AQA GCSE Religious Studies key terms

Being saved from sin and its consequences, enabling a restored relationship with God and the possibility of eternal life.

A family in which two parents of the same sex raise children together.

A legally recognised marriage between two people of the same sex.

A parent raising a child together with a partner of the same sex.

A relationship between two people of the same sex.

The cycle of birth, death and rebirth from which Buddhists seek liberation.

The origin or arising of suffering; the Second Noble Truth concerns what causes suffering.

The belief that life is sacred because it comes from God and should therefore be respected and protected.

The belief that marriage promises are sacred, particularly because they are made before God, and should be honoured.

The Buddhist community, particularly the community of monks and nuns.

Early revelations given by Allah to Ibrahim (Abraham), also called the Suhuf, which Muslims believe are now lost.

A title identifying Muhammad as the last prophet: Muslims believe no prophet will come after him.

Protecting yourself or others against an attack.

A feeling arising through contact with something, such as pleasure or pain.

Having a sexual relationship before being married; also called premarital sex.

A person’s pattern of sexual attraction towards others.

The Jewish weekly day of rest, lasting from sunset on Friday until nightfall on Saturday.

The Muslim declaration of faith, affirming that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is his messenger.

God’s divine presence, which Jews believe can be experienced even though God cannot be seen.

A central Jewish prayer affirming that God is one and expressing the importance of loving and obeying God.

An ancient biblical term for the realm of the dead.

The branch of Islam which holds that Ali was Muhammad’s rightful successor and gives particular authority to leaders from the Prophet’s family.

Associating partners with Allah, for example by worshipping another being alongside Allah.

A thought or action that goes against God’s will or religious moral teaching.

One parent raising their child or children.

An ethical approach in which the most loving action in the particular circumstances guides a decision, rather than the automatic application of fixed rules.

Six qualities cultivated in Mahayana Buddhism: generosity, morality, patience, energy, meditation and wisdom.