Is giving better than receiving? For millions of Hindus around the world, donating food, clothes and money during Diwali can bring its own rewards.
Millions celebrate festival of lights
Dazzling Diwali: The cherished tradition of giving presents is meant to spread "light and love and happiness and joy" as part of the festival's wider acts of charity and feasting. Comprehension quiz
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Explain the meaning of the word “tithe” as it is used in the text.
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Which word is the closest synonym for “non-perishable”?
A. Expensive
B. Long-lasting
C. Delicious
D. Unsafe
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According to the article, what is one positive mental health benefit of charitable giving?
A. It makes people want to pay their rent more easily.
B. It increases a person’s lifespan.
C. It is associated with lower blood pressure.
D. It has been shown to boost happiness.
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The festival of Diwali is a time of charity, but what else does the text say it marks?
A. The beginning of the new year.
B. The victory of good over evil.
C. The end of the five holy days.
D. The harvest season.
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What is one argument presented in the text against the value of charitable donations?
A. Charitable interventions always show great results.
B. Between 60% and 70% of charitable interventions showed no results at all.
C. The price of an anti-malaria pill is too high.
D. Only people with high incomes should donate.
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Do you believe that the act of giving to charity is more about helping others, or about making the donor feel good? Explain your personal view using examples or ideas from the text to support your points.
Answers
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1: A tithe traditionally means giving 10% of one's annual income to the church., 2: B, 3: D, 4: B, 5: B, 6: Your view!
1: A tithe traditionally means giving 10% of one's annual income to the church., 2: B, 3: D, 4: B, 5: B, 6: Your view!
Glossary
Hindus - Followers of Hinduism, an Indian religion with more than one billion followers.
Sikhs - Followers of Sikhism, an Indian religion and philosophy.
Jains - Followers of Jainism, an ancient Indian religion whose followers live a life of non-violence and non-attachment to worldly possessions.
Welfare state - A safety net put in place by the government to ensure that no-one falls into poverty.