Professional Documents
Culture Documents
HSC
Amy Abdilla. Created in 2016.
Topics:
- Contemporary Aboriginal Spiritualties
- Australian Religious Landscape from 1945 Present
o Please note this topic is only up to 2011 Census data
- Religious Tradition Depth Study: Islam
o Sufism
o Environmental Ethics
o Hajj
- Religious Tradition Depth Study: Christianity
o Paul of Tarsus
o Environmental Ethics
o Baptism
Note
-
Formats:
Topic at a Glance
Significant Text References (if applicable)
Summary Notes
Response Plan
Practice Responses
Topic at a Glance
Summary Notes
Response Plan
Practice Responses
Topic in a Glance
Summary Notes
Response Plan
11
Practice Responses
13
15
Topic at a Glance
15
16
Summary Notes
SUFISM
ENVRIONMENTAL ETHICS
HAJJ
16
16
17
18
Response Plan
19
Practice Responses
22
27
Topic at a Glance
27
27
Summary Notes
PAUL OF TARSUS
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS
BAPTISM
28
28
29
30
Response Plan
31
Practice Responses
35
Ceremonial Life
-
Brings to Dreaming to
present life
Brings together all
aspects of Aboriginal
culture (song, dance etc.)
Re-enacts Dreaming
stories and traditions
Rites such as coming of
age ceremonies
Usually linked to sacred
sites
Dispossession Land
Removed from sacred
sites and spiritual
connections
- Physically and spiritually
dispossess
- Loss of identity and
totemic identities leads to
loss of community
-
Stolen Generations
1901 1960s, around 1
000 children taken
Bringing them Home
Report 1997
Sexual and physical
abuse
Systematic genocide
based on racist policy
Loss of purpose and
identity
Suicide, depression,
substance abuse etc.
Mabo
1992
Native Title
1993
Wik
1996
Resulted in recognition
Native Title
Overturned concept of
Terra Nullius
Provided legal recognit
of Native Title
Summary Notes
Kinship
- System of classes and skins that puts everyone into a kinship relationship
o Roles and responsibilities
- Influences
o Everyday actions and behaviours
o How and what to behave towards others
IMPOSSIBLE TO
- Brings obligations
DETACH THE
o Part of Aboriginal Law
INDIVIDUAL
FROM THE
Ceremonial Life
- Core of cultural life
- Brings together all aspects of culture (i.e. art, song, dance, etc.)
- Ceremony (song/dance)
- Song
o Based on principle of sharing a larger story
o Old songs tell Dreaming stories
- Always re-affirm the Dreaming in some way
- Even though dreaming happened in the past it happens in the present via
ceremony
- Usually recreates an eternal moment of the Dreaming
Obligations to Land and People
- Consider land, people and Dreaming as a part of one symbiotic relationship
- Each element is dependant on the other where one cannot properly
function without one part.
- Reciprocal relationships of obligations and rights
o Kinship and land
- All contribute to ongoing physical, psychological and spiritual health of the
other
- Land and humans are seen as equal
- Land has obligations to provide tools to recreate dreaming (i.e. paint,
feathers etc.) while humans recreate these events in ceremony
- Spirits/Ancestors are in the land
Effects of Dispossession
1. Separation from the land
- European settlement and terra nullius achieved this
o Forced dispossession
- Lose traditional lands and cultural grounds
- Damage to environmental landscapes
- Leads to loss of identity and spiritual despair
o I.e. separation from Dreaming lands means cant carry out
ceremonies
2. Separation from Kinship Groups
- Dispossession of land leads to inevitable breakup of kinship groups
o Isolated from ancestral territory and knowledge (tribes etc.) unified
in my country or land
- Forfeit totemic relationships and identity
o Forfeit extended family
- Without kinship bonds the individual and collective sense of self is lost
o Leads to slow self destruction
3. Stolen Generations
- Removal (forced) of Aboriginal children from 1901-1969
- Disrupt kinship groups and roles
o I.e. parenting and education
o Lose a generation to pass knowledge onto
Removed as believed for their benefit as they were seen as an inferior race
(based on racist policy)
Estimated 10 000+ children where stolen
Bringing Them Home Report (1997)
o Human Rights and Equality Commission launched a national inquiry.
The report outlined:
Systematic genocide
Devastating impacts
Abuse of power and poor institutions
Policy based on racist views
o Continued impacts include:
PTSD, anxiety, depression, suicide etc.
Lack of parental knowledge passed on
Means cycle of losing children due to inability to care
for them where welfare comes
Dont know where belong
Troubles finding estranged family
Native Title
- Very important to the Land Rights Movement (LRM)
- Recognises the rights of indigenous ownership/claim to traditional
ancestral lands before European settlement (validity of traditional
Aboriginal territorial law)
- When terra nullius was declared Native Title automatically was
extinguished
- Does not give ownership but allows use of the land for ceremony etc.
- Native title Act (1993)
o Overturned Terra Nullius concept of legitimacy
o Official recognition of Aboriginal people and their connection to the
land
Mabo
- Mabo and others V. the state of Queensland case in the Australian high
court (1992)
- Pivotal part of the LRM
- QLD was defying the use of traditional lands which Eddi Mabo contested in
the high court
- Brought up point of deep spiritual significance to ancestors and spirituality
- WON the case which led to the Native Title Act
Wik
-
Answered the question if pastoral lease and native title could co-exist
Wik V. Queensland in the Australian high court (1996)
o Right of native title on pastoral lands
Results were a simultaneous holding was possible
Led to exclusive and non-exclusive land rights (basically whether public
can access or not)
Response Plan
Determining Aboriginal Spirituality
Kinship Groups
o An system of extended family related through the Dreaming
Determine totemic items, avoidance rules etc.
Ceremonies
o Ceremonies the action of bringing the Dreaming into the
present moment
o Tie all aspects of the culture together [art, song, dance, mus
etc.]
Point 1
Point 2
Point 3
Aims of the LRM helped to reunite the Aboriginal peoples with their
land
o Sacred sites to carry out rituals
o Land to preserve identity, kinship groups and belonging
o This is gained from spiritual connection to the land
Introduction
Importance
Aims
Practice Responses
-
Strait Islander people throughout Australia and their cultural sites and
objects are fully protected.
1945
87.6%
2011
61.2%
Catholic
Orthodox
20%
25%
2.6%
Anglican
39%
17.1%
Non-Christian
0.5%
7.2%
Buddhism
Islam
Hinduism
Secularism
2.5%
2.2%
1.3%
0.3%
Ecumenical Movement
- Movement towards
Christian unity
- Begins with an
understanding that all
denominations share the
same core beliefs
22.3%
Numbers are hard
to quantify in the
Census due to
varying sects.
Other Facts
Pre-1945 Major Tradition
Anglo-Celtic settlement and White
Australia Policy
Malta, Poland and Italy
Peaked at 3% 1981
Baltic States and Greece
Aging population.
Fallen from most popular pre-1945
Post WWII Immigration from South Ea
Asia and Middle East
Example
Uniting Church
1977
Impact
Change the Australian Religious
landscape in the fact the Presbyterian,
Congregationalist and Methodists
numbers declined. Methodist church in
particular was too low to quantify as
significant.
National Council of
Churches Australia
(NCCA)
1994
NSW Ecumenical
Council
(NSWEC)
1982
Interfaith Dialogue
Conversations between
different faiths
- Two way process of
listening and
understanding
- Aim to achieve ethnic
and religious harmony
-
Aboriginal Reconciliation
Aim to achieve recognition and
justice for Aboriginal peoples in
Australia.
Impact
Australia is a multifaith
nation meaning tensions
arise due to conflicting
beliefs (i.e. divinity of
Christ)
Interfaith dialogue is
important to help smooth
these tensions
Achieves social cohesion
by creating peace and
harmony
Sets up framework for
religious leaders to make
significant contributions
to world harmony
Christian
Has a long history in
respect to this issue and
aims to make amends
Inter-culturalisation to
make an Aboriginal
Christianity
Caritas Catholic
Denomination
NATSIEC - Anglican
Denomination
Examples
1960 Vatican 2
2009 Melbourne
Parliament of World
Religions
9/11 ANCJM dialogue
2013 Womens interfai
network
Jewish
Of all non-Christian
traditions the most
involved
Recognises own
persecution and so
believes Aboriginal
peoples are entitled to
apology.
