Religion, War & Peace

Key Words

Pacifism: The belief of people that refuse to take part in war and any other form of violence

Lesser Jihad: Military fight in defence of Islam, self-defence or justice

Quakers: Members of the Society of Friends, a branch of Christianity

'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons God'

'Fight in the cause of God those who fight you, but do not trasgress limits; for God loves not transgressors' 

Falklands War 1982

The Vietnam War 1959-1975

Millions of soilders and civilians were killed creating many refugees

Dalai Lama- Opposes the use of violence

Irena Sendler-Roman Catholic but helped Jews in the Second World War

Gandhi, MLK and Desmond Tutu- Also worked for peaceful solutions to conflict 

The Red Cross-Protect and respect human life and health. Prevent suffering regardless of humanity, religion, race or political opinions

UN- United Nations- helping countries settle differences without war 

NATO- North Atlantic Treaty Organisation- prevent war in Europe 

Pacifism

The belief that war can never be justified. Pacifist believe that violence towards another human being is wrong and refuse to fight in wars. 

Christians- Willing to die but not kill for their beliefs. They will not serve in troops but are often willing to serve as ambulance drivers, medics or non-fighting roles. 

Islam- Muslims believe in jihad. They can fight if it is started and controlled by a religious leader. Have a just cause. Be a last resort. Protect trees, plants and crops. Aim to restore peace and freedom. Those killed in lesser jihad are seen as martyrs who will enter paradise. 

Just war- Some Christians believe that fighting is justifiable, if it is a course of action that can prevent a real evil.

Holy war- A war that is declared in support of a religious cause.

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) 

• They act as a detterent (for) 
• Terrorists might get hold of them and use them (against) 

Consequences of War

• Freedom 
• Better human rights
• Death 
• Disease and famine

The Red Cross/Crescent-  Protect and respect human life and health, Prevents suffering regardless of nationality, religion, race or political opinions. Go to battlefields to help soldiers. Organising medical care, protects civilians and search for missing people.