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SOR 1 NOTES - Religion and belief systems in Australian post-1945Contemporary ab. spiritualitiesThe Dreaming: Meta-temporal concept referring to the Aboriginal spiritual beliefsabout creation and existence which is embedded in all aspects of cultural life. Involves allknowledge of societies and has an inextricable connection to the land as its physical medium ofcommunicationBelief of many Aboriginal groups that Aboriginal people have been in Australia since the beginning. Worldview which structures many Indigenous cultures, providing Indigenous Australians with an ordered sense of reality-a framework for understanding and interpreting the world and the place of humans in that world3 major functions:- It provides an explanation of creation-how the universe and everything within it came into being.- It provides a set of blueprints for life-all living forms were created through The Dreaming.- It provides a set of rules or laws for living. The Dreaming provides rules for social relationships,

economic activities, religious activities and ceremonies, and art-in short, the rules governing all activitiesDreamtime: Aboriginal understanding of the world, it's creation, and it's great stories. The beginning of knowledge, from which came the laws of existence. For survival these laws must be observedAboriginal spirituality: Core of Aboriginal being, their very identity. Gives meaning to all aspects of life including relationships with one another and the environment. All objects are living and share the same soul and spirit as Aboriginals- Feeling of oneness and belonging - Principle of connectedness underpinning aboriginal life- Spiritual beliefs are intimately associated with the land aboriginal ppl. live in - Key feature of Aboriginal spirituality is to look after the land, an obligation which has been passed down

as law for thousands of years

Aboriginal spirituality as determined by the dreaming • Discuss how ab. spirituality is determined by the Dreaming Kinship (Ab. & TSI. culture): Defined ways of relationship w/in and betw/ family groupies ⇾ determined by the dreaming ⇾ connected to spirituality - Forms of social interaction (marriage, meetings, sports) are determined by Kinship laws- Determines how ind. relates to others and belongs to the comm. - Based on familial and totem relationships - Provides framework for identity, cohesion and relationships, identifies the responsibility to pass down

knowledge of the dreaming- Totems are established by stories of the dreaming which offer connection to land and ancestral beingsCeremonial life (corroboree: Ab. ceremony in form of dance): Ab. ceremony that centre on retellings of the dreaming through song, dance, music and mime - E.g rite of passage, mem. is initiated into adulthood and full membership of the tribe - Testing of strength, revelation of special knowledge, held to mark developments and new roles - Dance, song, art, rituals and sacred stories are ceremonial communication of the Dreaming- These relive Dreamtime stories in the present day ⇾ allow transmission of knowledge- Totems, determined by the dreaming, carry ceremonial and spiritual responsibilities which also carries

fulfilment of Ab. spiritually



Obligations to the land and ppl:- Laws of kinship encourage growth and maintenance of dependence and support extending beyond family

grps. - Togetherness of group is emphasised by actions at these ceremonies and actions are determined by

dreaming stories - Dreaming connects ab. group to land which they inhabit thus are custodians of the land - Protection and custodianship of that land becomes an integral part of the lives of individuals and the

culture of the tribe- Land provides foundations for beliefs, rituals, tradition and law because the stories of the Dreaming are

embedded within it ⇾ offering its physical expression- The land is the ‘Mother’ of Ab. spirituality and home of ancestral beings. Aboriginals are custodians

rather than owners gives them responsibilities (balance rites) to sacred sites to offer preservation of the Dreaming and their spirituality, as well as offering identity and intimate connection

- Obligations to people are determined by Totemic responsibilities and responsibilities bestowedthrough the Dreaming among tribes

Issues for Ab. spiritualities in relation to: Effect of dispossession, the land rights movement • Discuss the continuing effect of dispassion on Ab. spiritualities in relation to: Separation from the land: Land to TSI & ab.s are intrinsic (belonging naturally)- land and ppl have a symbiotic relationship, ppl are responsible to take care of land through management,

rituals etc to preserve and maintain land- 1945: removal of TSI and A.b ppl from their land, land had economic value to white settlers- Terra nullius (legal doctrine): Aust. was land that belonged to no-one when the Brits arrived to establish

colonies, thus ownership of land was legal - Govt. reclaimed reserve land and established control of ppl living on reserves - Separation from land ⇾ no access to food, cultural practices associated with the land weren't carried out - Ab. TSI ppl couldn't draw effectively spiritual power of the dreaming and ancestral spirits

Separation from kinship groups:- Dispossession broke up Ab. and TSI nations ⇾ disturbing rel. cult. beliefs and practices around which

their lives were entered - Languages lost, ceremonies related to kinship were not enacted, place and role of tribal leaders were

undermined ⇾ cultural info. in regards to kinship oblig. and taboos (lost)- Lost sense of identity, belonging, to the land and each other - Psychological effect (not perceived by euros) didn't understand deep cultural attachment to the land

The stolen generations: children of ab. and TSI who were removed from their families to be cared for on missions or fostered w/ white families (assimilated into white comm.)- Aim was to protect them of perceived abuse of indigenous comm. ⇾ ensure good education and

assimilation into western culture - Difficult to prove abuse/ extent to which it occurred in ab. and TSI children (especially those w/ euro

blood) hard to believe ALL were in harmful enviro. - Loss of oral culture ⇾ fewer children received cultural heritage in its complete form - Today ppl have lost touch w/ specific knowledge and culture of their tribes - Began in 1995 (report ‘bringing them home’, in 1997)- Report: children were forcibly removed ⇾ lost language, culture, identity, links w/ the land and spirit.,

genocide- Govt. initiative, Christina churches admitted they were complicit in the stolen gen.- Recommendation of report ⇾ apology fr. the CW govt. to the stolen gen. - PM believed however wrong the settlers were they had ‘good intentions’ . 1st act was to apologise on 13th

Feb 2008



Effects of dispossession/land rights movement:- EOD: Health problems, kidney disease, loss of eyesight, higher suicide rates- LRM: Rights for ab., reclaim land ⇾ reconnect w/ culture & dreaming stories- 1967 referendum: important step for equality for Ab. and TSI ⇾ Ab. should be counted in the census as

part of Aust. population & CW have power to make laws for ab. ppl - Overwhelming support fr the ppls. accepted by over 90% of the ppl., significant moral victory and a

successful referenda in Aust.

• Outline importance of the land rights movement:Native title: Recognises rights of Ab. and TSI to the use and occupation of lands with which they have maintained a continuing, traditional connectionEuropean nations settled lands outside of Europe usually signed treaties with og. habitants. E.g Brit and maori in NZ, American settlers and native americans - If land was uninhabited (terra nullius) Cap cook declared it (1770) and Cap Phillip accepted it (1788) ⇾

Believed there were few ab. ppl, felt no treaty had to be signed until in (1960’s) the issue of land rights raised its head in Aust. politics

- 1980’s state govt. moved on the land rights issue, WA & Ql were unsympathetic and rather concerned about maintaining rights of mining companies

Mabo: 1970’s QL govt. tried removing rights of ppl in Murray(Mer) isl. in the Torres strait - Eddie Mabo (one of the Meriam ppl) took QL govt. to court and lost the case ⇾ decision appealed and

taken to high court of Aust. ⇾ court favoured Meriam ppl recognised the principle of the native title - Notion of Terra nullius overturned, native title existed before arrival of Euro. - 1993 NT act passed ⇾ miners were concerned and insecure as to if they could claim native title over the

land

Wik: Dealt w/ by the Wik decision (1996), high court argued that NT could coexist w/ rights of leaseholders ⇾ miners and pastoralists still concerned that they were in favour of NT- Led to (1998) NT act passed by the Howard govt. stating: NT and leaseholders could coexist, in any conflict of interest, rights of leaseholders would come first ⇾ returned power to state govt. who could extinguish NT

• Analyse the importance of the dreaming for the land rights movement - Essential to their expression of spirituality - Land is essential for dreaming (inexorably linked)- LR build upon concepts of the dreaming and are vital to its expression- Land is at the heart of the Dreaming and all relationships within Aboriginal communitiesare determined through relationships with the land- Spirituality is founded on the people’s inextricable connection to the land

The dreaming is the main spiritual concept that determines; beliefs, values, relationship with others and the importance of the reciprocal relationship between the land its people. The Dreaming is inextricably tied to the land and identity of Aboriginal people therefore once the British arrived and claimed the land as their own and many Indigenous people ties to the land were cut. Protests such as the ‘Wave Hill Strike’ (1966), the ‘Referendum’ (1967) and the ‘Tent Embassy’ ( 1972) were instances where Aboriginal people began to voice their opinions on the treatment of Aboriginal people and their rights to their traditional land. It wasn't until Mabo’s Decision in 1992 that indigenous Land Rights became apparent nationwide. Murray Islander Eddie Mabo challenged the Queensland Government on the pre-existing notion that Australia was Terra Nullius when the white Europeans arrived. Mabo argued that the Aboriginal peoples had/have a continuous, unbroken relationship with their areas of the country disproving the assumption that Australia was Terra Nullius when the British arrived.