2008 NSW Jewish Boar
of Deputies apologised
Summary Notes
Christianity as the Major Tradition
- Christianity is currently the major religious tradition in Australia
- European settlement was prominently Anglo-Celtic so among these
Christianity was the most prominent religion
- Institutionalisation of Christianity for Aboriginal Australians and many
others
- White Australia Policy and immigration laws created a mono cultural
country restricting immigration to European (white) immigrants
o Ended in the mid 60s
Migration
- Dropping the white Australian policy allowed migration from many nations
affecting the Australian religious landscape
- Events such as WWI, WWII, Vietnam war and other conflicts all involved
strong migration of non-Christian traditions
- Hinduism is fastest growing with a 189%
o Immigration means young community of 1st or 2nd generation
- All other non-Christian traditions are also increasing
1945 (% of population)
2011 (% of population)
Non-Christian
0.5
7.2
Other Traditions in Non-Christian category % of population in 2011
Buddhism
2.5
Islam
2.2
10
Hinduism
Others
1.3
- See census data -
Changes in Christianity
- Most traditional churches such as Methodists, uniting church etc. have
experienced a downturn of adherents of 14.9% for some and 11.7% for
others
- Variants such as Anglicans have an aging population leading to a decrease
- New Pentecostal movements gained 25.7% since 1996
- Other churches also increased
o Baptist 7.3%
o Catholic 6.8% (Migrants from Malta, Italy and Poland
o Orthodox 9.5% (Migrants from Greece and the Baltic States)
- Adherents to smaller, less traditional churches are also growing
- Orthodox and Catholic churches also see a steady increase due to
immigration
No Religion
- One of biggest changes from 1947-2011
o 1947 0.3%
o 2011 22.3%
- Peaked at 2006 at 25.7%
- Number of not stated also rose
o 1947 11.1%
o 2006 rose by 43.4% to 11.2% of population
Denominational Switching
- Recent years is a trend in western society
- Prevalent in Christian tradition
- Loyalty to a single church diminished in favour of what is best for the
individual (consumerist society)
- Trends
Dramatic swing from liberal to conservative denominations (i.e.
Pentecostal)
o God close in everyday action/life
o Promote belief of divine healing
o Aggressively evangelistic
o Demands exclusive notion of solidarity
- While conservatists gain numbers they lose a lot
o 1991-1996 1/3 drifted out
15% switched denominations
17% left all together
o There are a range of inflow and outflow factors
i.e. birth, death, satisfaction etc.
o 1996-2006
Baptists rose by 7.3%
Pentecostals rose by 25.7%
Of these new adherents only a small percentage were new
to the Christian tradition
New Age Religions
- Among the fastest growing faith in the 2001 census
- Increased by 140% between 1996 2001
- Form an overall spiritual movement that lacks a single doctrine or set of
moral beliefs
- Share similar beliefs and practices
- There is no central organisation or authority
- Basic beliefs:
11
o
o
-
Monism
Pantheis
m
o
o
Reincar
nation
Karma
o
o
Aura
Univers
al
religion
Basic practices:
o Meditati
o Divinati
o Crystals
on
on
o Channel
o Astrolog
o Holistic
ling
y
health
Popularity:
1. Secularism failed to produce human purpose
2. Disillusion with government during Vietnam war and rejection of
authority
3. Traditional churches are seen to lack moral guidance
Focus on self improvement techniques and assist the individual in their
inner potential
Basic idea of universal unity (that everyone and everything is connected)
Introduced around the 70s and 60s
Due to large number of differing practices numbers are hard to quantify in
census data however their existence can be seen in festivals such as Mind
Body Soul
Secularism
Worldview where God is excluded
1947 0.3% of population
o 1996 0.8% (rise)
o 2011 22.3% (almost 6% rise in 15 years)
Rise occurs simultaneously with the drop of adherents to the traditional
religions
Believe religion should be separate from the public domain (i.e. justice
system) and regulated to the private sphere
Popularity:
1. Church lose moral
4. Church doesnt adapt
authority
to modern world (i.e.
2. Disillusion and
contraception)
rejection of
5. Emphasis on individual
government and
and rights in the
authority
modern world
3. Response to what was
6. Materialism, power and
seen as the unholy
fame became the new
trinity of politics,
meaning of life
economics and religion
Growth mainly attributed to Australian born and immigrants from China
and Europe
Religion recently began to slowly return to public domain as secularism
fails to produce human purpose
Ecumenical Christianity
Movement towards Christian unity
Characterised by:
o Various denominations engage in initiatives together
o Understanding that share same core beliefs
Examples:
1. National Council of Churches Australia (NCCA)
Formed in 1994
Aimed to bring together all Australian churches in
dialogue and practical co-operation
Currently has 15 churches as members
I.e. Anglican, Catholic and Salvation Army
12
13
2. Judaism
Of all the non-Christian traditions Judaism is the most involved
MISHNAH: Sacred text that recognises the existence of
competing claims. Native title is viewed in this light.
Recognises one faiths persecution and so believes Aboriginal
peoples are entitled to a formal apology
o 2008 NSW Jewish board of Perputies did this
In the 1990s Jewish lawyer ROY CASTEN won a case to prove
terra nullius was false for the LRM
Legalisation
o Includes 1991 Council for Aboriginal reconciliation
o 2008 Apology by Kevin Rudd
Response Plan
-
14
o
o
o
o
-
Ecumenical Movement
Ecumenism is the movement towards unity within the Christian tradition
after a history of schism and conflict between its denominations
-
Introductio
n
Interfaith Dialogue
Aims of peace within groups such as the NCCA and NSWEC
create a sense of unity and understanding within Christian
The stability allows the entire tradition as a whole to
communicate more effectively with other traditions in
interfaith dialogue to preserve social harmony in Australia
Impact 1
Impact 2
Impact 3
-
Introductio
n
Importance
Impact 1
Interfaith Dialogue
Interfaith dialogue refers to conversations between different traditions in
order to cultivate peace and harmony
o Two way process of listening and understanding
Importance in Australia
o Australia has freedom of religion so is multifaith and multicultural
o Conflicts between faiths such as the Christian and Islamic beliefs i
the divinity of Jesus can upset the social harmony and peace of th
country
Has had major impact within Australia
o Interfaith dialogue aims to recognise and tolerate the differences
15
o
-
Impact 2
-
Introductio
n
Christian
Point 1
Jewish
Point 2
Impact 3
Practice Responses
There are 3 practices responses for this section. Please note one has not
been marked.
Australia has been reshaped over many years by immigration. The
table below presents recent data form the Australian Bureau of
Statistics regarding the percentage of the resident population
born overseas.
- Australian Residents by Country of Birth
- Birth Country
- % Of Australian Population
- United Kingdom
- 5.2
16
2.6
1.9
1.7
1.0
1.0
0.7
New Zealand
- China
- India
- Philippines
- Vietnam
- Malaysia
17
18
Topic at a Glance
- Sufism
Desire to reach spiritual dimension (Ishan) through the action of tasawuff.
