent and to remember his

covenant God provided them with the commandments as He decided that the Israelites needed a code

to live by as they were committing despicable acts of disobedience against Him.

The unique features of Conservative, Progressive and Orthodox Judaism

FEATURE ORTHODOX [LARGEST]

CONSERVATIVE [TRADITIONAL] PROGRESSIVE [REFORM AND LIBERAL]

Number of

Adherents

Worldwide:

● 2.5 million people identify as

an Orthodox Jew worldwide.

● Approximately 1.1 millions

Jews worldwide identify

themselves as Conservative

Jews.

● 2.2 Million Jews identify

themselves as

Progressive Jews.

Role of

Women:

● Mainstream Orthodox Jews

are yet to have women in

positions of leadership yet in

recent years there has been a

push for change.

● Women are prohibited from

being a Rabbi. ● Highest position for women is

a rabbi advocate [assistant]

● Orthodox rabbis discourage

women from wearing a

kippah, tallit or tefillin

● Modesty is vastly important

for women practicing

Orthodox Judaism; referring

to the clothing they wear.

● Most Orthodox women only

wear long skirts, and avoid

wearing trousers.

● Married Orthodox women

cover their hair with a scarf

● Allowed to be called up for

the reading of the Torah,

except on Shabbat.

● Can become a Rabbi

advocate and Rabbi.

● Can be counted as part of a

minyan

● Encouraged to wear a tallit

and tefillin.

● Believes strongly in the

equality of men and

women. ● Women can be Rabbis,

or Rabbi advocates.

● Women can wear a tallit.

● Women may perform

many rituals traditionally

reserved for men.

● In many Progressive and

Reform synagogues,

adult women count as

part of the minyan.

11.

[tichel], hat, beret or even a

wig.

Authority of

Sacred Text:

● The sacred text plays a major

role for Orthodox Jews as

they believe the words of God

are timeless and have no

need to be adapted.

● Torah is not flexible and is the

strict law

● Believed to be written directly

by God.

● Halakah is binded in all

aspects, unless it goes against

Civil laws.

● For conservative Jews, the

Torah is still of immense

value to the traditions and

primary authority to Jewish

life.

● They believe that when

studying the Torah, it

shouldn’t always be

through the eyes of their

ancestors as it doesn’t

‘correspond’ with their

modern lifestyle. ● Similarly to traditional

Judaism, the governance of

Jewish life guided by

Halakah [Laws.]

● The Hebrew Bible

beyond Deuteronomy

may be an authoritative

text, but it does not have

the final authority over

the Progressive and/or

Reform movement.

● Only ethical aspects are

binding, however,

additional aspects may

be adapted into daily life

by the individual’s own

choice.

Principles

and

Objectives:

● The significant core belief is

that there is One single,

omniscient, transcendent,

non-compound God, who

created the universe, and

continues to be concerned

with its governance.

● Practices traditional

Judaism.

● Is influenced by the

contemporary societies of

today, so that it can be

interpreted by adherents

and more relatable.

● That Judaism and Jewish

traditions should be

modernised and made

compatible with the

surrounding culture.

● Encourages to choose the

ways to be Jewish that

mean the most to them.

● Primacy of the Jewish

ethical tradition over the

obligations of Halakah.

Additional

Notes:

● Orthodox Jews do not believe

that Reform or Conservative

Judaism are correct because

they believe that the laws

given by God are timeless, and

can't be changed.

● Lays 'in between’

traditional practices of

Orthodox and Progressive

Judaism.

● The Reform movement

rejects the idea that

Halakah is the sole

legitimate form of Jewish

decision making, and

holds that Jews can and

must consider their

conscience and ethical

principles inherent in the

Jewish tradition when

deciding upon a right

course of action.

● Focuses on being socially

just and politically

correct, due to its choice

of ethical traditions over

adhering to Jewish law.

12.

Principal Beliefs

Discuss the belief in the one God and the attributes of God

The centrality of this belief is reflected in the prayer, the Shema, “Hear O Israel; The Lord in our God, the Lord is

One.”

12 ATTRIBUTES OF GOD

ATTRIBUTE DEFINITION VERSE

1. Omnipotent God is all-powerful and perfect in that He can do all

things consistent with the perfection of His being.

Job 42:2

“I know that you can do all things and

that no purpose of yours can be

thwarted.”

2. Omniscient God knows everything. He is perfect in that He knows

all things, including events before they happen.

Job 37:16

“Do you know the balancings of the

clouds, the wondrous works of the

one whose knowledge is perfect”

3. Omnipresen

t

God is perfect in that He transcends all space and

spatial limitations, and is thus infinite with respect to

space, with His whole Being filling every part of the

universe and being present everywhere.

Psalm 139:7-8

“Where can I go from your spirit? Or

where can I flee from your presence?

If I ascend to heaven, you are there.”

4. Eternal God is perfect in that He transcends all time and

temporal limitations, and is thus infinite with respect to

time.

Psalm 90:2

“Before the mountains were brought

forth, or ever you had formed the

earth and the world, from everlasting

to everlasting you are God.”

5. One God is a perfectly unique and simple being, existing as

one infinite Being called God. There is therefore only

one God, who reveals Himself in the persons of the

Father, Son and Holy Spirit in the New Testament.

Deuteronomy 6:4

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God,

the Lord alone.”

6. Creator God is the One through whom all things have come into

existence, the creator of everything and all in our world.

Genesis 1:1

“In the beginning when God created

the heavens and the earth.”

7. Just and

Merciful

Judaism adheres to the belief that God is tempered by

mercy. He has always upheld the qualities of justice and

mercy.

Luke 6:36

“Be merciful, just as your Father is

13.

merciful.”

8. Holy and

Perfect

[benevolent]

God’s moral nature is perfectly unified. He is all good,

completely separate from evil. Righteous and pure.

Matthew 5:48

“Be perfect, therefore, as your

heavenly Father is perfect.”

9. Father and

King

Judaism maintains that Jews are God’s children. The

Talmud teaches that there are three participants in the

formation of every human being: the mother and the

father, providing physical form, and God, who provides

the soul -> born in the likeness of Him.

Isaiah 44:6

“Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel,

and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts:

I am the first and I am the last;

besides me there is no god.”

10. Neither

Male or

Female

Directly followed by the belief of God being incorporeal.

God has no body, no genitalia. The idea that God is

male or female is patently absurd.

11. Existent Judaism views the existence of God as a necessary

prerequisite for the existence of the universe. The

universe is sufficient proof of the existence of God.

Exodus 3:14

“God said to Moses, “I am who I

am.”[a] He said further, “Thus you

shall say to the Israelites, ‘I am has

sent me to you.’

12. Incorporeal God has no body or parts, and is immaterial, being a

simple and infinite being of spirit.

Exodus 20:4

“You shall not make for yourself an

idol, whether in the form of anything

that is in heaven above, or that is on

the earth beneath, or that is in the

water under the earth.”

Outline the concept of a divinely inspired moral law

● Judaism is a comprehensive way of life, filled with rules and practices that affect every aspect of life. In

Judaism, Halakha is perceived as the Jewish Law, directly translating to "the path that one walks".

Judaism practices the concept of ethical monotheism. This means that there is a single God that

prescribes a series of commandments, which in this case are the 613 mitzvot, further constituting a

moral law for humanity that creates a religious significance to everyday activities.

● In Judaism, it is believed that practicing the Judaism laws and rituals increase the spirituality in an

individual's life as it makes daily activities exude a religious significance. For example, when you pray

after meals, keep Kosher or light the Shabbat candle, you are reminded of your relationship with the

Divine and inspired as it becomes an integral aspect of your existence.

14.

Identify the importance of Covenant for the Jewish People

[sample Response: 180-200 words]*

The concept of covenant is a fundamental tenet of faith in Judaism, shaping its foundation, instigating the

perception that Jews are the chosen ones. The three most sacred covenants in Judaism are the Noahic

Covenant, Abrahamic Covenant and Mosaic Covenant. The idea of covenant provides a foundation for the

ethics and morality of the religion. The covenant made between God and Noah was that he pledged to never

flood the earth again, to which Noah vows to nourish the land in stewardship; highlighting God's covenant of

righteousness by faith. Additionally, the Abrahamic Covenant depicts the idea of faith in God. He promised to

make Abraham the father of a great people and in return, Abraham and his descendants must obey God,

enriching the idea of adhering to one God, as stated in the 10 commandments and Shema. Finally, the Mosaic

covenant is significant in the belief of Jews that God acted through Moses, where he delivered the

requirements he expected of the Jews. The key principle that derives from these covenants exhibits to Jews that

they are to live their lives in a way to show the world that there is only one omnipotent God, whom all

individuals should follow and worship.