Religious expression in Australia - 1945 to the present Religious landscape from 1945 to the present in relation to changing patterns of re. adherence, current religious landscape

• Outline changing patterns of re. adherence from 1945 to the present using census dataCAT: catholic ANG: anglican CHRIS: christian COE: church of England - Christianity largest re. tradition in Aust. - Since (1981) CA replaced ANG as the largest denomination - CA an ANG are the largest denominations ⇾ experienced greatest decline in 10 yrs- Small no.’s like the PEN have experienced largest growth (increase of >20%)- Non christian re. are growing at a faster rate than CHRIS - % of no re. has increased about 22.3%

• Account for the present religious landscape in Aust. in relation to:Christianity as the major religious tradition: - Aust. colonised by Brit. they brought CHRIS & the Church of Eng. Since WW2 ⇾ sig. changes- CAT was present on 1st fleet, but remained 2nd to COE- Since (1945) the English composition of CHRIS has changed w/ the coming of Orthodoxy from east

Europe, southern European catholics from Italy, malta, spain etc- (1986) Aust. census the CAT church became the largest denomination remaining that position - Reasons for change: immigration, conversion, rise to new religions, secularism, non re. CHRIS reflected

in legal, political system and dominant culture in Aust.

Immigration: - Prior to (1945) the (1901) white Aust. act ensured a population of white anglo origins - After WWII most immigrants came from East EUR and GRE, Vietnam war ⇾ influx of refugees, many of

those were buddhist (VNM french colony) many were CAT- Arrival relaxed the white policy and introduction of multiculturalism replacing the govt. policy of cultural

assimilation - Those fr. Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand ⇾ Buddhism. India, fiji ⇾ Hinduism. Lebanon, Turkey, Indonesia ⇾ Islam. Aust became multicultural a multi-faith society

Denominational switching: Exchange of church mem. betw/ different Christian denominations- E.g protestant choosing to join a uniting church service because of style of worship - Due to varying traditions, styles of worship, prayer etc.

Rise of new age religions: - 1960’s beginnings of awareness of the globalised world, new forms of global comm., less commitment to

traditional structures - New re. like paganism, wicca, do not feature in the census they're part of a movement towards non-

western/non-mainstream religions

Secularism: Belief system that rejects religion, or the belief that it should not be part of the affairs of the state- Sig. nos of Aust. aren't religious, the numbers are growing ⇾ greater level or scientific knowledge,

perseverance of many religions in conservative attitudes towards women, scandals etc - ppl are deciding religion is irrelevant in their lives, choosing to replace them with world views or have no

religion - People thought religion was restricting, avoided following religious traditions and rituals and focus on

social and political influences



Census data (2016):- In 1966, Christianity (88 per cent) was the main religion, now 52% - Islam (2.6 per cent) and Buddhism (2.4 per cent) next most common religions reported- 1/3 of Australians reported in the Census that they had no religion in 2016- By 1991, this figure had fallen to 74 per cent, and further to the 2016 figure. Catholicism is the largest

Christian grouping in Australia, accounting for almost a quarter (22.6 per cent) of the Australian population.

- Australia is increasingly a story of religious diversity, with Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, and Buddhism all increasingly common religious beliefs. Hinduism had the most significant growth between 2006 and 2016, driven by immigration from South Asia.

- The growing percentage of Australia’s population reporting no religion has been a trend for decades, and is accelerating.

- Those reporting no religion increased noticeably from 19 per cent in 2006 to 30 per cent in 2016. The largest change was between 2011 (22 per cent) and 2016, when an additional 2.2 million people reported having no religion

- How likely a person was to identify as religious in 2016 had a lot to do with their age. Young adults aged 18-34 were more likely to be affiliated with religions other than Christianity (12 per cent) and to report not having a religion (39 per cent) than other adult age groups

- Older age groups, particularly those aged 65 years and over, were more likely to report Christianity

Religious dialogue in multi-faith Aust. Ecumenical movements within Christianity, interfaith dialogue, relo. betw/ ab. spiritualities and religious traditions in the process of reconciliation

• Describe impact of Christian ecumenical movements in Aust. National council of churches (NCCA)- Foster cooperation between churches at formal/informal levels - Grew from several ecumenical org. such as the ACC - Reverse the racist and discriminatory legislation affecting the social dynamic in Aust. - Lobbies govt. and other decision makers from a CHRIS perspective (involved in interfaith dialogue)- Established AND (Australian national dialogue) of JEW, CHRIS, MUS- The National Council of Churches (NCCA) is an ecumenical body that aims to deepen the relationship of

member churches “in oder to express more visibly the unity by Christ” and strengthen the cause of Christian unity in Australia by leading different denominations to work, pray and grow together

- Variants of Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox churches make up the complement of this body- Group of 19 member churches sharing a common Christian understanding who work together

to promote peace, harmony, a love of Christ and a vision of a future Australia with a sharing community

- They cover a range of issues and assist the community in issues of faith and unity, gender issues, indigenous people, social justice and international topics

- By working together, they are paving the way for an Australia where Christians share and work together on issues of concern and pray together as one people of God

NSW ecumenical council (NSWC)- Give churches a shared voice when following their religious beliefs - Began in (1982) had origins in (1942) as part of the development of the ACC and NCCA- encourages pursuit of social justice, operates charity events, help refugees, provide accomodation for poor- Central tenet: unit between those who believe in God, focus on CHRIS duties rather than compete



Evaluate importance of interfaith dialogue in multi faith Aust. - Seeks to develop services and education seminars and encourage dialogue - Helps each religion to grow and develop mutually, enrichment - Interfaith dialogue is formal discussion aimed towards developing greater mutual understanding between

different religious traditions- It rejects the belief that all religions are the same, and is not an attempt to unify different religious

traditions, but while respecting the diversity of beliefs it allows different religions to come to a better appreciation of the uniqueness of each other

Examine rel. betw/ ab. spiritualities and religious traditions in the process of reconciliation Reconciliation: acknowledgement by groups in Australia of the great injustices done to Indigenous Australians and the dispossession that occurred in the past- Willingness to rectify these wrongs, improve position of ab. ppl in the future- Recognition Aust. was established as an aim to provide ongoing national effort in rec.- Aims to encourage and form stronger relationships between non-Indigenous and Indigenous Australians- Important to Aust. as religious traditions recognise mistakes of the past - Christian churches developed groups repressing indigenous Aust. - (1996) CAT, ANG churches and indigenous leaders met up to call for reconciliation ⇾ ignored ⇾ forged

ahead providing ex. of leadership - Religious profile of Aust. has changed significantly since 1945, reflecting the diversity of the Australian

community and beliefs



Christianity Significant people and ideas

The contribution to Christianity of ONE significant person (Pope John XXIII) Angelo Roncallli - Explain the contribution to the development and expression of ChristianityTermsAggiornamento: Bringing up to date ⇾ throw open the doors of the church in desire of opening up dialogue with the outside world Ecclesiastical: Relating to the Christian church and its clergy, member of the clergy Encyclical: Circular letter spread throughout a community, a papal encyclical is a letter from a pope that can be addressed to the bishops and priests of a country or region, or the clergy of the entire world (Pacem In Terras) Mater et Magistra: Encyclical written by Pope John Pacem in terris: Papal encyclical issued by Pope John “Peace On Earth”Obedientia et pax: Obedience and peace, he’s motto Vernacular: Language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a particular region Engaged with the broader Christian church and wider community - Role as war medic in WWI & WWII- During missile crisis (October 1962) broadcasted message urging both parties to proceed with caution →

gave Soviet Leader opportunity to back down - Providing support for disadvantaged workers in Bergamo - Patrol emphasis of his pontificate, emphasised by visits to the Coeli prison, talked to communists, made

grace accessible- Saved approx 600 Jewish children- Played a historic role in saving tens of thousands of Greek, Turkish, Bulgarian, and Hungarian Jews

during the Holocaust- Saved 750,000 children in Hungary from Jewish discrimination by issuing immigration certificates and

transit visasCalled the 2nd Vatican council- Provided the calling and inspiration for Vatican 2 , “Man of the Year” 1962 - Summoned 2nd vatican council (1962-65) ⇾ enacted major revision of the code of canon law,

transformed the structures of the Roman Catholic church - Vatican II ⇾ updating (Aggiornamento) of the church and seeking unity between Christians in the world - Personality and teachings & initiatives with world leaders ⇾ gave papacy a new vision and set church

towards a new mission - Changed the nature of modern church councils, didn't call on errors or infallible beliefs as with previous

councils ⇾ council (one of mercy), express faith in a new language & became ecumenical in nature - Aggiornamento, which means “Bringing up to date” ⇾ one of the key words used in the Second Vatican

