Question 1: Describe what is meant by the concept of 'afterlife' in Christianity. How does this belief influence the way Christians view death?

Answer: The afterlife in Christianity refers to the belief that after death, the soul continues to exist in heaven or hell based on one's faith and actions. This belief encourages Christians to live morally and seek salvation, as their eternal destiny depends on their earthly life.

Question 2: Compare the Buddhist view of death with the Christian view of life after death. Highlight two key differences.

Answer: Buddhists believe in reincarnation, where the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth continues until achieving enlightenment (Nirvana). Christians believe in a final judgment where souls go to heaven or hell. The key differences are that Buddhists see death as part of a continuous cycle, whereas Christians see it as a transition to an eternal state based on faith.

Question 3: Explain the significance of funeral rites in any one religious tradition of your choice.

Answer: In Islam, funeral rites include washing the body, shrouding it in simple cloth, and performing a prayer (Salat al-Janazah). These rites show respect for the deceased, help the soul on its journey, and provide comfort to the grieving family.

Question 4: What do some religious teachings suggest about the purpose of suffering related to life and death?

Answer: Many teachings suggest that suffering can have a purpose, such as testing faith, building character, or leading to spiritual growth. For example, in Christianity, suffering is sometimes seen as sharing in Jesus' suffering and can bring believers closer to God.

Question 5: Sketch a symbol or image that might represent the concept of eternal life in any religion you have studied. Label your sketch clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch might include symbols like a never-ending circle, a light or flame, or a tree of life. It should be simple and recognizable, with the label 'Eternal Life' or a relevant symbolic term.

Question 6: Discuss how the belief in reincarnation might affect a person's attitude towards death and moral behaviour.

Answer: Belief in reincarnation can encourage individuals to live morally, as their actions influence future lives. It may also provide comfort, knowing that death is not the end but part of an ongoing cycle of rebirth and spiritual development.

Question 7: Identify two ways in which religious communities support those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.

Answer: Religious communities often hold prayer services or memorials to offer comfort. They may also provide counselling, spiritual guidance, or support groups to help the bereaved cope with their loss.

Question 8: Explain the concept of 'judgment after death' in the Jewish faith and how it influences ethical behaviour.

Answer: In Judaism, it is believed that after death, souls are judged by God based on their deeds. This belief encourages adherents to follow ethical laws and commandments, living righteously to ensure a favorable judgment and a peaceful afterlife.

Question 9: Describe how the idea of life after death might differ between two different religions of your choice.

Answer: In Hinduism, life after death involves reincarnation, where the soul is reborn into a new body based on karma. In Christianity, the soul is judged after death and may go to heaven or hell. The key difference is that Hinduism emphasizes rebirth and spiritual progress over multiple lives, while Christianity emphasizes a final judgment and eternal destination.

Question 10: Reflect on why some individuals might find the belief in an afterlife comforting, while others might find it unsettling.

Answer: Some find comfort in the idea of an afterlife because it offers hope for reunion with loved ones and a sense of justice. Others might find it unsettling because it raises questions about what happens after death, fear of judgment, or uncertainty about what comes next.