Eduqas GCSE Religious Studies key terms

Jewish teaching or instruction; more specifically, the first five books of the Jewish Bible, containing foundational teachings and commandments.

Christian teaching and faith handed down through the Church; Catholics understand Sacred Tradition as originating with the apostles.

God's existence beyond and independently of creation, without being limited by the universe.

Beyond the universe and its physical limitations.

The passage of the soul from one bodily life to another.

The Catholic belief that the bread and wine become Christ’s body and blood during the Eucharist, while their outward appearances remain unchanged.

Food that is forbidden under Jewish dietary laws, such as pork, shellfish or meat that has not been prepared correctly. Also written treif or treyf.

The three qualities or modes of material nature: sattva, rajas and tamas.

The three deities Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, associated respectively with creation, preservation and destruction.

The Christian belief that the one God exists as three distinct persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, each fully God.

A Buddhist movement founded by Sangharakshita whose communities put Buddhist teachings into practice through activities including meditation, generosity and service.

Charitable giving understood in Judaism as a responsibility connected with justice.

A Jewish obligation to pursue justice through giving and supporting people in need; also spelt tzedakah. It is a duty, rather than simply optional generosity.

The Jewish belief that human beings are created in the image of God, giving every person dignity and worth.

Fringes attached to the corners of a Jewish prayer shawl or garment, reminding the wearer to obey God’s commandments.

The worldwide community of Muslims, united by their shared faith.

The purpose of sex as an expression of love that strengthens the unity of a couple.

An action that increases suffering or obstructs progress towards enlightenment, rather than expressing wisdom and compassion.

The discriminatory practice of treating certain communities as ritually polluting and excluding them from social or religious participation.

The sacred thread initiation ceremony, traditionally associated with entry into religious learning and responsibility.

The ‘foundations of religion’: the fundamental principles expressed in the five roots of Shi’a Islam.

An ethical approach that judges actions by their consequences for overall well-being and suffering.

The eternal spiritual abode of Vishnu, where liberated devotees live in loving service to the Lord.

A Sikh festival commemorating Guru Gobind Singh’s founding of the Khalsa in 1699.

A Hindu whose principal focus of devotion is Vishnu or one of his avatars, such as Krishna.

A Hindu tradition that worships Vishnu or one of his avataras as supreme.

Sharing what one has with others, including people in need.