Council, which he instigated in the aim of the renewal of the church- Therefore, changed the language of the liturgy to “vernacular” ⇾ language of the people ⇾ important role

in connecting the people of the church to their faith by understanding it



Writings: Mater et magistrae, Pacem in terris - Encyclical “Mater et Magistra” (mother and teacher) echoed importance of fair wages allowing individual

to “live a truly human life”:- Produced to establish the argument of increasing development of social issues in the light of the Christian

doctrine- Argument: On the increasing development of social issues in the light of the Christian doctrine- Encyclical “Pacem in Terris” addressed to “all men of good will”, highlighted universal peace in truth,

justice and charity:- Establishes the argument that ‘peace between all peoples must be based on truth, justice, love and

freedom’, reviewed in 4 historical periods - 1st period ⇾ response to the Industrial Revolution - 2nd period ⇾ Pacem in Terris belongs, a response to the Second World War, the nuclear age and global

interdependence- 3rd period ⇾ response to post-industrial societies - 4th period ⇾ spanned the social justice teaching of Pope John Paul II - Establishing ⇾ universal peace in truth, justice, charity and libertyA shift towards ecumenism- Ecumenism: Ongoing meetings with representatives of ecumenical patriarch, paved way for the ‘kiss of

peace’, convicts the vatican to reshape liturgy, ecumenism, biblical scholarship and approach of the church- Called the 2nd vatican council after the schism to promote ecumenism between the eastern and western

churches- Promoted unity between Christians to a significant extent where Pope Paul II who followed in Pope John

XXIII footsteps and lifted the excommunication of the Churches- Met with Maronites ⇾ included them in the vatican II - invited other faiths to the Vatican 2 proceedings

which strengthened relations with other faiths ie. Eastern Orthodox, Protestants, Anglican - Promoted similarities between denominations- John XXIII was Apostolic Delegate to Bulgaria, Turkey and Greece for 20 years (Orthodox in East

Europe)- Encouraged this movement stating that ‘Catholics and Orthodox are not enemies, but brothers’

Outline the contribution of one significant person to the development and expression of Christianity Angelo Roncalli was a progressive pope and prolific writer as much of his contributions to Christianity were transformative and revolutionary. Growing up amongst poverty, Roncalli made it his mission as a Pope to deliver peace, obedience and unity through his work. Roncalli wrote 8 encyclicals, including “Pacem in Terris”, which emphasised the importance of world peace “May christ inflame the desires of all men to break through the barriers that divide them”. Additionally, he served as a medic in WWI and worked amongst the underprivileged, providing support for disadvantaged workers in Bergamo. By providing the calling and inspiration for Vatican II, he reiterated the importance of ecumenism and unison among religions. It is primary due to to Roncalli’s determination that the church should ‘leap forward’ that he is considered to be one of the most influential Christian leaders.



The effect of that person on Christianity - Analyse the impact of this person - Summoned 2nd vatican council, enacted major regions of the code of canon law- Transformed the structures of the Roman Catholic church - Vatican II charged with the updating (Aggiornamento) of the church and seeking unity between Christians

in the world - Through his personality and teachings, and his initiatives with world leaders, he gave the papacy a new

vision and set the church towards a new mission in the world- He changed the nature of modern church councils, he didn't call a council to condemn errors or declare

new beliefs, as with previous councils - His council was one of mercy and pastoral care, to express faith in a new language and be ecumenical in

nature - Pastoral emphasis of his pontificate is emphasised by his visits to the Regina Coeli Prison, he talked with

traditional enemies like the communists ⇾ made grace accessible to ordinary people- His life and mission was based on a personal spirituality of the crucified and rise christ, the council

represented ‘a way of self-renewal through an encounter with the rising Jesus.. whose light illumines the whole church for the salvation, joy and glory of all peoples’

- Ecumenism: Cardinal Roncalli’s ongoing meetings with representatives of the ecumenical patriarch paved the way for the ‘kiss of peace’ between

- 1962: Fewer that 90 yrs after Vatican 1, he convenes the ecumenical council vatican II - Called church to be prophetic within the modern world - he understood that the world was changing and

that the church needed to respond to the stirrings of the holy spirit by working though the ‘sign of the times’

- In doing so he was committed to Christian unity, social justice, human rights and the cultivation of world peace

Analyse the impact of one significant person on Christianity Roncalli’s transformative impact on Christianity was long living and extremely influential. His mission involved peace among nations, obedience and the road to unity. He was entirely motivated to promote and work for peace, due to his experiences in the Army service as a medic in WWI & WWII. Additionally, during the cuban missile crisis he helped prevent the escalation of a world war in his plea, “We beg all governments not to remain deaf to his cry of humanity” and “do all that is in their power to save peace”. Furthermore, his motto ‘Obedientia et Pax”, which is obedience and peace,values that his life and actions served as the epitome of. Most notable, was his role in providing support for disadvantaged workers in Bergamo, an action inspired by works of mercy. His encyclical “Pacem in Terris” was the first in history to have been addressed to "all men of good will," rather than only the bishops and laity of the Roman Catholic Church. It was hailed as "one of the most profound and significant documents of our age”, as it emphasised peace among all “may Christ inflame the desires of all men to break through the barriers which divide them”. Perhaps one of his most profound impacts on Christianity was the calling of the second vatican council, as the 16 documents that followed honoured Roncalli’s wishes for the church. The impacts that followed Roncalli included the use of local languages in the church and the priest facing the congregation, creating accessibility and inclusion. It is primary due to to Roncalli’s determination that the church should ‘leap forward’ that he is considered to be one of the most influential Christian leaders.



Ethics Environmental ethics: describe and explain Christian ethical teachings on environmental ethics

Ethics are concerned with the principles of right conduct. Beliefs, sacred texts, experience and authority are used to formulate ethical teachings.” Key ethical guidelines: conscience, philosophy, theology, reason and faith. Christian ethics and morality are based on the will of God. There is a central idea to all Christian ethics about the love for all people, and what it means to be truly human through your actions. In environmental ethics, the creation stories found in Genesis give insight into the importance of caring for the world, and how modern humanity has been given important stewardship of the Earth

Sources of environmental ethics: - 10 commandments - The beatitudes - Jesus’ commandments of love - Bible, tradition, natural law, conscience

Creation:- Christians believe that the creation of the natural world was God’s work. That is Creation is a belief of

Christians

- The beauty, intensity and mystery of the natural world was created by God, inspires a sense of awe in human’s for creation

- God created the world out of love- God is revealed in nature – beneficent (generous & good), omnipotent, loving- Creation provides a connection to God – caring for creation strengthens our connection to the divine- Our Father “hallowed be thy name” – honour; show gratitude- Reverencing nature = reverencing God - “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be all over the earth!” (Ps 108:5)

Stewardship:- Christians believe that humans are not owners of God’s creation, rather stewards or caretakers- Humans have a responsibility to preserve the earth and foster sustainable development- Caretakers – a role given to humanity by God - Responsibility to maintain and repair the earth - Cultivate and care for the earth means to protect, preserve, conserve, heal - “..guard and till the earth.” (Gn 2:15)- “Act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with God.” (Micah 6:8)

Challenging Anthropocentrism (regarding humans as most important):- To have an anthropocentrism view of the world is to believe that humans are the peak or pinnacle of

creation

- A Christian worldview insists that humans are apart of creation rather than the pinnacle of creation- If humans think like this, respect for the environment is more likely outcome



Kingdom of God:- The New Testament teaches that Jesus was sent to teach Kingdom values. That is, the values that are held

most scared in the Kingdom of God. Jesus taught that people should try to bring these values to everyday life

- If Kingdom values are followed, everything is in right relationship. Justice prevails if resources are managed for all to share- including future generations

- Some kingdom values include respect, consideration, balance, justice, humility and moderation

- If these values are adopted by people towards the environment, better environmental outcomes would be realised

- Creation is the Good News, Christ is the the healer, the renewer - Resurrection = re-creation Hope for the future – the new creation - Our responsibility to make God’s Kingdom a reality - A healthy relationship with creation is one dimension of our Christian commitment - “For God so loved the WORLD that he sent his only Son.” (Jn 3:16) - Revelation speaks of a new heaven and a new earth

CatholicEnvironmental issue 1: Climate change

- “The environment is one of those goods that cannot be adequately safeguarded and promoted by market forces.” - Compendium of the social doctrine of the Church

- The natural world has a value - it belongs to God and humans are only on loan to it. As Catholics, bishops and priests urge individuals to act with sound judgement and resolute actions

- Future generations should not be robbed or left of extra burden. Each sector of the community has a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions

- Internationally, Australia must support structures that overall lessen the effects of global warming. The right to a safe, ecologically sustainable environment is a universal human right. Catholics wish to participate in a future that goes beyond both religious and sectarian interests/groups

Environmental issue 2: Deforestation

- Pope Francis has spoken out on the pressing issue of deforestation. It is known that the forest is one part of God’s great creation, and the act has been named a ‘modern sin’

- He addressed students, struggling farmers and people without work at the University of Molise, "This is one of the greatest challenges of our time: to convert ourselves to a type of development that knows how to respect creation”

- In this sense, as a holistic society, we are allowed by God to utilise the earth's resources, however,creation belongs to God; it is His work, not ours. God entrusted creation to the human family as preparation for the glory of heaven

- Therefore, human beings are required to respect and protect creation as a gift to be treasured, a reflection of God's greatness and love

- To God belong the earth and all it contains, the world and all who live there. - Psalm 24:1 Ways in which change and stewardship is being promoted and actively displayed



Environmental issue 3: Pollution

- “Be praised, my Lord, for Brother Wind, And through the air, cloudy and serene, and every kind of weather, By which you give sustenance to your creatures” (Francis of Assisi, The Canticle of Brother Sun)

- There is a link being established between environmental health and the public health of individuals - pollution of the air leads to increases in cardiovascular disease (and other health issues).

