Abrahamic Religions

Question 1

Sunni

Answer 1

Abu Bakr:
- should be (and was) the first successor of Muhammed
- good friend of Muhammed

• Sunni is led politically
• The leader (and anyone else) cannot change or re-interpret the regulations of Islam or the Qu’ran
  -Sunni follows the ways of the Prophet.
• Is the majority, 85-90% of Muslims (1.4 billion people). This leads them to have, crave, and keep the majority of power over general Muslims.
• Leaders have to be elected

Question 2

Shia

Answer 2

Ali ibn Abi Talib:
- should have been Muhammed’s successor
(instead of 4th caliph)
- Muhammed’s cousin
- second most important figure after Muhammed

• Shia is the minority (15-10%)
• There are prayer leaders known as imams.
• The five daily prayers can be compressed into three.
• Typically, imams depict the Qu’ran, however, if there is no imam, scholars are free to read and interpret the Qu’ran.
• Leadrs have to be related to Muhammed

Question 3

Sufism

Answer 3

• A mystic branch of Islam.
• Main Goal: Have a personal relationship with Allah which is achieved through the performing arts (Sufis see that the words of God are beyond scriptures and text) which include, chanting, dancing, and whirling as well as asceticism.
• Sufis follow some Muslim practices, such as the Five Pillars of Islam.
• Is not associated with the Sunni-Shia divide

Question 4

General Info of the Divisions

Answer 4

• Sunni is typically in full power
• Central debate consists of who should be the first successor of Muhammed.
• Political differences

Question 5

Shahadah

Answer 5

• The Islamic declaration of faith
• States that Allah is the only god, and Muhammed is his messenger
• Is used as a form of identifying as a Muslim

Question 6

Hijab

Answer 6

• Is a headcovering typically worn by women.
• Is worn because God instructed Muslims to do so as a symbol of modesty.
• Is not required in Islam as God’s instructions (above) may be perceived in other ways.
• There are numerous different styles, colors, and names for the hijab, which depend on the country or region.
• Is worn for several reasons, but primarily as an aspect of one’s cultural and religious identity.

Question 7

Salat

Answer 7

• Salat is the prayer performed five times daily, facing towards Mecca.
• Before prayer, Muslims cleanse several parts of their body, which is called wudhu.
• Is a form of uniting, devotion, and connection to God.
• Can be done both alone and at a mosque with an imam.

Question 8

Zakat

Answer 8

• Zakat is the Islamic obligation to donate money or materials to the underprivileged
• Specifically, this is 2.5% of one’s income
• The Qu’ran instructs Muslims to do so, and it also sustains a healthy relationship with God

Question 9

Hajj

Answer 9

• The pilgrimage to Mecca, specifically the Kaaba (House of God)
• Is mandatory to visit at least once for all Muslims in the appropriate conditions
• It is a place where all can worship and praise God without any societal ranks, or inequality (ihram).

Question 10

Sawm

Answer 10

• Sawm is the fasting in Islam.
• This is required during the month of Ramadan (during daylight) for all in the appropriate conditions
• It provides empathy, a glimpse of what the underprivileged feel, appreciation, and realization of the value of generosity

Question 11

Mezuzah

Answer 11

• Inside is a parchment with a phrase stating that the Commandments should be around your doorpost, hands, and head. This phrase is a famous verse of the Hebrew Bible.
• Is a small rectangular box. -
• It is posted inside and outside of homes and buildings, and is also considered a reminder of the Commandments.

Question 12

Tefillin

Answer 12

• It is a garment.
• Is worn in morning prayers every day except Sunday.
• It is worn on the hands, head, and doorposts as a reminder of the Commandments (that phrase)

Question 13

Star of David

Answer 13

• Has no biblical significance
• Originated in the Middle Ages, referring to King David in the 1050s.
• Is commonly used as a symbol for the Jewish people and as a form of identity (hence the reason why it’s on the Israeli flag).
• It is also used as decoration for synagogues, buildings, etc.

Question 14

Tallit

Answer 14

• A prayer shawl with attached fringes that is worn both during prayer (required in morning prayer) and all the time.
• Typically worn by men.
• The fringes symbolize the different Commandments and regulations of Judaism.

Question 15

Hamsa

Answer 15

• This symbol (not a requirement) is in the shape of a hand which typically has a bead or prayer inside of it.
• Hamsa fends off bad luck and the evil eye.
• If often seen in jewelry such as bracelets and necklaces.
• Is seen in Islam as well (Hand of Fatima)

Question 16

Chai

Answer 16

• Chai as a word means “life”.
• Chai also consists of Hebrew letters, which each have a number value. They equal 18, which is an auspicious Jewish number.
• It is a symbol rather than a requirement.
• It is a design commonly seen in jewelry.

