Edexcel GCSE Religious Studies A key terms

Reasoning by analogy: applying an established ruling to a new case because both share the reason underlying that ruling.

The sacred scripture of Islam, which Muslims believe is the literal Word of Allah.

A Jewish religious teacher who may teach, preach and lead a congregation.

The Sikh code of conduct which sets out religious duties, community discipline and ceremonies.

The quality of nature associated with activity, passion, desire and restlessness.

The path of meditation and disciplined control of the mind and senses, also called astanga yoga.

One unit of Salah, consisting of a prescribed sequence of recitations and movements.

A thread bracelet tied during Raksha Bandhan to express affection and a bond of protection.

The ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast and remember the first revelation of the Qur’an.

A payment that secures someone’s freedom. In Mark 10:45, Jesus describes giving his life as a ‘ransom for many’, which Christians understand as his sacrifice to save others.

An Arabic term meaning messenger; used in this topic for a prophet entrusted with revealed scripture.

The understanding that God’s Kingdom is already active through Jesus and can be experienced in lives and communities shaped by God’s rule.

The belief that Christ is truly present in the Eucharist, rather than the celebration being only a reminder of him. Christian traditions differ over how this presence is understood.

The ability to think carefully about facts, principles and arguments when reaching a judgement.

The soul entering another life after the death of the body; also called reincarnation.

The restoration of a relationship after separation or hostility; in Ephesians 2, Christ reconciles Jews and Gentiles to one another and to God.

Deliverance from suffering or oppression and restoration to a better condition; Jewish messianic hope includes redemption for both the Jewish people and the wider world.

The effectiveness of Jesus’ saving work in freeing humanity from sin and opening communion with God.

The sixteenth-century movement to reform Western Christianity that led to the establishment of Protestant churches separate from Rome.

The Reformed Christian teaching that worship should include only what God has authorised in Scripture.

The remains of a holy person, or an object associated with a holy person or event.

An event or awareness that a person interprets as an encounter with God or another divine reality.

Practising a religion through actions such as worship, prayer and living according to its teachings.

Unfair treatment, restriction or harm directed at people because of their religious beliefs or identity.

The view that different religious paths may offer genuine ways of approaching religious truth, rather than only one tradition having value.

Raising a child within a religion’s beliefs, values and practices.

Marrying again after a previous marriage has ended through divorce or the death of a spouse.