- The challenge is to stop the growth in KM for vehicles travelled overall, and to begin transferring many to using public transport systems more often than not

- Ways to assist these issues is by taking proactive steps towards maintaining healthy environments is by spreading knowledge and education on the issues at hand.

Uniting Church:Environmental issue 1: Climate change

- They were concerned for the human rights of future generations, and they urged adherents to use energy wisely

- They regard climate change as a serious threat to humanity and the planet. They understand that it is important that Australia’s social, economic and environmental policies begin to reflect that social justice and ecological justice are not competing interest, but have shared solutions

- They believe that the Australian government must set serious targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions, primarily through the promotion of renewable energy efficient measures


- Uniting church adherents believe: “Deforestation will add to the catastrophic global effects of our industry and population

- Trees are natural consumers of carbon dioxide— one of the greenhouse gases which contribute to global warming. Destruction of trees not only remove these "carbon sinks," but tree burning and decomposition pump into the atmosphere even more carbon dioxide, along with methane, another major greenhouse gas.”

- They call on adherents to not lose self identity, but to also think about the future of others


The uniting church opposes weakening of carbon pollution reduction scheme. They took action when the national government were reluctant to make difficult decisions, saying that “it falls to us as members of the body of Christ to show leadership in taking action to reduce pollution”



Greek orthodox:Environmental issue 1: Climate change

- The exploitation of God’s world is considered sinful. Greek Orthodox adherents believe that we have ‘ missed the mark’ as to God’s original purpose for us and creation

- When we consume the Earth’s resources with no care for God’s labour in creating them - we become estranged our innermost purpose

- Therefore are concerned for the sustainability of God’s creation of the world

- Climate change - caused by humans - has resulted in the degradation of God’s creation as humans have neglected to take proper care of the environment.


According to the Greek Orthodox church: - The environmental crisis is a sin and a judgement upon humanity. People need to find ways, as churches, to support sound programmes which seek to preserve the environment especially from deforestation

- While human creativity and freedom can be armed as supreme gifts of God, it should also be emphasised that they should be rooted in divine wisdom and in human spiritual maturity towards the responsibility in stopping deforestation.

- “Humanity can no longer ignore its responsibility to protect it and preserve the earth. In order to do this, however, humanity must learn to treat the creation as a sacred offering to God, an oblation, a vehicle of grace, an incarnation of our most noble aspirations and prayers.”


- Individuals within the Greek Orthodox church are prepared to make sacrifices - this is the “missing dimension” in which connects brainstorming of ideas to solve issues to actually taking action

- For any large-scale amount of change towards the environment to take place, there has to be a large sacrifice made by humans also



Significant practices in the life of adherents ONE significant practice within Christianity (Baptism)

- Describe baptism as a significant practice within ChristianityBaptism:- A significant practice followed by most Christian denominations, used as a rite of initiation for people

wishing to join the Christian community- Core elements of the rite of baptism ⇾ immersion in water or sprinkling or pouring of water and the

profession of faith by, or on behalf of, the person being baptised- Core elements of baptism in water and a profession of faith ⇾ evident across the spectrum of Christianity - Other elements frequently include: readings from the bible, sermon or homily, sign of the cross on

forehead, anointing with oil, prayers, clothing in a white garment and presentation of a lighted baptismal candle

- Highly complex practice for all Christians for the affirmation of significant beliefs and the application of these beliefs in the life of adherents

- Representative of the formal and public participation of the candidate in the life of the Church and in Christ’s death and resurrection

- 2 critical elements: Water and the Formula- Varying between denominations water may be sprinkled on a candidate, effusion, poured on the head,

aspersion or be fully immersed in a body of water - Without water + formula, baptism = incomplete- Demonstrates the merger between the person and Jesus Christ

Symbolism:Water:- Use of water as the central symbol reflects the belief in God as the creator and humankind’s dependence

on God- Cleansing and purity- Immersion of the body into the water symbolises dying and being reborn again, rising to new life - Represents the belief in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus- Symbol of water reflects the belief in rebirth and in cleansing from sin which are

at the heart of the Christian gospel- Reflective of the belief in God as the creator and humankind’s dependence on God- Immersion; symbolises dying and being reborn again, rising to new life with Christ → Expression of

Christ’s death and resurrection- Cleaning- sign that sins and original sin are washed away

Candle:- Symbolises Christ the Light of the World, lit from the Paschal candle ⇾ reminder that the light of Christ

has entered the life of the individual- “I am the light of the word” John 8:12- Light represents doing what is good, showing followers the way in which to live as true believers of Christ

White garment:- Sign of purity, newness and innocence- Outward sign of new life, purity- Expresses that through baptism the individual is cleansed of original sin- Use of a white garment symbolises purity of the baptised person and expresses the idea that in baptism the

individual is cleansed from original sin



Oil: - Anointing with the oil of Chrism is another important symbol- Oil is a traditional symbol for healing and strength, Christians are anointed with oil as a sign of their

mandate to share in the ministry of Jesus

Trinity:- Christians believe in one God as three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit- Through baptism, christians enter and affirm their relationship with god- Symbols used during the rite of baptism also express significant beliefs of the Christian tradition- Most obvious is the sign of the cross, used in a number of places in the rite ⇾ simple symbol and ritual

action expresses the Christian belief in the triune God which is at the heart of the Christian faith

Variants:

Stages: Infant -- a) Reception of the Child → Welcoming rite- b) Celebration of God’s word → Celebration of the Liturgy of the Word and readings from the Bible- c) Celebration of the Sacrament → Exorcism and anointing of oil / Blessing of baptismal water- d) Conclusion → Conclusion with Lord’s Prayer / Final blessing – parents are blessed / Intercessions said

to strengthen the faith of those present

Significance:- Sacrament rite ⇾ admits a candidate into the Christian Community- Brings new life - think of the symbolism of water – purifying, cleansing, sustaining life- Basis of the whole Christian life, door way to other sacraments- Through baptism we are freed from all original and future sin and reborn as sons of God- Necessary for salvation- Baptised receives the gift of the Holy Spirit at baptism- Blessed in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit- Baptism seals the Christian with the indelible spiritual mark, that no sin can erase

Orthodox Protestant Catholic

- Full immersion- Generally whilst an Infant

- Immersion- Strong focus on the Holy Spirit

(Pentecostal)- Infants ‘who do not understand

enough to hold faith in Jesus in their own right’ cannot be baptised

- Effusion/Aspersion - Generally whilst an infant- Necessary for Salvation



- Demonstrate how the chosen practice expresses the beliefs of Christianity Divinity and humanity - Jesus is both fully human and fully divine- Fully human in order to redeem humanity, cannot save that which you are not- Fully divine, Jesus is the only one who can make the divine apology to God for the sinfulness of humanity- Word and Scripture e.g. Mark 1:9-11 → Jesus’ own baptism read during the ceremony (Catholics)- Reciting the Nicene/ apostles creed: “He came down from the heavens; and by the power of the Holy

Spirit he become incarnated by the virgin Mary and become man”- Symbolism of water is important as it is part of God’s creation- the water baptism connects people to all

that God created- Through water, it becomes the responsibility of Christians to care for all creationDeath and resurrection - Death to sin and rebirth in christ takes place when water is poured over the head of a person while reciting

the baptismal formula- Baptism into Jesus’ death and Resurrection makes a person share in the light of Jesus brought into the

world- This is symbolised when the newly-baptised is presented with a lighted candle- Paul to the Romans: 6:3-4: “We are baptised into Jesus’ death so we resurrect with him.”- Plunged, immersed or sprinkled in water to symbolise death and rising again- As individual is submerged into the water used for Baptism, they are symbolically united with the death of

Jesus- As person emerges from the water, they enter into new life with the Trinity, enabling them to achieve

salvation through Jesus’ sacrificial Baptism on the Cross (Romans 6:3-4)- Thus, it can be seen that Baptism undoubtedly expresses Christian beliefs- Enter into Christ’s death → but rise into eternal life when lifted from the Baptismal font- Full immersion is particularly significant in this regard, as it is a physical expression of faith and belief for

ChristiansNature of God and trinity - Evident in the critical formula → “I baptise you in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit”- Formula (critical requirement) → hence understood that the Trinity is required for an individual to be

baptised- Baptism = Trinitarian act- They trace the sign of the cross on the child’s forehead → sign of christ to whom the child is going to

belong- Anointing with the oil of chrism on the crown of the head signifies the gift of the holy spirit- Threefold pouring of water on the head or immersion of water represents each of the three divine persons- The baptised person is given a lighted candle which represents christ who by his suffering and death,gives

light and life to the worldSalvation - Christians believe that salvation is offered as a gift from God through the death and resurrection of Jesus