Sacred Texts and Writings

Identify the importance of: The Hebrew Bible + The Talmud


Judaism adherents follow a series of sacred texts and writings that encapsulate the teachings of Judaism,

allowing Jews to attain guidance and instruction. The key text is the Tanakh, also known as the Hebrew Bible; it

has 39 books. The Tenakh is divided into three sections, the Torah, the Neviuum and the Ketuvim. The Torah

consists of the 5 books of Moses; outlining the 613 mitzvot which the Jewish laws and lore are extracted from.

The Neviuum includes the history and writings of the Prophets, who are the Chosen people of God. They were

ordered by God to provide messages and call to account those who have strayed from the principle teachings of

the Torah. This section of the Tanakh contains 19 books, some of these include Micah, Zechariah and Jeremiah.

The final part of the Tenakh is the Ketuvim, these are the writings of wisdom literature which provide insight.

Throughout the 15 books found in this section, most of the wisdom is derived from the poetry in Psalms and

Proverbs.

The Talmud is another form of sacred text, which is the development of oral teachings. It is formed through the

Mishnah and Gemara. This specific text was transmitted orally by the rabbis of the preceding four centuries,

until it was written down to be an analytic exegesis of the Torah. The gemara is made up of three sections, the

Babylonian, the Jerusalem and the Palestinian. The Talmud provides explanations of the Torah and the rules and

regulations of Jewish life. Unlike the Tenakh, much of the Talmudic discourse is in Aramaic and the

commentaries on this work are copious. In conclusion, the Tenakh and Talmud are the principal texts of Judaism

as it contains the core beliefs and provides guidance to the Jewish way of life.

Examine Extracts from the Hebrew Scriptures that demonstrate the principal beliefs of Judaism

15.

Belief in a single

God who is the

creator and ruler of

the universe.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9.

The first verse of this passage is one of the most important for Judaism. It is known as

the shema, taken from the Hebrew word for "hear". It begins with the imperative

"hear O Israel the Lord our God, the Lord is one".

The concept of a

moral law

prescribed by God

The same passage indicates the life giving character of the law "choose life, then, that

you and your descendents may live, by loving the Lord, your God, heeding his voice

and holding fast to him". Deuteronomy 30:19-20

The people of Israel are taught that to live by the requirements of God's law is a live

giving choice. To disregard the law is to put their lives in jeopardy.

The idea of the

Covenant

Genesis 17:4

Contains the tradition of the Covenant with Abraham. In verse 4, God promises that

Abraham will become "the father of a host of nations".

The Covenant also includes the promise of land; "I will give to you and to your

descendents after you the land in which you are now staying, the whole land of

Canaan as a permanent possession. Genesis 17:8

Core Ethical Teachings

Outline principal ethical teachings in Judaism

What are ethics? What are ethical teachings?

● Religious ethics are the moral principles that guide religions and that set the standard for what is and

isn't acceptable behaviour. These fundamental principles derive and flow from the core beliefs and

ancient wisdom of the specific religion.

TIKKUN OLAM:

Tikkun Olam is a concept in Judaism; [Hebrew for “world repair”] has come to connote social action and the

pursuit of social justice. Specifically reflecting the requirement for adequate stewardship throughout Judaism.

CONCEPT DEFINITION ETHICAL TEACHING APPLICATION IN DAILY LIFE

Shmita This is a central cycle of Judaism, the

seventh year in which Jews are called to rest

from the sixth years prior. In the Torah Jews

are called to work the land for six days of

the week and take the day off on the

seventh as God did when he created the

earth.

By asking how your

behaviours affect the

world, in either a positive

or negative sense and

what changes can be

implemented is how Jews

obtain ethical behaviour

during the year of Shmita.

Nowadays Shmita is used as a

means of understanding the

commitments that one has in

terms of the land. The ethical

issue in real life that is being

addressed by Jews through

Shmita is the global and

environmental problems of

16.

the twenty-first century.

Tzedakah This means the justice actions and

behaviour as well as the ways in which

ethical teachings are applied to one's life

considering those less fortunate in a society

including those of disabilities,

homelessness, destitute and the general

public who are in need of assistance.

[Acts of charity, righteousness, justice and

fairness.]

Possesses great

importance to Jewish

culture is significant as

noted through the

praising of practicing

tzedakah by the Rabbi’s,

“equal in value to all the

other mitzvot combined.”

This displays the value of

tzedakah to Jews, too, its

connection to ethical

matters in real life.

For instance, a way in which

practicing tzedakah is through

the recognition of acting upon

a small, or large, societal issue

such as picking up rubbish,

assisting elderly and

showcasing attempts to repair

the world.

How would a Jew make an ethical decision?

● The Torah is the cynosure of Jewish principles and ethics; to which it comprises the Halakah. There are a

multitude of inducements and reasons as to why a Jew would inaugurate ethical decisions throughout

their life. The belief of God’s involvement in moral issues bestows Jews with an ethical thinking passion

beyond what is found in countless other traditions and practices. Ethics are concerned with human

values and behaviour, and Jewish ethics define correct Jewish behaviour. From Biblical times, the

Halakah strove to raise the moral conscience of the people through prescription and exhortation. The

tradition of Jewish ethics relies on biblical precedents.

● Jews are often called the “people of the book”, as their daily decisions often refer back to their sacred

texts. The greatest sources of authority for practicing Jews of today are the Torah and the Talmud. The

Torah inspires and commands the Jews with their way of right, referring back to decision making, via the

ten commandments that instructed the Jews how to live on the promised land along with moral and

ethical guidance.

● Throughout the entirety of Judaism, the expression of ethical requirements is made so vast that it

intensifies the importance of a steadfast devotion to God, to which it becomes concomitant and through

His moral guidance, strengthens the relationship between a Jew and God.

○ An example of applying this in daily life is following the fourth commandment of leaving the

Sabbath day holy. The main instruction is to not work, just as God rested from Creation on the

seventh day; therefore you honour God by not working on the Sabbath but reflecting your

ethical and moral decisions.

17.

Observance

Describe the importance of Shabbat

[make reference to assessment task #1]*

Shabbat is a tenet to Judaism and is depicted by a vast majority of Judaism adherents as the centrepiece of their

life. The Shabbat occurs on the seventh day of the Jewish week, it is a day of rest and abstention from any form

of work. It is the most important ritual observance in Judaism as it is inaugurated into the Ten Commandments.

These consist of Exodus 20:8, “Remember the Sabbath day, to sanctify it” also known as Zachor and

Deuteronomy 5:12, “Observe the sabbath day, to sanctify it” which is Shamor.

Zachor commands the Jewish people to remember the significance of Shabbat. This is the remembrance of

God’s divine nature in being the Creator and to commemorate the exodus of the Israelites from slavery in

Egypt, which is the paradigm of the Covenant between God and the People of Israel. By resting on the Shabbat,

Jews are reminded that they are free. Exodus 31:16 states “Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the

sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.”; this verse

encompasses the importance of the Shabbat for the Jewish people to remember and rejoice the promises of

God.

Shamor commands the Jews to not complete any forbidden labours in order to preserve the sanctity of this

liturgical day. This commandment prohibits any form of Melacha. This Hebraic word refers to work that is

creative or in relation to gaining superiority over the environment; a conventional example of this is the

Creation story found throughout the entirety of Genesis.

Additionally, in Exodus 31:17, it states that ‘for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the

seventh day He ceased from work and rested.’ As God refrained from working on the seventh day, the Shabbat

imitates this divine act, exemplifying its importance. As a result of God’s benevolence and in being the Creator

of all, the Jews thank him for the gifts derived from the Shabbat and uphold its importance within their lives by

commemorating the freedom granted by God and his creations.

18.

Religious Tradition - Christianity

SST DEFINITION

Apostles The twelve men chosen by Jesus.

Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip,

Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called

the Zealot, Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.

Canonical Belonging to the canon of Sacred Scripture.

Consubstantiation Believe that the ‘Lord’s Supper’, remains truly bread and wine but is a symbolic

reference to Jesus’ body and blood.

Gentiles Non-Jews or pagans.

Immanent The quality of being present within, or remaining within the boundaries of a

person, of the world or of the mind; God is with us.

Omnipotent Being all-powerful, almighty and supreme. [unlimited power]

Omnipresent Widespread and constantly present, both infinite and everywhere at all times.

Omniscient All-knowing, to know everything and be wise.

Purgatory Place of purification after death prior to entering heaven.

Redemption The salvation through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.

Sanctification Described as one's sharing in the divine life; holiness.

Transcendent Beyond or above the range of normal or physical human experience, a trait of a

divine being.

Transubstantiation The belief that the Eucharist is the blood and body of Christ.