- Contribution
- Impact
- Deeper personal
- Social cohesion to
connection with God
preserve Islamic identi
- Development
(Rabia)
(19th Century Nigeria)
- Expansion of Islam
- Environmental Ethics
through Sufi students
stance towards the
environment that to lov
- Literature (Al-Ghazzali
Allah one must love
and Rumi)
environment
- Focus on heart and divine
- Social perception that b
unity
- Expression
answering needs of
community creates an
image of peace for isla
-
Environmental Ethics
Everything and all
creation belongs to Allah
Get to know God through
the environment
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
- Key Teachings
Tawhid
Ayat
Mizian
Khalif
Amarah
Accountability
Effect on Adherent
Treat animals and the
environment with respe
and equally as they wil
be held accountable fo
their actions on
Judgement day
As Khalifs are responsib
to protect the
environment and
maintain the balance
Must adhere to halal an
haram
Cannot waste or use
earths resources
excessively
Cannot participate in
exploitive industries
- Hajj
Pilgrimage to Mecca and one of the 5 pillars of Islam that is to be undertaken by Muslims
- Stages
- Key Beliefs
- Significance
Ihram
- Kutubullah (books)
- Indi
- Free from
Tawaf
- Rusullah (prophets)
vid
sins
Say
- Tawhid (oneness of God)
ual
- Purpose a
Arafat
- Malaikah (angels)
belonging
Jamrat
- Akrah (judgement)
- Expressio
Eid Al-Adah
- Al-Qudar (divine will)
of belief
Jamrat
- Answers
Final Tawaf
existentia
questions
- Physical a
mental
strengthe
g
- Deeper
-
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
19
connectio
to Allah
-
Co
mm
unit
y
Social
cohesion
Stress uni
and equal
Expressio
of beliefs
Belonging
and purpo
Area
-
Sufism
Environmental
Ethics
Hajj
- Quotes
Hearts become tranquil in remembrance of Allah (Q 13:28)
It is He that has made you custodians, inheritors of the earth
(1:165)
Summary Notes
-
SUFISM
20
Rumis
o Poems exulting Allah
o Topics of generosity, compassion, modesty, and etc.
3. Spread of Islam
Influential in spreading across furthest parts of Islamic world
o Including Africa, India and Far East
Sufi Students encouraged to spread the Sufi way to other
cultures upon completion of their studies brining with them the
core beliefs and practices of Islam
Impacts on Islam
Generally inform a unique expression of Islam with an emphasis on
individual and small group devotion
- There are other impacts but these are some of the main ones
1. Social Cohesion
Preserves the Islamic identity in the face of 20th Century
colonialism that threatened to tear apart Muslim umma.
19th Century Nigeria Sufi inspired organisations led rebellion
against the foreign invaders bringing together the community
2. Social Perception
Responds to specific issues of the community promoting a
peaceful and helpful approach
The communities see the Sufi approach as peaceful and hence
see Islam as a peaceful tradition in comparison to the common
stereotypes
This helps with dialogue and communication between Islam and
the wider world
In Senegal Sufi groups provide cash crops and tools for modern
agriculture to help improve the economy of the Senegalese
community
3. Environmental Ethics
Stance towards the environment influences the Islamic move
towards environmental conservation and sustainability
Fact that for one to love Allah they must also love the
environment as Allah created the environment.
21
ENVRIONMENTAL ETHICS
6 Key Principles
1. Tawhid
5. Khalif (Steward)
2. Ayat (signs of God)
6. Amarah (Trust)
3. Mizian (Balance)
7. Accountability for actions
4.
(links to nafs)
8. Environmental Ethics and Muhammad
1. Animal Rights
Animals are treated as equal
Halal and haram
(Q 55:10) and (Q 6:37) references Animals are seen as equal
communities
An act of cruelty to an animal is as bad as an act of cruelty to a
human Hadith
Fear God in your treatment of Animals Hadith
2. Waste Minimisation
Calls for adherents to live in moderation (Q 2:143)
Dont participate in industry that exploits balance
Waste leads to excessiveness and arrogance feeding the nafs
3. Tree Planting
One plant sustains an entire life/ecosystem
Often had tree planting days in the time of Muhammad
4. Sustainability (links to Mizian and waste)
5. Water
Water is not to be owned or wasted
Water should not be wasted when making ablution even if by a
flowing river Hadith
Other Quotes
o The earth is assigned to all living creatures (Q 55:10)
o Eat and drink but do not be wasteful (Q 7:31)
o To God belongs all that is in the heavens and earth (Q 4:126)
o It is He that has made you custodians, inheritors of the earth (Q
6:165)
9.
10.
-
11.
Significant Practice
HAJJ
22
15.
18.
Links to Belie
N/A
19.
23.
26.
30.
33.
43.
Say
Arafat
Jamrat
Eid Al-Adha
37.
40.
20.
7 times everyone
circumabulates the
Kaba.
24.
Run 7 times
between mountains
Safa and Marwa as
Hagar did looking for
water. Commemorates
angel Jibrel striking the
ground with wing to
create a well.
27.
Stand on Mt Arafat
from afternoon till
evening, in judgement
before God. Stand in
wquf (meditation).
Believed to be place
Adam and Eve met
after the fall.
31.
Stoning of the
stone pillars replicating
how Abraham stoned
the devil. Stone one
furthest from Kaba 7
times using pebbles
collected from Arafat.
34.
Sacrifice of lamb
to God. Celebration of
Abrahams submission
to Allah in his
willingness to sacrifice
his son Ishmael. Give
meat to poor as charity.
38.
Return to the
pillars to complete
stoning each one in
succession.
41.
Final
circumambulation
stating prayers and
intentions before
leaving Hajj.
44.
The experience of
Hajj is recounted in the
Hadith and the Quran
two of the sacred texts
of Islam.
Tawaf
Jamrat
Final Tawaf
47.
48.
Significance
1. Individual
Free from sin
Intensive
experience
of umma in
Muslim life
Exalt Allah
Reflection of
life and
deeds
Jihad test
personal
resolve
Spiritual,
psychologica
l and
physical
developmen
t
23
21.
22.
25.
Malaika (angels
28.
Akhira (hereafte
29.
Rusullah
(Prophets)
32.
Rusullah
(Prophets)
35.
Al Qudar
(surrender to Allahs
will)
36.
Rusullah
39.
42.
Rusullah
(Prophets)
45.
46.
Answer
enduring
questions of
human
existence
Closer to
Allah
Belonging
and purpose
Kutubullah (boo
2. Community
Reinforce
umma
Belonging
and purpose
Symbol of
unity and
universality
Social
cohesion
Opportunity
to share
ideas and
experience
Brotherhood
and
sisterhood
United
collective
submission
24
Removes
division
between
different
religious
perspectives
Wider God
consciousne
ss
Response Plan
Sufism
Contribution to Expression and Development of Islam
Sufism is an Islamic school of thought based on the mystical expression o
Islam
Intro
Aim is to reach Ishan, the third spiritual dimension of Islam employing
Tasawwuf the practice of obtaining spiritual perfection
o Spread of Islam
To furthest outposts such as African continent, Far East and
India
Sufi relationship between teachers and students allow
knowledge of Islamic traditions to be passed down betwee
Body 2
generations.
Students are then encouraged to travel and spread the Su
message. This leads to the introduction of Sufism within ne
cultures and continents, bringing with it the core values of
Islam that it adheres to.
o Literature
Al-Ghazalis Revival of Religious Sciences dictated the five
pillars are still existent in Sufism and must be adhered to
Body 3
strictly.
Rumis poetry allowed adherents to determine the attribut
of Allah. Themes such as humility, compassion, love etc.
o Unique Expression
Is the Sufi focus on the action to reach the inner spiritual
perfection
Leads to a deeper spiritual journey to a deeper, reverent
understanding of Allah
Through the practice of Tasawwuf denotes itself to a peace
experience of spiritual closeness.
Body 4
Also indicates that all dimensions [Islam, Iman and Ishan]
can co-exist making peace with them and wider society.
Practice of peace help to establish the Islamic tradition in
turbulent times such as that following Muhammads death
Unique mystical Expression of a peaceful and deeper
connection to Allah
o Mystical Expression
Unique form of expression and devotion
Mystical experience denotes a sense of divine unity
Body 5
Being one with universe and creation, indicates the
oneness in which God made it
Heart not just physical organ but one, which can be gained
spiritually, connect with God.