Question 17

Menorah

Answer 17

• Two menorahs : the Hanukkah menorah and the original menorah
• They are considered the original symbols of Judaism.
• Original Menorah - seven branches, gold, represents and six days God took to make our universe and Sabbath day
• Hanukkah Menorah - nine branches, is used on Hanukkah
• Derives from the Torah, and the Temple, also known as the House of God.
• Is a decoration in the Temple that also glorifies the temple.

Question 18

Yarmulke (Kippah, Yamaka)

Answer 18

• Not a requirement.
• Typically worn by men.
• When worn, it shows respect and is a reminder of God, his laws, and Judaism’s commandments.
• There are particular times in which the kippah should be worn (eating, praying, studying Jewish texts, entering a holy site).

Question 19

Who is a Jew?

Answer 19

Complex question to answer due to the differences of opinions within Judaism.

Patrilineal descent - Firstly, there is a debate as to whether Jews of patrilineal descent should be considered Jews. Traditionally, Judaism believed that those with a Jewish mother can only be considered Jewish. Currently, some denominations (Reform Jews) disagree, claiming that Jews of patrileneal descent should be accepted as Jewish as well.

Jews by choice - Another disagreement regarding “Who is Jew” consists of the question, “Are Jews by choice Jews?” Some people convert to Judaism regardless of their parent’s religion. On the other hand, some Jews don’t want to continue to follow Judaism but rather want to leave. In short, the question comes down to whether Judaism should accept these new conversions and allow Jews to leave the community.

It’s difficult to identify where the line between Jewish and non-Jewish lay. With the addition of several other disagreements regarding this question (typically between Orthodox Jews who are very traditional and Reform Jews who are very liberal), this proves just how complicated identifying as a Jew is in Judaism.

Question 20

How did we get here? How did the world begin? (Judaism)

Answer 20

• God created our world in six days.
• He made the first beings (Adam and Eve) by blowing dust/existence into them.
• On the seventh day, he rested, which was called Shabbat (sunset of Friday-sunset on Saturday)

according to the book of genesis

Question 21

How did we get here? How did the world begin? (Christianity)

Answer 21

• God created our world in six days.
• He began with the first man and woman known as Adam and Eve. In this story, Adam was created through dust, while Eve was created through Adam’s rib. These two inhabited the Garden of Eden, however, they were soon kicked out because they disobeyed God.
• On the seventh day, he rested, which is called Sabbath Day (Saturday)

according to the book of genesis

Question 22

How did we get here? How did the world begin? (Islam)

Answer 22

• Allah created our world in six days.
• He created the first two human beings from a combination of earth and water. These two beings, Adam and Eve, would live on to inhabit a paradise.

according to quran

Question 23

Is there a God? (Judaism)

Answer 23

• Judaism is a monotheistic religion, which believes in an individual god named YHWH.
• Though he takes on no physical form, God is everything, eternal, and all-knowing.
• Salvation is associated with a healthy relationship with God, and the Ten Commandments are dedicated to God.

Question 24

Is there a God? (Christianity)

Answer 24

• Christianity is a monotheistic religion that centers around God.
• God is the supreme being and creator of our universe, described as omnipotent and all-knowing.
• One of God’s teachings and major ethics of Christianity is to love and worship God fully, demonstrating his role in this religion.

Question 25

Is there a God? (Islam)

Answer 25

• Islam is a monotheistic religion, with Allah being the individual god of Islam.
• He is the creator of our universe who is all-powerful and considered the supreme god.
• Islam fully revolves around Allah, with many of its practices devoted to him.

Question 26

Where does evil come from? (Judaism)

Answer 26

In Judaism, it’s believed that people have free will to make their own choices. As a result, if you don’t listen to God or the Ten Commandments, you have made that choice, and you are considered evil.

Question 27

Where does evil come from? (Christianity)

Answer 27

Original Sin - Christians believe that humans are all bound to and are tempted to be evil and make wrongful choices. This is because God told our ancestors (Adam and Eve) not to eat the garden fruit, however, they disobeyed him and ate it instead.

Satan - Satan was an angel who turned evil, known to be in the form of a serpent. This being of evil influences and encourages you to carry out sinful deeds, which makes him a cause of evil.

Lastly, when one follows and chooses God, they will not be tempted by evil, meaning if they don’t, they will be influenced by evil.

Question 28

Where does evil come from? (Islam)

Answer 28

In Islam, evil originates from not following the laws and rules of God and Muhammed. Additionally, disrespect towards these figures also creates evil.