Origins

Outline the historical and cultural context in which Christianity began

● Power and organisation of Judaism was largely centred in Jerusalem

● Authority was divided amongst a number of groups who sought to control the direction of the religion.

● Lack of unity was, in part, the result of centuries of political domination by the Greeks and then the

Romans in Palestine.

● Jesus who sought to renew the Jewish religion in the spirit of the prophets, came to be seen as the

Messiah by his followers

19.

GROUP DESCRIPTION

Zealots ● Group of political activist seeking to overthrow the Romans through military methods in favour of a Jewish theocracy

Pharisees ● Devout lay people seeking a more pure expression of Judaism

Scribes ● Professional class of copyists and teachers of the law ● Addressed as Rabbi

Sadducees ● Had majority representation on the Sanhedrin

Messiah ● Person who was anointed by a prophet of God

Essenes ● Live apart from fellow Jews in a type of religious monastic community

Sanhedrin ● Type of council or senate, political and judicial body with authority of Jews outside Palestine as well as within

Examine the principal events of Jesus’ life

● The five major milestones in the New Testament narrative of the life of Jesus are his Baptism,

Transfiguration, Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension.

Explain why Jesus is the model for Christian life

● Jesus was an individual that showcased numerous examples, heightening his model for Christian life.

EXAMPLE EXPLANATION SCRIPTURE

Jesus is the

embodiment of

the reign of God

The reign of God is central to the preaching of Jesus and

is at the heart of his life and ministry. This reign of God,

often referred to as the Kingdom of God, can be

understood in simple terms as the realisation of God's

vision or dream for the world.

Mark 1:15

“The time is fulfilled, and the

kingdom of God has come

near; repent, and believe in

the good news.”

Christians model

Jesus' attitude to

prayer

The gospel portraits of Jesus show him to be a man of

prayer. Jesus teaches his disciples some important

principles of prayer and famously he teaches them how

to pray. He often withdraws from the pressures of daily

life to pray in a quiet place, as seen in Luke 5:16. [“But

Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”]

Matthew 26:39

“And going a little farther,

he threw himself on the

ground and prayed, “My

Father, if it is possible, let

this cup pass from me; yet

not what I want but what

you want.”

Ministry of Jesus is

characterised by

service to others

In the Jewish tradition, there is a strong ethical dimension

which calls upon people to stand up for the needs of the

poor and disadvantaged. This tradition is embraced

Mark 1:40

[Jesus cleanses a Leper]

20.

emphatically in the ministry of Jesus who makes this a

central characteristic of his ministry. The gospels provide

many examples of Jesus taking the side of the poor and

oppressed.

“Moved with pity, Jesus

stretched out his hand and

touched him, and said to

him, “I do choose. Be made

clean!”

Jesus' attitude of

love and

forgiveness is a

model for

Christian life.

The final example which highlights the role of Jesus as a

model for Christian life has to do with an attitude of love

and forgiveness of others.

Matthew 22:39

“You shall love your

neighbor as yourself.”

Describe the early development of Christian communities after the death of Jesus

● The Jesus movement which lasted from approximately 30-60 CE describes a period immediately

following the death of Jesus where the infant Christian community saw itself as a sect which existed

within the Jewish tradition.

● Small groups of Palestinian Jews followed Jesus through the preaching of disciples such as Peter in and

around Palestine.

● Paul is typically considered as the second founder of Christianity as he helped to set up the structure of

this new religion.

● The Council of Jerusalem in 49 CE formally resolved the debate which divided the Pauline and Palestinian

groups. The Council accepted Paul's argument that Gentiles need not undergo circumcision in order to

become Christians. This Council is an attempt to overcome differences within the infant Church. Despite

the formal resolution of the problem the tensions between the two early communities continued for

some time

● The New Testament period which lasted from approximately 45 to 100 CE saw the gradual formalisation

and centralisation of the Christian Churches which meant that this new religion was increasingly seen as

distinct and separate from Judaism.

Outline the unique features of the following denominations:

DENOMINATION ORIGINS CORE BELIEFS UNIQUE FEATURES

Anglicanism

e.g.

Church of

England, 'High

Church'

Anglicans,

'Middle Church'

The Anglican Church was the

result of Henry VIII splitting

from the Roman Catholic

Church in 1534, due to the

beliefs of the Catholic Church

in dismissing divorce

[annulment].

● The adherents may

choose what beliefs

and behaviours suit

their preference.

● Free to reject or accept

the Catholic doctrines

of Mary.

● Approves the

ordination of women.

● Priests may marry.

● The Book of Common

Prayer is the standard

for liturgy.

21.

Anglicans, and

the Evangelical

or 'Low Church'

Anglicans

● Souls of the faithful

need to be purified in

order to experience full

communion with God.

● Scripture contains the

truth that is necessary

for salvation and is the

foundation of faith.

● The eternal son Jesus;

fully God and fully

man, died on the cross

for our sins, rose bodily

from the grave and

ascended to heaven, to

which he will come

again in glory to judge

the world.

● The Holy Trinity - one

God in three persons.

(Father, Son and Holy

Spirit

● The sacraments are

“outward and visible

signs of inward and

spiritual grace.”

● In order to share in

Christ’s victory for

reconciling his

adherents with God

by Jesus dying for

their sins, they are

baptised to become

living members of the

church.

Catholicism

e.g.

Latin(Roman)

Rite, Armenian

Rite(Armenian

Church),

Byzantine

Rite(Russian

Church

The Christian Church was

founded by Saint Peter and his

successors [the Popes in

Rome] With the papal primacy

of Pope Gregory the Great

taking into view as the first

leader of the entire church

[c540-604].

The Bible is inspired by and

revealed word of God.

● God’s Ten

Commandments

provide a moral

compass - an ethical

standard for adherents

to live by.


God in three person

● The divinity of Jesus-

being both divine and

human at the same

time.

● Mary is regarded as the

Mother of the Church

and receives much

● Papal primacy - the

Pope is the supreme,

infallible leader over

the Catholic Church.

● Baptism removes

original sin

● The Eucharist is the

blood and body of

Christ

[transubstantiation]

22.

devotion and

veneration.

● Jesus sacrificed his life

to save Christians from

sins.

Orthodoxy

e.g.

Armenian, Greek

and Russian

Orthodox

Churches

The forming of Constantinople

as the Capital of the Byzantine

Capital became the seat of the

Patriarch. Leading to the

founding of the Eastern

Orthodox Church in 1054 AD,

the Great Schism.

● The Bible is inspired by and revealed word of God.


God in three persons.

● The divinity of Jesus- being both divine and human at the same time.

● God became human so

that they may be deified(theosis: union with God).

● Archbishop of Constantinople is the head of all Eastern Orthodox Churches

● Baptism initiated the

existence of God in those baptized(typically when an infant)

● The changing of the

bread and wine into the body and blood in the Eucharist is regarded as a mystery left to be unexplained.

Pentecostalism

e.g.

Assemblies of

God, Hillsong,

Christian City

Church

Protestantism, America 1900s

(Pentecostal = Holy Spirit)

● Role of the Holy Spirit

in worship/service

● Singing and Music etc

linked to worship

● Preaching as a focus

of testimony

● Pastors are married.

Protestantism

e.g.

Lutheran,

Calvinist, Baptist

Churches,

Methodism

Protestantism began

throughout the 16th Century

as a reaction to medieval

Roman Catholic doctrines and

practices, to which it soon

evolved into a multitude of

variants throughout Northern

Europe.

It experienced a heightened

power within Christianity as

the number of adherents grew

dramatically throughout the

religious wars of the 16th,

17th and 19th century.

● Scripture is the authoritative witness, with no error, to the gospel.

● The Holy Trinity - one God in three persons.

● The souls of believers upon dying go immediately to be with Christ, at Christ’s return their bodies ascend to immortal and eternal life.

● Believe that the ‘Lord’s Supper’, remains truly bread and wine but is a symbolic reference to Jesus’ body and blood. (consubstantiation).

● Insist that only believers should be baptised, therefore the belief on adult baptism is heightened.

● All believers are depicted as ‘priests’ in that they have direct access to God.

● Some members may choose to only accept Mary’s immaculate conception, but not other doctrines revolving Mary.

23.

● Baptism is necessary

for salvation.

Principal Beliefs

Outline the principal beliefs regarding the divinity and humanity of Jesus Christ

● This is a reference to Jesus’ divinity because He is co-eternal with God.

○ “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” - John

1:1

● He had to be human so that he could die for our sins. This reveals human traits.

○ “Jesus wept” - John 11:35

● Jesus’ ministry proves His divinity in several ways especially being in His many miracles performed.