25
Conclusi
on
Impact on Islam
Introduc
tion
Social Cohesion
o 20th Centenary Colonialism placed many Muslims under a crisis of
identity as leaders and communities were lost.
o Sufism provided expression of solace, encouraging ones connecti
to God reinforcing the core Islamic ideals. Spiritual link to God and
Body 1
strict practice of the 5 pillars.
o Example is seen in 19th Centaury Nigeria where organisations
brought together by Sufi practice led rebellions against the invadi
powers to preserve the Islamic identity. Muslims band together to
preserve the identity and grow stronger.
Environmental Ethics
o Sufi stance towards the environment has impacted heavily on the
life of Muslim adherents and the Environmental Ethics of the Islam
community.
o Core belief of no separation between God and his Creations.
[Tawhid].
Therefore if one is to love God they must too indicate the
Body 2
same love towards the environment.
o Aim to free humanity from vice of materialisation, encourages the
idea of Khalif, Mizian, and Amarah.
Peaceful approach towards the environment in order to
sustain it.
o Has impacted Islamic developments in sustainability regarding
environmental issues faced today.
26
Conclusi
on
Introduc
tion
Environmental Ethics
Conservation
God in his oneness created the universe in unity
God made humans the Khalifs
Waste Minimisation
In environmental ethics is the key aspect of Mizian, the
balance in which the earth was created. As stewards huma
are expected to maintain this balance.
God created enough to sustain all on earth [animals and
humans]
This means that Muslims should reduce the waste
minimisation, not participate in exploitive industries, deny
covet resources.
The earth is assigned to all living creatures [Q 55:10]
Morally inclined to share resources and to minimise that
which they consume
Eat and drink but do not be wasteful [Q 7:2]
Part of this effort is to conserve water
Water should not be wasted even when making
ablutions beside a flowing river [Hadith]
Animal Rights
In environmental ethics one is to fear God in your treatme
of animals [Hadith].
Animals are seen as equal communities and rightful beings
the earth.
The earth is assigned to all living creatures [Q
55:10]
These ethics determines what is considered Halal and Hara
by Shariah law.
Meat is to be slaughtered in a particular fashion tha
is considered human. Cannot eat pigs because this
not achievable.
Animals are only to work for so many days before
being given a rest.
Cosmetic industries and experimentation is forbidde
Body 1
Body 2
Body 3
27
[haram]
Conclusi
on
Introduc
tion
Individu
al
Hajj
28
Commu
nity
Conclusi
on
Social Cohesion
Act of putting on the and obtaining the state of Ihram eras
signs of wealth, culture, education and class. This creates
sense of equality and universality that the umma, the Islam
community, is a range of people who are connected throug
their united belief in God. This sense of equality creates a
social cohesion as the umma are united as a single being
through their sustained belief in God, strengthening the
brother and sisterhood of the religion.
Become one with Creation
The action of circumambulation the Kabah in Tawaf
represents an action of moving in sync with the universe. A
each individual preforms this at the same time, concentric
circles, the wider community becomes apart of the moving
universe and wider creation of God. This allows them to
affirm that God created all in unity and that the community
environment and people are all one in the same.
Wider God Consciousness
The magnitude of the Hajj and the universality determined
through the circumambulation creates a universal God
consciousness. This is observed throughout the rites of the
Hajj as they are simultaneously performed by thousands o
individuals. Having completed the Hajj the individual come
away with a deeper sense of God, which they bring back to
their communities and relate to their respective peoples. T
allows the entire community to develop their understandin
and connection with God despite not having attended Hajj.
Collective Worship and Submission to Allah
The act of Hajj, is in its entirety a form of collective worship
that strengthens the beliefs of Islam throughout the entire
of the Islamic umma. The festival of Eid Al-Adah is reflectiv
of a united submission to Allah mirroring Abrahams
submission.
Practice Responses
-
There are 7 practice responses. Each have been marked, however some
have been altered based on marking comments.
29
30
31
community to follow in this effort and to break away from the material
temptations of the world in order to fully care for the environment as
dictated in the Quranic texts. In taking upon this attitude, Muslims can
then extend the research into sustainable developments for
environmental issues faced today. Hence it can be seen that, Sufism has
impacted the wider Islamic community through its stance towards the
environment.
32
33
Hence it can be seen that Sufism has contributed to both the expression
and development of Islam.
(Marked 3 out of 4. Comments: Some good points but needed to ensure
to focus on one or two key points and be clear with these)
34
The significant practice of Hajj readily displays the core beliefs of Islam.
In the Tawaf, the circumambulation of the Kaba, the belief of Tawhid,
oneness of God, is expressed. This is seen as the Kaba is representative
of the one true God and as the adherents circle the structure they
reinforce this belief becoming one united in the oneness of Gods
creation falling in sync with the universe.
Throughout the rite of hajj the Islamic belief of Rusullah, the prophets, is
invoked. This is seen in the celebration of the Eid Al-Adar, which is
commemorative of the Prophet Abrahams submission to the will of
Allah. The standing at Mount Arafat is also symbolic of the prophet
Adam representing the place where he and Eve first met after their fall.
Throughout the hajj adherents of Islam connect with and express their
belief in Rusullah by following in the footsteps of prophet Muhammad
who defined the exact actions to be undertaken during hajj.
The belief in Malaikah, angels, is expressed in the hajj rite of Say that
commemorates the appearance of the angel Jibrel to Hagar. To
commemorate this adherents partake in a running of 2.7km between
two mountains as Hagar did looking for water. They drink from the well
of Zamzam, which Jibrel created by striking the stone with his wing.
A belief in the Akrah, Judgement day, is expressed in the rite of Arafat
where the adherent witnesses a prelude of the day of judgement where
their good and bad deeds are weighed by Allah so that, if repentant,
they may return from Hajj free from sin.
A belief in Al Qudar is expressed in the Eid Al-Adha festival where the
umma, Muslim community, collectively submit to the will of God in
example of Abraham, sacrificing a lamb for each Muslim present in
commemoration of Abrahams willingness to sacrifice his son for God.
Lastly the hajj rite expresses a belief in Kutubullah, the books of Allah,
as the details of the actions to be performed and significance of these
rites are taken from the core sources of Islam, the Quran and Hadith.
These sources defined what is to occur during hajj, how one is to
conduct themselves during hajj and the significance of the rites during
hajj. For example in the Hadith it is stated Hajj is Arafat indicating the
significance of the standing at Mount Arafat in mediation with God as
the central part of hajj.
Hence it is seen that in the hajj the core beliefs of Islam are expressed.
(Marked 6 out of 6. Comments: Strong demonstration of link between
beliefs and practice)
35
Devel
opme
nt
Expre
ssion
Paul of Tarsus
Contribution
Developed salvation not just
privilege of Jews alone
Linked OT to NT
Taught community how to deal
with issues as early Christians
Defined key beliefs of early
Church
Brought Christianity to various
communities outside Jewish world
1st Author of Christian church
inspired others to write
Earliest reference of last supper
allows people to ritualise it
Discuss issues of morality
Expanded on rituals expressed by
Christ i.e. baptism
Impact
Influenced many Christian leade
and denominations
Helped split Christianity from
Judaism
Express most basic beliefs that
variants base doctrines off
Wisdom can be applied to
contemporary issues
Practice of being all things to all
people and not just telling peop
what they want to hear can be u
as a basis of interfaith dialogue
Environmental Ethics
Key
Teachings
Stewardship
Justice
Co-creation
Mission
Effect on Adherents
Baptism
Baptism is a rite of passage into the Christian Church. Seen as a death and resurrection in
new life.
