Religious Studies > Islam Beliefs and Practises > Flashcards
Islam Beliefs and Practises Flashcards
What is Adalat?
Adalat – justice in Shia Islam
What is Akhirah?
Akhirah - belief in life after death
What is Al-Kiswah?
Al-Kiswah - the black cloth that covers the Ka’aba
What is Al-Qadr?
Al-Qadr- the belief that Allah has predestined
What is Amr-bil-Maroof?
Amr-bil-Maroof - commanding what is just
What is a Caliph?
Caliph – a successor of Muhammad as the spiritual leader of Islam
What is the Hadith?
Hadith – the teachings of Muhammad
What is Hajj?
Hajj – pilgrimage to Makkah. The 5th pillar.
What is Haram?
Haram – forbidden for Muslims (food, actions etc.)
What is Hijab?
Hijab – head scarf worn by some women
What is Hijrah?
Hijrah – Muhammad’s escape journey from Makkah to Medinah.
What is Ihram?
Ihram - white clothing worn by pilgrims on hajj in Makkah
What is Imamate?
Imamate – leadership
What is Immanence?
Immanence – the belief that Allah is closer to us than our own heartbeat and involved in the world.
What is Jihad?
Jihad – the greater or lesser striving for the way of Allah
What is Khums?
Khums - tax in Islam
What is Khutbah
Khutbah - the name for the sermon on Friday in mosques
What is Khatib?
Khatib – the person who delivers the sermon on Fridays – usually the Imam
What is Makruh?
Makruh – a detestable act
What is Mihrab
Mihrab – indented archaway in the mosque showing the direction of the Ka’aba
What is a Minbar?
Minbar – the raised platform used by the imam to deliver the Friday sermon
What is a Minaret?
Minaret – tower on the outside of the mosque used for the call to prayer (adhan)
What is Mubah?
Mubah – an action which is neither forbidden nor recommended
What is Mustahab?
Mustahab – favoured or recommended actions
What is Nahi Anil Munkar?
Nahi Anil Munkar – forbidding what is evil
What is the Night of Power?
Night of Power – the night Muhammad received the first revelations of the Qur’an
What is Qiblah?
Qiblah – the direction of Makkah
What is Salah?
Salah – compulsory prayer , 5 times a day 2nd pillar of Islam
What is Sawm?
Sawm – fasting during Ramadan, 4th pillar of Islam
What is the Seal of the Prophets?
Seal of the Prophets – Muhammad the last prophet chosen by Allah and given the Qur’an
What is Shahadah
Shahadah – Declaration of Faith 1st pillar of Islam
What is Shariah Law?
Shariah law – a legal system which comes from the religious rules of Islam
What is Tabarra?
Tabarra – expressing hatred towards evil
What is Tawalla?
Tawalla – expressing love towards good
What is Tawhid?
Tawhid – belief in Oneness of Allah
What is Transcendence?
Allah is outside the world, beyond everything and outside time
What is Torah?
Torah – the revelations given to Musa (Tawrat)
What is Twelver Shi’a?
Twelver Shi’a – part of the Shi’a sect of Islam who believe in the twelve imams as leaders
What is Ummah?
Ummah – worldwide community of Islam
What is Usul ad-din?
Usul ad-Din – foundations of faith in Shi’a Islam
What is Wajib?
Wajib – something that is an obligatory duty for a Muslim
What is Wudu?
Wudu/wuzu – symbolic washing and purification of the mind and body before prayer.
What is Zakah?
Zakah – almsgiving to the poor, the 3rd pillar of Islam
What are the Six articles of faith in sunni islam
There are Six Articles of Faith in Sunni Islam
THAPAD
1. Tawhid – Allah is the one and only God
2. Holy Books - The holy books are the word of Allah and are the highest authority in Islam. The Qur’an is the main book of Islam.
3. Angels - Angels are messengers sent to the prophets by Allah
4. Prophets – The prophets are the proclaimers of Allah’s will
5. Al Qadr – Allah knows about and controls everything that happens
6. Day of Judgement – All humanity will be judged by Allah after death.
What are the six articles of faith in Sunni Islam?