○ Wedding at Cana - John: 2:1:

● Jesus’ divinity is shown through various gospel passages where he heals individuals. This is a divine trait

that he possesses.

○ Jesus Heals a Man With Leprosy - Matthew 8: 1-4

● Humanity is shown through Jesus’ pain and struggle.

○ Carrying the cross - John 19:17-42

● Catholics believe that Jesus is both human and divine at all times.

● Pentecostalism adheres to the inerrancy of the Bible and the necessity of accepting Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Saviour.

● The faith of the Orthodox Church is that Jesus Christ is fully human, that He is a real man. However, Catholics believe that Jesus is not a “mere man,” but that He is the eternal, divine Son of God.

Explain the importance of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for Christians

● The foundations of Christianity derive from the belief of the death and resurrection of Jesus after three

days.

○ “Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even

though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” - John 11:25-26

● Sinful humans can be reconciled to God, and thereby are offered salvation and the promise of eternal

life through this divine act of Christ.

○ “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all

died. And he died for all” - 2 Corinthians 5:14-15

24.

● Proving that God has the power to provide humanity with life after death, allowing Christians to have

hope.

○ “In Christ, Christians 'have tasted ... the powers of the age to come' and their lives are swept up

by Christ into the heart of divine life”. CCC #655

● Jesus' resurrection affirms his divine nature

○ “Christ's resurrection is essentially different. In his risen body he passes from the state of death

to another life beyond time and space. At Jesus' resurrection his body is filled with the power of

the Holy Spirit”. CCC #646

● Protestant Christians believe that salvation can be earned through strong faith in Christ, whereas Catholic Christians believe that one must also engage in good works or deeds. -

● The souls of believers upon dying go immediately to be with Christ, at Christ’s return their bodies ascend to immortal and eternal life. - This refers to the Catholic belief of Purgatory; whereas, Protestants reject this belief and believe solely in just Heaven and Hell.

● Protestants believe that once accepted into eternal life, there is no way to possibly jeopardise your position.

● Removal of original sin - open the gateway to heaven. [Catholicism]

● Protestants use the cross in their holy place to emphasis the rising of Jesus ● Catholics use crucifix in their holy place to emphasis that pain and death of Jesus

Outline the beliefs about the nature of God and the Trinity

● The doctrine of the Trinity states that God is One existing as three persons, God the Father, Jesus the

Son and the Holy Spirit as sanctifier and is a central tenet of Christian belief.

● God the Father is revealed in the Hebrew Scriptures

● God the Son is revealed in the Christian Scriptures

● God the Spirit is revealed in the Church

● God was always trinity, however gradually this reality became known through revelation.

● “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one

and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” - John 1:14

● “For there are three that testify: 8 the Spirit, the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement.” -

John 5:7-8

25.

Examine the Christian understanding of revelation

● The Revelation of God is a continuous process through which Christian adherents are called to live

according to His will and in unconditional love with all humankind, just as Jesus did. Revelation is the

way in which the Divinity was disclosed to human existence.

● In comparison with Protestant denominations, Orthodox and Catholic denominations place a greater

emphasis on the teaching authority of the Church, which is seen to be adjunct with the sacred scripture

in communicating the revelation.

● Significantly, the word and flesh of Christ is made known through scripture. In John 20:30-31, it states

that through believing that Jesus is the Messiah and that believers will be granted eternal life in his

name. This specific scripture verse ultimately explains that the stories of Jesus’ life in the bible are to

strengthen the Christian belief in God.

○ “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in

this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God,

and that by believing you may have life in his name.” - John 20:30-31

Describe the Christian understanding of salvation

● Christians believe that the key indicator to salvation is not personal faith but works of merit, especially in

the way a person has treated the most vulnerable people in society.

● Salvation is the state of deliverance from sin, granted by God. There are significant differences between

the variants through the way they accept this principal belief.

● In John 3:16, in Catholicism, it is taught that the death of Jesus on the Cross is a sacrifice that redeems

man and reconciles man to God. In Protestantism, this belief is challenged as salvation is perceived as

the result of God’s grace alone. Once salvation is secured within the adherent, good works will be

initiated to operate as an attestation for salvation.

○ “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him

shall not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16


Identify the importance of the Bible in Christianity

● The books in the Bible are divided into two main collections, the Old Testament also known as the

Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament

● The Bible is considered to be the word of God as it is inspired by God and thus provides deep spiritual

insights for Christians into their religion.

26.

● The Bible is important because it contains salvation history, the account of the history of creation that

shows the action of God in human history culminating in the life and ministry of Jesus.

● The Bible is normative for Christianity, highlighting key beliefs and determining the practical application

of legal, ethical and ritual dimensions

● The Bible is seen to provide guidelines for ritual, prayer and worship

● The Bible provides the model for life action particularly in relation to ethical guidance


Outline the principal ethical teachings in: The Ten Commandments, The Beatitudes, Jesus' Commandment of

Love

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

A set of biblical principles relating to ethics and worship, which play a fundamental role in the Abrahamic

religions.

COMMANDMENTS

1 I am the Lord thy God, thou shalt not have any gods before Me.

● Prohibits the worship of idols and alternate gods.

● ‘Governs’ the other commandments as if we identify false gods, that is money, popularity, a nation etc,

the world will turn to turmoil.

● One God = One moral standard for all people.

● Provides the belief that false gods will ultimately lead to a world of cruelty.

2 You shall not make unto you any graven image or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or in the Earth

beneath.

● Do not commit evil in God’s name, that is, use his name in vain.

● ‘Religious evil’; to complete acts believing it shall be completed to please God, when it truly is just evil.

3 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain, for the Lord will not acquit anyone who misuses his

name.

● ‘Elevates’ the human being as it insisted that individuals cease to work on this particular day.

● Reminds Christians that they are indeed free via the Exodus from Egypt as slaves aren’t permitted to

rest.

● Observing the Sabbath brings people to put faith in God.

4 Observe the sabbath day and keep it holy.

● Many parents seek love over honour.

● If this commandment were to be violated, a moral society would be almost impossible to contain.

5 Honour your father and mother.

● To take a human life legally, illegally, morally or immorally.

● May create issues as individuals believe it may imply we are to be pacifists.

● Moral killing: typically self defense against an aggressor

● Immoral killing: murder

27.

6 You shall not murder.

● ‘The human desire to be loved or to love.’

● It is indispensable to forming and maintaining higher civilisation.

● Without it, the passing on of society’s values from generation to generation is impossible to acquire as

commitment instigates responsibility.

● Adultery ultimately destroys a family

7 You shall not commit adultery.

● Encompasses all the commandments.

● ‘Open-ended commandment.

● Stealing does not only amend physical items, however intellectual property, reputation, humiliation,

dignity plagiarism, murder (stealing a life) etc.

8 You shall not steal.

● Do not lie and do not lie when testifying in court.

● Fundamental to making civilisation

● Lies create evil.

● Lying on behalf of a good-cause is destructive as it distorts society’s priorities.

9 You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

● Legislates thought.

● Coveting leads to the violation of the other commandments; leads to stealing by wanting something of

others etc.

● COVET: yearn to possess something.

● Refers to uncontrolled lust.

10 You shall not covet your neighbor’s house.

● Uncontrolled envy.

● Whatever belongs to another person must be regarded as sacrosanct.

THE BEATITUDES

The word beatitude is defined as supreme blessedness. The Beatitudes were given as part of what is referred to

as The Sermon on the Mount. Additionally, The beatitudes were given by Jesus as the new form of the law or

commandments — a list of things a person should do rather than are forbidden from doing and provide order

within their daily lives.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.

Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

- Gospel of Matthew 5:3-10

28.

THE COMMANDMENT OF LOVE

A set of biblical principles relating to ethics and worship, which play a fundamental role in the Abrahamic

religion.

THE GOLDEN RULE: Mt 7:12

“In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.”

Describe the importance of ethical teachings in the life of adherents

● Christians are expected to place considerable value on the ethical teachings of the tradition in

determining their response to a wide range of issues.

● The life and ministry of Jesus provides a model for life action of Christians. This is reflected in the

Christian ethos of caring for the needy and the vulnerable

● Specific guidance is also provided in relation to contemporary ethical issues such as sexual morality,

bioethics, international economics, ecological concerns and the use of force in international conflicts

● Generally speaking, Christian ethical teaching in areas such as sexual morality and bioethics have been in

line with conservative forces in society.

● Ethical teaching on issues of economic, ecological and military significance are more in line with

progressive elements in society

● This diversity makes it difficult to gauge the effect of Christian ethical teaching in an overall sense.

Personal Devotion

Describe the different types of personal prayer

Throughout Christian history, various people have composed prayers which have become widely used. Many of

these prayers recite or adapt biblical texts. Such traditional prayers cover a wide range of occasions and needs.