Question 29

What happens when you die? (Judaism)

Answer 29

Firstly, it’s important to note that Judaism’s view on the afterlife is quite vague, and Jews typically shift their focus to the present realm. This is why beliefs on the afterlife are quite diverse and scattered.

1. As the soul is eternal, some believe that it will go to heaven or hell (sometimes).
2. Others believe that these souls are simply waiting to be resurrected and then sent to a spiritual realm.

Question 30

What happens when you die? (Christianity)

Answer 30

The afterlife is divided into two sections, heaven and hell.

Heaven: Those in heaven will be with God and will experience immortality.
Hell: On the other hand, those in hell will be separated from God and will have to endure everlasting pain and punishment.

Question 31

What happens when you die? (Islam)

Answer 31

After death, Judgement Day occurs, when Allah decides your fate in the afterlife depending on your prior deeds. The afterlife is divided into two, heaven and hell.

Heaven: (also known as jannah) is for those who have fulfilled good deeds, and it is separated by levels of virtuousness.
Hell (sometimes): (also known as jahannam) is for those who declined Allah and his laws. Here, fire surrounds the realm, with harm and danger that can cause intense pain and agony.

Question 32

Jerusalem

Answer 32

Jerusalem is the holy land of all three religions that is often fought over.

Question 33

Trinity

Answer 33

Three manifestations of God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
- Father: is the creator and authoritative figure of God, who is mentioned in the Old Testament.
- Son: is Jesus Christ, who is the visual and human form of God, appearing in the New Testament.
- Holy Spirit: is the unexplainable and indescribable part of God that takes on no physical or material form. This aspect of God is typically considered the most confusing. The Holy Spirit is the helper

Question 34

Trinity Complexities

Answer 34

It’s also important to note that while these aspects of God have different titles, they shouldn’t be confused as different beings, as they are all the same being- God. This is simply a way God can be understood or interpreted. As we are mere humans, we don’t have the ability to truly understand and appreciate God’s power, so identifying his different segments can help us grasp a vague idea.

Question 35

Orthodoxy

Answer 35

• No central authority
• Eastern Orthodoxy is also split by location, and each segment is different. Within these branches, people are very traditional.
• To elaborate on the diversity in Eastern Orthodoxy, in some branches, priests can marry, while in others they cannot.
• The goal is to have a personal relationship and connection to God.

Question 36

Catholicism

Answer 36

• There is an authoritative figure, named the Pope. He is in charge of all Catholic churches. All decisions and services have to be reviewed by him before being commenced.
• Catholicism consists of and expects participating in rituals, communion, and attending confession.
• The clergy has a substantial amount of power. This includes the Pope, priests, bishops, and cardinals.

Question 37

Historical Events that Led to the Splits

Answer 37

1. Different Opinions of Jesus Christ (the Nicene Creed) - The Nicene Creed was written in 325 CE and consists of the Church’s view on Jesus Christ. However, many churches didn’t agree with this statement and didn’t sign, splitting up Christianity.
2. The Great Schism - In 1054, the East and West split, creating the Eastern Orthodoxy and Roman Catholic denominations. This was mainly due to the significant cultural differences, the different languages, disagreements on who holds power (Roman Catholics believe the Pope should have power while Eastern Orthodoxy disagrees) and disagreements about the Trinity doctrine.
3. Protestant Reformation - 1517

Martin Luther had listed 95 complaints about the Roman Catholic Church, which is hung up on a Catholic Church doorpost. Generally, this consisted of claiming that the Catholic Church is corrupt because priests accept bribes, they are too privileged, and they are hogging all of the knowledge (only priests could read the Bible because it was in Latin, and only educated people could read Latin).

Instead, Martin Luther believed that Christianity is about one’s personal relationship with God, and the sacraments, rituals, and numerous churches are excessive. He believed that all should have access to the Bible’s information. Overall, Martin Luther wanted Christianity to be more individual to oneself, and he began to protest, hence the denomination’s name.

Question 38

Protestant Denominations

Answer 38

• Several denominations
• Typically emphasizes the actual faith rather than expectations. For example, simply acknowledging that you performed a sin or mistake is enough to be forgiven (instead of having to endure punishments or perform a ritual). This contrasts with expectations in other Christian denominations.
• No spiritual leader
• The goal is to have a personal connection to God.
• There aren’t many requirements. For instance, despite some Protestant Christians attending church, it’s not required.

Question 39

Jehovah’s Witnesses

Answer 39

• Importance of Bible: Jehovah’s Witnesses hold great importance in the Bible, which they believe is the word of God. However, they do use a slightly different version of the Bible.
• Evangelism: Jehovah’s Witnesses are also known for their evangelism. They will go door to door, attempting to influence people into joining their denomination.
• Rejection of Trinity: While this denomination does believe in God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, they don’t necessarily believe in the Trinity doctrine. Instead, Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that God (Jehovah) is the most important figure, and Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are much less significant.