There are Six Articles of Faith in Sunni Islam
- Tawhid – Allah is the one and only God
- Angels - Angels are messengers sent to the prophets by Allah
- Holy Books - The holy books are the word of Allah and are the highest authority in Islam. The Qur’an is the main book of Islam
- Prophets – The prophets are the proclaimers of Allah’s will
- Day of Judgement – All humanity will be judged by Allah after death.
- Al Qadr – Allah knows about and controls everything that happens
What are the Five Roots of Usul ad-Din in Shi’a Islam?
TANIA
1. Tawhid - Allah is the one and only God
- Adalat - Allah is just and wise and is air in His treatment
- Nubuwwah – the prophets are the proclaimers of Allah’s will
- Imamate – Imams are the leaders in Islam and protect the truth of the religion, They are the successors to Muhammad (pbuh)
- Al-Maad – after death humans will be resurrected and judged by God.
What are Muslims beliefs about Tawhid?
Which surah declares tawhid?
Tawhid is the belief in the oneness and unity of Allah as expressed in the first of the Five Pillars of Islam, the Shahadah. Belief in this oneness or unity of Allah is an essential aspect of Islam.
Muslims believe that Allah is One God, indivisible and absolute; nothing comes close to Him as the ultimate source of power and creation. He is beyond human understanding.
Everything belongs to Allah; everything humans have is on loan from Allah.
Muslims believe any talents come from Allah, so it is wrong to be arrogant. Nothing happens without Allah allowing it. Allah has absolute compassion, so even suffering is Allah’s will and exists for a reason.
Surah 112 declares tawhid.
In the name of God, the Gracious, the Merciful.
Say, “He is God, the One.. God, the Absolute. He begets not, nor was He begotten. And there is none comparable to Him.”
What are Muslim beliefs about the nature of God
In the Qur’an a number of different names are used for Allah. These names, or adjectives, give Muslims an insight into the nature of what Allah is like.
Many Muslims commit these names to memory and are able to pray and meditate using these names.
Muslims believe that Allah has many qualities. Some qualities are beyond human understanding, but all of them help Muslims understand what Allah is like.
What are the six qualities of God in Islam?
Omnipotent - All-powerful
Transcendent - Beyond the universe and human understanding
Immanent - Present in the universe and active in the universe
Beneficent - All good, kind and compassionate
Merciful - Forgiving and compassionate
Just - Fair
Give Muslim Beliefs about Angels?
Give a reference to a quote?
Believing in angels is one of the six articles of faith. Most Muslims believe that angels were created before humans with the purpose of following the orders of Allah and communicating with humans.
The Qur’an tells us that humans are made from clay; jinn are made from smokeless fire and angels are made of light and have wings. They are immortal. They are pure and cannot sin. They obey and serve Allah at all times.
Angels can appear in human form and there are some who have specific roles, including guardian angels. They watch over humans bringing peace to believers and instilling fear in unbelievers. They record each thought and action to report on Judgement Day. One angel delivers all Allah’s messages
What is the role of Angels in Islam?
They act as messengers to the prophets.
They take care of people.
They record everything a person does, and this information is used on the Day of Judgement.
They welcome Muslims into Paradise and also supervise the pits of Hell.
They maintain order
Who is Angel Jibril?
What are Muslim beliefs about Angel Jibril?
Angel Jibril – the ‘Angel/Spirit of Holiness’
Angel Jibril always brings good news. He is mentioned in both the Qur’an and the Hadith and is deemed to be the most important angel in Islam.
Jibril was the first thing to be given life by Allah. Jibril knows the beauty of Paradise but also how hard it is to get there. He has seen Hell and knows that no one would want to be sent there.
In the Hadith, Muhammad was said to have described Jibril as having 600 wings. Each wing filled the horizon as far as the eye could see in all directions.
What did Angel Jibril do?
Ibrahim – Jibril helped prophet Ibrahim when he was thrown into the fire.
Hajar – Jibril opened up the Zamzam well so Hajar could give her son water.
Yususf- Jibril helped Yusuf when he was thrown in a well by his brothers.
