Question 1

What does the Bible say about wealth and poverty?

Accepted Answer

The Bible contains many teachings on wealth and poverty. In the Old Testament, the Law of Moses required Israelites to leave gleanings for the poor (Leviticus 19:9-10) and to lend without interest (Exodus 22:25). In the New Testament, Jesus taught that it is hard for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24) and praised the poor widow who gave all she had (Mark 12:41-44). The early church shared possessions communally (Acts 2:44-45). Overall, the Bible emphasizes generosity, warns against greed, and calls for justice for the poor.

Question 2

How do Muslims practice charity?

Accepted Answer

Muslims practice charity through Zakat (obligatory alms) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity). Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, requiring Muslims with wealth above a certain threshold (nisab) to give 2.5% of their savings annually to specific categories of recipients, such as the poor, debtors, and travelers. Sadaqah can be given at any time and in any amount, and it includes acts of kindness as well as money. Both are seen as purifying wealth and helping to create a just society.

Question 3

What is the difference between Christian and Muslim views on wealth?

Accepted Answer

Both Christianity and Islam view wealth as a blessing from God but warn against greed and materialism. Christians emphasize stewardship—using wealth responsibly for God's glory and to help others. Muslims also stress that wealth belongs to Allah and must be used ethically, with Zakat as a mandatory mechanism for redistribution. A key difference is that Islam has a formal system of obligatory alms (Zakat), while Christianity relies more on voluntary giving and personal conscience, though some churches encourage tithing (giving 10% of income).

Question 4

Why do religious people help the poor?

Accepted Answer

Religious people help the poor because their faith teaches compassion, justice, and love for neighbour. In Christianity, Jesus' command to 'love your neighbour as yourself' (Mark 12:31) and the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) motivate action. In Islam, helping the poor is a way to earn God's pleasure and purify one's wealth, as stated in the Quran: 'The believers are brothers... so make peace between your brothers' (Quran 49:10). Both religions see serving the poor as serving God.

Question 5

What is the Parable of the Rich Fool?

Accepted Answer

The Parable of the Rich Fool is found in Luke 12:16-21. It tells of a wealthy man who had a bountiful harvest and decided to build larger barns to store his surplus, planning to 'eat, drink, and be merry.' But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you.' The parable teaches that life is not about accumulating possessions but being 'rich toward God.' It warns against greed and the false security of wealth, emphasizing that we should use our resources for others.

Question 6

How do religious charities like CAFOD and Islamic Relief work?

Accepted Answer

CAFOD (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development) is a Christian charity that works in over 40 countries to tackle poverty, provide emergency aid, and promote social justice. It is inspired by Catholic social teaching, which emphasizes the dignity of every person and the common good. Islamic Relief is a Muslim charity that provides humanitarian aid and development projects worldwide, guided by Islamic principles of compassion and solidarity. Both organizations work with local partners to ensure aid reaches those in need, regardless of religion, and advocate for long-term solutions like education and sustainable livelihoods.

Wealth and poverty

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Study Guide Available

Likely Command Words

Ready to test yourself?

Related Topics in AQA GCSE Religious Studies

Authority

Beliefs about the nature of human life

Beliefs and teachings

Buddhism

How to Revise Wealth and poverty — AQA GCSE Religious Studies

Examiner Tips for Wealth and poverty

Common Mistakes in Wealth and poverty

Key Marking Points