For some, prayer instigates a relationship between the adherent and God and increases the individual’s

spirituality.

● The best known and most widely used of these prayers is the Lord's Prayer also known as the Our

Father. This prayer is taken from the occasion in the gospel where the disciples ask Jesus to teach them

to pray. [Luke 11:1 & Matthew 6:9-15] Jesus' response is known as the Lord's Prayer. It is used

throughout all Christian denominations and is commonly included in liturgy as well as personal prayer.

○ Represents different types of prayer. For example the word "hallowed be thy name" can be seen

to represent praise. "Give us this day our daily bread" can be seen to stand for prayers of

petition.

● The Rosary is another traditional prayer which is well known in the Catholic community is the Rosary.

This is another prayer which draws heavily on biblical texts.

○ The intention of the Rosary is that a person can meditate on the events of the life of Jesus from

the perspective of Mary the mother of Jesus.

29.

Christians model their patterns of prayer upon the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Just as Jesus commonly

retreated to a quiet place away from the pressures of daily life Christians are encouraged to incorporate quiet

times into their personal prayer. The form and time of prayer will greatly vary however. For example, a person

who belongs to a Pentecostal or Charismatic Church movement will be more inclined to include praise in their

prayers. In recent times the growth in the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements has brought a renewed

emphasis to the place of praise in Christian prayer.

The Charismatic movement refers to the movement within existing Christian denominations that is characterised

by its emphasis on the gifts of the Holy Spirit that is speaking in tongues, healing and prophecy.

30.

Religious Tradition - Islam

SST DEFINITION

Allah The name of God in Islam.

Caliphs Title given to one of the 4 [Rightly Guided] leaders of Islam immediately following

Muhammad.

Eid al-Fitr The feast of the Breaking of the Fast at the end of Ramadan

Halal Permitted acts

Haram Forbidden acts

Ijma Consensus of scholars and religious leaders

Imam Leader of Muslim community and mosque

Makkah/Mecca Sacred city and site of the annual pilgrimage [Hajj]

Qiyas Analogies and comparisons with teachings of the Qur'an and Hadith

Shariah Islamic law

Shi'a Large minority of Muslims who believe Muhammad appointed his son-in-law, Ali, as

his successor

Sunni Majority of Muslims; supported the succession to Muhammad by election

Torah First five books of the Old Testament; first five books of the Hebrew Scriptures;

Pentateuch; Law.

Origins

Outline the social conditions and religious practices that existed in Pre-Islamic Arabia

Islam began during the 7th century in the Arabian Peninsula; the two main cities associated with the

development of Islam were Makkah and Madinah. Most of the local beliefs were to believe in more than one

god [through idols]; between the people of the area were groups of serious Arabs known as Hanifs. Hanifs were

monotheistic, meaning that they maintained the belief of one extreme god.

31.

Examine the principal events in Muhammad’s life

DATE EVENT EXPLANATION

570 CE Muhammad was born Born in the town of Mecca. Born into the Quraysh tribe, and is Arabic. His

name derives from the Arabic verb hamanda, meaning to praise, to glorify.

Muhammad’s father died before he was born, however his mother died

when he was 6. He was then raised by his grandfather, however, was born

illiterate.

595 CE Marriage to first wife, Khadijah Married Khadijah, a businesswoman involved in trade with travelling

caravans [camels]. He had 7 children, 3 sons [all died] and 4 daughters. He

married widows and women who were in need of protection. Muhammad

had eleven other wives.

○ In many Muslim traditions, Aisha is described as the

Muhammad's most beloved or favoured wife after his

first wife, Khadija, who died before the migration to

Medina took place.

○ Aisha contributed to the spread of Muhammad's

message and served the Muslim community for 44 years

after his death.

○ She was involved in the compilation of the Hadith.

610 CE Receives first revelation in a

cave outside the city of Mecca.

[Ramadhan Night of Power]

He began making long retreats to a mountain cave outside town because

of Mecca’s traditional idolatry and new materialism which disturbed him.

An overpowering presence introduced itself to Muhammad as Angel Jibril

and commanded him to recite. He later returned to the cave and Jibril

would reveal more of Allah’s words, later memorising them and asking

scribes to write them down. [This occurred in the 9th month of the Islamic

calendar; Ramadhan]

613 CE Makes his revelation public After several similar experiences, Muhammad finally began to reveal the

messages he was receiving to his tribe. These were gathered verse by

verse and later would become the Qur'an, Islam's sacred scripture.

He was eager to share the message but it was a monotheistic belief, and

the Makkans were polytheists, and the message would ‘disturb their

peace’.

619 CE Night Journey and the

Ascension [Isra and Miraj]

Khadijah died. [25 years after her marriage with Muhamma, Year of

Sorrow]

Isra’ [Night Journey where Muhammad was taken by Angel Jibrial to

Jerusalem] where he is believed to have led the prayer in the presence of

the Prophets. He experienced Mi’raj the ascension where he is believed to

have entered the seven levels of heaven meeting the Prophets there and

even was given a glimpse at hell and the people being persecuted there

32.

for their sinful lives on earth.

622 CE Muhammad flees from Mecca,

to Yathrib [now known as

Medina]

Medina is particularly known as the City of the Prophet. Muhammad

remained here for the next six years, building the first Muslim community

and gradually gathering more and more people to his side, expanding

Islam.

630 CE Conquest of Mecca Balance of power shifts radically away from Mecca and the worship of

idols, grows towards Muhammad and the Muslims

Conquest of Mecca: Muhammad returns to Medina and battles with

tribes. He needed to go because that was the central part of Islam –

Kaaba.

632 CE Muhammad makes a pilgrimage

to Mecca

This is known as the first ever pilgrimage. Inspiring the 5th pillar, Hajj, and

creating the Ka’bah.

632 CE Muhammad dies in Medina Muhammad dies after a brief illness. He is then buried in the mosque of

Medina [Al-Masjid an-Nabawi].

Explain why the Prophet Muhammad as the final messenger is the model for Muslim life

Prophet Muhammad is known as the seal of all prophets, he was the one who strived to bring peace, justice and

spread the message and worn those who believed about judgement day. Muhammad modelled numerous

qualities which all Muslims are to exhibit to reach the fullness of their humanity; the ideal model for Muslim

character and life, providing the pattern that all believers are to emulate. He is not a figure to be worshipped but

simply an example of good humanity. Some Muslims say Muhammad is living Quran - the witness whose

behaviour and words reveal God’s will.

SYLLABUS

POINT

NOTES

Wise and

capable leader

Muhammad was living a life characterised by prayer and spiritual searching. He regularly took himself

away for long periods of solitude and reflection.

Muhammad was portrayed as one of great power and influence in the early and contemporary Islamic

community. For this reason, his role evoked the spread of wisdom in order to fully engage in the

revelation he has been given. As someone responsible for the development of the Islamic faith,

spreading a wise word [especially to his followers] is a crucial component.

● “Who are the learning? Those who practice what they know.”

● “Serve Allah, as you would if you could see Him; although you cannot see Him, He can see you.”

● “Keep yourselves far from envy; because it eats up and takes away good actions, like a fire eats

up and burns wood.”

Integrity In Islamic theology, the act of forgiveness is not meant to deny or underplay the moral injury suffered

by the victim; rather it involves a positive change in mentality toward the offender. An act of

33.

forgiveness means rising above one's self-interest or narrow-mindedness, and achieving nobler quality

of heart. Those who practice the act of forgiveness have been promised reward by God. In a frequently

quoted hadith, Muhammad is reported as saying: 'the best deeds before God are to pardon a person

who has wronged you, to show affection for relatives who have broken ties with you, and to act

generously towards a person who has deprived you”.

Faith, trust

and patience

Upon receiving the revelation from Jibril, Muhammad displayed a number of characteristics which are

important for Muslims to develop. Firstly he showed faith and was prepared to place his trust in the

word of Allah despite not knowing where it would lead. Secondly, he showed patience in waiting for

the time to begin preaching. Although he experienced great uncertainty at this time he nevertheless

surrendered his will to Allah and waited.

Through Isra and Miraj, his mystical journeys, Muhammad reflects the importance of developing ones

spiriatul life as adherents take their own journey to God.

Fairness In his last Haj sermon at Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia in 632 A.C, Prophet Muhammad said, “O People,

listen well to my words, for I do not know whether, after this year, I shall ever be amongst you again.

Therefore listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and take these words to those who could not

be present here today…. All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a

non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over a black

nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action…”

Fearless

preacher

When he was given the command to preach Allah’s message, he did so tirelessly and fearlessly.

