Q33

Criteria	Marks
Provides a sustained and reasoned explanation of how TWO religious traditions support adherents towards achieving inner peace<br>Integrates the statement effectively throughout the response<br>Supports a cohesive and well-structured response with detailed, relevant and accurate information<br>Integrates relevant and accurate terminology	17–20
Provides a reasoned explanation of how TWO religious traditions support adherents towards achieving inner peace<br>Integrates the statement within the response<br>Supports a structured response with relevant and accurate information<br>Uses relevant and accurate terminology	13–16
Provides some explanation of how TWO religious traditions supports adherents towards achieving inner peace<br>Refers to the statement in the response<br>Supports the response with relevant information<br>Uses accurate terminology	9–12
Provides a description of how at least ONE religious tradition supports adherents in achieving peace<br>May refer to the statement<br>Uses some information and/or terminology	5–8
Makes general statements about religion and/or peace<br>May use some terminology	1–4

Answers could include:

Christianity

• Christians believe that peace is central to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
• True peace comes from a relationship with God which is expressed through love, forgiveness and reconciliation with others.
• The ‘Peace of Christ’ is seen as a gift from God.
• ‘Peace I leave you; my peace. I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.’ (John 14:27).
• Meditation on the scripture can bring comfort and a sense of tranquillity, reminding Christians of God’s love.
• The teaching of ‘forgiveness’ is reflected in the concept that living in a peaceful world can deeply influence an adherents’ inner peace, especially when suffering at the hands of another. Forgiveness brings a person closer in their relationship with God, heals relationships with others and self.
• Christianity teaches that peace reflects God’s kingdom on Earth. When one sees peace in the world, through acts of mercy or justice, they may feel more attuned to God’s will – enhancing their attainment of inner peace.
• ‘Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God’ (Matt 5:8).

Buddhism

• Buddhists believe inner peace is closely linked to the concept of dukkha – the ceasing of suffering.
• The path to inner peace is known as the Noble Eightfold path. It involves practices of meditation, wisdom and ethical conduct.
• World Peace plays an important role in a Buddhist’s attainment of inner peace as they need to be in an environment conducive to personal spiritual growth.
• Meditation (Dhyana) and mindfulness (Sati) help to create a mind and body for the path to inner peace.
• These both help to clear the mind and deepen awareness. Regular meditation – whether focussed on breath or loving – kindness cultivates a peaceful mind, clarity and greater emotional balance.
• The emphasis on the teaching of ‘right action, right speech’ creates harmonious relationships with others, in turn making it easier for Buddhists to cultivate their peaceful environment.
• ‘The mind is everything. What you think you become’ Buddha.
• ‘Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without’ Buddha.
• ‘Let go of attachment, let go of desire. Let go of ego. Let go of your sense of self. You will find peace.’ Thich Nhat Hanh.