AQA GCSE Religious Studies A key terms

An officer in the Roman army. In Mark’s crucifixion account, a centurion recognises Jesus as God’s Son and later confirms his death to Pilate.

Bread traditionally eaten at Shabbat and festival meals; two loaves are used at the Shabbat table.

Leavened food made from certain grains, removed from the home and not eaten during Pesach.

Singing or rhythmically repeating words, sacred texts or sounds as a religious practice.

An expressive form of Christian worship emphasising the activity and gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Giving money, goods, time or practical help to support people in need; the word can also mean an organisation established to help others.

Living according to religious standards of sexual behaviour, including abstaining from sex before marriage in traditional Christian teaching.

A weapon that uses toxic chemicals to poison or injure people, including through breathing them in or contact with the skin or eyes.

A Jewish burial society whose members prepare the dead for burial with care and respect.

The Jewish people understood as having a special covenant relationship with God, bringing responsibilities to live according to his will.

The Greek equivalent of Messiah, meaning ‘anointed one’: someone set apart by God for a special task. Christians identify Jesus as this promised Messiah.

The Christian festival celebrating the birth of Jesus.

The canopy under which a Jewish wedding takes place, symbolising the couple’s new home.

The worldwide community of Christians, rather than simply a building used for worship.

An increase in the number of Christians and Christian communities, alongside the development of their faith.

Establishing a new Christian congregation, often with support from an existing church.

Deliberately breaking a law, usually non-violently, to protest against injustice.

A person who is not a member of the armed forces.

A legally recognised partnership distinct from marriage.

Using force or pressure to make someone act against their own choice or beliefs.

A couple living together in a sexual relationship without being married to one another.

A young horse or related animal. The colt Jesus rides into Jerusalem is traditionally understood as a young donkey, linked with humble kingship.

A religious instruction or law about how people should live.

An observance that remembers a significant person or event; it may involve mourning rather than celebration.

A task entrusted to someone with the authority to carry it out; Jesus commissions his disciples to preach throughout the world.

The final act of farewell to the deceased at the graveside or crematorium.

A punishment requiring an offender to carry out unpaid work that benefits the community.