Shabbat
Shabbat gives us an excellent example of how to answer (a), (b) and (c) questions in Judaism. It is also an area that comes up regularly. Much of what you prepare for a Shabbat question could also be used for any of the other Festivals.
Before we go any further, read through the following pages to refresh your mind about Shabbat:
The Revision Site's Shabbat page
Judaism 101's Shabbat page
Further links are available in the coursework guidance on Shabbat
The first section (a) asks HOW and WHY. For example [1998 Q1]:
(a) How and why might a Jewish family celebrate Shabbat at home? [8]
The question is not asking why they are at home. It is saying 'What do Jews do at home when they celebrate Shabbat, and what is the meaning or significance of what they do.' Have a look at Shabbat Symbols, taken from a worksheet on Shabbat. It helps you explain what Jews do and what it means.
You will then be asked why Shabbat is important to Jews today. For example [1996 Q5]:
(b) How might celebrating the Sabbath together affect the life of a Jewish family? [7]
This can include positive and negative points, but should focus on the benefits of a family day away from the stresses and pressures of life.
Finally you could be asked to evaluate an aspect of Shabbat. E.g. [1998 Q1]
(c) 'Your religion should fit into your life; you should not have to change your life to fit your religion!'
Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Judaism in your answer. [5]
This allows an answer focusing on Shabbat but bringing in other areas too. You might start by arguing that religion has to be practical and fit into work, family life etc. Remember to give practical, real-life examples. You would then balance this with the idea that religion is so important that you should make an effort to order and rearrange things to fit the demands of religion. Remember what we said about the covenant - Jews observe Shabbat because God told them to. Remember to mention the benefits of keeping Shabbat for individuals and families. Your answer should reflect a range of Jewish opinion, but must show appropriate recognition of the importance of doing what God asks. Your own opinion might come in a brief summary at the end (note - always say something new in the summary - make the examiner think you had lots more you could have said. Never let him think you ran out of ideas.)
Plan out answers to those three questions. Use the coursework links if you get stuck on any of these, but don't spend too long on this!
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