1.
(a) Describe and explain the role of a rabbi in Judaism. [8]
(b) Describe and explain how a rabbi supports the Jewish community. [7]
(c) 'Rabbis are more interested in the Torah than in people.'
Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. [5]
2.
(a) Describe and explain different Jewish beliefs about charity. [8]
(b) How do Jews put their beliefs about charity into practice? [7]
(c) 'It is wrong to give to beggars - it just encourages them not to get a job!'
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]
3.
(a) Describe and explain the main features of a Jewish marriage ceremony. [8]
(b) Describe and explain how being Jewish may strengthen a family. [7]
(c) 'Family is more important than community in Judaism.'
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]
4.
(a) Describe and explain the significance of the four species in Sukkot. [8]
(b) How might observing Shabbat strengthen Jewish family life? [7]
(c) 'Judaism is all about special celebrations, not day-to-day life'
Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. [5]
5.
(a) Explain why the State of Israel is important to many Jews. [8]
(b) Explain how and why the Holocaust is still remembered by Jews today. [7]
(c) 'It's time to forget about the Holocaust and look to the future.'
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]
1. The rabbi is a central figure in Judaism, helping Jews to know, understand and follow the Jewish faith. As well as their central role in festivals and on Shabbat, you should know about how they fill an 'average day'. Jewish rabbis are experts in the Torah, but are usually married (see the recent film 'Keeping the faith') and have an important pastoral role in caring for the congregation.
2. One of two areas yet to be tested (the other is Crime and Punishment - watch out!). Charity can mean giving money (tzedaka) or kind actions (Gemilut Hasadim):mention both of these. As well as tithing (giving 10%), many Jews have collection boxes (pushkes) in their homes which children also contribute to. You should find out about a specific charity - many are mentioned in the text books or follow the links from the revision pages. The discussion quote is a tough one - Judaism teaches that it is wrong to become poor and be a burden. However, you could help someone through a kind action rather than money.
3. It seems likely to be marriage or death this year. There are lots of traditions associated with marriage, and you should learn what they are and what they mean. The family question is one to get right, as it underpins so many other topics. In answering the discussion question (c), you will explain why the community is important, then why the family is important. It doesn't matter which way you lean, but try to say something fresh in your summary - never repeat yourself if you can avoid it!
4. Sukkot's a fair bet - definitely worth learning this one thoroughly! You should know as much as you can about the festival, as they may ask about any aspect of it. If they do ask a very general question, you then have a well-structured, detailed answer up your sleeve. Shabbat makes regular appearances, and was your coursework question, so you should be able to produce a good answer. Put this into the context of modern life for extra marks! Remember that (c) is an opportunity to argue both sides - find good reasons for each point of view.
5. Israel is extremely important to Jews (remember how Pesach ends?), so you should have a lot of ideas here. Learn about Zionism, as you can use this in a question about Israel as well as Zionism itself. Yad Vashem is in Israel, and you should be familiar with what it is and why it is important. Try to learn some specific responses to the Holocaust, although you may be asked specifically about Yad Vashem. The discussion question stirs up a lot of issues - keep it organised and balanced for top marks.
GOOD LUCK!!