Christ- Central elements of salvation; God is one who saves, God’s saving action is liberating, Jesus in his life and

ministry embodies the saving action of God- Baptism essential for salvation (Catholic), symbolic action of salvation for other variants- Nicene creed: ‘affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.’- Water is symbolic of salvation, washing away sins, ’This water symbolises baptism that saves you by the

resurrection of Jesus Christ.’ (1 Peter 3:21)



Revelation - Revelation → transmission of knowledge from the divine to the human- God being known in the world: scripture, Jesus and sacraments- Word and scripture e.g. Mark 1:9-11 → Jesus’ own baptism read during ceremony- Baptismal candle light of Christ- Being reborn into the church and its teachings → becoming to know God

How baptism expresses beliefs of christianity:Baptism is the sacramental rite that is used to signify a person’s initiation into the beliefs and practices of Christianity and welcomes them into their community. In the bible passage John3:5, Jesus teaches a Jewish man about the difference between being born from flesh, to being born of Spirit and water. This is referring to baptism which is the ritual performed by a bishop or priest who pours or immerses an infant or adult in water to signify the cleansing of sins, which is necessary to obtain the Christian belief of salvation. For each of the five beliefs of Christianity; Divinity and Humanity of Jesus Christ, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, The nature of God and the Trinity, Revelation and Salvation, specific symbols, actions and prayers are used during baptism to reflect and deepen the adherents understanding of these beliefs.

The Divinity and Humanity of Jesus Christ is the belief that Jesus was both fully human and fully divine. As a human Jesus was baptised, displaying his humanity but after John had baptised him, God the Father proclaimed from the heavens that he is his Son, displaying his Divinity. Closely linked, is the belief of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Christians believe that Jesus was crucified, dying for their sins and was resurrected after three days, reaffirming his divinity and humanity. Within the ceremony of baptism, a key action is the profession of faith, whereby the godparents of infant baptism or the adult participant in believers baptism, answer “I do” when the priest questions their belief in Jesus as being human and divine allowing him to die and resurrect. This practice is shared across the spectrum of Christian variants and denomination. Bible passage Mark 9:2-9 demonstrates these beliefs as God the Father proclaims that Jesus is his Son, though still human, he will die and be reborn again. The profession of faith in baptism performed in front of fellow community members, strengths adherents belief in the humanity and Divinity as well as the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ through the unity of the Church.

Christians believe in a Holy Trinity, three distinctive persons; the Father, the Son and The Holy Spirit, which are all part of the one nature of God. This belief is expressed in baptism through the three fold pouring or immersion of blessed water. In Matthew 28:19 Jesus says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”. The action is in accordance with the scriptures however this action is not shared throughout Christian variants. For example Pentecostal churches baptize only in the name of Jesus Christ only, the rest of the trinity is received in other sacraments. Through this action adherents are reminded that God exists in three forms and invites them to make contact with the divine and transcendent dimension to gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and purpose of their lives.

Salvation is the deliverance from suffering and evil through life and death and living a just life. For the majority of denominations, baptism is seen as a sacrament essential to salvation. However Lutherans, Baptists, and Pentecostal believe that salvation is entirely a matter of God and therefore baptism is not essential to salvation. Salvation is expressed through the use of water in the baptism ceremony by showing the belief of death, burial and rebirth cleansed from original sin and allowing entry into the kingdom of heaven. This rebirth into the kingdom of heaven mirrors the scripture 1 Peter 3:21 , “his water symbolises baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” The belief in Salvation and the journey towards it is initiated in baptism, this leads the adherent to follow a just life towards entering the kingdom of God.

Revelation is a central component in baptism through the use of scriptures. Revelation is the belief in the word of God given to humanity as the written words of the prophets through Jesus’ teachings and through the



sending down of the Holy Spirit. The belief in revelation is explored through the scriptures and prayers within the ceremony itself for example, Romans 6:4 “All who are buried with Christ in the death of baptism rise also with him into the newness of life”. This belief is further exemplified with the Liturgy of the Word, as in a usual mass, where scripture readings are read and the prayers, words and ceremonies are dictated by scriptures. Through this ceremony and its use of scriptures, Christian adherents are given a practical example of revelation and a deeper insight into their faith in these revelations.

Adherents of Christianity gain a deeper understanding of their beliefs through the practices performed in baptism, which display a literal example of the beliefs in action. John 3:5“Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” , summaries Christians obligation to perform the sacrament and depict divine reward potentially gained for their commitment. Baptism as whole is an outward sign conveying Christian’s obedience to follow through on Jesus’ command and shows their full dedication and trust, forming the basis of their newly found relationship with God.

- Analyse the significance of this practice for both the individual and the Christian communityIndividual:- Generates a relationship with God- Rite of initiation into the christian community- Feel connected to a group who shares and supports similar belief- Welcomed into the christian community- Assurance that they have received forgiveness and mercy of God- Baptism is also an authentic rite of passage, for the individual there is significance in

the sense of belonging experienced, the sharing with a community of common mind and faith.

Community:- Allows faith to grow and develop- Community can re-establish their beliefs through experiencing the certainty of others- Marks a sense of belonging to the community, a sharing in the community and all

it offers, and a commitment to follow the teachings of the community- Therefore, it is a calling to be faithful to the Gospel, to embrace the life and teachings of Christ in word

and action. Luke 18: 22 “Come Follow Me”- Thus the act of Baptism unites the believers in Christ and with the Christian community- The fact that baptism is an ancient ritual is significant for the individual because they walk the same path

and share the same rite that has been practiced among Christians since the earliest days of the Church- It is also important for the Christian community as a whole because in celebrating each rite of baptism

they are perpetuating the ancient tradition and honouring the intention of Jesus and the early disciples.- The community is invigorated when it is engaged in the task of the gospel and enriched by the presence of

a new member of the community- Godparents and community provide support and development of faith

Significance for the Individual- Baptism is significant and extremely important for the individual because it shows that the individual (or the parents of the individual for infant baptism), desire to follow the example set by Jesus in his own baptism by John. It follows the command or directive of Jesus, as shown in Matthew 28:18-19 and it is a public message of faith to the rest of the community.Having been initiated into a Christian Church implies a commitment to the teachings, practices and life of the community. It initiates them into the whole Christian life, introduces them to life guided by the Holy Spirit, and gives them access to any other sacraments or rites offered by the particular denomination. In addition, it frees them from sin and allows them to be reborn as a child of God. They also become members of Christ and are incorporated into the church and therefore share in its mission.While some churches determine that salvation can only follow baptism, certainly baptism cannot make an individual a believer. Particularly, Protestant churches believe it is an external symbol of an internal or spiritual commitment. While most churches practice infant baptism the significance of adults who decide on their own baptism, cannot be underestimated.



Significance for the Christian Community- The Christian community as a whole also benefits from the baptism process. Within the group of baptised people is the establishment of a common concept of identity, to the community of faith who are baptised.Baptism unites all individuals with Jesus’ death and resurrection. The belief is that, through baptism, Christians are born to a new life with Jesus. Christians believe that as individuals they are separate and are unique but by being baptised they are part of a community of believers that extends to the past and into the future and also to all others who are also baptised.The idea is that baptism transforms people. In baptism a person is welcomed and initiated into sharing the mission of Jesus in the world..When the Christian community witnesses the baptism of the new adherent into their church community, it reaffirms the community’s commitment to their own baptismal promises.. The Christian community is aware that baptism is a sacrament of faith and helps the individual’s faith to grow. Baptism finds added communal significance through the role of the sponsors or godparents – firm believers and witnesses who assist the newly baptised– whether child or adult, on the winding road of the Christian life.Indeed the entire Christian community bears some responsibility for the faith life of the baptised Christian.Baptism allows the community to define its membership it is a ritual which allows new members to be welcomed.



IslamSignificant people and ideas

The contribution to Islam of Imam Al-Shafi other than Muhammed and the 4 rightly caliphs: - Explain the contribution to the development and expression of Islam- Founder of the Sunni Islamic ethical system- Descendent from the Quraysh tribe and a relative of the Prophet Muhammad- 3rd of the four great Imams in Sunni Islam- Responsible for bringing together the teachings of the previous two Imams and builds upon

those teachings, eventually leading to the formation of his own school of thought- Born in Gaza in 767 CE, started poor- Spent a lot of time among the bedouins where he mastered Arabic, memorised the Qur’an by age 7- 15 yrs old: issuing rulings on a point of Islamic law (fatwa)- 20 yrs old: became a student of Imam Malik for 16 years- Studied under al-Shaybani, a student himself of the Imam Hanifa - Titles included: Father of Islamic jurisprudence, Master architect of jurisprudence- Al-Imammul Mujaddid - the mujaddid (reformer) of the second century (after Hijra) - Naasirun Sunnah -

Defender of the Sunnah- Imam Hanbal wrote: “until the time of al Shafi’i, men did not know how to distinguish between the

traditions that were in force and those that were cancelled.”- Imam Hanbal said: “al Shafi’i was like the sun for the day and health for the bodies. Behold! Can these

two things be replaced or dispensed with?”

