Edexcel GCSE Religious Studies A key terms

One's own particular duty, appropriate to one's situation and responsibilities.

An image, object or sign that represents a meaning beyond its physical appearance.

A Jewish place of prayer, religious study and community gathering.

Disassociation from, and disdain for, the enemies of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad and his family.

A portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journeys, associated with God's presence among them.

False objects of worship or authorities set up against Allah’s authority; Surah 4:60 condemns seeking judgement from Taghut.

A traditional practice of rubbing a small amount of softened date onto a newborn’s palate.

The raised throne or platform on which the Guru Granth Sahib is placed in the prayer hall, expressing its authority.

Committing oneself to the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha as guides towards enlightenment.

A form of Islamic divorce initiated through a husband’s declaration that he is divorcing his wife.

A collection of Jewish oral teaching and rabbinic discussion, comprising the Mishnah and Gemara, which helps explain and apply Jewish law.

The Qur’anic name for Saul, the king whose army Dawud served in before becoming king himself.

The quality of nature associated with inertia, darkness, confusion and ignorance.

Physical service: using the body and practical effort to help others.

Craving or thirst that causes suffering and sustains the cycle of rebirth.

Following the guidance of a qualified scholar rather than independently deriving a religious ruling.

Consciousness of Allah and of being accountable to him, encouraging a person to follow his guidance.

A spiritual path in Sufism; the term also refers to an organised Sufi order.

Buddha-nature: a teaching especially associated with Mahayana Buddhism that beings have the potential for Buddhahood, obscured by ignorance and other obstacles.

The ritual of circling the Ka‘bah seven times.

Trust in Allah, involving acceptance of his will and dependence on him.

Love and loyalty towards the Prophet Muhammad, his family and those who follow Allah.

Love and loyalty towards the Prophet Muhammad and his family.

The belief in the oneness of Allah, who alone is worthy of worship.

The revelation given by Allah to Musa, associated with the Torah and containing laws and instructions.

Another name for the design argument, emphasising the apparent purpose or goals of things in nature.

The Jewish sanctuary in Jerusalem, associated with sacrifice, worship and God's presence.