Question 40

Abraham and Ibrahim in General - Who is he?

Answer 40

• Abraham is the father of monotheism.
• He is the prophet of all Abrahamic religions (a messenger between God and people)
• Abraham founded all three religions, so Christianity, Islam, and Judaism can always trace themselves back to Abraham, ultimately uniting them.

Question 41

Stories and Successors in General

Answer 41

• The Islamic and Jewish/Christian stories are split based on which of Abraham’s children is sacrificed to God (Issac or Ishmael). Depending on the child, it decides the religion’s lineage and ancestry.
• Despite these distinctions, these stories also have similar plots, both exhibiting acts of loyalty, devotion, and commitment from Abraham and his sons.

Question 42

Islamic Story of Ibrahim

Answer 42

• Ibrahim is considered the first person to believe in God but not the first Muslim.
• He introduced monotheism after experiencing a time of hardship trying to understand the Quran and God.
• He has a son named Ishmael who created the Kaaba with him.
• He was told by God to sacrifice Ishmael, which they both agreed on considering that God instructed them.
• At the last moment, God quickly saves Ishmael and instead sacrifices a lamb.
• Ibrahim has a wife named Hagar and a wife named Sarah (who was exiled).
• Abraham is often mentioned in the Quran and his story influenced many modern-day rituals.

Question 43

Jewish/Christian Story of Abraham

Answer 43

• Abraham is considered the first Jew.
• The Old Testament states that Sarah is not exiled and births Issac (Hagar is banished instead).
• Now, the child instructed to be sacrificed is Issac.
• He is saved at the last minute by God, and a ram is sacrificed instead.
• Abraham’s devotion is shown in different forms as well. For instance, he travels to the woods with his wife because of God’s instructions with no question and even smashes his father’s representations of polytheism.
• As a prophet, Abraham is also considered the one who sustains the relationship between God and his people, and he is considered to have a special relationship with God himself as well.

Question 44

Judaism in General

Answer 44

• God instructed Abraham to leave his home, promising him that his descendants would inherit the Promised Land of Israel and Abraham’s wife, Sarah, would birth a child.
• This promise was inherited by Issac (Abraham’s son), and then Jacob (Issac’s son).
• Moses led Judaism to the Promised Land of Israel.
• The greatest years of Israel consist of when King David and his son Solomon reigned in 100-900 B.C. (they created Jerusalem).
• Judaism declined into a period of “religious and political turmoil” in 800-400 B.C. The religion split into several different segments, creating conflict.
• In around 60 CE, Jews attempted to take back Jerusalem from the Romans (the Romans were in control at the time) which left Jerusalem in pieces.
• Tanakh: The Tanakh is the entire Hebrew Bible. It was written in Hebrew, hence the name, and is made up of three components. One of the most commonly known ones is the Torah.

Question 45

Christianity in General

Answer 45

• Bible: The Bible is made of two segments, the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) and the New Testament (centers around the life and teachings of Jesus Christ) which was originally written in Greek.
• In around 30 CE, Jesus of Nazareth began to gain popularity.
• He was executed on a cross due to his teachings and then resurrected three days later (according to the New Testament).
• After the execution, disciples (especially the 12 Apostles) of Jesus began to protest and preach, beginning to create a new religion called Christianity. However, with these new claims, hate, and death came along with it.
• Constantine converted to Christianity in 300 CE, banning people from harassing Christians.
• Christianity fought the Crusades in an attempt to gain Jerusalem back (1000-1200 CE)

Question 46

Islam in General

Answer 46

• Islam’s popularity and population greatly increased in the middle of the 7th century.
• Quran: The Quran is a holy book, consisting of a collection of prayers, verses, and morals, given from Allah to Muhammed and the angel Gibriel. The Quran was written in Arabic after 632 CE.
• In around 600 CE, Prophet Muhammed claimed that the angel Gibriel entitled him as a messenger/prophet, in which his later visions from God became the Quran.
• When Christianity and Judaism couldn’t accept Muhammed as a prophet, Islam became an individual religion.
• Holy Sites: Medina, Mecca, Jerusalem, Mount Moriah
• In around 600 CE, Islam expanded, claiming Jerusalem for itself (however, it is still being fought over to this day).

Question 47

Where did Christianity originate from?

Answer 47

Judaism

Question 48

Order of Religions:

Answer 48

Judaism, Christianity, Islam

Question 49

Jesus Christ’s role in all religions:

Answer 49

Islam: a prophet
Christianity: the son of God
Judaism: Jews believe in Jesus but he doesn’t have any significance as a god, but rather simply a person and teacher