Eduqas GCSE Religious Studies key terms

The tearing of clothing to express grief following the death of a close relative.

Uncut hair, expressing respect for God's creation and commitment to Sikh discipline.

A Jewish marriage contract setting out the husband’s responsibilities towards his wife, including her financial support.

The section of the Tenakh known as the Writings, including Psalms, Proverbs and other works of poetry, wisdom and history.

A trustee or steward. In Islamic environmental ethics, humans have a responsibility to care for Allah’s creation rather than treat it as their unrestricted possession.

The initiated Sikh community established by Guru Gobind Singh, committed to disciplined devotion, service and defence of the weak.

An additional Shi’a religious payment of one-fifth, or 20%, of annual surplus income after expenses.

A blessing over wine or grape juice which sanctifies Shabbat or a festival.

The first stage of Jewish marriage: a legally binding betrothal that sets the couple apart for one another. Its name means sanctification.

A small head covering worn as a sign of respect for God and Jewish identity; also called a yarmulke.

Earning a living honestly through one's own work.

A ceremonial sword or dagger representing the duty to protect the vulnerable and oppose injustice.

Devotional singing or chanting, often repeating divine names in a call-and-response pattern.

The prayer meaning ‘all vows’, chanted at the opening of Yom Kippur.

Meaning ‘fit’ or ‘proper’; usually used for food permitted and prepared according to Jewish dietary laws.

Destructive anger that can lead to cruelty, hatred or violence.

The Hindu virtue of forgiveness, patience and forbearance.

Holy books containing revelations from Allah.

Three characteristics of existence taught by the Buddha: dukkha, anicca and anatta.

The Hindu goddess associated with wealth and prosperity.

A free community meal open to everyone, regardless of faith or background.

The final judgement of humanity associated with Jesus’s return.

The wedding hymns used in the Sikh marriage ceremony, presenting married life as a path of spiritual development.

God’s commandments and moral teaching, which guide how believers should live.

God as the source of commandments that guide worship and human behaviour.

A Buddhist follower who is not ordained as a monk or nun.

The Night of Power or Decree, remembering the beginning of the revelation of the Qur’an to Muhammad.