Structuring questions in Judaism
A question I often get asked is ‘what structure is best?’ in the World Religion section. My honest opinion, is that I think it really comes down to personal preference. I’ve found that pupils who are really good at remembering large amounts of knowledge prefer to write all their KU first, then go into an analytical paragraph. Whereas pupil’s who like to think as they go often divide KU up and analyse smaller points. I’ve tried both approaches below – and I’m still not sure which I prefer!
Analyse the purpose of Rosh Hashanah.
Rosh Hashanah translates as ‘head of the year’ is celebrated on the first two days of the Jewish New Year. (KU) Festive meals with symbolic food are shared, for example apple is often dipped in honey to symbolise a sweet new year. (KU) The purpose of this is to celebrate the creation of the world and to remember that G-d is King of the Universe. (A)
Rosh Hashanah is also the Jewish day of Judgement when G-d decides whose name will be written in the book of life. (KU) In one of the central prayers it is said “all inhabitants of the world pass before G-d like a flock of sheep” (KU) The purpose is that each person’s deeds can be examined to decide if they will be blessed in the year ahead which in turn allows Jews to reflect on their own actions. (A) This also reminds Jews that it is important to attend the synagogue at this time to pray and so they might have a good relationship with G-d. (A)
At the synagogue the shofar (Ram’s horn) is blown 100 times. (KU) It is one of the 613 mitzvot to hear the shofar on Rosh Hashanah. (KU) As a result of hearing these blasts, a Jewish person can ‘wake up’ to the consequences of their sins and repent (say sorry and seek forgiveness) before it is too late. (A)
Analyse the purpose of Shabbat.
Shabbat is the Jewish Day of Rest and mimics G-d resting on the 7th day after He created the world. (KU) It begins at sunset on Friday and continues until three stars can be seen in the sky on Saturday. (KU) Before the sun sets on Friday, the Shabbat candles are lit – usually by the woman of the house (KU) – and the kiddush prayer is said over a cup of wine. (KU) There is a service at the synagogue on the Saturday morning, which includes the reading of the weekly Torah portion. (KU) The end of Shabbat is marked with a ceremony called the Havdalah, when a plaited candle with multiple wicks is lit. (KU)
The purpose of shabbat is to rest from work so that there is a chance to connect with G-d, family and friends. (A) Keeping Shabbat is a way to honour G-d’s commandments and to remember the Covenant with G-d. (A) The purpose is to unite Jews in this practice, as the same portion is read so that no one need feel alone in faith. (A) It also is a chance to be restored physically but also spiritually through spending time with G-d. (A)
