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0
S
sarahmarie
16/12/2025
Religious Studies
origins and meaning
752
•
16 Dec 2025
•
The Origins and Their Meanings
S
sarahmarie
@_8hoi25d3qarf
1 / 7
The Abortion Debate
The abortion debate splits into two main camps with very different views on pregnancy termination. It's one of the most heated moral discussions in our society today.
Pro-choice supporters argue that women should have complete control over their own bodies. They believe forcing women to continue pregnancies from rape or failed relationships would be cruel, and that legalised abortion prevents dangerous "backstreet" procedures that kill women.
Pro-life supporters, particularly Catholics, view the foetus as having a God-given soul from conception. They point to the commandment "Do not kill" and believe abortion is murder since every human has a right to life from the very beginning.
Key Point: The Catholic Church teaches that life begins at conception, making abortion morally wrong in all circumstances.
Anglican Views on Difficult Choices
Anglican Christians take a more nuanced approach compared to strict Catholic teachings. They don't see abortion as completely black and white.
Anglicans believe there are some conditions where abortion might be morally acceptable. Rather than having rigid rules, they emphasise showing compassion and Christ's love when dealing with these difficult situations.
This approach recognises that real-life circumstances can be incredibly complex. Anglican churches stress the importance of supporting women through whatever decision they make, rather than condemning them outright.
Key Point: Anglicans focus on compassion over strict rules when dealing with moral dilemmas like abortion.
Christian Stewardship and Environmental Care
Stewardship means Christians believe God has asked us to look after the world He created. It's like being trusted with someone else's precious belongings.
Pope Francis wrote "Laudato Si", an important letter about environmental care. He said "we must respond to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor" - linking environmental damage to human suffering.
Catholics believe God made humans as caretakers of Earth, not its owners. The "preferential option for the poor" means helping vulnerable people first, since they suffer most from environmental problems like climate change.
Humanists agree we should protect the environment, but for different reasons - they focus on preventing harm to future generations and avoiding wars over scarce resources.
Key Point: Christians see environmental care as a God-given responsibility, whilst humanists focus on practical consequences for humanity.
Catholic Charities in Action
CAFOD (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development) puts Christian beliefs into practice by campaigning for social justice and fair wages worldwide. They use Catholic Social Teaching to guide their work.
The St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP) was inspired by a Catholic priest who dedicated his life to helping poor people. They provide hands-on practical assistance to those who are struggling.
Both organisations follow the "preferential option for the poor" - the idea that we should put the poorest and most vulnerable people first. Jesus taught that "whatever you do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for me."
The six works of mercy from Matthew's Gospel give Christians practical ways to help others through charity work and activism.
Key Point: Catholic charities turn religious beliefs into real-world action by prioritising help for the most vulnerable people.
Michelangelo's Creation of Adam
Michelangelo's famous "Creation of Adam" fresco in the Sistine Chapel tells the whole creation story from Genesis. Every detail has deep meaning about God and humanity.
God appears as an elderly, bearded man - the traditional way to show wisdom and omniscience . He's positioned higher than Adam and surrounded by angels to show He's in Heaven.
The heart-shaped form around God represents Him giving life to Adam. The Bible says God "breathed life-giving breath" into humans. Their fingers nearly touch, showing the special connection between God and humanity.
This artwork reminds us that humans are made "in God's image" but aren't equal to God. The "Alpha and Omega" symbols (first and last Greek letters) show that Jesus is eternal because He's God.
Key Point: Every element in Michelangelo's masterpiece reinforces Christian beliefs about God's power and humanity's special relationship with Him.
Christian Symbols and Their Meanings
Christian art uses powerful symbols to teach religious truths. The dove represents the Holy Spirit, reminding Christians of Jesus's baptism when "the Spirit came down like a dove."
"Chi-Rho" combines the first two Greek letters of "Christ" (X and P) to show Jesus is the Messiah. The cross represents Jesus's ultimate sacrifice - giving up His life to free humanity from sin.
The vine symbolises Christianity spreading throughout the world. Jesus said "I am the vine" to show how faith connects all Christians together.
The lamb represents Jesus as the "Son of God," linking to the Passover story where a lamb's death saved people. The four evangelists (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) spread Jesus's message through their Gospels.
Key Point: Christian symbols aren't just decoration - they're visual reminders of core beliefs about Jesus, salvation, and faith.