Key Beliefs
Denominations
Significance
Resurrection and death of
C
- Adult or
I
Belong
Christ
infant
a
n
g and
Church as Body of Christ
- Any form
t
d
identit
Trinity
- Salvation
h
i
u
G
- Mainly infant
a
- Immersion
r
Answe
l
- Salvation
e
endurin
e
questio
k
of hum
O
life
rt
h
o
d
o
36
P
e
n
t
e
c
o
s
t
a
l
B
a
p
ti
s
t
Adult
Immersion
Testimony
No salvation
Encourage
congregation
to renew
Adult
Immersion
Testimony
No Salvation
C
o
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Belong
g and
identit
Expres
n of
beliefs
Answe
endurin
questio
of hum
life
Social
Cohesi
Social
Transfo
ation
Area
Paul of Tarsus
Quotes
1 Cor 11:23-16 (account of the last supper)
Spiritual circumcision sins are Cut away (Col 2:13)
Christ Jesus the Lord (2 Cor 4:5)
Money is the root of all evil (1 Tim 2:9)
Being all things to all people (1 Cor 9:22)
Risen Christ (1 Cor 12:15)
The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to
work it and take care of it (Gen 2:15)
For in Him all things were created (Col 1:15-17)
To commit a crime against the natural world is to commit a sin
against ourselves and a sin against God Patriarch Bartholomew
(Orthodox)
a gift from God that has been placed in our responsible hands
Pope Benedict XVI (Catholic)
You shall not covert (Exodus 20:17)
On earth as it is in heaven (Mat 6:11)
Environmental
Ethics
Baptism
Baptised in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Hol
Spirit (Matthew 28:19)
In Baptism you have put on Christ (Gal 3:26-27)
Unless one is born of the water and the Spirit they cannot entre t
kingdom of God (John 3:5)
In baptism you died with Christ and in Baptism you were risen wi
Christ (Col 2:12)
For an
Integrated
Response
37
Summary Notes
PAUL OF TARSUS
Was a Jewish man by the name of Paul who persecuted early Christians
Experienced the witness to the risen Christ on the Road to Damascus, this
led to his conversion
Said to have established Christianity as separate to Judaism
Impact on Christianity
1. Historical
Influenced many Christian leaders such as Luther
Justification by faith and predestination principles of reformers
Linked OT to NT to preserve Jewish heritage of the religion
Helped split Christianity from Judaism
o Faith proclaimed by Paul allowed justification to do this
2. Theological
Express basic beliefs of Christianity all variants refer to today
38
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS
God is the creator of all things and the natural world is precious because of
this
o All creation is apart of Gods creative work and should be treated
with reverence
Humans need to work in partnership with God, the land and each other to
protect and nurture the environment
o Human beings are stewards and caretakers of the earth
o Should use the earth wisely, protecting its resources and not
exploiting them.
Some note that creation was cursed as a part of the Fall and like humanity
will be redeemed on Judgement Day
Theological Principles:
o God cares for the world and has not renounced care. Christians as
Gods people are called to continue this care.
o Nature (living and non-living) has value to God
Version 1
Version 2
Genesis 1:26
Genesis 2:15
- Humanity create on the 6th day as
- Adam was created THEN the Garden
masters of the earth
Eden, then Eve.
- Allows for Anthropocentric
- Humans are assigned as caretakers o
interpretations
the earth.
- Dominion principle is gained by a literal
- Allows for Bio-centric interpretations
interpretation of this text
based on belief all is created equally
God
There is a combination of the two views (antropo and bio centric). This links to the
stewardship principle where human needs are important by humanity also must care for the
earth.
CoCreatio
39
Mission
Catholic
Uniting Church
Pentecostal
Orthodox
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Significant Practice
BAPTISM
40
o
o
Catholic
Greek Orthodox
Pentecostal
Baptist
o
o
o Significance
1. Individual
Identity
and
belongi
ng
2. Community
Identity
and
belongi
ng
Expressi
on of
beliefs
41
Expressi
on of
beliefs
Answers
endurin
Answers
endurin
g
questio
ns of
human
existenc
e
g
questio
ns of
human
existenc
e
Social
cohesio
n
Social
transfor
mation
Response Plan
Paul of Tarsus
Contribution to Development and Expression
Introd
uction
o Taught salvation was for BOTH Gentiles and Jews [Known as the
Apostle of the Gentiles]
A teacher of the gentiles in faith and truth [1 Tim 2:7]
o The expansion of Christianity
3 Missionary Journeys, Roman Citizenship and multilingual
skills allowed to reach communities outside of the Jewish
world
Include Galatians, Romans, Greeks
Develo
o Literature
pment
Letters and Epistles to communities such as the Galatians,
Romans, and Colossians compose 25% of the New
Testament
Inspired others to write the word of God
o Developed ethical behaviours as a pastor
Materialism
Money is the root of all evils [1 Tim 2:9]
o Liturgy
1 Cor 11:23-26 is first recorded account of the last supper
Has allowed church to ritualise it in Mass
o Rituals
Expanded on the rituals prescribed by Christ
Allowed the rituals to be preserved enacted
Determined the symbolism and meaning behind them
i.e. Baptism
spiritual circumcision where sins are cut away
[Col 2:13]
Expres
in baptism you were buried with Christ and in
sion
Baptism you rose with Christ [Col 2:12]
for those of you who were baptised you have put
on Christ [Gal 3:26-27]
o Theology
Defined the basic core beliefs of the Church
Such as Christ as the Lord
Christ Jesus the Lord [2 Cor 4:5]
And the Resurrection of Christ
But now Christ is risen from the dead [1 Cor
12:15]
Conclu
sion
Impact
Introd
uction
Body 1
Historical
Preserved Jewish heritage and roots. Linked the OT to the
NT.
Proclamation of belief in a risen Christ [1 Cor 12:15] was
enough to allow Christianity to be considered separate
from Judaism.
Pauline theology of justification by faith led to inspire
great leaders in the Christian tradition such as Martin
Body 2
Body 3
Conclu
sion
Theological
Expressed basic theological beliefs of the Church
[2 Cor 4:5] Christ as the Lord
[1 Cor 12:15] Christ risen from the dead
Development of doctrines such as the Catholic Catechism
Contemporary Issues
Ethical Stances and wisdom can be applied to
contemporary church to issues such as interfaith dialogue,
ecumenism [schism in the church], materialism,
environment etc.
Materialism
o [1 Tim 2:9] Money is the root of all evils.
o Stance towards fact material goods have
detracted from the spiritual world and
should not be given power as they feed the
ego and lead to greed.
Ecumenism and Interfaith Dialogue
o being all things to all people [1 Cor 9:22]
can be reflected across the church. Pauls
practice of meeting and interconnecting
commonalities rather than telling them
what they wanted to hear.
Environmental Ethics
Ethical teachings give a guide towards how one should live their
life.
Denominational leaders call upon authority to stress the ideals
expressed in the scripture.
Introd
uction
Body 1
Body 2
o
o
o
o
Body 3
Conclu
sion
Baptism
Introd
uction
Beliefs
o
o
o
o
Deno
minati
ons
Catholic
Do salvation [oil and the water], padeo and credobaptism,
all forms.
Salvation [Through chrismation.]
Existential Questions
Greek Orthodox
Do salvation [oil and water], mainly padeobaptism, thrice
immersion.
Death and Resurrection [Importance through the thrice
immersion]
Identity and belonging.
Pentecostal
Adult [believer baptism] only as adults understand the
importance, ask for a testimony of how God revealed
himself in their lives, immersion. Encourages the
congregation to re-affirm their beliefs.
Church as the body of Christ
Social Cohesion [and transformation as revaluate the
significance of their beliefs]
Baptist
Adult [Believer baptism], immersion, ask for testimony,
Trinity
Expression of beliefs
Individ
ual
Existential Questions
Must affirm their belief in God before being
baptised. In baptism they are welcomed to the
Church and take on all the beliefs of the church.
These beliefs provide answers to questions such as
is there a god, and what happens after death.
Identity and Belonging
Gains a sense of identity as a new Christian and
being having died to their old life. Belonging to the
Christian community having been inducted into a
community that displays same beliefs and
resolves.
Expression of beliefs
Re-affirming the beliefs in the reception, renounce
the devil, throughout the sacrament the beliefs are
enacted this, belief of the trinity. Allows the
individual to publically announce their beliefs as a
Christian.
Comm
unity
Existential Questions
Community witnesses the baptism and is reaffirmed of their baptismal promises and beliefs as
a Christian and hence gain the answers that come
with this.
