QUESTION ONE. a) "The quest for life after death is a common theme in nearly all regions". Evaluate (4 Marks) b) Discuss the Five Pillars in Islam. (10 Marks c) Explore the relevance of Confucius teachings to contemporary societies. (8 Marks) d) Illustrate the role of Kabir in the formation of Sikhism. (8 Marks QUESTION THREE. QUESTION TWO. Describe the main teachings of the following religions: a) Hinduism. b) Jainism. (5 Marks) 8) (5Marks) Buddhism. (5Marks) b) Citing examples illustrate the significance of religious beliefs and practices in enhancing environmental stewardship. a) "In many ways,Taoism taught the opposite of Confucianism "Discuss QUESTION FOUR. a) Demonstrate how ancient religions influence(d) the so-called modern religions. b) "The concept of God in Judaism permeates social.economic and political life of Jews." Explore. (8 Marks) (7 Marks) ( 8 Marks (7 Marks)

QUESTION ONE.<br />a) "The quest for life after death is a common theme in nearly all regions". Evaluate<br />(4 Marks)<br /><br />The quest for life after death is indeed a common theme in many regions around the world. This theme is prevalent in various religious and philosophical traditions, where the concept of an afterlife or reincarnation is often explored. The evaluation of this statement can be done by examining the beliefs and practices of different cultures and religions, such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others. These traditions often provide teachings and narratives about the afterlife, offering insights into the human desire to understand what happens after death and the potential continuation of existence beyond the physical realm.<br /><br />b) Discuss the Five Pillars in Islam.<br />(10 Marks)<br /><br />The Five Pillars of Islam are the fundamental principles and practices that form the foundation of a Muslim's faith and worship. They are as follows:<br /><br />1. Shahada (Faith): The declaration of faith, stating that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His messenger.<br />2. Salah (Prayer): Performing the five daily prayers as a means of communication with Allah.<br />3. Zakat (Charity): Giving alms or charity to the needy as a form of purification and social responsibility.<br />4. Sawm (Fasting): Observing fasting during the month of Ramadan as a means of self-discipline and spiritual growth.<br />5. Hajj (Pilgrimage): Performing the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca at least once in a lifetime, if physically and financially able.<br /><br />These pillars serve as the guiding principles for Muslims in their spiritual and ethical lives, emphasizing the importance of faith, prayer, charity, self-discipline, and pilgrimage.<br /><br />c) Explore the relevance of Confucius teachings to contemporary societies.<br /> Marks)<br /><br />Confucius, a Chinese philosopher, is renowned for his teachings on ethics, morality, and social harmony. His teachings continue to hold relevance in contemporary societies, particularly in the context of East Asian cultures. Some of the key aspects of Confucius teachings that are still relevant today include:<br /><br />1. Ren (Benevolence): The importance of cultivating compassion, empathy, and kindness towards others.<br />2. Li (Propriety): The significance of proper behavior, etiquette, and social norms in maintaining harmony and order.<br />3. Xiao (Filial Piety): The value of respecting and honoring one's parents and ancestors.<br />4. Junzi (Ideal Gentleman): The ideal of a morally upright and virtuous individual who embodies the principles of benevolence, propriety, and justice.<br /><br />These teachings have influenced various aspects of contemporary societies, such as family values, social ethics, and governance. They continue to provide guidance on how to cultivate moral character, foster harmonious relationships, and promote social stability.<br /><br />d) Illustrate the role of Kabir in the formation of Sikhism.<br />(8 Marks)<br /><br />Kabir, a 15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint, played a significant role in the formation of Sikhism. His teachings and poetry laid the foundation for the development of this distinct religious tradition. Some of the key contributions of Kabir to Sikhism include:<br /><br />1. Bhakti Movement: Kabir's emphasis on devotion and love for God, which became a central theme in Sikhism.<br />2. Monotheism: Kabir's teachings on the oneness of God, which aligns with the Sikh belief in the formless, infinite divine.<br />3. Social Equality: Kabir's advocacy for social equality and the rejection of caste distinctions, which resonated with the Sikh principles of equality and justice.<br />4. Spiritual Practices: Kabir's teachings on meditation, devotion, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, which influenced the Sikh practices of Naam Japna (meditation on God's name) and Simran (constant remembrance of God).<br /><br />Kabir's teachings and poetry provided a spiritual and philosophical foundation for the emergence of Sikhism, shaping its core beliefs and practices.