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
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Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The Origins and Their Meanings
S
sarahmarie
@_8hoi25d3qarf
Christianity has strong views on some of the biggest moral questions we face today - from abortion and caring for our planet to the value of human life. These beliefs shape how Christians make decisions and live their daily lives.
The Abortion Debate
The abortion debate splits into two main camps with very different views on pregnancy termination. It's one of the most heated moral discussions in our society today.
Pro-choice supporters argue that women should have complete control over their own bodies. They believe forcing women to continue pregnancies from rape or failed relationships would be cruel, and that legalised abortion prevents dangerous "backstreet" procedures that kill women.
Pro-life supporters, particularly Catholics, view the foetus as having a God-given soul from conception. They point to the commandment "Do not kill" and believe abortion is murder since every human has a right to life from the very beginning.
Key Point: The Catholic Church teaches that life begins at conception, making abortion morally wrong in all circumstances.
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Anglican Views on Difficult Choices
Anglican Christians take a more nuanced approach compared to strict Catholic teachings. They don't see abortion as completely black and white.
Anglicans believe there are some conditions where abortion might be morally acceptable. Rather than having rigid rules, they emphasise showing compassion and Christ's love when dealing with these difficult situations.
This approach recognises that real-life circumstances can be incredibly complex. Anglican churches stress the importance of supporting women through whatever decision they make, rather than condemning them outright.
Key Point: Anglicans focus on compassion over strict rules when dealing with moral dilemmas like abortion.
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Christian Stewardship and Environmental Care
Stewardship means Christians believe God has asked us to look after the world He created. It's like being trusted with someone else's precious belongings.
Pope Francis wrote "Laudato Si", an important letter about environmental care. He said "we must respond to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor" - linking environmental damage to human suffering.
Catholics believe God made humans as caretakers of Earth, not its owners. The "preferential option for the poor" means helping vulnerable people first, since they suffer most from environmental problems like climate change.
Humanists agree we should protect the environment, but for different reasons - they focus on preventing harm to future generations and avoiding wars over scarce resources.
Key Point: Christians see environmental care as a God-given responsibility, whilst humanists focus on practical consequences for humanity.
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Catholic Charities in Action
CAFOD (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development) puts Christian beliefs into practice by campaigning for social justice and fair wages worldwide. They use Catholic Social Teaching to guide their work.
The St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP) was inspired by a Catholic priest who dedicated his life to helping poor people. They provide hands-on practical assistance to those who are struggling.
Both organisations follow the "preferential option for the poor" - the idea that we should put the poorest and most vulnerable people first. Jesus taught that "whatever you do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for me."
The six works of mercy from Matthew's Gospel give Christians practical ways to help others through charity work and activism.
Key Point: Catholic charities turn religious beliefs into real-world action by prioritising help for the most vulnerable people.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Michelangelo's Creation of Adam
Michelangelo's famous "Creation of Adam" fresco in the Sistine Chapel tells the whole creation story from Genesis. Every detail has deep meaning about God and humanity.
God appears as an elderly, bearded man - the traditional way to show wisdom and omniscience . He's positioned higher than Adam and surrounded by angels to show He's in Heaven.
The heart-shaped form around God represents Him giving life to Adam. The Bible says God "breathed life-giving breath" into humans. Their fingers nearly touch, showing the special connection between God and humanity.
This artwork reminds us that humans are made "in God's image" but aren't equal to God. The "Alpha and Omega" symbols (first and last Greek letters) show that Jesus is eternal because He's God.
Key Point: Every element in Michelangelo's masterpiece reinforces Christian beliefs about God's power and humanity's special relationship with Him.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Christian Symbols and Their Meanings
Christian art uses powerful symbols to teach religious truths. The dove represents the Holy Spirit, reminding Christians of Jesus's baptism when "the Spirit came down like a dove."
"Chi-Rho" combines the first two Greek letters of "Christ" (X and P) to show Jesus is the Messiah. The cross represents Jesus's ultimate sacrifice - giving up His life to free humanity from sin.
The vine symbolises Christianity spreading throughout the world. Jesus said "I am the vine" to show how faith connects all Christians together.
The lamb represents Jesus as the "Son of God," linking to the Passover story where a lamb's death saved people. The four evangelists (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) spread Jesus's message through their Gospels.
Key Point: Christian symbols aren't just decoration - they're visual reminders of core beliefs about Jesus, salvation, and faith.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
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What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
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Is Knowunity really free of charge?
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Most popular content in Religious Studies
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English - inspector calls quotes and analysis
Quotes from every main character
English Literature10
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user