Just and Holy wars Flashcards
What is a just war?
A war that meets certain criteria which makes it justifiable.
What does the just war theory do?
Provides a way of accepting war when all other options have been exhausted.
What 3 areas are covered in the just war theory?
- Jus ad bellum: consideration of whether it is right to go to war
- Jus in bello: concerns the actions within a war, making sure correct conduct is followed
- Jus post bellum: refers to the actions taken after war.
What are the 5 criteria for Jus ad bellum?
- The war must be started by a proper authority e.g. government
- The reason to go to war is just e.g. to protect
- Everything must be done to make sure good instead of evil results from war
- The war must be the last resort, every other way of solving the situation must have been tried and failed
- The force used must be no more than is necessary to win, and civilians should not be targeted.
What does the Bible teach about war?
The need to aim for peace and maintain justice, though at times war may be necessary to achieve this.
What do all churches believe about war?
That the global community should t everything it can to ensure that all nations coexist peacefully.
What do Catholics and Anglicans agree about war?
It is always regretful as it signals that other peaceful means of solving a situation have failed.
What do Christians believe they have a responsibility to do?
To pray for the leaders of countries and those involved in any war that is being waged.
What is a holy war?
A war that is believed to be fought on behalf of God and with his support.
What are the causes for a Holy war?
Claiming of land for religion, spreading of the faith, the defence of religious believers.
3 elements of a holy war.
- the achievement of a religious goal
- being authorised by a religious leader e.g. the Pope
- the promise of a spiritual reward for those who take part.
References supporting God in favour of the holy war.
When God sent his people into battle, e.g. in the book of Joshua.
Story in the book of Joshua.
God promises the Israelites land that others are living on. Joshua sends out spies to see the land and prepare for battle. Obeying God, they fight, win and take possession of the land.
What were the Crusades?
A series of holy wars, attempting by Christianity to reclaim the Holy Land of Jerusalem from the Muslims. Many Christians took up arms and participated out of obedience to the reigning popes. (Middle Ages, 1101-1271)
Were the Crusades successful?
No, very unsuccessful. Many people killed, and crusader knights took part in raids and looting which was not part of their mission.
