# Religion Studies Grade 12 P1 NSC November 2023 Memo (Eng) > Grade 12 Religion Studies Paper 1 memorandum from the NSC November Exam 2023 (English), 12 pages. Read online or download the free PDF. - Page: https://www.hlayiso.com/library/religion-studies-p1-nov-2023-mg-eng/9b9b02b5-a08a-41c9-bb08-93c91624f4fa - Updated: 2026-10-29 - Subject: Religion Studies - Grade: Grade 12 - Document type: Memorandum - Year: 2023 - Exam period: NSC November Exam - Paper: 1 - Curriculum: CAPS - Pages: 12 Breadcrumbs: [Home](https://www.hlayiso.com/) › [Library](https://www.hlayiso.com/library) › [Grade 12](https://www.hlayiso.com/library/grade-12) › [Religion Studies](https://www.hlayiso.com/library/grade-12/religion-studies) › [Religion Studies Grade 12 P1 NSC November 2023 Memo (Eng)](https://www.hlayiso.com/library/religion-studies-p1-nov-2023-mg-eng/9b9b02b5-a08a-41c9-bb08-93c91624f4fa) ## About this document Religion Studies · Grade 12 · NSC November Exam · 2023. Memorandum. Read online or download the PDF. Read it free online on the page above; download the PDF from there. ## Document text Text extracted from the PDF. Layout, diagrams and tables may not survive extraction. ### Page 1 Downloaded from hlayiso.com NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE GRADE 12 RELIGION STUDIES P1 NOVEMBER 2023 MARKING GUIDELINES MARKS: 150 These marking guidelines consist of 12 pages. Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 2 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 2 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines SECTION A (COMPULSORY) QUESTION 1 1.1 1.1.1 B√ (1) 1.1.2 B√ (1) 1.1.3 D√ (1) 1.1.4 A√ (1) 1.1.5 B√ (1) 1.1.6 A√ (1) 1.1.7 B√ (1) 1.1.8 C√ (1) 1.1.9 C√ (1) 1.1.10 D√ (1) 1.2 1.2.1 Ahimsa√ (1) 1.2.2 Tripitaka/Pali Canon/Sutras√ (1) 1.2.3 Hermeneutics√ (1) 1.2.4 Rituals√ (1) 1.2.5 Veneration√ (1) 1.2.6 Bodhisattva√ (1) 1.3 1.3.1 C√ (1) 1.3.2 F√ (1) 1.3.3 E√ (1) 1.3.4 G√ (1) 1.3.5 B√ (1) 1.3.6 D√ (1) 1.4 1.4.1 Buddhism√ The other three are Middle Eastern religions/. all the others are monotheistic religions √ OR Judaism√ All the others are missionary religions. √ (2) 1.4.2 Lao-tzu√ The other three are sacred books from different religions.√ (2) 1.4.3 Sanskrit√ The other three are subdivisions in Hinduism.√ (2) 1.4.4 Shabbat√ The other three are Islamic terms.√ (2) 1.4.5 Hajj√ The other three are African Traditional Religion terms.√ (2) Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 3 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 3 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines 1.5 1.5.1 False√ According to the Taoist view, the Tao produces the One, the One produces the Two. The Two produces the Three. And the Three produces the ten thousand things. Everything originates from the One. √/ All of the world‟s processes originate from the forces of yin and yang (2) 1.5.2 False√ Sufi are those Muslims who emphasise mysticism. √ The Imam leads congregational prayers in Islam. √ (2) 1.5.3 False√ Syncretism is the mixing of different religious beliefs, resulting in a new belief system. √ Pluralism is a situation in which members embrace the teachings of other religions. √ (2) 1.5.4 False√ 'Shruti' in Hinduism means what is heard. √ The 'Smriti' are religious books written by individuals./ refers to „what is remembered‟√ (2) 1.5.5 True√√ (2) 1.5.6 False√ The Buddhist religion originated in India. Taoism and Confucianism originated in China. (2) 1.6 1.6.1  Comes from the saying 'umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu' (terminology to this effect from other language is accepted) √  This concept is central to teachings in African Traditional Religion. √ It is a philosophy of communal spirit. √ NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (2) 1.6.2  Ramakrishna is a Hindu saint. √  He was a follower of Smartism, and said 'Truth is one. The wise call it by different names.' √ His disciple, Vivekananda, brought Vedantic thought to the United States, through the Ramakrishna Mission. √ NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (2) 1.6.3  Refers to a belief in one god. √  It is a characteristic of Abrahamic faiths./Middle Eastern Religions √ NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (2) TOTAL SECTION A: 50 Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 4 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 4 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines SECTION B QUESTION 2 2.1 2.1.1  Characteristics that define a religion.  An exclusive self-image.  A religion sets boundaries that separate one religion from all others.  When we are talking about identity in religion, we are saying that that particular religion has a certain individuality. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (4) 2.1.2  This refers to the differences that are present within and across religions.  This concept is also used in the comparison of a variety of religions.  A point at which religions are not the same. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (4) 2.1.3  The concept is used as a substitute for religion.  It has to do with the prevailing, overarching world views that shape meaning and overall patterns of existence.  It is a fixed religious belief. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (4) 2.2 2.2.1  Muslims believe in all the prophets, with the final messenger being Prophet Muhammed.  The Qur'an comprises exclusively what Muslims believe to be the Word of God, while the Hadith are the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad..  The Qur'an, that was revealed in Arabic, remains unchanged to this day.  Islam has no intermediary between the worshipper and God. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (4) 2.2.2  They believe in God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit (Trinity).  At the heart of Christianity is the belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God.  Christian scriptures teach that Jesus was resurrected from the dead after he was crucified.  Christians believe Jesus is the only true Messiah that God sent to Earth and that He will one day return. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (4) 2.2.3  Non-being is the ultimate or the starting point of everything – it is bigger, in a sense, than being.  Taoists should live life in harmony with the Tao.  Taoists do not exert their will against the universe (Wu-wei), but accept it.  It is one of the only religions to have given rise to martial arts, in particular Neijia.  NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited (4) Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 5 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 5 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines 2.2.4  In the heart of Hindu thinking is a deep belief in the possibility of both spiritual evolution and spiritual regression (reincarnation).  It is the only religion that says 'you can be god'.  It does not have unifying beliefs or teachings.  It is a religion made up of many different schools and traditions that have been free to develop their own ideas and practices. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (4) 2.3  A religious teaching is systematic information about a religion.  If the teaching is accepted by faith, it becomes a person's religious belief.  Therefore, teaching and belief are connected – teaching leads to belief and behind a belief there is a teaching. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (6) 2.4  The idea of a go-between or intermediary is very important in this religion.  The ancestors are intermediaries between the spirit world and the human world.  The sangomas or diviners are intermediaries between humans and the ancestors.  Interaction between the Supreme Being and humans takes place through the ancestors, because the Supreme Being is remote from humans.  The ancestors play a very important role because they are mediators and protectors of the clan.  A respected and credible elderly person in the family can be understood as an intermediary. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (8) 2.5  The experience of being human is painful and causes suffering (The existence of dukkha)  The cause of pain is desire or craving. (The beginning of dukkha)  The only way to stop suffering is to become 'non-attached'. (The reality of the cessation of dukkha)  The only way to become 'non-attached' is through the Eightfold Path. (The end of dukkha) (8) [50] Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 6 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 6 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines QUESTION 3 3.1 3.1.1  It means permitting gay people to be appointed as priests/ ministers or pastors in the United Methodist Church. (2) 3.1.2 (a) The 'One Plan' stream was of the opinion that, gender issues must be a decision of a local diocese. (2) (b) The 'Traditional Plan' stream intended to ban the ordination of gay clergy and clergy performing wedding ceremonies of same-sex couples. (2) 3.1.3  Most African believers live in rural areas and are more traditional.  The United Methodist Church is one of the mainline churches, which is dominated by conservative followers in Africa.  Methodist Churches in Africa are led by conservative leaders such as the Liberian Methodist prelate.  African countries/leaders/communities view homosexuality as a pervasion and abomination.  Same sex relations are seen as evil and merit lengthy prison sentences prescribed under existing laws NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (6) 3.1.4 NO, because it is against the following humans' rights:  Freedom from discrimination based on gender, sex or sexual orientation  Every human being has the right to freedom from discrimination. This include the lesbians, bisexuals, gays and transgenders.  Every human being has the right to equality. Even in the church.  Every human being has the right to marriage and family. This includes same sex marriage.  Everyone has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief and opinion. YES, because it is in line with the following humans' rights:  Every organisation has the right to freedom of belief and religion. The decision was in line with their constitution.  The LGBT movement must look for a Church whose constitution is in line with their lifestyle.  Every church organisation has a right to peaceful assembly and association.  The Church subscribes to Biblical teachings which condemn homosexuality. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (8) Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 7 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 7 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines 3.1.5 YES:  He wrote more about the views of African conservatives.  He does not put forth the counter arguments by the progressive minority as he may be pro-conservatism  He called the decision a victory for the conservative wing of the Church.  He only quoted an African leader from West Africa who is a conservative.  He said Methodists now have to work to heal the hurt and divisions and reconcile.He does not acknowledge that the “gay” issue remains a challenge. NO:  He was reporting objectively about what happened in the Conference.  The Conference was dominated by the conservatives. That is why he wrote more about the conservative view.  He is writing for African readers who wanted to know the contribution of their leaders in the Conference.  