Question 1

What are the main causes of crime according to religious teachings?

Accepted Answer

Religious teachings identify several causes of crime, including personal greed (e.g., the love of money is the root of all evil, 1 Timothy 6:10), lack of moral guidance, and societal injustice. Christianity and Islam both emphasise that humans have free will and can choose to sin, but external factors like poverty or upbringing can influence choices. For example, Islam teaches that shaytan (Satan) tempts people, but individuals are responsible for their actions.

Question 2

Do Christians believe in the death penalty for murder?

Accepted Answer

Christian views on the death penalty vary. Some Christians support it based on the Old Testament principle of 'an eye for an eye' (Exodus 21:23-25), arguing it is just retribution. However, many Christians oppose it, citing Jesus' teaching to forgive and turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-39). The Catholic Church and many Protestant denominations now oppose the death penalty, emphasising the sanctity of life and the possibility of reformation.

Question 3

How does Islam view the aims of punishment?

Accepted Answer

Islam supports all four aims of punishment: retribution (qisas, e.g., 'life for life' in Surah 5:45), deterrence (to prevent others from committing crime), reformation (through repentance and rehabilitation), and protection (of society from harm). However, mercy is also emphasised; the Prophet Muhammad said, 'Show mercy, and you will be shown mercy.' In practice, Islamic law allows for forgiveness or compensation (diya) in some cases.

Question 4

Can crime ever be justified by religion?

Accepted Answer

Most religions teach that breaking the law is wrong, but some justify civil disobedience when laws conflict with religious or moral duties. For example, Christians like Martin Luther King Jr. argued that unjust laws should be broken non-violently. In Islam, if a law forces a Muslim to deny their faith, they may resist. However, this is a minority view; mainstream teachings emphasise obeying the law unless it directly contradicts God's commands.

Question 5

What is the difference between sin and crime?

Accepted Answer

A sin is an act against God's will, as defined by religious teachings (e.g., lying, greed). A crime is an act against the law of the land (e.g., theft, murder). Some acts are both sin and crime (e.g., murder), while others are sin but not crime (e.g., lustful thoughts) or crime but not sin (e.g., parking illegally if no moral issue). Religious people may avoid sin even if it is not illegal.

Question 6

How do religious people help reduce crime in their communities?

Accepted Answer

Religious individuals and organisations help reduce crime through charity work, youth programmes, and prison chaplaincy. For example, Christian charities like the Salvation Army run rehabilitation centres for ex-offenders. Muslims give zakat (charity) to alleviate poverty, a root cause of crime. Many religious groups also promote moral education and community cohesion, which can deter crime.

Religion, crime and the causes of crime

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