Identity and Belonging
Witnessing the baptism and initiating the individual
into the church gain a sense of identity as a
community as the caretakers and mentors of this
individual.
Expression of beliefs
The baptism is a conduit and a ritual that exercises
the basic beliefs of core Christianity.
Witnessing the event the community is re-affirmed
of their own beliefs.
Social cohesion and transformation
In having to re-affirm their beliefs through each
Conclu
sion
Integrated Response
Introd
uction
-
Body 1
Body 2
Body 3
Conclu
sion
Practice Responses
Within the Pentecostal variant of the Christian faith baptism is considered a significant
practice. To begin Pentecostals mainly contribute to credobaptism as adult candidates
are seen to understand the tires significance. During the stage of reception each
baptismal candidate is called to the front of the congregation so that they may share a
testimony of Gods appearance in their life. Through this process the celebrant extends a
hand to the gathered congregation in encouragement of a reaffirmation of their on
testimonies. The impact of this action is extensive within the community leading to a
social transformation within the Pentecostal community. In encouraging the community
to consider their own testimonies in God, the congregation is provided with opportunity
of theological reflection. Through this reflection the community develop their own
baptismal vocations to God and reaffirm the reasons for their Christian conversion. As a
result a transformation occurs as through the private commitments of the individual, the
wider community deepens their commitments to their faith resulting in a richer
communal experience of God. Moving from the reception to the stage of the sacrament
Pentecostal baptism, like all baptism, is reflective of the belief in the Church as the body
of Christ. For all of you who were baptised into Christ have clothed yourself with Christ,
[Galatians 3:287]. This Scripture passage references the idea of the baptised becoming a
part of Christ in clothing themselves with Him. During the baptism the Pentecostals
immerse the believer in the water to complete the passage to Christianity. Through this
immersion the believer is shrouded with Christ a belief reflecting the idea of the
individual becoming an adherent to the wider Christian congregation. Yet to be shrouded
with Christ is to become a part of Him thus the shrouded members of the Christian
congregation form the body of Christianity with Christ as its head. Hence it is seen
baptism is an important rite in the Pentecostal variants.
Within the Baptist variant of Christianity baptism is viewed as a significant practice.
Consistently throughout the baptismal rite the Baptist Churchs invoke the Christian
belief of the Holy Trinity. This belief refers to the fact of thee distinct entities the Father,
Son and Holy Spirit as one individual, God. Throughout the reception, sacrament and
conclusion of the baptismal rite, the Baptist congregations are seen to repeatedly refer to
this Trinity. In the reception the celebrant blesses all those gathered in the name of the
Trinity, an act repeated again the concluding rites of the ceremony. This reception reaffirms a belief in the Trinitarian God. More significantly the climax of the sacrament is
highlights in the celebrant blessing the adult candidate as they are immersed in the
baptismal water. Most Baptist congregations will offer a variation of the blessing, On the
profession of your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour and in obedience with his
command, I now baptise you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy
Spirit. This blessing directly reflects the idea of the Trinity in baptism as described in
Matthews Gospel, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the
Holy Spirit, [Matthew 28:19]. The practice of baptism within the Baptist denomination
also leads to an impact n the expression of belief for both the individual and community.
For the individual candidate baptised they are initiated into the Christian tradition
however before this can be achieved they must publically pronounce their beliefs as a
Christian to the gathered congregation. For Baptist ceremonies this affirmation of belief
comes in the reception of the baptism where the adult believer is asked to give a
testimony of Gods appearance in their life. This affirmation of their opportunity to
express their own beliefs through a reaffirmation of their baptismal promises. This is
significant fro the community to grow together, reinstating the importance of modelling
their lives on Christ in the expression of their belief. Thus it can be seen that baptism
within the Baptist variants is a significant practice.
Within Christianity baptism is seen as a rite of initiation. Despite varying forms within the
Christian variants baptism takes a fundamental commonality throughout all. This
commonality is seen through the core symbolic meaning and in its connection to the
principle Christian beliefs. Providing a profound impact on the individual and community
baptism is considered a significant practice within Christianity.
(Marked 18 out of 20. Comments: Good introduction. Be careful of phrasing. Not all of
beliefs covered. Interesting approach to question. Good analysis of significance. Has been
redone since received mark)
Paul of Tarsus was a prominent figure within religious Christian tradition whose actions
contributes to both the development and expression of Christianity. First known as Saul, a
Jewish adherent, Paul suffered a conversion to Christianity after witnessing the risen
Christ on the road to Damascus. Now seen as an apostle this conversion led to Pauls
understanding that both Gentiles and Jews had the honour of salvation in Christ. The
understanding that salvation was not the privilege of Jews alone led to the development
of a Christian expansion beyond the borders of the Jewish faith. Led by Paul this
expansion extended to countries throughout Europe and Asia Minor extending the reach
of the Christian faith to nations such as Rome making use of his multilingual skills
[Hebrew, Latin and Greek]. Paul also contributed significantly to the development of
Christian theology. Seen as the first theologian of the Christen Church, Paul, a pastor,
mentored the communities he founded in how to lead a moral life. This theology on
Christian morality, in areas such as sexual ethics, marriage and love, allowed the early
Church to determine its key beliefs through Pauls early writings. These writings
contributed significantly to the development of the Christian literature compromising up
to 25% of the New Testament. Pauls letters are the earliest accounts of the written Word,
accounts, which inspired others to write Gods Word eventually leading to the
development of the Gospels. Pauls letters also contain the earliest description of events
such as the Last Supper, which has allowed the Church to ritualise and preserved the
event in liturgy as an expression of faith. The accounts in Pauls letters also make
reference to rituals such as marriage and baptism, which again are used by the Church to
provide a formula for the significance and symbolism of these rites. The Pauline
discussion of morality also contributed to the expression of Christianity making clear the
actions needed to be undertaken for adherents to lead a moral life. Hence it can be seen
that Paul of Tarsus has contributed significantly to the development and expression of
Christianity.
(Not Marked)
Paul of Tarsus possessed a profound impact on the Christian Church. This impact extends
through history as well as to theological and even contemporary issues. Originally of the
Jewish faith Paul used his heritage to link the teachings of Jesus to the Old Testament of
the Jewish tradition. The creation of this link allowed Christianity to maintain its Jewish
heritage. However despite these links the strong faith and definition of Christianitys key
beliefs expressed by Paul impacted Christianity significantly. This impact was due to the
fact that through this expression Christianity was recognised as separate to the Jewish
faith and as a religion in its own. In his life Paul composed many letters to the
communities established throughout the Roman Empire, outlining what it was to live a
Christian life. Through these letters Paul mentored many Christian leaders both of and
after his time. Historically the interpretation of Pauls writings by prominent leaders such
as Luther and Calvin has impacted Christianity in the schism these interpretations cause
resulting in the creation of new Christian denominations and definitions of their beliefs.
For example the interpretations offered by Martin Luther suggested the key Pauline
notion of justification by faith meaning that to receive salvation one must demonstrate
their trust in God. Seen as the hub of Pauls writings this idea of justification by faith led
Christianity has always sought to reconnect the faith to its founding roots.
To what extend does the statement apply to the impact of Paul of Tarsus?
The religious Christian tradition is a faith that has always sought to reconnect to its
founding roots. The extent to which this notion applies to Paul of Tarsus is profound.
Throughout the ages the Christian Church has made great effort to reconnect itself with
the teachings of Paul who is considered by many as a core root of the early Church. This
effort is seen in Pauls lasting impact on even the contemporary Church today.
Throughout his life Paul played hand in the development of the early Christian Church
after witnessing the risen Christ on the Road to Damascus. Originally known as a Jewish
ma Saul, Pauls heritage allowed him to successfully link the teachings of the Old
Testament to that of Christ, which ere revered by the adherents of Christianity. The
impact of this link was profound on the Christian Church, which allowed it to recognise
and sustain the roots of its original Jewish theology in the inclusion of the Old Testament
that still remains in the Christian Bible today. The action of this preservation
demonstrates Christianitys strive towards a connection with its founding roots even in
the time of Paul.