The liberal groups were outvoted. There is no bias. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (8) 3.2  Prior to 1994, Christianity was the state religion, and received exclusive coverage on TV/radio.  In 1994, South Africa became a secular state with a democratic constitution.  All state media (e.g. SABC, radio stations, etc.) had to give recognition to all religions.  Many independent religious media houses sprang up, e.g. Day Star, Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), Issues of Faith on SABC, Radio Hindvani.These provide coverage of various religions and not just Christianity.  Community radio stations and magazines give coverage to local religious events.  The public can complain about unfair religious coverage to the HRC and BCCSA. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (10) 3.3  They are some of the minority religions in South Africa.  Journalists have no knowledge about these religions.  Their leaders are not involved in scandalous behaviour, which attract media attention. .  Politicians are not using their gatherings to campaign for voters.  Taoism is not a missionary religion, and do not publicise themselves.  The Baha'í faith is very active in environmental matters, but the religion itself is not promoted. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (12) [50] Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 8 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 8 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines QUESTION 4 4.1 4.1.1  Europe (2) 4.1.2  Protestant and Catholic (4) 4.1.3  The Protestant loyalists want to keep Northern Ireland as part of the United Kingdom.  The Catholic nationalists want the whole of Ireland to be independent and united. (4) 4.1.4  Intra-religious conflict refers to conflict between two groups within a religion. (2) 4.1.5  The conflict is between two branches of Christianity.  This gives the notion that it is a religious conflict.  However, the main cause of this conflict is political.  Religious differences merely highlight the political differences.  This conflict was seemingly solved in 1998, but current political affairs have caused a renewed resurgence of this conflict.  The conflict is mainly about political control and economic factors. (8) 4.2  Religious leaders are respected and through their religion usually have contacts and connections in many parts of the world.  They must liaise with political parties to find a solution, as the conflict is more political than religious.  Thus they have access to a network of people from other parts of the world who can also assist in the resolution of the conflict.  Most religions teach peace and compassion. Therefore, members are willing to contribute materially and financially to the victims of conflict.  Religious leaders can call an interreligious summit for dialogue on the conflict.  The dialogue should lead to practical steps that can be taken on both sides, regardless of religion, towards alleviating the situation.  Religious organisations can use their religious conviction about peace in the world and the sacredness of life, to lead and model peaceful behaviour.  Religious organisations can cooperate to alleviate human sufferings, such as shortage of food, medical supplies or other necessities.  Religious organisations must network with the African Union, the United Nations and other international aid agencies in order to try and protect and support civilians.  Organisations like the Islamic Relief Agency and the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development should focus on practical support such as medical supply, shelter for victims and the supply of food. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (10) Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 9 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 9 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines 4.3 EXAMPLE 1: CHRISTIANITY  'All who take the sword, will perish by the sword.' (Mat. 26:52)  This quotation means that violence is discouraged.  Although Christians are supposed to be peacemakers, war can be waged under certain circumstances.  In Christianity only a legitimate ruler of a state can declare a war.  There must be a just cause for Christians to involve themselves.  The intentions should be honourable. Wars for securing peace, punishing evildoers and uplifting the good are permitted.  Wars for greed, power or land are not allowed. EXAMPLE 2: ISLAM  'Fight in the cause of God against those who fight you, but aggress not.' (Qur'an 2, 190)  Wars of self-defence and revenge are permissible, but no abuse should be committed.  Islam also has the concept of jihad, which is often misunderstood as war.  Jihad simply means to strive or to struggle in the way of God.  The following are different types of jihad: o Inner spiritual and moral striving to become a better Muslim. o Good behaviour, to set an example of what it means to be a Muslim. o Calm preaching to spread the word of God. o Wars against those who oppress or persecute Muslims.  The first three types are seen as greater jihad, while the last is seen as the lesser. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (10) 4.4  South Africa is a secular state; no state religion.  All religions are represented at state events.  All religions have equal status in the constitution.  Freedom of religion, belief and opinion is enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa.  All religions are represented in the interreligious national and international organisations in South Africa.  There is a Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities which work with other organs of civil society to promote the protection of individual cultural, religious and linguistic communities. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (10) [50] Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 10 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 10 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines QUESTION 5 5.1  Democratic/Secular government (2) 5.2  Religious freedom may be explained as the act of enabling persons or a community to pursue the religions of their choice.  Religious freedom, for example, is illustrated by legislation that recognises both religious and civil marriages.  Everyone has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief and opinion.  The state allows for personal observance of religious holidays or rituals  Allows for inter-religious dialogue and cooperation in resolving issues/creating peace and harmony. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. Two marks are awarded for the explanation, and two marks are awarded for the example. (4) 5.3  In a secular state the government and morality are not based on religion, and religious laws are not part of the state's laws.  The French government claims that the wearing of religious attire on government property breaks the French rules/laws on secularism.  The government wants to accommodate all its citizens equally, irrespective of their different religions.  Secular world views are accommodated and are given the same recognition as any religion. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (4) 5.4  Religious organisations can organise themselves and stand against religious intolerance.  They can draw up and sign a petition, and submit it to government officials.  Religious leaders must engage the government to amend that rule.  Religious organisations must emphasise that religion is part of everyday life, and not mere rituals. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (6) 5.5 YES  Every government has an obligation to protect its citizens from exploitatiion..  This includes members of religious organisations.  Government should intervene only if the law is being broken.  The law would be broken if there was any form of discrimination, restriction of freedom of association, force, injury or damage, etc.  Regulation of religion could protect the vulnerable from being exploited by those who would prey on them in the name of religion.  Government regulation will allow all religions to have equal rights. Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 11 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 11 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines NO  Religious organisations believe they have been inspired by God.  Therefore, they do not need to be regulated by any human agency.  They would see regulation as infringing on their freedom of religion.  Members themselves will be aware of their rights and be able to resist any abuse.  Over-regulation can lead to resistance against the state. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (6) 5.6 YES  All religions are treated the same.  The state has the right to interfere in matters of religion if they have a negative impact on communities.  Religions which used to influence the state in the past are now treated the same as other religions.  A religious state imposes the state religion on non-believers. NO  Human rights are rooted in religious teachings.  Human rights can be respected and abused by both secular and religious states.  State religion can adopt human rights without changing to a secular state. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited.  Where candidates answer both YES AND NO, a maximum of FOUR marks may be awarded for either justification. (6) 5.7  Human rights are inalienable rights and apply to all.  Freedom of expression is one of these rights, but is not absolute.  It must be balanced with sensitivities of other religious groups.  This right means that everyone has the right to freedom of the press and other media, freedom to receive or impart religious information or ideas.  Freedom of expression does not extend to propaganda for war, incitement of violence, advocacy of hatred that is based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (6) Copyright reserved Please turn over ### Page 12 Downloaded from hlayiso.com Religion Studies/P1 12 DBE/November 2023 NSC – Marking Guidelines 5.8 5.8.1  People do not have a choice about their religion.  They are forced into a particular religion.  They may not reach the point of personal conversion and conviction.  People will be discriminated against on the basis of their religion. It could lead to armed conflict.  It violates the principle of neutrality in religious affairs. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (4) 5.8.2  There is less accountability of religious leaders.  Freedom and lack of boundaries can lead to strange explorations and experimentation.  The spirit of freedom, almost of 'anything goes', loosens the grip of religion.  Religion may be growing weaker as the world becomes increasingly secular.  There is an erosion of morality, as society becomes secular. NOTE: Other relevant answers must be credited. (4) 5.9  Inter-religious dialogue has many benefits such as the opportunity to find out about, and think more deeply about different religions.  They should cooperate on multi-faith projects that deal with issues that affect the youth  They must meet at least three people from religions other than their own.  Ask them about their beliefs, rituals, diet, rites of passage, etc.  Youth should attend weddings of different religions.  Arrange open day at various places of worship.  Understand various belief systems, so that there is tolerance of diversity. 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