Muhammad encountered great opposition am.ong the people of Mecca. He was ridiculed and

persecuted for his words

Care for the

most

vulnerable

The Prophet Muhammad ensured that the community followed practices where the poor were

supported by the offerings of all Muslims and not left destitute.

WOMEN: Muhammad's legacy was to end infanticide and establish explicit rights for women; he set

out the belief that before Allah, men and women were equal. Muhammad himself frequently

counseled Muslim men to treat their wives and daughters well. "You have rights over your women," he

is reported to have said, "and your women have rights over you."

THE POOR: Muhammad consistently preached about the requirement to assist the needy and this

evidenced though his attempts at providing the less fortunate with what was necessary [water, food,

shelter etc]. He said: "He is not a perfect Muslim who eats his fill and lets his neighbor go hungry. He

asked: "Do you love your Creator? Then love your fellow beings first."

As the Qur’an is the transcripts of Muhammad’s revelations, the verse, “and whatever you spend, He

will replace it; and He is the best of the providers”, exemplifies the way in which Muhammad adhered

to Allah’s instructions.

Path of Justice

and Good

Works

There are numerous events to which muhammad was a key exemplar of justice particularly evident

towards women, contributing to his encounters with his eleven wives. He was totally fair when dividing

matters between his wives, both when travelling and when resident in Medina. Aisha said, “When the

Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) wanted to travel, he used to draw lots to decide which one of

his wives would go with him, and he would take the one whose name was drawn related by Al-Bukhari.”

Muhammad also exclaims, “Whoever has two wives and favours one of them over the other, he will

34.

come on the Resurrection Day with one of his sides leaning”

Describe the development of Islam after the death of Muhammad under the leadership of the Four Rightly

Guided Caliphs, accounting for the emergence of the Sunni and Shi’a

The period immediately following the death of Muhammad was included some uncertainty about the future

leadership of Islam. Therefore, the Caliphs attempted to expand the Islamic community. They were among the

earliest and closest of Muhammad's companions and according to Islamic tradition, truly followed in

Muhammad's footsteps.


After the death of the Prophet Muhammad, the Muslim community mourned his death and set about appointing

his successor. A majority of the members present in the Muslim community believed that it was in their position

to determine who would succeed him in a method of election, these individuals were known as the Sunni.

Whereas a smaller portion of Islamic adherents known as the Shi’a, favoured the idea that only descendants of

Muhammad or Ali, his son-in-law, were eligible to be a leader. With this variance of beliefs in place, numerous

philosophical disagreements were consistently arising, resulting in future instances of violence and war.

However, the Sunnis prevailed and chose a successor to be the first Rightly Guided Caliph. Eventually, Ali was

chosen as the fourth caliph, the leader which the Shiites believed was to be the first rightful successor to which

his son Hussain should have succeeded him. The violence and war between the Sunni and Shia Muslims caused

conflict issues, resulting in the two branches of Islam to never unite, even to present day where it causes a

power struggle for dominance in the Middle East and the religious wars that have occurred since the emergence

of the Sunni and the Shia.

Principal Beliefs

Outline the implications of Tawhid for Muslim belief

● Tawhid is the principal belief and central tenet [central paradigm].

● Constitutes the foremost article of the Muslim profession of faith and declares the oneness of Allah.

● Allah is understood as existing separately from the world in a transcendent way.

● Nothing can rival Allah, nor can there exist anything that is even remotely like Allah.

● It is the foundation of the first pillar of Islam, the Shahada, stating that there is no God but Allah and

Muhammad is his Prophet.

● Underlines the monotheistic nature of Islam.

Examine the role of the Books of Allah and prophecy in Islam

● Understood to be the Kutubullah.

● The Books of Allah are considered as the texts which were authored and revealed by God through his

prophets, where Isalmic teachings derive from. The holy books of Islam should be respected, especially

the Qur’an, which is the unchanged word of Allah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

35.

● One must submit to it completely, even if they do not altogether graspe the wisdom behind the

command or statement.

● Prophecy is regarded as an essential element of Muslim belief

● It is the was in which the ways of Allah become revealed to humankind, Muhammad is regarded as the

last and the greatest of these messengers

THE BOOKS:

● Tawrat - This is the revelation that Allah sent to Musa (Moses).

● Zabur - This is the revelation that Allah sent to Daud (David).

● Injeel - This is the revelation that Allah sent to Eesa (Jesus).

● Qur'an - This is the revelation that Allah sent to Muhammad.

Outline the principal beliefs about Angels, life after death and predestination

ANGELS [MALAIKAH]

● Muslims believe that Allah’s greatness means he cannot communicate directly with humans. Instead,

God passed messages, called risalah, to his prophets via the angels, called malaikah, who were his first

creation and who always obeyed him. They are not divine or semi-divine and they do not eat or drink;

their food is to praise God. The angel usually appears in human form as the angel Jibril did when

appearing to Muhammad.

ROLES OF THE ANGELS:

● Gabriel is the greatest of all the angels. He has been entrusted with carrying revelations to the prophets.

● Michael is the angel entrusted with the task of sustaining all creatures.

● The honourable scribes are two angels who accompany every human being and record their deeds.

● The Angel of Death is the angel entrusted with taking the souls of all creatures at the moment of death.

● Munkar and Nakeer are two angels responsible for questioning deceased people about their faith.

● Ridwan and Malik, respectively, are the custodians of heaven and hell.

LIFE AFTER DEATH / DAY OF JUDGEMENT [AKHIRAH]

● Muslims believe that life on Earth is a test and that, after they die, they will be judged by God and sent

to either Paradise [Jannah] or Hell [Jahannam]. It is believed that all people will be rewarded by God

according to their beliefs and good deeds. Belief in life after death is central to the meaning and purpose

of most Muslims' lives.

● Every action and every thought in a person's lifetime is recorded and will be revealed at the time of

judgment

JUDGEMENT DAY PROCESS:

● When a person dies, their soul is taken by Azra'il, the Angel of Death.

36.

● God sends two angels to question the waiting soul.

● If the questions are answered correctly, the good soul then sleeps during Barzakh. ● If the questions are not answered correctly, the soul is tormented by angels, known as punishment of the grave.

PREDESTINATION / FATE [AL QADR]

● This means that everything in the universe follows Allah’s masterplan – Muslims believe that Allah has

decided everything that happens. Allah is omniscient, so nothing happens without the will of Allah.

● Islamic theology teaches that this idea of destiny is not inconsistent with free will for human beings.

Muslims believe that Allah respects people's freedom of choice. They reject the idea of fate because it is

incompatible with free will. God does not interfere with the individual’s actions.

● Rather God knows everything that has and will happen and every action an adherent will take even

before it happens.


Identify the importance of the Qur'an and the Hadith

As the Qur’an is a sacred text, it is to be handled with respect [etiquette below]

● Hands are washed and parts of the body are cleansed before reading it.

● It is often wrapped in a special silken-cloth - this is not a requirement of Islam.

● No other books are shelved higher than it.

● It is recited in personal prayer.

● It may not be placed on the floor.

● It is expected that Muslims do not speak, eat or drink during the reading of the Qur’an

● It is written in Classical Arabic and recitations should only occur in Arabic. There can be no variations of

the Quran’s text.

Examine extracts from the Qur’an and Hadith which demonstrate the principle beliefs of Islam

BELIEF SCRIPTURE

1. Tawhid “And your Allah is One Allah. There is no god but He, Most Gracious, Most Merciful”

Surah Al-Baqarah 2:163

“A man heard another man reciting (in the prayers): 'Say (O Muhammad): "He is Allah,

the One." And he recited it repeatedly. “ - Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 97, Hadith 4

2. Malaika “Praise be to Allah, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, who made the angels

messengers having wings.” Surah Fatir 35:1

“The Messenger of Allah said: ‘Allah and His angels send blessings upon the right side of

the rows.” - Book 5, Hadith 1058

37.

3. Rusul “He who obeys the Messenger has obeyed Allah” Surah An-Nisa 4:80

The Prophet said: "Whoever obeys me, obeys Allah; and whoever disobeys me, disobeys

Allah." - Abu Hurairah, Book 1, Hadith 3

4. Kutubullah “And We have sent down to you the Book, explaining all things; It is a guide, a Mercy,

and Glad tidings to Muslims." - Surah An-Nahl 16:89

“O Allah! Bestow on him [Ibn Abbas] the knowledge of the Book [the Qur'an]” - Sahih

al-Bukhar, Book 3, Hadith 17

5. Akhirah "Is that better or the Garden of Eternity which is promised to the righteous? It will be for

them a reward and destination.” - Surah Al-Furqan 25:15

“Allah's Messenger said: "The person closest to me on the Day of Judgement is the one

who sent the most Salat upon me.” - Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Book 3, Hadith 32

6. Al Qadr "And if your Lord had willed, He could have made mankind one community; but they will

not cease to differ. Except whom your Lord has given mercy, and for that He created

them” - Surah Hud 11:118-119

“There is not one amongst you who has not been allotted his seat in Paradise or Hell.”

