1.
Who founded the Sikh religion?
Correct Answer
B. Guru Nanak
Explanation
Guru Nanak is the founder of the Sikh religion. He was a spiritual leader and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Guru Nanak preached the message of equality, love, and devotion to God. He emphasized the importance of meditation, selfless service, and living a righteous life. His teachings formed the foundation of Sikhism and continue to guide the Sikh community today.
2.
What is The Dome of The Rock?
Correct Answer
A. An Islamic shrine in Jerusalem
Explanation
The Dome of the Rock is an Islamic shrine in Jerusalem. It is one of the most significant landmarks in the city and holds great religious and historical importance for Muslims. The iconic golden dome is a symbol of Jerusalem and is located on the Temple Mount, which is considered a holy site in Islam. The shrine is believed to mark the spot where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Night Journey. It is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts visitors from around the world.
3.
How many Noble Truths did the Buddha speak of?
Correct Answer
D. Four
Explanation
The Buddha spoke of four Noble Truths. These truths are the foundation of Buddhism and represent the essence of his teachings. They are: the truth of suffering, the truth of the origin of suffering, the truth of the cessation of suffering, and the truth of the path to the cessation of suffering. Each truth offers insight into the nature of human existence and provides a guide for achieving enlightenment and liberation from suffering.
4.
Who founded the Church of the Latter Day Saints
Correct Answer
B. JosepH Smith
Explanation
Joseph Smith is the correct answer because he is the founder of the Church of the Latter Day Saints, also known as the Mormon Church. Smith claimed to have been visited by God and Jesus Christ in the early 19th century, leading to the establishment of the church in 1830. He translated the Book of Mormon, which is considered a sacred text by followers of the church. Smith's teachings and leadership played a significant role in the development and growth of the Latter Day Saints movement.
5.
Joan of Arc has an Uncle Noah
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement "Joan of Arc has an Uncle Noah" is false. Joan of Arc was born to Jacques d'Arc and Isabelle Romée, and there is no historical evidence or records indicating that she had an uncle named Noah. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
6.
A menorah has eleven branches.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
A menorah actually has nine branches. The central branch, called the "shamash," is used to light the other eight branches. This is a symbolic representation of the eight-day miracle of the Hanukkah oil. Therefore, the statement that a menorah has eleven branches is incorrect.
7.
The Indian Deity, Rama, is a manifestation of which major Hindu form of God?
Correct Answer
B. Vishnu
Explanation
Rama is considered to be an incarnation or manifestation of Vishnu, one of the major forms of God in Hinduism. Vishnu is believed to be the preserver and protector of the universe, and he takes on different avatars or forms to restore balance and righteousness in the world. Rama is one of the most revered avatars of Vishnu and is known for his heroic deeds and adherence to dharma (moral duty). Therefore, the correct answer is Vishnu.
8.
The fire tradition of the ancient Zoroastrian religion is kept alive today by which faith group?
Correct Answer
C. Parsi
Explanation
The fire tradition of the ancient Zoroastrian religion is kept alive today by the Parsi faith group. The Parsis are followers of Zoroastrianism and consider fire to be a sacred symbol of purity and divinity. They maintain fire temples where a sacred fire is continuously kept burning, symbolizing the eternal flame of their faith. The Parsis have preserved this ancient tradition for centuries and continue to practice it as an integral part of their religious rituals and ceremonies.
9.
Who is NOT a Biblical prophet from the Jewish / Christian tradition?
Correct Answer
B. Hannibal
Explanation
Hannibal is not a Biblical prophet from the Jewish/Christian tradition. While Hosea, Haggai, and Habakkuk are all prophets mentioned in the Bible, Hannibal is not. Hannibal was a Carthaginian general who lived during the time of the Roman Republic and is famous for his military campaigns against Rome, particularly during the Second Punic War. He is not associated with any prophetic role or mentioned in the Bible.
10.
Who said; "Whosoever offers unto me with devotion a fruit, a flower or water, I will accept it"
Correct Answer
A. Lord Krishna
Explanation
Lord Krishna said, "Whosoever offers unto me with devotion a fruit, a flower or water, I will accept it." In Hinduism, Lord Krishna is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is worshipped as a deity. This statement reflects Krishna's acceptance of even the simplest offerings made with devotion, emphasizing the importance of sincere and heartfelt devotion rather than the value or grandeur of the offering itself.
11.
The Book of Genesis does not specify that the fruit eaten by Adam and Eve was an apple
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Although Adam and Eve are always PICTURED eating an apple, the Bible mentions only 'forbidden fruit'.
12.
Muslims can only eat food that is considered 'haram'.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Haram means 'forbidden'. Muslims eat food which is 'halal'
13.