Pauls greatest contribution to the Christian faith came through the construction of his
letters, which are now seen to constitute up to 25% of the New Testament. Seen as the
first written texts of Christianity those who take the notion of Christ seriously have been
impacted tremendously by these letters. Theologically these writings have provided a
linguistic material in the construction of significant doctrines such as the Catholic
Catechism. This impact made by Paul demonstrates that the Church still seeks to connect
to its founding roots as the doctrines of the Christian variants refer to the specific beliefs
held by these variants. By connecting these doctrines to the inspirational impact of Pauls
letters to the Christen community links these beliefs to the original elements of faith
expressed in Pauls early Church. Hence it can be seen that the extent to which
Christianity seeks to reconnect to its founding roots in regard to Pauls impact is
profound.
In contemporary society Paul of Tarsus still provides a profound impact on the Christian
faith. With contemporary Christians seen as an heir to Pauls historical achievements, his
teachings still resolve a significant impact when adapted to the issues of the modern age.
For example the wisdom of Pauls teaching has impacted the Christian approach towards
interfaith dialogue. In his own time Paul expressed an evangelistic strategy of being all
things to all people [1 Cor 9:22]. In this strategy Paul sought to establish commonalities
between groups of people to allow them to interconnect with one another rather than
telling them what they wanted to hear. This strategy Is adopted in modern society by the
Christen Church towards its efforts at interfaith dialogue. Establishing the commonality is
a belief of an omnipresent God within the Jewish, Christian and Islamic religions are an
example of this. Hence it can be seen that the teachings of Pauls early Church is still
sought to be connected with by modern Christianity. Thus it is seen that the extent to
which Christianity seeks to reconnect to its core roots regarding Pauls impact is
monumental.
Throughout the ages Christianity has been trying to reconnect to its early roots. The
extent to which this notion applies to Paul of Tarsus, seen by many as one of these core
roots, is profound. Through his impact the influence of Paul can be seen throughout
Christian society even in the modern age.
(Not Marked)
- Please note at time this was written and marked had not covered Christian Enviro.
Ethics so was not required to write about this. If this was a HSC question MUST mention
Environmental Ethics as well Religion is fundamental in bestowing purpose to the question of human existence in the
life of the individual. Marking the truth religion is seen to practice order in the lives of
adherents. The extent to which this ideal reflects Christianity as a living religious tradition
is phenomenal. Exampled through the relationships between Paul of Tarsus and the
baptismal rite Christianity is proven as a living religious tradition that relays purpose and
order in an adherents life.
Religion is essential in providing guidance to human life, an ideal that is closely reflected
in Christianity. Significant individual, Paul of Tarsus, was instrumental in elaboration on
the sacramental rites preposed by Jesus including the rite of baptism. Describing the
ceremony as a spiritual circumcision where the sins are cut away (Col 2:13) baptism
is seen as a passage to salvation for many Christian variants such as the Greek Orthodox
and Catholics. Reflected in Johns Gospel unless one is born of the water and spirit they
cannot entre the kingdom of God (John 3:5), the promise of salvation in Christianity
promotes an answer to the enduring questions of human existence such as is there a God
and the definition of evil. In answering these questions Christianity, through the
teachings of Paul and the Baptismal rite, provides guidance to the life of the individual
providing a guide for the righteous path of moral integrity. This results in Christianity as a
living religion as adherents use the guidance to fuel the actions of their everyday lives in
acts such as prayer and charity. Hence it can be seen that through the relationships
determined by Paul of Tarsus and Baptism, Christianity definitively reflects the idea of
religion providing order in the lives of adherents.
Christianity undeniably examples the nature of religion giving purpose to human life.
Expressed through the relationship between Paul of Tarsus and baptism, this ideal leads
to Christianity being seen as a dynamic living tradition. Through his letters Paul defined
the core beliefs of the Christian Church such as the risen Christ (1 Cor 12:15). These
beliefs were then adapted to the baptismal rite and expressed readily to the adherent.
For when you were baptised you were buried with Christ and in baptism you rose with
Christ (Col 2:12). This Bible reference indicates that in submergence in the water the
adult adherent in Pentecostal baptism suffers a death and subsequent burial to their past
life, reflective of the death of Christ. Emergence from the water represents a resurrection
to new life, just as Christ resurrected from the dead. This symbolism of death and burial
emphasises baptism as a rite of initiation for the individual, carried throughout all the
Christian variants. Through this emphasise, gained by an expression of the beliefs
proposed by Paul, the new adherent gains a sense of purpose and belonging in their new
life as a Christian. By attaining a purpose in their human life the adherent is encouraged
to adhere to the Christian practice in order to attain a perfection of spirit leading to a
dynamic and living religion. Thus the idea of religion gifting purpose to adherents is
strongly reflected in the notion of Christianity as a living tradition.
No matter the tradition the overarching concept of religion is seen as fundamental to
developing a sense of purpose and guidance in the life of its human adherents. This idea
is reflected strongly within the religious tradition of Christianity. Exemplified through the
relationship between Paul of Tarsus and the baptismal rite, the idea of Christianity as a
living religious tradition in parallel to the aforementioned philosophy is identified.
(Marked 17 out of 20. Comments: Thoughtful response providing a sound attempt to
engage with the question. Paid attention to variants of Christianity which enhanced the
response. Relevant Scripture quotations)
Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. (3 John 1:11)
Ethical teachings provide an undeniable guide towards what is right in the lives of
religious adherents. Within the Christian tradition this fact is especially true in light of
environmental ethics. Traditionally a religion that has adopted anthropocentric attitudes
to the environment, recent centuries have provided an emphasis on the need for
environmental ethical teachings as a guide for believers to imitate the good described in
3 John 1:11. With the many leaders of the Christian variants calling upon their authority
to stress the moral code of environmental ethics as described in the Scripture, the
implication of these ethics as a guide to do good is seen.
Environmental ethical teachings provide a purpose and guide in the lives of adherents.
Within Christianity the scripture stresses that adherence to these ethics will allow its
followers to achieve what is good. For Christians the environment is believed to be the
work of God for in Him all things were created (Col 1:15-17), and through this creation
the environment is a gift that God has placed in our responsible hands (Pope Benedict
XVI). This sentiment, reflected not only by the authorities of the Catholic denomination
but all variants, contributes to the ethical principle of stewardship. In this teaching it is
determined that God employed humanity as caretakers of the earth. For the adherent
this assignment as earths steward denotes a purpose to fulfil this role in their lives
hence prompting an instant guide of discipleship before God and foundation for their
efforts to imitate good. The principle of stewardship further invokes an immediate
responsibility of humanity to nurture and protect the environment created by God. For
believers, in order to fulfil their purpose, this notion can be employed to practical
behaviours such as minimising waste, and employing sustainable behaviours such as the
use of green energy. This practice ensures that the harmony described in the teaching of
co-creation is maintained, while allowing the adherent to imitate goodliness in their lives.
This goodliness is derived from the fulfilment of their responsibility with God. Thus it can
be seen that by providing purpose to ones life, Christian environmental ethical teachings
guides its adherents to do what is good.
Within Christianity the teachings of environmental ethics determine a moral code of
justice within the lives of adherents. Through this code a moral law is derived that
persuades adherents to not only act in a righteous manner, but to do what is good.
Within the Bible the notions of Christian ecotheology can be linked directly to the major
foundations of Christian law. In this theology it is suggested that one should not waste or
live in an excessive manner so as to ensure the goods of the earth are shared in equity.
Loosely this can be linked to the Decalogue and the tenth commandment that you shall
not covet (Exodus 20:17). Warning against greed, this commandment augments the
relevance of the ecotheology in the lives of adherents, where the ethics provides
practical knowledge that can be enacted to ensure Christian followers remain true to the
commandment so as to ensure they do what is good. In employing the spirit of
sustainability, as commanded by their God, believers embody the environmental
principle of justice. This principle furthers the ethical guide to imitate good encouraging
a practical, necessary response to environmental issues such as the suffering of the poor.
