AQA GCSE Religious Studies A key terms

An intricate circular pattern used in Buddhist practice that may represent Buddhist teachings, the universe or a Pure Land.

A Hindu temple: a sacred place where deities are worshipped.

A self-centred person guided by their own ego and desires rather than by God and the Guru’s teachings.

Mental service: directing the mind towards God and dedicating one's service to God.

A sacred sound, word or phrase recited in worship or meditation.

A figure who tries to prevent awakening through temptation and fear; Mara can also represent the inner obstacles of desire, ignorance and doubt.

A person pushed to the edge of a community, whose needs, views or participation are neglected.

A legally recognised union between two people as partners, usually intended as a lifelong commitment; it may also have religious significance.

A solemn promise made during a marriage ceremony, expressing commitment to a spouse.

A person killed because of their religious beliefs.

The death of someone because of their faith or commitment to a religious cause.

The Catholic service of worship in which the Eucharist is celebrated.

An attitude that places excessive importance on money and possessions rather than spiritual or other non-material values.

The sacrament of marriage, joining a husband and wife in a lifelong union before God.

Unleavened bread eaten at Pesach, recalling the Israelites' hurried departure from Egypt.

Illusion: a distorted understanding of reality in which temporary worldly things become more important than God.

Someone who acts between two parties. Moses acted between God and the Israelites by receiving and communicating God’s teaching.

Quiet reflection, for example on a Bible passage or Christian belief, as a way of focusing on God.

Mental activities, including intentions, which lead to actions and produce kamma (karma).

A condition affecting a person's psychological wellbeing, which may affect their thinking, emotions or behaviour.

Compassion shown towards someone in need or distress.

The beneficial spiritual effects of good actions. In some Buddhist funeral practices, these are shared with or dedicated to the deceased.

The promised ‘anointed one’ sent by God; Christians identify Jesus as the Messiah.

A hoped-for era of peace, justice and knowledge of God. Jews differ over whether it will be brought about by an individual Messiah or through humanity’s collective action.

The pattern in Mark’s Gospel of Jesus telling people not to publicise his identity or miracles.

Loving-kindness: a friendly, caring attitude that wishes happiness for all beings without expecting anything in return.

Meditation that develops loving-kindness, extending goodwill from oneself towards others and ultimately all beings.