Who is Maui?
Correct Answer
B. Pan-Polynesian Hero
Explanation
Maui is a Pan-Polynesian Hero. In Polynesian mythology, Maui is a demigod known for his mischievous and heroic deeds. He is a central figure in many Polynesian cultures, including Hawaiian, Maori, and Tahitian. Maui is often portrayed as a trickster and shapeshifter, and he is credited with various accomplishments such as fishing up islands, capturing the sun, and bringing fire to humans. His stories and legends have been passed down through generations, making him a revered and beloved figure in Polynesian folklore.
14.
Ramadan, like Lent, is kept according to the lunar calendar. According to the solar calendar, when does Ramadan 2015 begin?
Correct Answer
B. June 18th
Explanation
Ramadan is observed according to the lunar calendar, which means that its start date varies each year in relation to the solar calendar. In 2015, Ramadan began on June 18th according to the solar calendar.
15.
The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in
Correct Answer
C. Qumran
Explanation
The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in Qumran. Qumran is a site located near the Dead Sea in the West Bank. It is where a collection of Jewish texts, known as the Dead Sea Scrolls, were found between 1947 and 1956. These scrolls are of great historical and religious significance as they contain some of the earliest known versions of the Hebrew Bible and other Jewish texts. The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls has provided valuable insights into ancient Jewish history, culture, and religious practices.
16.
What about Korea? What is the approximate religious make-up of South Korea?
Correct Answer
D. Roughly: one third Buddhist, one third Christian and one third Confucian / No religion
Explanation
The approximate religious make-up of South Korea is roughly one third Buddhist, one third Christian, and one third Confucian or no religion. This suggests that there is a diverse religious landscape in South Korea, with a significant presence of Buddhism, Christianity, and Confucianism, as well as a portion of the population that does not identify with any specific religion.
17.
The Church of England is a part of the Anglican Communion.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Church of England is indeed a part of the Anglican Communion. The Anglican Communion is a worldwide association of churches that trace their roots back to the Church of England. The Church of England is the mother church of the Anglican Communion and has a significant influence on its beliefs, practices, and governance. Therefore, it is accurate to say that the Church of England is a part of the Anglican Communion.
18.
In English, Wednesday is named after a Odin a god from the Norse pantheon.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In English, Wednesday is indeed named after Odin, a god from the Norse pantheon. In Old English, Wednesday was called "Wodnesdæg," which means "day of Odin." This naming convention is derived from the belief that each day of the week was associated with a different god or celestial body. Therefore, the statement is true.
19.
The main school of Buddhism that is practised in Thailand is known as:
Correct Answer
C. Theravada
Explanation
Theravada is the correct answer because it is the main school of Buddhism practiced in Thailand. Theravada Buddhism emphasizes the original teachings of the Buddha and focuses on individual liberation through meditation and moral discipline. It is the oldest surviving branch of Buddhism and is widely followed in Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. The term "Hinayana" is considered derogatory and is not commonly used to refer to Theravada Buddhism. "Mahayana" and "Prana Yoga" are different schools or practices of Buddhism that are not specifically associated with Thailand.
20.
The story of Mary Jones and her Bible was a reflection of which major religious movement of the time (turn of the 18th and 19th centuries)?
Correct Answer
B. Protestant Revival
Explanation
The story of Mary Jones and her Bible is a reflection of the Protestant Revival. This religious movement took place during the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries and emphasized a renewed focus on individual faith and personal religious experiences. Mary Jones' story, in which she saved money for years to buy a Bible and walked long distances to obtain one, exemplifies the passion and dedication of individuals during this revival to have access to and engage with the scriptures.
21.
The state religion of Japan is commonly known as:
Correct Answer
D. Shinto
Explanation
Shinto is the correct answer because it is the indigenous religion of Japan. It is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and has been practiced for centuries. Shinto focuses on the worship of kami, which are spirits or deities believed to inhabit natural elements and ancestors. It involves various rituals and ceremonies to honor and connect with these divine beings. Shinto plays a significant role in Japanese society, influencing traditions, festivals, and even political decisions. Therefore, Shinto is commonly known as the state religion of Japan.
22.
Who is generally regarded as the founder of the Daoist (Taoist) religion?
Correct Answer
C. Lao Tzu
Explanation
Lao Tzu is generally regarded as the founder of the Daoist (Taoist) religion. He is believed to have written the foundational text of Daoism, the Tao Te Ching, which outlines the principles and teachings of the religion. Lao Tzu's philosophy emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao, the natural way of the universe, and seeking simplicity and balance in life. His teachings have had a significant influence on Chinese culture and spirituality, making him the most recognized figure in Daoism.