Islam: Nature of Human Beings
Here is another exercise I’ve given my class who are struggling with the key skill – evaluation. In the religion section they will be asked about the significant, importance, or relevance of a belief. So you may wish to change the wording up on this one – but the KU and A work for all of these points.
Whilst you might be tempted to write about all manner of random things relating to beliefs about human beings, for the exam you MUST focus on the three terms the SQA have set out for you: see my sneaky introductory sentence to remind you of those!
Evaluate the significance of Muslim beliefs about the Nature of Human Beings (20)
Muslim beliefs about Human Beings can be divided into three main beliefs – freewill, suffering, and khalifahs.
Firstly, Islam teaches that humans have been gifted freewill by Allah. This means they have the ability to make their own choices and decisions and are not controlled like robots. But this also means that they are responsible for the consequences of the choices they make. Muslims believe that all humans have an inner moral compass – the fitrah – that can guide their freewill towards what it right. Muslims believe that life on earth is a test for the afterlife, and that ultimate they will be judged on how well they have used their freewill.
This could impact Muslims in a number of ways, firstly they might feel a deep sense of gratitude towards Allah for giving them this gift which would motivate them to use it in a way that is pleasing to Allah. As a result they could read the Qur’an daily so that they can be sure they are obeying Allah’s commandments found there.
Complete: I believe that this is significant because…
Hint: Think about the impact this would have on your own life – is it significant? How would the world be different as a result of people believing this?
A second component of beliefs about Human Beings is that suffering is also part of the test of life by Allah. Just as Allah has given many good things (like life itself) he has also given suffering. It reminds Muslims that everyone goes through suffering and that they should help others when they are suffering too. It is thought to have a purifying effect on individuals and some Muslims believe it is a consequence of sin – and teaches Muslims that the consequence of sin is suffering.
As a result, Muslims might be very accepting of the suffering in their lives because they know that it has come from Allah for a reason. On the other hand, they could also feel that life is very unfair because some people appear to suffer more than others even thought they have done nothing wrong.
Complete: I believe that this is significant because…
Finally, Muslims also believe that humans have been appointed as Allah’s ‘vice-regents’ or ‘deputies’ here on earth. This is known as being a ‘khalifah.’ Allah has entrusted humans with the responsibility to care for the world and everything in it. This includes upholding justice in all aspects of life – within society, the environment, and even the economy. The prophets in Islam, particularly Muhammad, are seen as exemplary vice regents who fulfilled their roles with righteousness and obedience to Allah.
As a consequence of this belief, Muslims might take steps to look after the world around them by taking recycling seriously or driving an electric car to try and reduce emissions. They could also spend time reading the hadith (the sayings of Muhammad) so that they can best mimic his behaviours.
I think that this belief is particularly significant because:
Firstly,
Secondly,
Thirdly,
Notice that this final point has three reasons – that’s to pick up the remaining evaluation marks available – why so many here? I think it’s the easiest aspect to judge to be significant! But you may wish to add reasons at the other points within the essay.
Can you also identify where the KU and A marks would be given?
