Question 1: Explain why the concept of an afterlife is important in one major world religion of your choice. Use examples to support your answer.

Answer: In Christianity, the belief in Heaven and Hell provides a moral framework, encouraging believers to live good lives to attain eternal happiness in Heaven. This belief offers hope beyond death and emphasizes the importance of moral conduct.

Question 2: Describe how the Hindu belief in reincarnation influences their view of life and death.

Answer: Hindus believe that after death, the soul is reborn into a new body in a cycle called samsara. This cycle influences Hindus to live morally and spiritually to improve their karma and achieve liberation (moksha).

Question 3: Identify two ways in which Buddhists view death and explain how these views affect their attitude towards life.

Answer: Buddhists see death as a natural part of the cycle of rebirth and aim to reach enlightenment to escape this cycle. This encourages them to live mindfully and compassionately, valuing each moment of life.

Question 4: Describe what happens during a typical Christian funeral service.

Answer: A Christian funeral often includes prayers, readings from the Bible, a eulogy, and hymns. The service may conclude with a blessing and a burial or cremation, with the hope of eternal life for the deceased.

Question 5: Sketch a simple symbol or scene that might be used in a religious ceremony related to death. Label your sketch clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch might include a cross or a candle, with a scene of a gathering of people in prayer. Labels should identify the symbol or scene and its significance.

Question 6: Explain how the Jewish belief in Olam Ha-Ba (the World to Come) affects their attitude toward death.

Answer: Jewish belief in Olam Ha-Ba offers hope of spiritual reward after death, encouraging the community to live righteously and follow religious laws, knowing there is a divine plan for justice and reward.

Question 7: Compare the Christian and Islamic views on what happens after death.

Answer: Both Christianity and Islam believe in an afterlife where souls are judged. Christians often believe in Heaven and Hell based on faith and actions, while Muslims believe in Paradise and Hell, with detailed descriptions of reward and punishment based on deeds and faith.

Question 8: Describe a ritual or practice that a Buddhist might perform to honor someone who has recently died.

Answer: Buddhists may perform chanting and meditation sessions, offer food and flowers at a shrine, and dedicate merit to the deceased to help their rebirth and spiritual progress.

Question 9: Reflect on why some people might find comfort in religious beliefs about death and the afterlife.

Answer: Religious beliefs about an afterlife provide hope, reduce fear of death, and give a sense of purpose. They also offer community support and a moral framework, helping people cope with loss.

Question 10: In your own words, explain why the theme of life and death is important in religious teachings.

Answer: The theme of life and death addresses fundamental questions about existence, morality, and what happens after death. Religions provide answers that give meaning, comfort, and guidance for how to live a good life.