AQA GCSE Religious Studies A key terms

A war considered morally justified because its cause and conduct meet strict conditions.

A set of ethical principles used to judge whether going to war, and the way a war is fought, can be morally acceptable.

The sacred building in Makkah associated with Ibrahim and dedicated to the worship of Allah; pilgrims circle it during Hajj.

A Jewish prayer praising God’s greatness, recited by mourners.

Love, desire and the enjoyment of legitimate pleasures.

Intentional action, which has consequences for the person acting; also called karma.

Intentional action, whose motives and consequences influence happiness and suffering in this life and future lives. Kamma is the Pali spelling; karma is Sanskrit.

A sweet food prepared and shared with the congregation during Sikh worship and ceremonies.

A sweet food offered and distributed at Sikh worship, including at the completion of an akhand path.

The fourth stage of Sikh spiritual development: grace, in which God's blessing brings spiritual strength and steadfast devotion.

Actions and their consequences, which shape the soul’s experiences and future rebirths.

A spiritual path of selfless action, carried out without attachment to personal rewards.

Compassion in Buddhism: concern for suffering and a desire to relieve it.

The Jewish dietary laws governing which foods may be eaten and how food is prepared and consumed.

A name commonly translated as ‘princess’, used by many Sikh women to express dignity and shared Sikh identity.

A Jewish marriage contract recording marital obligations; contemporary Reform versions often express the spouses’ mutual responsibilities and commitments.

The Writings: the section of the Tenakh containing varied sacred writings, including Psalms, Proverbs and Job.

The Muslim belief that humans are trustees of Allah’s creation and must care for it responsibly.

The community of initiated Sikhs founded by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.

A stage or realm of spiritual development; the five khands describe progression towards liberation.

A Sikh symbol combining a circle, a central double-edged sword and two outer swords, expressing beliefs about God and spiritual and worldly responsibilities.

A one-fifth contribution practised by Shi’a Muslims, shared between charitable purposes and religious leaders.

A sermon delivered as part of the Friday congregational service, reminding Muslims of their faith and duties.

A blessing recited over wine or grape juice to sanctify Shabbat or a festival.

God’s rule or reign. Christians understand Jesus’ invitation as calling people into a life shaped by God’s rule.

A title used in Pilate’s questioning of Jesus which could suggest a rival ruler and therefore a challenge to Roman authority.

A skullcap worn by many Jews, particularly men, as a sign of respect for God.