Shafi’i’s contribution to the development and expression of Islam- Al Shafi’i’s time ⇾ confusion and disorder over the Islamic law was creating social instability and

corruption within society - At the time ⇾ two conflicting schools of thought: - Traditionalists: votaries of Hadith (ahl al-Hadith) such as Malik - Rationalists: votaries of reason (ahl al-ra’y) such as Haifa- Through intense study with masters of both opinions, al Shafi’i sought to settle the dispute by taking a

middle way between the two schools- ⇾ Built his theory on the Qur’anic injunction to obey God and His Prophet (Qur’an 4:29)- Usul (branch of science) ⇾ methodology of legal decision making, this was ground breaking because it

looked at the process- Al Shafi’i’s major work, the Risalah, cited the four sources of Islamic law: - Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma’ (consensus of the scholars), Qiyas (analogies based on a strict systematic

reasoning)- Qur’an, as the divine word of Allah, held the most significance, hence why it is first- Al Shafi’i mostly interpreted the Qur’an on its outward meaning- Made the novel observation that Qur’anic rules and principles fell into various categories:

general and particular ⇾ contributed to the understanding of the Qur’an as a source of law- To reach a specific legal ruling it was not sufficient to refer solely to the Qur’an as the Sunnah elaborates

on whats in the Qur’an- Sunnah may also specify or restrict what is mentioned in the Qur’an in general terms ⇾ may also clarify

whats mentioned briefly in the Qur’an- Al Shafi’i’s specific reference to the Sunnah to clarify the meaning of a particular piece of the Qur’an or

ambiguous text ⇾ brought the Sunnah into the field of Islamic law and indicated its specific role as a source of law

- Ijma’ ⇾ consensus of scholars, this can be used after the Qur’an and the Sunnah have been referred to- Qiyas ⇾ approach of analytical reasoning, though this was not extensively used by Shafi’i, he tried to

limit the use of personal reasoning (ijtihad) to the use of analogy



- Al Shafi’i ⇾ established a balance between those who used analogy extensively as a source of law and those who rejected

- Founded a school of law (madhab) ⇾ guided the faithful in the fulfilment of religious obligations- Shafi’i’s school of law 2nd most popular school, ⇾ new avenue for Islamic law was developed- Distinguishing feature ⇾ he wrote the fundamentals of his school of thought himself- Al Shafi’i ⇾ first to form a criteria for the authentication of Hadith to ensure that the teachings were in

line- He accepted that a Hadith could be reliable with one one narrator, not at least two (the common thought of

the time)- Al Shafi’i elevated the authority of Hadith to a source of Islamic law, only accepted as sahih (authentic) if

the chain of transmission (isnad) was continuous, connected and authentic and if it came originally from a person of high moral character with a good memory

- Al Umm: a collection of Shafi’i’s writings and lectures- Al Risalah: first book on the subject of the principles of law aimed at creating a unity of thought- Fatwas ⇾ defining how Muslims should live, clarified in the faith- Modelled the faith (eg. gave to the poor [zakat] and attended Hajj), taught the faith (eg. at Hajj)

The effect of that person on Islam - Analyse the impact of this person on Islam - He revolutionised the study of Islamic ethics by systemising (or codifying) the process and putting it in

written form ⇾ ensuring that specialists wouldn't commit mistakes in deriving rulings - Through establishing a process of Islamic ethical decision making and making it a coherent principle ⇾

Shafi’i served as a link, synthesising and connecting the groups of opposing thoughts among Muslims- Deriving his system from the Qur’an, the word of God ⇾ Shafi’i demonstrated how every rule can

conform to the authoritative sources- He formulated the methodology of legal decision making at a time of great debate and all major schools of

thought adopted this system ⇾ earning him the title of the ‘Father of Jurisprudence’- He prevented the fraying of the study of ethics into hundreds of different, competing schools, while

providing enough flexibility for there to be different interpretations- ⇾ provided the first comprehensive view of the whole process of ethical decision making in a logical and

systematic way- He left a large number of students in Mecca, Baghdad and Egypt ⇾ Shafi’i School emerged through these

students ⇾ second most followed school- Through his writings ⇾ became a model for theologians and legal theorists that came after him

In summary - Imam al Shafi’i emerged in a time when there was considerable debate regarding the best way to decide

on legal rulings- He merged the progressive and conservative opinions, presenting a middle path between the

interpretations and founded a new process of ethical decision making- Process ⇾ extended to all major schools of thought, even those preceding al Shafi’i ⇾ therefore settled the

issue and paved the way for scholarship of new matters- His school of thought is the second most followed by Sunni Muslims today and millions of Muslims lead

their lives in accordance with his works- 4 impacts: predominantly in Sunni Islam- System of ethical rulings ⇾ people who followed- Risalah (explanation of why everything the way it is in regard to fiqh) is a textbook- Authentic Hadith collections- Idealised shari’a as perfect legal ruling



Ethics Environmental ethics:

- Describe and explain Islamic environmental ethicsSources of Islamic law/environmental ethics: (Islam jurisprudence)- Qur’an has a number of references to ecology and important principles applied to the environment- Hadiths have a number of other important statements- Shari’ah law includes many teachings which explain the application of Qur’anic principles to

areas not specifically addressed in the Qur’an- Sources of authority in Islam provide clear teaching and direction in relation to the environmentSharia Law/Islamic jurisprudence sources - of ethical teachings/environmental ethics:- Qur’an: Primary source of guidance, numerous references to environmental issues as well as providing

underlying principles ⇾ notion of Khalifa which bestows guardianship of the environment on humankind- Hadith: Saying and actions of Muhammed, 2nd source of guidance, provides numerous teachings with the

reiteration of important principles expressed in the Quran- Fiqh: Process of Islamic jurisprudence ⇾ knowledge or understanding, refers to the process of studying

shari'ah in a scholarly way, relating the legal practice to the revelation of the Qur'an and the traditions of the Prophet

- Qiyas (analogical reasoning): exercise of a personal judgment on an issue, e.g: Extending established legal precedence to new matters by identifying an operative cause applicable to both situations

- Ijma (consensus): reliable form of qiyas is that which draws on the decisions of renowned scholars from history, Consensus of the community of scholars over a solution to a legal and practical issue

Describe and explain Islamic environmental ethics: - Islam provides clear ethical teachings on issues relating to the environment ⇾ found in major sources of

islamic teachings ⇾ provides clear guiding principles which can be applied to issues- Principles in the Qur’an ⇾ notion that the environment is a gift from Allah and humans have been given a

responsibility as guardians of the environment- Hadith reiterates the teaching of the Qur’an and includes important teachings on matters such

conservation of water- Shari’ah law ⇾ teachings on environmental concerns (hunting,welfare of animals, use of land, protection

of forests etc)- Muslims understand ⇾ close relationship between environmental concerns and issues of justice, to

properly address concerns ⇾ must be transformation in society - Qur’an conveys the important elements of the diversity and balance that exists in nature- Humans ⇾ fundamental responsibility to use the world’s resources in a way which doesn't diminish the

diversity of creation or threaten the balance and harmony that exists - Tradition of Muhammad ⇾ held a deep concern for the natural environment and encouraged muslims to

treat it with respect and to nurture with care and concern for the future



Taw hid - Unity/oneness of God:- Unity and oneness of all that is created by Allah ⇾ reflected in the created world- All aspects of creation possess an original intrinsic goodness and dignity, firth- By acknowledging that the natural environment belongs to God ⇾ humans reflect on God’s oneness ⇾

ultimately reinforcing (Tawhid)- Hence, demands of humans to respect the integrity of the created world, acknowledging its

interconnectedness - Natural environment as belonging to God, humans reflect on God’s oneness ⇾ reinforcing Tawhid- Muslims must view the natural environment as sacred and valuable and recognise that everything praises

God- The principle of Tawhid demands ⇾ the integrity of the created world is maintained and respected- Islam asserts ⇾ life is special and valuable because it is the life and art displayed by each creature that

connects it to the Divine- “To God belongs all that is in the heavens and on the earth” [Q 4:126]- “the whole earth has been created a place of worship, pure and clean” (Hadith)

Ayat - Signs of Allah:- Used in the Qur’an to refer to creation ⇾ gives them equal status, both as signs for human beings to read

and understand- By describing nature as signs of God in the Qur’an, he instructs them to reflect about the connectivity of

the universe- Signs of Allah in the environment ⇾ allows humanity to learn about Allah’s attributes- All of Creation points to the Divine Creator and allows us to learn about God’s Attributes- “It is he who sends down rain from the sky: from it you drink.. verily in these things there are

signs for those who think and reflect” [Q 16:10-11]

