Islam and the death penalty
I can explain different Muslim and non-religious views on the death penalty.
Islam and the death penalty
I can explain different Muslim and non-religious views on the death penalty.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The death penalty is legal execution for serious crimes, varying globally.
- Non-religious views are varied, and ethical theories can be used to support or oppose the death penalty.
- In Islam, the death penalty is rarely applied due to strict conditions and should be avoided if there's any doubt.
- The Qur'an allows the death penalty (qisas) for murder but strongly encourages forgiveness and alternatives.
- Some Muslims are against the death penalty, encouraging forgiveness and alternatives based on Islamic principles.
Keywords
Death penalty - capital punishment; the execution of a criminal which is sanctioned by the state
Deterrence - aim of punishment; the threat of punishment as a way to put a person off committing crime (e.g. knowing they could go to prison if they steal)
Justice - fairness; working to fix an unfair situation
Common misconception
The death penalty is widely used in Islam.
While Islamic law does permit the death penalty for certain very serious offences, its application is extremely limited and rare due to strict conditions and a strong emphasis on mercy and forgiveness.
To help you plan your year 11 religious education lesson on: Islam and the death penalty, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 religious education lesson on: Islam and the death penalty, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 4 religious education lessons from the Issues of Good and Evil unit, dive into the full secondary religious education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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