Yearly Religion Notes PDF

Religion notes for term 4 Biblical Writing's 1. Structure of the bible It is a collection of books that is organised into Old Testament (often also referred to as Hebrew Scriptures) and New Testament (often also referred to as Christian Scriptures). The Old Testament deals with t...

Religion notes for term 4 Biblical Writing's 1. Structure of the bible It is a collection of books that is organised into Old Testament (often also referred to as Hebrew Scriptures) and New Testament (often also referred to as Christian Scriptures). The Old Testament deals with the story of the Jews up to the era in which Jesus Christ was born, and the New Testament tells of the birth, life, death, resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the beginning of the religion that is now called Christianity.  The are 66 books in the bible. The New Testament contains 27 books. 2. Most of the bible is written in the form of a narrative. When reading the bible its important to understand literal and figurative meanings. Biblical Fundamentalism however is when people believe what is said in the bible is literal. Types of writings in the bible: - Myth = particular kind of sacred story or narrative that deals with the mysteries of life. Found mostly in the first 11 chapters of the book of Genisis. Scripture\'s myths hold truth and meaning which reveal God\'s relationship with people, the world, and the profound truth about God. - Historical stories = The Old Testament contains stories based on real events, expressing the authors\' belief in God and their nation\'s history, sometimes revealing meaning over generations. These events are not presented as we would see them in a modern day. - Prophesy = Throughout the history of Israel God raised up prophets whose role was to remind the people about the importance of keeping the covenant. They reflected on God's Covenant promise and challenged the people to fulfil their obligations within this relationship. - Laws = Laws have 2 functions, providing guidance to people in how to live life and telling people what they are not to do in order to serve God - Poetry and songs = Poetry and songs are scattered throughout the Old Testament, but they can be found especially in the books of Psalms and Job, and in the Song of Songs. - Wisdom literature = The "Wisdom" literature of the Old Testament consists of "common sense" sayings about life, people and their behaviour, and thoughts about God and the world. - Gospel = A Gospel is a unique form of writing found in Scripture, they contain smaller literary pieces including: parables, miracle stories, announcement stories, as well as the story of Jesus' passion, death and Resurrection. - Letters = The letter is the most common literary form in the New Testament. The letters of the New Testament are real letters. These letters were written to people or communities to address particular problems or issues in the early Christian communities. 3. Prophets Prophets are people who have encountered God so strongly in their lives and in the life of their country Israel, that they must deliver God's message to the people. The prophets spoke from their deep commitment to God and to the covenant, and they were unable to be silent when they saw the covenant being violated. Prophets include Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Jethro), Job, Ezekiel, Aaron and David. 4. 3 worlds of text The World Behind the Text -- The historical context of when it was written, including the author's background and original audience. The World Within the Text -- The literary features, such as genre, language, and structure, which reveal deeper meaning. The World in Front of the Text -- How modern readers' perspectives shape our understanding and application today. 5. Biblical truth can be understood in various forms: Religious Truth -- Reveals God\'s relationship with humanity and the divine purpose, such as themes of love, faith, and salvation. Moral Truth -- Provides guidance on right and wrong behavior, teaching ethical principles for human conduct. Historical Truth -- Chronicles the history of the Hebrew people and early Christians, showing their experiences, events, and lineage. Proverbial Truth -- Offers wisdom through sayings and proverbs that convey practical insights and life lessons. Scientific Truth -- Reflects the ancient scientific understandings of the time, such as creation narratives, but isn\'t focused on modern scientific accuracy.. Main Beliefs in Christianity About Jesus: Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God, the Messiah, who came to save humanity through his life, teachings, death, and resurrection. Jesus is seen as fully divine and fully human, embodying God's love and offering salvation to believers. 2\. Interpreting the Bible The Bible can be interpreted by understanding context, symbolism, and intended messages. Methods like *exegesis* involve examining the historical setting, literary style, and author's purpose to uncover deeper meanings in scripture passages. 3\. Literary Forms in the Bible The Bible uses various literary styles to convey messages, including: - Figurative Language: Symbolism and metaphors to illustrate spiritual truths. - Literal Accounts: Historical events and laws. - Miracles: Stories demonstrating divine power. - Parables: Short stories with moral or spiritual lessons. - Psalms: Poetic prayers and hymns. 4.Main Books of the Old Testament The primary books include: - The Pentateuch (first five books): *Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy*. - Wisdom Literature: *Psalms* and *Proverbs* provide insights into worship, wisdom, and moral guidance. 5\. Types of Truth in the Bible Truths in the Bible include: - Religious Truth: God's relationship with humanity. - Moral Truth: Guidelines for ethical living. - Historical Truth: Chronicles of key events. - Proverbial Truth: Practical wisdom for life. - Scientific Truth: Ancient understandings of the natural world. 