Relationships, Sexuality, and Marriage

This section of Theme A: Relationships and Families revision covers complex topics like adultery, polygamy, divorce, and human sexuality.

Adultery is viewed as a serious sin in both religions: • In Christianity, it breaks one of the Ten Commandments • In Islam, it is considered haram (forbidden), with some interpretations of Sharia law suggesting severe punishments

Polygamy: • Christians completely disagree with polygamy • Islam allows men to have up to four wives, historically to provide for widows after wars

Divorce and remarriage: • Views vary among Christian denominations, with Catholics generally opposing divorce • Islam permits divorce but considers it undesirable

Definition: Polygamy - the practice of having more than one spouse at a time

Human sexuality: • Both religions generally view sex outside of marriage as sinful • Christianity traditionally disagrees with same-sex relationships, seeing them as against God's plan for procreation • Islam generally accepts that homosexual feelings exist but prohibits acting on them

Highlight: Civil partnerships (2004) and same-sex marriage (2013) have challenged traditional religious views in the UK

Marriage: • In Christianity, marriage is seen as a contract between the couple and God • In Islam, marriage is a commitment but not a contract with Allah

Example: The Catholic Church's stance on divorce has been a topic of debate within Christianity

Understanding these diverse perspectives is crucial for answering GCSE RE relationships and families questions and preparing for Relationships and Families RE GCSE AQA past papers.