Zakariya – Jibril told Zakariya about the son he was going to have in old age.
Maryam – Jibril told Maryam she was to have a son, Isa.
Muhammad – Jubril revealed Allah’s words (the Qur’an) to Muhammad on the Night of Power. He played a vital role in communicating the final version of Islam to humanity.
Who is Angel Mika’il?
What are Muslim beliefs about Angel Mika’il?
Most of what is known about Mika’il is from Islamic tradition rather than the Qur’an. He was one of the first to bow to Adam and as such is a friend to humanity and known as the giver of rain and food. He is believed to reward people who do good deeds.
He asks Allah to forgive people’s sins as he is the Angel of Mercy.
On judgement day both Jibril and Mika’il will help with the weighing of a person’s actions. Mika’il has seen hell and how easy it is to get there, as opposed to how hard it is to get to paradise. Both the Angel Jibril and the Angel Mika’il will be present on the Day of Judgement.
What are Muslim beliefs about Predestination?
What quote supports Predestination?
Al-Qadr is the belief in predestination. This means that Allah already knows everything that will happen, and nothing happens unless it is according to Allah’s will. However, this does not mean that the choices people make are not free choices. Instead, it means that Allah knows what people will choose to do.
Some Muslims like the idea of Al-Qadr because they find it reassuring that if bad things happen, Allah must have planned them.
“The Lord has created and balanced all things and has fixed their destinies and guided them.” Surah 87:2-3
What do Muslims believe about Freewill
What quote supports this?
The belief in free will is essential in Islam. Life is a test from Allah. Therefore, all human beings must make their own decisions, on which they will be judged by Allah. On the Day of Judgement, God will have knowledge of the faith and actions of every person, which are recorded in the Book of Life.
‘And most certainly you will be questioned as to what you did.’
Surah 16:93
What do Muslims believe about Life being a test?
Muslims believe that God will reward those who have had faith and done good deeds, and will punish those who have not. Muslims use the term ‘insha’Allah’ frequently in conversation to express belief in Al-Qadr. Insha’Allah means ‘if God wills it to be so’.
The Qur’an speaks of a Muslim’s duty to know and abide by the teachings of Allah when making choices with their free will:
“It is not fitting for a believing man or a believing woman to have an option in their affairs when a matter has been decided by Allah and His Prophet; and whoever disobeys Allah and His Prophet has indeed strayed into a clearly wrong path.”
Surah 33:38
What are Muslims belief about Akhirah
Akhirah is the term used in Islam to describe the belief in everlasting life after death.
Muslims regard life on Earth as a test from Allah, to prepare them for eternal life. Importantly, though, Muslims believe that Allah will not test them beyond their limits. This encourages Muslims to take responsibility for their actions.
What is Yawm ad-Din
Yawm ad-Din is the Day of Judgment, the end of time, when all human beings will be resurrected (raised from the dead) and judged by God for their deeds. Surahs 81 and 82 describe what will happen when Judgement Day comes.
All people will receive God’s reward or punishment according to their beliefs and actions. The good will be rewarded with eternal life in Paradise, or Jannah, while the bad will be punished by going to a Hell of fire and torment, called Jahannam. The concept of Yawm ad-Din encourages Muslims to lead good lives.
What are Muslim beliefs about Yawm ad-Din?
Muslims believe they can enter Paradise by living according to the teachings of the Qur’an. Therefore, obeying the rules set by Allah is of ultimate importance for Muslims. Most Muslims believe that, as Allah is forgiving and merciful, he will pardon those who are truly sorry for their sins if they have done some good in their lives. However, many Muslims believe that some sins, such as shirk, are unforgivable.
A person’s recorded deeds will be handed to them in one of two ways. If given to them in their left hand, the person will be sent to Hell (Jahannam). If given to them in their right hand, the person will be granted entry to Paradise (Jannah).
“So whoever has done an atom’s weight of good shall behold it”,
“And whoever who has done an atom’s weight of evil shall behold it”. Quran
What are Muslim beliefs about Bazakh?
What quote supports this?