6\. Books in the New Testament The New Testament has 27 books, focusing on Jesus' life, teachings, and the growth of the early Christian church. 7\. Biblical Interpretation Method Biblical interpretation involves studying *historical context, literary form,* and *reader perspectives* to understand both the original and contemporary meaning of scripture. The \"3 Worlds of the Text\" model helps readers connect biblical messages across time. Sacraments of healing 1\. Sacraments of Healing - In Catholicism, the Sacraments of Healing include Reconciliation (Penance) and Anointing of the Sick. These sacraments provide forgiveness, spiritual healing, and strengthen believers\' connection with God during times of illness or after sin. 2\. Reconciliation - Rites of Reconciliation: The Catholic Church offers three forms of the rite: - Individual Confession: The traditional one-on-one confession of sins to a priest. - Communal Celebration with Individual Confession: A communal prayer service followed by private confessions. - Communal Celebration with General Absolution: In emergencies or special situations (e.g., wartime), a priest may grant absolution to a group without individual confessions. - Process of Reconciliation: - Examination of Conscience: Reflecting on one's actions and identifying sins. - Confession: Confessing sins to a priest. - Penance: Performing a suggested act of reparation, such as prayers or charitable acts. - Absolution: The priest offers forgiveness in the name of Christ, reconciling the penitent with God. 3\. Types of Sin - Venial Sin: Lesser sins that weaken one's relationship with God but do not completely sever it. - Mortal Sin: Serious sins that, if committed with full knowledge and deliberate intent, break one's connection with God and require Reconciliation to restore. 4\. Parables Showing Suffering and Healing - Jesus uses parables to teach about forgiveness, mercy, and healing. For example: - The Parable of the Prodigal Son: Emphasizes forgiveness and reconciliation, showing how a father welcomes back his repentant son. - The Good Samaritan: Highlights compassion and the call to help those who suffer. 5\. Jesus in the Gospels - In the Gospels, Jesus is depicted as a healer and compassionate savior, often ministering to those who are suffering, forgiving sins, and bringing comfort and reconciliation to humanity. 6\. Anointing of the Sick - Symbols: - Oil: The Oil of the Sick is consecrated and used to anoint the sick, symbolizing healing, strength, and the Holy Spirit's presence. - Laying on of Hands: The priest places hands on the person's head, invoking the Holy Spirit and offering grace. - Key Aspects: - The sacrament provides physical and spiritual healing, strength, and forgiveness of sins. It is often received by those seriously ill or near death, giving peace and the strength to face suffering. 7\. Symbols Used in Anointing of the Sick - Oil of the Sick: Used to anoint the forehead and hands, symbolizing comfort and healing. - Laying on of Hands: A sign of the Church's blessing and prayer for the Holy Spirit's grace to help the person endure suffering or prepare for passing. The Church in Australia 1\. Early Church in Australia after Aboriginal Spirituality - Aboriginal spirituality, based on the connection to land and ancestral spirits, was the first spiritual framework in Australia. With European arrival, Christianity was introduced, marking a shift in spiritual practices and bringing the Catholic Church\'s influence to Indigenous people and European settlers. 2\. Arrival of the Church in Australia - Catholicism arrived with the First Fleet in 1788, though there were no priests initially. Priests began arriving in the early 1800s, and by 1820, Catholic masses were celebrated. Early celebrations were limited, as Catholics faced restrictions under British rule, which favored the Church of England. 3\. Division Between Irish Catholics and the Church of England - Irish Catholics, many of whom were convicts, faced prejudice and discrimination from British authorities who promoted the Church of England. This division led to tensions and a sense of unity among Irish Catholics, who sought religious freedom and recognition. 4\. St Mary's Cathedral - St Mary's Cathedral in Sydney is a key symbol of Catholicism in Australia. Built under the leadership of early Catholic figures, it became the central place of worship and an icon of the Catholic faith and heritage in Australia. 5\. Main Figures in the Early Australian Church - Archbishop Bede Polding: Australia's first Catholic bishop, he established schools, churches, and social services, advocating for Catholics and promoting religious education. - Mary MacKillop: Co-founder of the Sisters of St. Joseph, she dedicated her life to educating the poor, especially in rural areas, and became Australia's first saint. - Father John Joseph Therry: Worked tirelessly to establish the Catholic Church and provide religious services in New South Wales. 6\. Groups Studied for Your Task - Early groups included the Sisters of St. Joseph and the Christian Brothers, who focused on education and providing services to the disadvantaged. These religious groups established schools, hospitals, and orphanages, supporting poor and marginalized communities. 7\. Castle Hill Rebellion - In 1804, the Castle Hill Rebellion was an uprising led by Irish convicts protesting harsh treatment and British control. Although unsuccessful, it highlighted the challenges faced by Irish Catholics under colonial rule. 8\. Position of Catholics at the Time - Catholics were often marginalized and faced restrictions on practicing their faith. They were typically of lower social status, predominantly Irish, and experienced significant prejudice and discrimination under British Protestant governance. 9\. Father O'Flynn - Father Jeremiah O'Flynn arrived in Australia in 1817 without official permission but secretly ministered to Catholics. Though he was eventually deported, he inspired the Catholic community's push for religious freedom and paved the way for authorized priests to come to Australia.