Question 1: Define the terms 'good' and 'evil' as they are commonly understood in religious contexts. Provide one example of each from a religious story or teaching.

Answer: Good is often seen as what is morally right or virtuous, such as kindness or honesty. Evil is considered what is morally wrong or harmful, like greed or cruelty. For example, in the story of the Good Samaritan, kindness is shown as good, while neglect of others' suffering can be seen as evil.

Question 2: Describe a story from a religion that illustrates the struggle between good and evil. Summarise the main characters and their roles.

Answer: In the Christian story of Adam and Eve, good is represented by God's commandments and innocence in the Garden of Eden. Evil appears in the form of the serpent who tempts Eve to disobey, leading to the Fall. The main characters are Adam and Eve (representing humanity), and the serpent (symbolising evil temptation).

Question 3: Explain why some religious teachings suggest that evil exists in the world. Use at least one example from a religion to support your answer.

Answer: Many religions believe evil exists to test humans or to allow free will. For example, in Christianity, the existence of evil is seen as a test of faith and a consequence of free will given by God, as shown in the story of the Devil tempting Jesus in the wilderness.

Question 4: What is the significance of the concept of 'free will' in understanding the presence of evil in the world?

Answer: Free will allows humans to make their own choices, including those that lead to evil. It is significant because it explains why evil exists—people choose to do wrong rather than being forced to do so.

Question 5: Identify a religious practice or ritual that aims to help followers overcome evil or temptations. Describe its purpose.

Answer: Praying or meditation is a practice used to seek strength and guidance to resist evil and temptation. Its purpose is to help followers develop self-control and connect with the divine for support.

Question 6: Draw a symbol that represents the battle between good and evil in a religion of your choice. Label the parts of your drawing to explain what they represent.

Answer: A suitable drawing might include a light side and a dark side, with symbols like a shining star for good and a shadowy figure for evil. Labels would explain that the light represents virtue and divine goodness, while the dark represents temptation and evil forces.

Question 7: Compare the ways two different religions view the problem of evil. How do their beliefs influence their actions?

Answer: In Christianity, evil is seen as a result of free will and the presence of Satan, and believers are encouraged to resist evil through prayer and moral living. In Buddhism, evil is seen as ignorance and desire, and followers work to overcome evil through meditation and following the Eightfold Path. Both see overcoming evil as essential to spiritual growth.

Question 8: Reflect on whether you think evil is a force outside humans or something created by humans. Use religious ideas to support your opinion.

Answer: Many religions suggest evil is partly a force outside humans, such as Satan or evil spirits, but also something humans can create through bad choices. For example, Christianity teaches that evil can come from both external temptations and internal desire.

Question 9: Describe how the concept of forgiveness might help in dealing with evil or wrongdoing in a religious context.

Answer: Forgiveness allows victims and wrongdoers to move past evil or wrongdoing, promoting healing and reconciliation. Many religions, like Christianity and Islam, teach that forgiving others is important to reduce evil and restore peace.

Question 10: Write a short paragraph explaining what you think is the most important lesson about good and evil that religions teach us.

Answer: Religions teach that understanding and choosing good over evil is essential for a moral life. They often emphasize compassion, honesty, and forgiveness as ways to overcome evil and create a better world.