After death, most Muslims believe that the soul will enter Barzakh, a state of waiting, until the Day of Judgement. Barzakh is a barrier which separates the physical world from the spiritual. Muslims believe this is where people’s souls will remain in waiting until the call of the angel Israfil signals the beginning of Yawm ad-Din.
When a person dies, their soul is taken by Azra’il, the Angel of Death.
God sends angels to question the waiting soul. They ask: Who is your Lord? What was your life like? Who is your prophet?
Muslims believe the answers to these questions determine how the soul experiences Barzakh.
“No soul knows what delights of the eye are kept hidden from them of joy, as a reward for what they did”. Quran
What is Heaven/Jannah?
How do you get there?
What happens during Entry?
A magical and mystical place where all wishes and desires are fulfilled
No growing ill, old or dying and no pain or worries.
It is s reward and a gift from Allah.
How do you get there?
It cannot be reached by any known means
A person must have lived religiously and asked for Allah’s forgiveness
Good belief and good actions provide the entrance ticket.
The entry itself:
People will be invited in ‘Enter among my servants! Enter my Paradise!’ Surah 89:29
People will arrive over the As Sirat bridge, joy overwhelming.
There are eight gates. People are called to a gate (each represents a good action) and the gate that calls you will represent the good action you did the best.
Two angels will welcome people, saying ‘Peace Be Upon you’. Enter here and live within.’
People will say ‘Praise be to Allah who has fulfilled his promise to us.’
What is Hell/Jahannam?
How do you get there?
A fire seventy times hotter than any flame on earth
People will wail in misery.
Boiling water will be poured over their heads, they will experience pain everywhere, be dragged in chains, have black smoke in their eyes
Anyone trying to climb out is pushed back in.
What is done to get there?
Live a wicked life full of evil.
Reject the teachings of the Qur’an
Make excuses and not take responsibility; try to blame others for your sins.
What are Muslim Beliefs about Hell/Jahannam?
Jahannam is believed to be a place of scorching fire pits and boiling water, where there is physical and spiritual suffering. The Qur’an uses vivid descriptions of Hell as a way to stop Muslims from participating in sin.
What are Muslim beliefs about Prophets?
What quote supports this?
Prophets are messengers of God. Risalah means prophethood and represents the various ways Allah communicates with humanity.
All of the prophets received the same message about the one God, which shows that Allah is unchanging and that Islam is the true religion. Muhammad was the final prophet.
The prophets are not worshipped, because Allah is the one true God. Instead they are respected.
“We believe in Allah, and the revelation given to us, and to Abraham, Ismail, Isaac, Jacob and the tribes, and that given to Moses and Jesus, and that given to (all) prophets from their Lord: we make no difference between one and another of them: and we bow to Allah.”
Qur’an 2:136
What is the role of the prophets?
The prophets are the connection between Allah and humanity.
There are 25 named prophets in the Qur’an, although many believe there may have been as many as 124,000.
All of the prophets are considered to be equal: We make no distinction between any of them(Qur’an 2:136).
Allah chose the prophets to reveal his truth. They are responsible for the revelation of God’s word.
Messages from Allah were sent to the prophets using angels (Malaikah).
These messages are recorded in the holy books.
The prophets performed miracles, which proved they really were prophets.
What are Muslim beliefs about Adam
Adam was created as the first human and therefore the father of all humankind. Muslims learn about their role on Earth from the example of Adam. Adam disobeyed Allah but repented his sins immediately and regretted his actions. Adam was forgiven for his sin and some believe he built the first Ka’aba. He was given knowledge to pass on to the rest of the human race.
What are Muslim beliefs about Ibrahim?
Ibrahim is seen as the father of the Arab people. He refused to worship idols and was ridiculed for this and thrown into fire but was saved by Allah causing some to start following him. Ibrahim rebuilt the Ka’aba following the great flood with the help of his son Ismail. Ibrahim had his faith tested, which teaches Muslims that they must be prepared to submit to Allah in the same way.
