Sources of Morality in Various Religions

1. Section F The Moral Challenge Chapter Twenty-Seven Sources of Morality

2. Moral Vision • A judgement of what is right and needs to be done to improve society. • A person with a strong moral vision will have a clear understanding of what they believe is right and wrong.

3. The Law • Laws – rules agreed by people and governments thatregulate the behaviour of members of a society. If people break the law, they are punished • Irish Constitution – Bunreacht na hÉireann • European laws regulate member states and their citizens

4. Religious Moral Vision • The views of what is right and what is wrong that put forward by a religion • Found in the teachings of the religion • Seen in the words and actions of a founder or an inspirational leader

5. The Golden Rule • A religious moral code • Rule of reciprocity • The Golden Rule is a religious moral vision thatcrosses a number of religious traditions • The Christian version is: ‘In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets’

6. The Ten Commandments • The Ten Commandments are a guideline for Jews, Christian and Muslims to turn to • Some relate to people’s relationship with God • Some relate to people’s relationship with each other • As a moral code they regulate everyday as well as religious matters

7. Christianity and Morality • Jesus’ message about God’s kingdom is an important moral example for Christians • Jesus’ attitudes and actions towards others in the Gospels are a source of morality • The moral vision of Jesus has inspired the work of many Christian organisations

8. Mohammad – a moral guide • The Quran is a important source of morality for Muslims. • Sunnah - the words and actions of Mohammad. The prophet’s life is a source on the right way to live. • Hadith- the traditions of Mohammad’s words and actions additional to the Qur’an.

9. Buddhism and Morality • Buddhism has five rules central to achieving‘the avoidance of evil, the undertaking of good’: • not to harm any living being • not to steal • not to engage in sexual misconduct • not to lie • not to use drugs or alcohol

10. Hinduism and Morality • Dharma or sacred duty is an individual’s role appropriate to their stage in life • It involves both responsibilities and rights • Dharma is a source of the right way to behave for a Hindu • It is a way of life rather than a set of rules