Question 1: Describe how the concept of life after death differs between Christianity and Buddhism.

Answer: In Christianity, life after death often involves eternal life in Heaven or Hell, depending on one's faith and actions. In Buddhism, the cycle of rebirth (samsara) continues until reaching enlightenment (nirvana), which ends the cycle of suffering.

Question 2: Explain the importance of funerals in at least two different religions and how they reflect beliefs about death.

Answer: In Christianity, funerals are a way to pray for the soul's journey to Heaven and to offer comfort to the bereaved. In Islam, funerals involve washing and shrouding the body, emphasizing respect for the deceased and the belief in resurrection.

Question 3: What is the significance of the concept of the soul in religious beliefs about life and death?

Answer: The soul is often seen as the eternal, divine part of a person that survives physical death. Its significance varies, but generally it represents the true self and is central to beliefs about the afterlife or rebirth.

Question 4: Discuss the view of some religious teachings on whether suffering in life has a purpose related to death or the afterlife.

Answer: Many teachings, such as in Christianity and Buddhism, suggest suffering has a purpose, like spiritual growth, purification, or testing, which prepares the soul for the afterlife or enlightenment.

Question 5: Describe how the practice of cremation is viewed differently in Hinduism and Christianity.

Answer: Hinduism regards cremation as essential to release the soul from the physical body and facilitate rebirth. Christianity generally prefers burial, viewing the body as sacred and emphasizing resurrection, though cremation is accepted.

Question 6: Sketch a diagram that illustrates the cycle of rebirth in Buddhism. Label the key stages involved.

Answer: The sketch should depict a circular cycle including stages such as birth, life, death, and rebirth, with an arrow showing continuous movement. Labels should include 'samsara,' 'karma,' and 'nirvana' at appropriate points.

Question 7: Explain what the concept of 'karma' means and how it influences beliefs about death in religions that include this idea.

Answer: 'Karma' refers to the moral law of cause and effect, where good actions lead to positive outcomes and bad actions lead to negative outcomes. It influences beliefs about death by suggesting that one's actions in life affect their future rebirth or afterlife.

Question 8: Compare the views of two religions on whether death is the end or a new beginning.

Answer: Christianity generally views death as a transition to eternal life in Heaven or Hell, thus a new beginning. In contrast, some secular or agnostic perspectives see death as the end of consciousness, with no continuation.

Question 9: Draw a simple representation of the Christian belief in resurrection. Your drawing should include symbols or imagery that reflect this idea.

Answer: A correct sketch might show a tomb or empty grave with rays of light or a rising figure to symbolize resurrection, emphasizing renewal and new life.

Question 10: Reflect on why some religious people find comfort in their beliefs about life after death during times of grief.

Answer: Beliefs about an afterlife offer hope of reunion with loved ones, a sense of justice or reward, and reassurance that death is not the end, which helps believers cope with loss and grief.