- Sahih Muslim, Book 46, Hadith 11 [in-book]


Outline the principal ethical teachings within Islam

● The intention of life for a Muslim is to follow the will of Allah

● Each moment of each day is to be lived in an attitude of complete surrender or submission to Allah

● There is no aspect of life which is separate of removed from Allah's concern

● Muslims strive to bring all their actions into accord with the will of Allah

● This requires a constant awareness on the part of Muslims and being attuned to the will of God

constantly in everyday life. This awareness or consciousness is called "taqwa"

● This striving brings Muslim thought into constant contact with the field of ethics. Individuals and

communities throughout the world are constantly faced with ethical decisions

Outline the process of Islamic jurisprudence

38.

Islamic Jurisprudence [Fiqh] is the process that individuals of Islamic faith derive their set rules and regulations,

the Shariah, from the principles of the Qur’an and the Hadith; perceiving the guidelines that all Muslims are to

adhere to throughout their daily lives. The Ijma is a consensus of Islamic scholars on a point of Islamic law,

particularly religious issues. It is a secondary source of Islamic Shariah and superior to the Qiyas, yet inferior to

the Qur’an. If questions arose from a specific section of the Quranic interpretation, jurists of the Ijma would

apply their own understanding to develop an interpretation. The Qiyas is a process of inferential analysis that

uses teachings of the Hadith, and contrasts it to those present in the Qur’an, to apply an injunction to a new

circumstance previously unknown to Muslims. For example, the Qiyas would be applied when discussing the

islamic belief regarding the prohibition of recreational drugs. No particular Surahs explicitly prohibits the use of

these drugs, however, it is evident that drugs should be prohibited too as Muslims are forbidden from

intoxicating harmful substances into their body. Additionally, the concept of halal and haram acts plays a

significant role in the process of Islamic Jurisprudence. Anything that is halal is permissible and lawful, in

reference to the Fiqh; such as contraception. Whereas, anything haram are acts that disobey the elements of the

Fiqh. There are 2 main forms of what is haram; something that is prohibited because its essence causes harm to

an individual, and being prohibited because it's associated with an external forbidden source.

Describe the importance of ethical teachings in determining that which is: HALAL and HARAM

● Muslim ethical judgment ultimately leads to a decision about what is permitted or halal and what is

forbidden or haraam. In principle if something is not forbidden then it is permitted. However, simply

because something is permitted does not mean that it should be done.

● In living Shari'ah and making decisions about what should be done a number of aspects need to be

considered.

● The most important are those things which are required actions or behaviours. Examples of these would

include the five pillars. Those things which are required actions are known as fard or wajib. For most

Muslims, fard and wajib are identical, however in some schools of thought fard refers to obligations

stemming from revelation while wajib refers to obligations stemming from reason.

● Fard and wajib can be identified in two forms. One involves a personal obligation while the second is an

obligation on the Muslim community as a whole.

● The third level of halal actions are known as mubah.

● These actions fall into the realm of the unclear and require the prudent exercise of personal judgment

● Mubah refers to situations where there is no clear guidance in the Qur'an or in judgments of authorities

in Islam

● In these situations an individual must choose the correct action based on the principles outlined above

● The final level of halal actions are those which are not recommended or are not approved

Expression of Faith

Outline each of the Five Pillars

[Arkan Al-Islam]

39.

Within Islam, the practice of the faith is supported by five pillars. These pillars, known as Arkan Al-Islam.

Ultimately, they showcase how a Muslim submits to God and provide structure to a Muslim’s faith. Each of the

pillars requires both an internal or spiritual commitment together with an outward action or sign.

THE FIVE PILLARS

1. Shahada 2. Salat 3. Zakat 4. Sawm 5. Hajj

The Shahada is

perceived as the

most fundamental

expression of Islamic

beliefs. It simply

states that “There is

no God but God and

Muhammad is his

prophet.”

It underlines the

monotheistic nature

of Islam and provides

witness to the

oneness of Allah and

the role of the

Prophet Muhammad

as its messenger.

The witness in the

shahada is essentially

all that it takes to be

considered a Muslim.

In Islam, Muslims are

expected to pray 5

times a day as it was

declared necessary

by Muhammad.

They are to pray

towards Mecca, the

holiest land of Islam.

The way in which

they pray is a symbol

of their reverence

and submission to

Allah.

It is expected that a

Muslim would be in a

state of ritual purity

before offering the

prayers. Therefore,

ritual ablutions are

carried out which

include the feet,

forearms, hands, face

and head, mouth and

nose.

Prayer is offered on

clean ground with the

Muslim usually

removing his or her

shoes.

Muslims believe that

they are to share

their wealth with

those less fortunate

in their community of

believers as a token

of veneration.

Therefore, this is the

requirement of

almsgiving.

The amount that is

expected to be given

in fulfilling the

requirement of zakat

is generally

calculated as 2.5 % of

a person's income.

Muslims believe that

the things they own;

their wealth and

possessions, are not

truly their own but

rather in trust to

them by Allah.

The ninth month in

the Islamic calendar

is referred to as the

holy month of

Ramadhan. Muslims

are expected to fast

from dawn to dusk.

the tradition teaches

that it is the month of

the revelation of the

Qu'ran to

Muhammad.

The fast is to include

abstinence from

food, drink and all

other bodily

pleasures from the

first traces of sunrise

until the last point of

sunset.

All Muslims who are

able are required to

make the pilgrimage

to Mecca at least

once in their lives.

Pilgrimage focuses on

visiting the Ka’bah [in

Mecca] and walking

around [known as

tawaf] seven times

and is to take place

during the 12th

month of the Islamic

calendar.

Religion in Australia - Pre 1945

40.

SST DEFINITION

Anti-Semitism Jewish opposition and persecution.

Emancipists Ex-convicts who had served their term.

Ethos The characteristic spirit of a culture, era, or community as manifested in its

attitudes and aspirations.

Lay People People who are not members of the clergy (ordained priesthood)

Sabbatarianism A view within Christianity that advocates the observation of the Sabbath, in

keeping with the Ten Commandments.

Sectarianism A form of discriminatory behaviour directed towards a particular group or

presumed members of a group within society. The prejudice is aroused as a result

of a strong attachment to a group’s own beliefs often regarding inferiority and

superiority.

Secularisation Diminishment of religion from society or social institutions [not connected to

religious matters]

Temperance Movement Christian movement usually within the evangelical Church of England and

Protestant churches which preached abstinence from the consumption of alcohol

and the observance of an outward set of moral rules and regulations.

Wowserism Preservation of moral standards by depriving people of their 'sinful' pleasures, e.g.

consuming alcohol or playing games on the Lord's Day.

Religious Traditions in Australia

Outline the arrival and establishment of Christianity and TWO other religious traditions in Australia

CHRISTIANITY

DATE EVENT

1788 ● First Fleet - English soldiers and convicts, mostly Church of England, with some Irish Catholics - Church of England Chaplain Rev. Richard Johnson. Presbyterians also present.

1795 ● First Presbyterian Church Service

1803 ● As a concession to the Catholic community, Fr James Dixon authorised the first mass for Catholics in the colony.

1817 ● Arrival of Jeremiah O'Flynn. O'Flynn was a Catholic priest who arrived claiming to have permission from British authorities to minister to the Catholics of the colony. O'Flynn continued his ministry for some months before being arrested and deported.

41.

1820 ● John Joseph Therry arrives. Therry arrives with a mandate to minister the Catholics of the colony. Therry is the first priest to be allowed to come to minister the Catholic community in 32 years

1835 ● Bishop Bede Bolding - First Catholic Bishop in Australia

1847 ● William Grant Broughton becomes the first Church of England Bishop of Sydney

1901 ● National Federal Presbyterian Union formed of the Presbyterian Church of Australia

JUDAISM

DATE EVENT

1788 ● The first Jews arrived in Australia as convicts on the First Fleet

1817 ● The first minyan, that is, a quorum of 10 Jewish men, was formed. The Jewish Burial society, Chevra Kadisha, was also established. The formation of a minyan and establishment of the Chevra Kadisha are recognised as the formal beginnings of a functioning Jewish community in New South Wales.

1830s ● The 1 st Jewish synagogue takes place in the home of Phillip Joseph Cohen who was authorised to perform Jewish marriages. Cohen's community were easily accepted into the Australian community, because unlike their European counterparts, they spoke English.