Mizaan - Balance: - All parts of the earth and its atmosphere are in a state of dynamic balance ⇾ everything has its own

natural order and purpose- Removing/exploiting a factor of the natural world results in an unbalance, disregarding the perfect balance

as created by Allah ⇾ adherent must live in harmony with the environment and use what is necessary - Qur'an conveys ⇾ important elements of the diversity and balance that exists in nature - Human ⇾ responsibility to use resources that don’t diminish the diversity of creation or threaten the

balance and harmony that exists- Adherents can't participate in exploitative industries that upset balance e.g. forest logging or unsustainable

use of finite resources- Muslims must live sustainably to maintain the perfect balance created by God- “..He raised high, and has devised a balance, so that you might never transgress the balance…

and do not upset the balance [Q 55:7-9]



Kalifa/Caliph - Stewardship: - Allah bestowed the responsibility of caring for the natural world in the hands of humans ⇾ appropriate

use of sources- Revelation bestows upon humanity the responsibility of a caliph ⇾ to be righteous stewards of God’s

creation- Adherents ⇾ responsibility to actively protect the environment, and must fulfil their duty as Caliph- Qur’an ⇾ God gave humans the role of steward, caliph- Caliph translates as steward, deputy, guardian ⇾ role gives the human responsibility for God’s creation,

which includes maintaining and protecting it- Thus ⇾ theres a commonality between humanity and the environment- Humanity depends on the environment but the environment doesn't depend on humanity ⇾ only value that

humanity can add to the environment is by protecting and preserving it- Allah ⇾ placed creation in the trust of humans, this guardianship (kalifa) involves the appropriate use of

the world's resources for the needs of humankind in a way which nurtures and sustains the environment- The environment is seen not as the property of human beings but as their responsibility to care for and

nurture- “It is He that has made you caliph, over the earth” (Qur’an, 6:165)- “It is He that has made you custodians, inheritors of the earth” [Q 6:165]

Akhirah - Accountability/judgement - Muslims believe they’ll be rewarded or punished for their actions ⇾ judged by Allah for the way they've

acted in relation to the environment - They'll be questioned by Allah on the way they carried out their responsibilities towards all aspects of

creation on the Day of Judgement - “The world is beautiful and verdant and God has appointed you as His stewards over it”(Hadith)- All actions are rewarded and punished, on the Day of Judgment humanity will be questioned about every

action, including how they treat the environment and animals- “So whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it” (Qur’an, 99:7-8)- Being a steward means having authority over Creation, but also accountability over their treatment of the

environment

Amanah - trust - Trust is to look after creation, protect, maintain and ensure equal access to it- Humans should feel honoured at the trust placed in them and acknowledge that they don’t have the right to

exploit or destroy resources- Use of resources should be in keeping with the nurturing and sustaining of their role as steward- As Gods stewards ⇾ humans were given a trust- “Truly We did offer the trust to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they declined to

bear it and were afraid of it. But the man bore it...” Qur’an 33:72- Verse means that human beings are entrusted to look after God's creation- As God’s steward humans should feel honoured to protect the environment since:- It belongs to God, it maintains the perfect balance created by God, it honours the trust that God assigned

human beings the role of caliph- Humans don’t have a right to exploit or destroy resources given to them with trust



Three ethical issuesWater conservation:Akhirah:- Guides adherents by holding them accountable for their duties and responsibilities towards all aspects of

creation ⇾ through conserving water- Islamic adherents are held accountable for their stewardship deeds on earth, thus it encourages the

conservation of water as a deed, with rewards in the afterlife, for submitting to the will of Allah- ⇾ Through the Qur’an, it gives guidances of akhirah and how it manifests the ideas that water is a sacred

source and should be used with moderation and accountability by adherents to carry out ‘good deeds’Verse:- In verse 23:18 of Surah Al Mu’minun in the Qur’an, it states “And we sent down from the sky water (rain) in (due) measure, and we gave it lodging in the earth, and verily, we are able to take it away”- Qur’an elicits to adherents that water conservation demands management through evidence suggesting

earth’s water is finite and is forbidden if used with excessAmanah:- In this context it communicates to adherents the duties of humanity to protect and maintain resources such

as water- Qur’an shows that the environment is a gift from Allah, and should be maintained and ensured equal

access to, thus it is vital that conserving water is followed through by adherents to be morally righteousVerse:- The Qur’an also communicates guidance in chapter 33, verse 72, “Truly we did offer the trust to the

heavens and earth, and the mountains, but they declined to bear it and were afraid of it. But the man bore it..”

What adherent does in order to combat the issue:- Islamic relief worldwide ⇾ exemplification of an organisation whom by Islamic Jurisprudence and ethical

teachings, have guided them to ‘do good deeds’- In special awareness sessions ⇾ organisation educates communities on hygiene practises and water

conservation practises, including reducing outdoor watering, taking short showers etc., in order to spread acknowledgement on the importance of conserving water

- Hence, ethical teachings in Islam guide adherents to protect and conserve water resources through these actions, as water is sacred and of great importance as stated in the Qur’an

- Additionally, teaching youth how to conserve water assists them in submitting to the will of Allah and directing them in the right path to rewards in the afterlife

Water pollution:Akhirah:- Water is to be considered one of the greatest graces that Allah has bestowed, and is the main source of life

on earth with needs of preservation- As adherents, individuals must use the resources of Allah with dignity and without spoil or waste of such

resources of water- Akhirah ⇾ guides Muslims to apply their beliefs to assisting the environment and accept that they are

accountable for the contamination of water, as well as implementing strategies to reduce water pollution- Adherents have a grave responsibility in regards to water, thus constant pollution through human activities

such as oil and garbage are heavily concerned for, as through akhira it is vital that Muslims take great care of water as a resource and not pollute it

- ⇾ guides adherents to ‘do good deeds’ by allowing adherents to acknowledge the important facets to water and the significance it brings to life

Verses:“The world is beautiful and verdant and God has appointed you as his stewards over it “(Hadith



Kalifa:- Guides adherents in undertaking moral decisions in the context of water pollution, explains how

stewardship of the individual is responsible for the care of the natural world- Elicits how one must be righteous stewards of God’s creation, and therefore have a duty to the earth to

protect the environment, that being the quality of water- This showcases the necessity of water for adherents, thus through the caliph, human beings have a

fundamental responsibility to use the worlds resources in a way that doesn’t diminish the diversity of creation or threaten harmony that already exists

- This showcases to adherents, that they must take action against water pollution through simple everyday tasks in order to carry out good deed

Verses:“We sent down water from the sky, blessed water whereby we caused to grow gardens, grains for harvest..” (Quran 50:9-11)

What adherent does in order to combat the issue:- Not disposing chemicals in sinks, avoid pouring certain liquids in sinks, minimise use of pesticides and

install rain water tanks in order to minimise water pollution

Deforestation:Kailfa:- Muslim adherents should appropriately utilise the world’s resources for the needs of humankind in a way

that sustains the environment, thus through deforestation, individuals must not comply with it as it is used for personal gain

- Adherents ⇾ expected to be stewards with responsibilities to care for the natural world and the ecosystem- Hence justifying the vital need to protect trees as stewards, because it is ‘the most upright’ and creates a

‘great reward’ to those who carry out such deedsVerses:Hadith: “The world is green and beautiful, and Allah has appointed you his guardian over it

Taw hid:- Guides adherents to perform good deeds in accordance to deforestation by asserting that all life is created

by Allah and possesses goodness and dignity- The oneness of Allah contributes to the understanding that one carries out good deeds through the

protection of nature as “the whole earth has been created as a place of worship, pure an clean” (Hadith)- Hence, forests must be protected as the Hadith asserts that all life is valuable and is connected to the

divine, meaning all adherents must act with integrity and willingness to assist in the preservation of forestsVerses:- “the whole earth has been created as a place of worship, pure an clean” (Hadith)What adherent does in order to combat the issue:- Calls on adherents ⇾ act in the aid of deforestation by planting trees as a way of charity ⇾ seen as a

charitable gift, attained and practiced by all adherents as it is extremely practical- The planter will earn rewards in the afterlife, by planting seeds and allowing for trees to grow in order to

assist with climate change and the magnitude of trees that have been cut down- Key example of what an adherent should undertake in order to fulfil their roles as stewards/or caliphs, and

apply these ethical teachings to actively protect the environment- Donating to ‘green muslims’, an organisation that seeks to end climate change and deforestation, is also

another pathway adherents can take to fulfil their righteous roles as those willing to submit to Allah- Tawhid allows individuals to understand the oneness of Allah’s creation, and that by donating to a cause

central to deforestation, it will assist them in earning a rightful place in regards to akhira



Significant practises in the life of adherentsOne significant practice within Islam: Hajj

- Describe the significant practice within Islam Hajj:- Muslims are expected to undertake the pilgrimage at least once- One of the five pillars of islam “ ...they will come from every deep valley and distant place to

perform Hajj” (Quran 22:27)- Essentially a obligatory pilgrimage/sacred journey to Mecca, purification of the soul ⇾ involves a

spiritual, mental and physical journey from one’s normal place of living to Mecca- Searching for wisdom, knowledge, inspiration, or improvement in health- Allows one to ⇾ travel away from the world, focus on the mind, ask spiritual questions and therefore:- See things differently, concentrate on the purpose, assess submission to Allah- Hajj means ‘to set out with a definite purpose’ or ‘to continuously strive to reach one’s goal’ ⇾ most

significant manifestation of Islamic faith and unity- Consists of a series of rites that pilgrims perform ⇾ symbolise essential concepts of the Islamic faith and

commemorates the trials of the Prophet Abraham and his family- Religious obligation ⇾ commanded in the Qur’an: “And pilgrimages to the House is a duty unto God for

mankind, for him who can find the way tither.” Qur’an 3:97- Expression of unity of Muslims (umma) and their compliance to God

