Nature of Religion and Beliefs Flashcards
Define supernatural dimension.
the belief in a supernatural being or power that is beyond the realm of the natural world
What is a transcendent religious worldview?
one which has a belief in a divine power or powers beyond the human world eg. Judaism, Islam and Christianity
Why is Islam, Judaism and Christianity a transcendent worldview?
it is seen to be seperate and outside of the human and revealed to human kind through an intermediary
What is a immanent religious worldview?
holds the belief that supernatural powers or divine beings dwell within a human
What is a religious characteristic?
a feature or quality making up the religion
Define beliefs and believers.
beliefs are key tenets, doctrines or values which underpin the religious practice for the believers
Define sacred texts and writings.
the most important beliefs as they contain sacred stories which explain historical or non historical means and how people connect to the supernatural dimension
Define ethics.
Reasoning behind our moral decision making. Are the laws which allow standards which regulate moral decision making
Define rituals and ceremonies.
Practical expressions that include words and actions along with the use of symbols
How do these characteristics interact to create a dynamic, living religion?
a dynamic living religion helps provide meaning for those who follow them therefore there characteristics help them do this. eg rituals and ceremonies give religion a lived expression as they use words actions and symbols
What is a living religion?
a living thing which is given expression through all of its characteristics
Appreciate the contribution of religion to: Individuals - Personal Search for Meaning
a search for the understanding of the great questions of life. eg. what happens when we die? people look to religion when they need answers especially in a time of crisis
Appreciate the contribution of religion to: Individuals - Ethical Guidance
individuals seek ethical guidance from religion due to many social concerns eg IVF, abortion etc
Appreciate the contribution of religion to: Individuals - Sense of belonging
provides a sense of community because religion has the capacity to bring people together with similar ideas and values which then provides people to express these values with support
Appreciate the contribution of religion to: Individuals - Ritual Meaning
ritual actions or events that are important for the human experience eg birthdays, graduation, marriage