1838 ● Bridge St Synagogue was large enough to hold 100 males and 30 females

1844 ● Permanent synagogue consecrated in York St Sydney . This synagogue could hold 500 people and was to serve as the centre of Jewish life in Sydney until the Great Synagogue was built.

1850s ● The number of Jews in Victoria grew from a few hundred to over 3000 during the gold rush period

1835 ● Bishop Bede Bolding - First Catholic Bishop in Australia

1847 ● William Grant Broughton becomes the first Church of England Bishop of Sydney

Early 20th century

● Development of organised Jewish community in Western Australia

ISLAM

DATE EVENT

Prior to 1788 ● Visits from Macassan fishermen, who were Muslims from South East Asia.

1860 ● The camel transportation industry saw a significant increase in the number of Muslims arriving in Australia from mainly Pakistan and Afghanistan as camel drivers.

1882 ● First Islamic mosque built in Maree, South Australia

1890 ● Mosque built in Adelaide

1880s - 1890s ● Muslims controlled the camel transportation business in Australia . During this

42.

period, there were approximately 3000 Muslims who were working as camel drivers in Australia.

End of 19th century

● Small numbers of Muslims came from Lebanon and Turkey ● Muslims from Indonesia were brought to Australia to work in the pearling industry

and sugar plantations.

1901 ● Introduction of the Immigration Restriction Act, commonly known as the White Australia policy, significantly decreased the number of Muslims living in Australia, as future migrants were not permitted entry.

1911 ● Approximately 300 Turkish Muslims in Australia . These numbers decreased after World War 1.

Examine the impact of sectarianism on the relationship among Christian denominations in Australia pre-1945

● At the time of the arrival of the first fleet (1788) there was considerable rivalry and bitterness between

the Church of England and Catholics in England and Ireland.

● The Protestant reformation of the 16th century had left a great deal of bitterness between the Catholics

and Protestants

● Secondly, the occupation of Ireland by the English and the oppression of the Irish people maintained the

strength of feeling.

● Colony was set up with the Church of England as the established religion Catholics in the colony were a

small minority and felt they were harshly treated.

● Everybody expected to attend Divine Service, for most of the first 30 years of the colony Catholics were

not permitted to have a Priest minister to their community

● The Irish (Catholics) were regarded as "scum" by most of the English authorities, and not allowed to

expand their mostly Catholic faith.

● Education became an important political issue which was played out according to sectarian division.

● Employment practices were further instances of sectarianism, notices regarding positions vacant often

included the qualification "Catholics need not apply".

● Discrimination in employment was not practised in the Public Service.

● Catholic schools had a strong focus on preparing their students to pass the annual Public Service

examination.

● Debate over conscription in World War I further fuelled sectarian rivalry.

● To introduce conscription required a successful passage of a referendum on the issue

● Leaders of the Protestant Churches urged citizens to show loyalty to Britain and support the

referendum.

● Catholic leaders by contrast were strident in their opposition.

Examine the contribution of Christianity to social welfare in Australia pre-1945

[sample Response: < 180 words]*

Christianity made a profound contribution towards the social welfare of Australia pre-1945, evidenced through

the initiatives implemented by individuals and organisations of varying denominations. Religion provided social

43.

welfare at the time as the government did not. Christian denominations attempted to assist the marginalised to

heighten their Christian ethos. A majority of the actions conveyed by Christians conformed to the belief that

assisting the needy formed a central part of their Christian ethos

In particular, Caroline Chisholm exhibited the contribution of the Catholic Church to Australia. Throughout the

1840s, she established the Female Immigrants Home, to which she supported women arriving in Australia who

were experiencing inexplicable plights. She provided shelter, employment and protection for a substantial

number of female immigrants. Since 1882, the Salvation Army focused on the provision of welfare and served

the Australian people. Evidenced in 1884 with the Rescued Sisters' Home in Carlton, directed at aiding female

prisoners as well as the attempts to assist former convicts with their transition into regular society.

OTHER SERVICES ESTABLISHED REGARDING SOCIAL WELFARE:

● 1888 - Mother Esther establishes the first Church of England religious order to work for poor women and

prostitutes.

● 1897 - Nathaniel Dawes establishes the Bush Brotherhood (Church of England) with preachers on

horseback providing ministry to those living in rural and remote areas.

● 1920s - Australian Inland Mission of the Presbyterian Church developed the Flying Doctor Service and

the School of the Air.

Discuss the role and impact of religious traditions in rural and outback communities pre-1945

[sample Response: < 130 words]*

Rural and outback communities experienced limited access to their necessities, numerous Christian services

attempted to aid these disadvantaged communities. Clergies from the Church of England organised church

services throughout rural Australia initially to reach those living great lengths from regional churches and to give

a sense of community and prayer. These acts led to the development of the Bush Brotherhood. This

organisation consisted of itinerant priests to minister to sparsely-settled rural districts. Through this ministry, the

Bush Brotherhood is inextricably responsible for the High Church Anglicanism in outback communities.

Additionally, in the 1920s the Presbyterian Church developed the Flying Doctor Service and the School of the

Air. This provided emergency and primary health services for those in rural and outback areas who were unable

to immediately acquire these pivotal services.

Outline the contribution of ONE religious tradition to the provision of education in Australia pre-1945

[sample Response: < 500 words, derived from OLMC site]*

Christianity had a profound influence on early Australian society in the area of education. This is most evident

in the development of religiously affiliated schools. This was because education was a critical issue for all

religious groups, particularly for the Catholics many of whom belonged to the lower classes, hence belonging to

a disadvantaged group in the colony. Consequently, education was seen by Catholics as a way to maintain their

values, in the face of sectarian rivalry.

44.

The influence of Christianity on education can be seen firstly with the enactment of the Schools Estates

Corporation Charter of 1825. Its provisions were that one seventh of all colonial land grants were to be reserved

for the Church of England schools and churches. The result was as intended, that is, it reaffirmed the status of

the Church of England as the established church.

Governor Burke's Church Act of 1836 is the second example showing Christianity's profound influence on

education. The Church Act provided a “pound for pound” subsidy to all denominations. Thus, on the surface, it

appeared to equally assist all denominations but in practice the Church of England dominance continued. This

was because the Church of England had the greatest capacity to raise money and hence obtained the greatest

benefits from the provisions of the Act. The long term result was, however, unexpected. The Catholic Church

through a great deal of determination, organisation, and sacrifice managed to take advantage of the provisions

of the Church Act and turn it into an advantage for them. The Presbyterians were displeased with the fact that

governments were funding denominational schools as they believed that state and church should be separate.

The Methodists opposed the fact that the Catholics were receiving funding even though they were pleased to

reap the benefits of the Church Act.

The end to funding for denominational schools came about through the Public Instruction Act 1880 which

established that education was to be free, compulsory and secular. This caused an abrupt end to state aid, that

is, government funding for denominational schools. Most people belonging to the Church of England, supported

government schools and as such were not concerned about the loss of funding to religiously affiliated schools.

Those Church of England schools which did choose to remain operating as religious schools required that

parents meet the cost of education themselves. The end to state aid brought great hardships to the Catholic

school system because they did not have the same resources as the Church of England schools to continue

operating. It was only through great sacrifice and dedication from those in religious orders that Catholic schools

were able to continue to operate without government assistance.

It can be seen therefore through an analysis of three key pieces of legislation that Christianity has had a

significant influence on education in colonial Australia.

Examine initiatives taken by ONE religious tradition in Australia in the area of public morality pre-1945

Public morality refers to the attempts at social control through legislation, usually promoted by the more

conservative Christian denominations, in response to perceived immoral behaviour in society.

Temperance movements were organised social movements [primarily by Evangelical groups in the Church of

England and Protestants].

The major temperance movements in Australia pre-1945 consisted of:

● Women’s Christians Temperance Union.

○ They formed in May 1881 and their primary aim was to cease alcohol consumption.

● Social Purity Society

45.

○ They began in the late 19th century and had the goals to improve Sunday observance and to

stop alcohol consumption and the sexual exploitation of females.

● The Independent Order of Rechabites (IOR), also known as the Sons and Daughters of Rechab.

○ They were a fraternal organisation and friendly society founded in England in 1835 as part of the

wider temperance movement. They promoted total abstinence from alcohol.

Overall, the battle against alcohol consumption was mostly successful as extensive legislation was put in place.

In general, the temperance movements resulted in levels of anti-religious to increase at the time. The refusal

by many to accept these attempts at social control which curtailed many acts of enjoyment sowed the seeds for

a more secular society. The religious tensions heightened between the Church of England, the Catholic Church

and the conservative elements within Protestant denominations. Debates about moral behaviour also led to

social tension.

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