Religious Studies key terms

A sacred Hindu epic telling the story of Rama, including the rescue of Sita from Ravana.

A colourful decorative pattern placed on the ground or doorstep, including at Diwali to welcome visitors and Lakshmi.

The colourful celebration on the day following Holika Dahan, when people throw coloured powder and water.

A payment made to secure someone’s release. In Mark 10:45, Jesus describes giving his life as ‘a ransom for many’, presenting his death as a sacrifice that brings freedom to others.

A voluntary hourly wage independently calculated to cover living costs, with a higher rate for London.

A possible condition or form of existence within samsara into which a being may be reborn.

The belief that Jesus Christ is truly present in the Eucharist, rather than the bread and wine being only reminders of him.

The continuation of life after death in a new existence, influenced by karma; it does not mean an unchanging soul moves between bodies.

A strong expression of criticism or disapproval. Peter rebukes Jesus, and Jesus then rebukes Peter.

The restoration of a relationship after conflict or separation.

Angels who record human deeds, which are relevant to a person’s accountability before Allah on the Day of Judgement.

Deliverance from suffering and oppression. In Jewish messianic hope, it includes the transformation of the world towards peace and justice.

Helping an offender change their behaviour so that they do not commit further crimes.

Helping an offender change their behaviour so that they do not commit further crimes.

A Jewish tradition that adapts Jewish practice to changing circumstances while maintaining Jewish faith and identity.

Safety or shelter from difficulty or danger; in Buddhism, a source of guidance and support in overcoming suffering.

A person forced to leave their country to seek safety from dangers such as war or persecution.

Helping an offender change their behaviour so that they can live responsibly without committing further crimes.

The Sikh code of conduct, setting out religious practices and standards of behaviour, including the commitments made at initiation.

The belief that the atman continues after bodily death and takes on another body.

An approach in which moral judgements can depend on the circumstances rather than applying a rule identically in every situation.

Having resources substantially below the usual living standards of the society in which a person lives.

The religion with which a person connects or identifies; it does not necessarily indicate belief or active religious practice.

Recognised standing to guide others in religious beliefs, interpretation or practice.

Showing a religious belief through actions, such as prayer, wearing religious clothing or symbols, teaching others or taking part in public worship.

Believing in and supporting religious ideas far beyond what most people consider correct or reasonable, which may involve rejecting others’ rights or promoting hatred. Extremism is not always violent.

The right to choose, change or reject a religion or belief, and to express it through worship, teaching, practice and observance.