Question 1

What is the difference between just war and holy war?

Accepted Answer

Just war theory is a set of ethical criteria developed by philosophers like Augustine and Aquinas to decide if a war is morally permissible; it focuses on reasons, authority, and conduct. Holy war, on the other hand, is a war believed to be directly commanded by God, often for religious reasons, such as the Crusades or the concept of jihad in Islam. While just war can be secular or religious, holy war is inherently religious and may not require the same criteria.

Question 2

Do all Christians have to be pacifists?

Accepted Answer

No, Christians are divided on this issue. Some, like Quakers and Mennonites, interpret Jesus' teachings (e.g., 'turn the other cheek') as requiring absolute pacifism. Others, including many Catholics and Protestants, support just war theory, arguing that sometimes war is necessary to protect the innocent or resist evil. The Bible contains both peace passages and accounts of God-ordained war, leading to different interpretations.

Question 3

What does Islam teach about war and peace?

Accepted Answer

Islam teaches that peace (salaam) is the ideal, and war is only permitted in self-defence or to protect the oppressed (Qur'an 22:39-40). The concept of jihad includes both a personal spiritual struggle (greater jihad) and a defensive military struggle (lesser jihad) with strict rules: no harming civilians, no destruction of property, and proportionality. Many Muslims today emphasise peacebuilding and condemn terrorism as un-Islamic.

Question 4

How can religion cause conflict?

Accepted Answer

Religion can cause conflict when beliefs are used to justify violence, such as in holy wars or extremism. Differences in religious identity can fuel tensions, as seen in Northern Ireland (Catholic vs. Protestant) or the Middle East (Jewish vs. Muslim). However, conflicts often have political, economic, and social roots, with religion being one factor among many. Religious leaders can also be peacemakers, so it is not inherently conflict-causing.

Question 5

What is the role of the United Nations in peacemaking?

Accepted Answer

The UN works to prevent conflict through diplomacy, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian aid. It promotes international law and human rights, and its Security Council can authorise military action to maintain peace. Religious organisations often support UN efforts, and many faith-based NGOs collaborate with the UN on peacebuilding projects. However, the UN's effectiveness is limited by political disagreements and lack of enforcement power.

Question 6

How should I structure a 12-mark evaluation question on war?

Accepted Answer

Start with a clear introduction stating the issue and your line of argument. Then present one side (e.g., 'Some Christians argue war is sometimes necessary because...') with a religious teaching and example. Next, present the opposing view (e.g., 'However, pacifists would argue...') with another teaching. Finally, give a reasoned conclusion that weighs the arguments and states your own view, supported by evidence. Use connectives like 'furthermore' and 'in contrast' to link ideas.

Religion, peace and conflict

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