Rituals:- Umrah consists of getting into a state of ihram, making tawaf (circumambulation) around the Ka’bah, and

doing sa’y (walking seven times between Mount Safa and Mount Marwa)

Day 1State of Ihram: (Preparatory stage)- After the completion of this ⇾ pilgrims get out of the state of ihram by shaving/cut ting their hair (males),

having a shower, and wearing normal clothes- Dressed in white clothes like standing before God on the day of judgement- Emphasises equality amongst the Umrah that all are equal before Allah and in the eyes of AllahTawaf - Circumambulation of the Kaaba:- As pilgrim arrives in Mecca ⇾ pray the talbiyah prayer - the motto or motivational call of Hajj, the chief

song of the pilgrim, the response of the call of the Prophet Abraham- To prepare for the tawaf ⇾ pilgrim must ensure ablutions have been performed - Walking around in solidarity reaffirms obligations ⇾ submission to Allah’s will- Kaaba is the house of god, angels circle this place ⇾ closest one can get to the angels and god before

judgement- Circling of the Kaaba seven times (tawaf) expresses obedience in responding to the call to undertake HajjThe Sa’y - the running:- At Hajj, pilgrims walk the same distance Hagar did thousands of years ago ⇾ rite is called sa’y and begins

at the Station of Abraham near the Ka’ba- Prayer at the Station of Abraham commemorates the building of the Ka’ba- Consists of 7 laps ⇾ starts on the hill called Safa and finishes at Marwa ⇾ re-enacts the Biblical and

Qur’anic story of Hagar’s desperate search for life-giving food and water- Literal meaning of sa’y is to run or make effortJourney to Mina:- The pilgrim goes to Mina, a desert location and they must perform the daily, obligatory, prayers in Mina



Day 2Mount Arafat:- Go to Arafat - stand until sunset praying and asking for forgiveness- Stand Before Allah (“wuquf”) takes place at the Mount of Mercy, leave reciting the Talbiyah during sunset- Evening go to Muzdalifah and collect 70 pebbles then rest- This day is known as the Day of Standing, depart for Mina before sunriseDay 3Muzdalifah and stoning of the pillars at Mina:- The Feast of Sacrifice: the day after the stand before Allah is the day of sacrifice “Id-ul-Adha” a major

festival of the Muslim calendar- Sacrificing an animal (Nahr), choice of animal can either be a sheep or a cow- Cutting hair, Celebrating Eidul-Adha: commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Ishmael,

sacrifice of the lamb, Going to Makka- Performing Tawaf al-Ifadah: changing clothes before returning to Mina for pebble throwing- Drinking from Zamzam, returning to Mina and stay there for throwing of pebbles (stoning the Jamrah)Day 4- All daily prayers performed in Mina, pebbles/ stones thrown at jamarah- 7 pebbles are thrown at each of the three stone pillar (greater Jamarah, middle Jamarah and

smaller Jamarah)- The word ‘Jamarah’ represents where the stoning takes place, Pilgrims say to satan “From now

on you won’t be able to seduce me”, Total of 70 pebblesDay 5- Stoning the Jamarah: After midday on all three days, pilgrims throw pebbles at the first, middle

and big Jamras- Tawaf al-Wada: Farewell that a pilgrim performs before leaving Makka: Walking around the

Ka’ba seven times- Pilgrims may kiss the Black Stone, which according to tradition is the original structure that

Ibrahim and Ismail built, and the Prophet kissed- Departing from Makka, recommended that pilgrims leave Makka as soon as the pilgrimage is

completed - Asks Allah to accept the rituals and promises to abide by Allah’s divine commands

- Demonstrate how this practice expresses the beliefs of Islam6 articles of faith:- Kutubullah : books of Allah (mostly the Quran) - During Tawaf, the pilgrim may recite verses from the Qur’an, reflecting the belief in the books of Allah- Prayers recited by pilgrims have their basis in the Qur’an, many events that are recounted in the Hajj have

their basis in the books of Allah, including the Torah (the story of Ibrahim, Hagar and Ishmael) and the Qur’an

- Ritual prayers, five times a day, continue to be said, in each of these prayers, passages from the Qur’an are recited

- Mala’ika : angels- The belief in the angels of Allah is seen most clearly in the ritual of sa’y, recollecting the testing time that

Hagar and Ishmael spent in the desert looking for water, it was not until the angel Jibra’il appeared and showed Hagar the spring which is now known as the Zamzam Well



- Akhirah : life after death and judgement - Wuquf: stand before Allah on Mt Arafat — central moment of the Hajj, pilgrims pray for the mercy and

forgiveness of Allah and thus experience the beginning of a new life- Belief central to this ritual is al- akhira, belief in the Hereafter- Prayer upon departing from Mina says, demonstrates a clear belief in the Hereafter, and the way in which

Muslims believe they can participate in it- This belief is also symbolically seen in the wearing of the ihram where pilgrims are able to feel that they

are in a state of purification from worldly temptations which reminds pilgrims of the time of death and eventually meeting with God on the Day of Judgement

- Al-Qadar : fate / predestination - Tawaf, the circumambulation of the Ka’ba, symbolises the relationship built through surrender to His will

and prayer and other ways of remembering Him

- Rusul : prophets- Hajj is a remembrance of the life of the Prophet Ibrahim, and was completed by the Prophet Muhammad- Expression of obedience and submission to the will of Allah- Eid al-Adha commemorates the great act of obedience to Allah by the Prophet Ibrahim in showing his

willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael- Allah accepted his sacrifice and replaced Ishmael with a lamb- Standing before Allah on (Mt Arafat) is also symbolic of the belief in the prophets, according to tradition,

its a place where Adam and Eve, realising their sin of disobedience, sought restoration and forgiveness - Tawhid : oneness of Allah - Demonstrated in tawaf is the collective invitation taken up by pilgrims to come to the House of Allah -

Ka’ba- Everyone is dressed in one colour and pattern, there is no distinction nor personal promotion; true totality

and universality is demonstrated- Belief in the one God of Islam is also reinforced through the rituals of the stoning of the devil at

Mina- Muslims carry out the stoning (ramy) of the devil to symbolise their rejection of temptation (of the devil -

Iblis) and surrender to Allah just as the Prophet Ibrahim did. the stoning is done three times, on three seperate days

5 pillars of faith:- Shahada: Declaring the belief in the oneness of God- Salat: prayer - Sawm: Fasting in ramadan - Zakat: charity - Hajj: pilgrimage to Mecca



- Analyse the significance of this practice for both the individual and the Muslim communityIndividual:- Brings the pilgrim closer to God and hopes to become a better person- When leaving for Hajj ⇾ pilgrim is reminded of the ultimate departure from this world to the Hereafter- Rituals of Hajj remind the pilgrim of the Day of Judgement as everyone is gathered together in the same

place, same clothes, conducting the same worship whilst all seeking God’s mercy- Pilgrim connects to universal monotheism by tracing in the footsteps of Abraham- Pilgrim increases gratitude to God as they see a lot of poorer and less fortunate people at Hajj than

themselves- Hajj process entails a sacrifice of time, money, comfort, worldly affairs, and many carnal desires and

pleasures for the sake of God with no selfish end- Enduring all this with an incessant remembrance of God throughout the Hajj process leaves a firm longing

and love of God inside the pilgrim which lasts for years- Increases the pilgrims piety, virtuousness, generosity, patience, resilience, and sincerity and awareness of

the importance of physical wellbeing Community:- Mecca ⇾ most sacred place on earth for muslims- Hajj ⇾ symbolic pilgrimage where individuals carry out rituals to defy Satan and gain redemption- Pilgrim chants their commitment to god, this embodies what the pilgrimage is about- Hajj ⇾ links all believers to their common past and heritage with the Patriarchs- Arafat ⇾ pinnacle of Hajj where a pilgrim devotes themselves to god- Hajj unites muslims from around the world as a community of believers in one god- Strengthens a sense of community/unity/equality/brotherhood among the islamic community- Breaks down barriers of race, colour and gender, reaffirms belief that in islam everyone is ‘brother and

sister’ - Creates universal feeling of brotherhood sisterhood amongst Muslims by gathering together at the same

place to do the same thing- Hajj is the greatest social event in the Muslim world ⇾ where you meet new people, share ideas, see all

different types of cultures, and pass on experiences etc- Hajj increases a wider God-consciousness amongst the Muslim community- Removes division between different religious interpretations

sor 1 - notes...-dance, song, art, rituals and sacred stories are ceremonial communication of the...

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