What are Muslim beliefs about the Prophet Mohammed(PBUH)
Muhammad is the final prophet in Islam, known as the ‘Seal of the Prophets’. This means that Muslims regard Muhammad as Allah’s final messenger. The Qur’an is formed from the revelations Muhammad received from God through the Angel Jibril. Muslims do not believe that Muhammad was in any way divine, and this is confirmed in the Qur’an, which states: Muhammad is no more than a messenger (Surah 3:144).
Early life of Muhammed
Muhammad was born in 570 AD in Makkah.
He became an orphan aged 6. His father died before he was born and his mother died when Muhammad was 6 years old.
He was raised by his grandfather and then his uncle. He was part of a poor but respectable family of the Quraysh tribe.
In his early teens, Muhammad worked for his uncle, as a trader. He earned a reputation as honest and sincere, acquiring the nickname “al-Amin” meaning faithful or trustworthy.
In his 20’s Muhammad began working for a wealthy merchant woman named Khadijah. At around the age of 25 Muhammad married Khadijah. They had several children together.
What are Muslim beliefs about the revelation?
What quote supports this?
Muhammad was a pious man and he often spent his time in prayer or fasting. He would take journeys of devotion to sacred sites near Makkah.
On one of his journeys in 610, he was meditating in a cave. The Angel Jibril appeared and instructed Muhammad to read. This was the first of many revelations that took place over a period of 23 years.
“Recite in the name of your Lord who creates, creates man from a clot! Recite for your lord is most generous….” (Surah 96)
What did Prophet Mohammed do after the revelation?
Muhammad had to flee Makkah in 622 to escape persecution. This is known as Hijrah. He returned to Makkah in 629 with an army of Muslim converts and was able to convert the majority of the population of Makkah to Islam.
Muhammad died on June 8, 632, at the age of 62, and was buried at al-Masjid an-Nabawi (the Mosque of the Prophet) one of the first mosques built by Muhammad in Medina.
What are Sunni Muslim beliefs about the Imamate?
Imamate means leadership. After Prophet Muhammad died, the Muslim community had to choose a successor.
Sunni Muslims, who make up around 90 per cent of the global Muslim population, agree that the rightful successor to Muhammad was Abu Bakr, Muhammad’s father-in-law. They recognise two further leaders (Umar and Uthman) who came after Abu Bakr. They then recognise a fourth leader, Ali (Muhammad’s cousin). Sunni Muslims accept all four leaders, including Abu Bakr and Ali, as the rightful successors of Muhammad.
What are Shi’a Muslim beliefs about the Imamate?
Shi’a Muslims, who make up around 10% of the global Muslims population, believe that Muhammad chose Ali as his successor rather than having a bloodline successor. After Ali’s death, Shi’a Muslims were led by twelve imams, whom they believe were spiritual successors to the Prophet Muhammad rather than having any family connection to him. This was the beginning of the Imamate.
Shi’a Muslims believe that all imams should be spiritual descendants of the Prophet Muhammad. Shi’a Muslims believe that imams are leaders appointed by God to be Muhammad’s successors. Imams are inspired by God, are without sin and are infallible, which means that they can interpret the teachings of the Qur’an without making any errors.
What are Shi’a Muslim beliefs about the Twelvers?
The Twelvers is a branch of Shi’a Islam whose followers believe that there were twelve imams after the death of Muhammad. The twelfth imam, however, has been kept alive by God and is hidden somewhere on Earth. Shi’a Muslims believe the twelfth imam will one day make himself known and bring equality to all.
Shi’a Muslims believe that the imams are necessary because people need guidance on how to live correctly. Due to their close relationship with God, the twelve imams are highly respected.
What are Shi’a Muslim beliefs about the Seveners?
Ismai’ili Shi’a Muslims, sometimes known as the Seveners, believe that the seventh imam was Isma’il. Isma’il was the son of one of the Twelve Imams. Seveners believe that each imam can choose his successor, as they believe the last hereditary imam was Isma’il.
What are Muslim beliefs about Holy books?
There are five key books of revelation in Islam. Each of them was given to a different prophet by Allah. Muslims believe that these holy books all conveyed the same message from Allah to humanity, giving guidance to Muslims on how to live their daily life
What are Muslim beliefs about the Qur’an?