The result of these teachings can be seen in Christian groups such as the Catholic
Edmund Rice centre, which aims to resolve the issue of refugees from low lying islands
such as Kiribati in a sustainable manner. Uniting Justice Australia, of the Uniting Church,
too lobbies for the solutions of justice issues often referring to dialogue with the political
realm to ensure Australia takes its place as the leader of environmental concern in the
Asia-Pacific region. Through these actions an example of charity, and equity is embodied
in the lives of adherents. In participating in this push for justice the Christian disciples are
fulfilling the Christian spirit to care for others and do what is good in guidance of the
ethical teachings. Hence it can be clearly seen that Christian environmental ethical
teachings provide a moral guide to believers, so that they can achieve a just life.
Christian environmental ethical teachings can be seen to determine the path to salvation
in the lives of adherents. Through this path the teachings act as a guide to do what is
good in order for believers to receive this redemption. The stewardship principle of
Christianity is derived from the ethical teachings of stewardship where the Lord God took
men and placed them on earth to work it and take care of it (Gen 2:15). Through this
assignment it is believed that humanity has been given a responsibility to care for the
earth in order to bring about the Reign of God on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew
6:11) in accordance with the Mission principle of the environmental teachings. Through
this principle adherents are reminded that they will be held accountable for their actions
towards the environment in the hereafter. Many variants, such as the Orthodox Church,
believe that to commit a crime against nature is to sin against ourselves and to sin
against God (Patriarch Bartholomew). In this belief the need for adherents to take
reverence towards the environment is heightened as it is stressed to exploit it, to destroy
it is a sin. If a believer commits a sin of large enough magnitude then they will be barred
from salvation. To avoid this adherents are guided to take great care when using the
environment so as not to participate in exploitive industries such as animal testing and to
avoid acts of animal cruelty where, in doing so the believer is guided to do what is good.
Thus it is seen that environmental ethical teachings provide a guide to imitate the good
for Christian adherents.
In many religious traditions ethical teachings form the basis of guides towards
goodliness. For Christianity environmental ethical teachings, in particular form this guide.
Expressed in the Scripture and advocated by the denominational leaders these
teachings, within Christianity, are seen to undeniably advocate the imitation of
goodliness referenced in 3 John 1:11.
(A range - no specific mark. Comments: Overall good response.)
A Living Religious
Tradition
Ethics
Significant
people and
ideas
Significant
Practices
A dynamic living religion can be defined by the submission of its adherents to its
traditions and beliefs. Within the Christian religious tradition this fact holds true, as its
believers fuel the notion of the tradition as both living and dynamic. The essence of the
effect can be derived upon an examination of the relationship between significant figure
Paul of Tarsus and practice of the baptismal rite. Through this exploration it can be
derived that through their vital relationship these two aspects contribute readily to
Christianity as a living religion in the world today.
The link between the rite of baptism and Paul of Tarsus has defined Christianity as a
dynamic, living religion. A significant individual of the Christian Church Paul of Tarsus was
seen to define the core beliefs of Christianity, a move, which allowed the tradition to split
from that of Judaism. Recorded in his letters, Paul expressed the basic beliefs of the
Christian tradition then used by the Church to define rituals such as baptism. In the
Pentecostal variant of Christianity water, like all variants, is used to symbolise the death
and resurrection of Christ. Here immersion of the adult candidate into the water
represents the death and burial of their old life, reflecting the death and burial of Christ.
Emerging from the water is representative of resurrecting to new life just as Christ
resurrected from death. This core belief is seen defined in the letters of Paul who states
in baptism you were buried with Christ and in baptism you rose with Christ [Col 2:12]
reflecting his proclamations of the core belief in the risen Christ [1 Cor 12:15]. The
relationship between belief and ritual established within the teachings of Paul and rite of
baptism are seen to be relevant to provide a sense of identity and purpose in the
contemporary world. For adherents to the Christian Church the sacrament of baptism
provides an opportunity for the individual to publically express their belief in Christ and
God. This expression allows the adherent to solidify their identity as a follower Christ
providing purpose to their lives as they set out to follow the Christian path of
righteousness defined by their beliefs. Through this path the adherent striving to achieve
goodness through actions such as prayer, and charity in their everyday lives. Thus it is
seen that the relationship between Paul of Tarsus and baptism has contributed to
Christianity as a dynamic living religion.
The relationship between Paul of Tarsus and Baptism has contributed significantly to the
nature of Christianity as a living tradition. In his lifetime Paul elaborated on the rituals
and practices of the Christian Church as prescribed by Christ including the rite of
baptism. This relationship of advisor and product has impacted the idea of Christianity as
a living religious tradition. In his letters Paul emphasised the practice of baptism as a
spiritual circumcision where the sins of the adherent were cut away, forgiven by God
[Col 2:13]. For variants such as the Greek Orthodox and Catholic Churches this idea of
spiritual cleansing emphasised the gift of salvation offered in baptism as defined in other
sacred writings such as Johns Gospel, unless one is born of the water and the spirit he
cannot entre the kingdom of God [John 3:5]. Pauls definition of a spiritual salvation
offered by God is seen to influence the practice in the Greek Orthodox baptism where the
infant baptised is anointed with the oil of the chrism, signifying the reception of the Holy
Spirit and hence salvation. While not adhered to by all sects, the idea of salvation offered
through the rite of baptism as explained by Paul, provides answers to the enduring
questions of human existence. Through the idea of salvation the individual and
community are gathered to believe in the path of righteousness providing answers to
questions such as what happens after death and the definition of evil. The idea of
salvation augments a sense on the afterlife provided by a sustained belief in Christianity.
This notion of the afterlife causes adherents to live their lives in an ethical manner
striving to do good in order to achieve the right to entre heaven and avoid hell upon
judgement by God. In doing so the adherent employs the practical experience of
Christianity in their everyday life through actions such as prayer. Hence it is seen that
through the impact of the relationship between Paul of Tarsus and baptism, the nature of
Christianity is described as living and dynamic.
The aspects of a religious tradition and the practice of its adherents can be seen to
define a religion as living and dynamic. For Christianity this fact is held undeniably true
where two of its aspects contribute significantly to the notion of the living, dynamic
tradition. Revealed upon an examination of the relationship between significant person
Paul of Tarsus and the baptismal rite, Christianity as a living tradition can be seen.
Extra Paragraph Paul of Tarsus and Environmental Ethics
The relationship between Paul of Tarsus and Christian environmental ethics has
contributed significantly to the nature of the Christian tradition as a dynamic, living
religion. Significant person Paul of Tarsus wrote a series of letters that Christian leaders
throughout the ages have used to define the core beliefs of Christianity. In his work Paul
expressed that for in Him all things were created (Col 1:15-17). This statement links
directly the core definition of Christian environmental ethics of God as the creator of the
earth, on the first day God created the heavens and the earth (Gen 1:1). Through this
belief, as expressed by Paul, prominent leaders of the Christian variants have sought to
define the importance of environmental ethical teachings in the life of the adherent.
Looking to the stewardship principle of the teachings, that humanity were given the
responsibility as caretakers of the earth (Gen 2:15), leaders such as Patriarch
Bartholomew have determined that to commit a crime against nature is to sin against
ourselves and to sin against God. These sentiments, reflected not only in the Orthodox
denominations but in all variants, indicate that the earth is to be treated with reverence
due to its status as the creation of God. This notion contributes to the nature of
Christianity as a living religious tradition as the trust assigned by God in humanitys role
of stewards guides adherents to living a moral life as defined by the Christian beliefs
assigned by Paul. These guidelines allow adherents to follow practical measures such as
waste minimisation to ensure they fulfil their role of stewards, growing closer in their
relationship to God through their interactions with the environment. This leads to a
greater awareness of God in the believer, which in turn leads to a deeper appreciation of
the Christian rituals such as prayer to further this existence. This it can be clearly derived
that through the relationship between Paul of Tarsus and environmental ethical
teachings, Christianity is defined as a living tradition.
(Not Marked)