The Qur’an is the holy book that contains the teachings of Allah given to the Prophet Muhammad, the final messenger. It is believed to be the direct word of God and has authority because it covers every aspect of life; past, present and future. It contains the legal and social systems (Shariah Law). It influences a person throughout their lives and helps explain life’s mysteries such as creation and the meaning and purpose of life.
The Qur’an also mentions 4 other holy books and they are seen as important because Muhammad learned from them and referred to them and they are associated with key prophets so each has authority. However, some are lost and no one knows what they said, some have been changed and as a result for Muslima they do not hold as much authority as the Qur’an which is believed to be the direct word of God and remains unchanged.
What are Muslim beliefs about the Tawrat?
The Tawrat (also known as the Torah in Judaism) was given to the prophet Musa. It is seen as the main Jewish holy book. It contains the Ten Commandments which are key rules on how to live life. The Tawrat also contains other good teachings and laws. This book is important to Muslims because the Qur’an says it contains the “judgement of Allah”:
What are Muslim beliefs about the Zabur?
This book was given to the Prophet Dawud. It is also known as the Psalms of David. It is important within the Christian Bible and the Jewish Tanakh, as it contains prayers, poems and songs intended to inspire people.
What are Injil(Gospels)?
This book was given to the Prophet Isa, who is believed to have predicted the coming of Muhammad.
What are Muslim beliefs about the Sahifah?
Sahifah (Scrolls)
This book is believed to be the first holy book within Islam. It was given to Ibrahim and Musa. Some parts of the Sahifah are believed to be lost. However, some sections have been preserved and are mentioned in the Qur’an.
What are the five Pillars in Islam
Shahadah – is a the declaration of faith. It is a statement that summarises Muslim belief in one sentence.
Salat – refers to the set prayers five times a day at specific times. This is a constant reminder of the importance of Allah in the life of a Muslim.
Zakat – is giving a portion of one’s income to help the poor. This creates a bond between rich and
poor and helps Muslims to purify their wealth and keep away from greed. It is usually paid once a year.
Sawm - is fasting during the month of Ramadan, for Muslims who have reached maturity and are in good health. This helps Muslims connect with Allah, and also with those less fortunate than themselves who live with hunger daily.
Hajj – is the annual pilgrimage to Makkah made during the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims are expected to undertake this pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime, if they are physically able and can afford it.
What are Muslim beliefs about the Shahadah?
The Shahadah is the declaration of faith for all Muslims and demonstrates loyalty to Allah and the Prophet Muhammad. It is recited to new born babies at birth and to the dying to demonstrate a commitment to Islam:
‘I bear witness that there is no God but Allah. And Muhammad is His messenger.’
Some Shi’a Muslims add ‘I bear witness that Ali is the beloved of Allah and the rightful trustee, Of the Prophet and his immediate successor.’ although this is not obligatory.
The Shahadah sums up the basic beliefs of Islam. It is a clear declaration that all Muslims reject anything but Allah as their focus of belief. They totally surrender to the will of Allah as found in the Qur’an. The Shahadah also recognises the role of Muhammad and that his life is an example to be followed.
What are Muslim Beliefs about Salah?
What quote supports this?
Salah is the second pillar of Islam and is a very important part of the faith. Praying at intervals throughout the day reminds Muslims of God’s presence. All Muslims must pray five times a day.
Sunni Muslims pray five prayers a day, each at different times. Between dawn and sunrise (Fajr), noon (zuhr), late afternoon (Asr), after sunset (Maghrib) and nightfall (Isha).
Shi’a Muslims pray five prayers a day, but at three different times (Fajr, Zuhr and Asr together, Maghrib and Isha together).
“So exalt Allah with praise of your Lord be of those who prostrate [to Him]. And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty [i.e. death].
Qur’an 15:98-99
What are Muslim beliefs about Wudu, niyyah and rakahs?
Ritual washing or wudu is performed before salah to purify the body and mind. During wudu, Muslims state their intentions (niyyah) to pray and will focus solely on Allah.
All Muslims face the holy city of Makkah during prayer. Men and women pray separately to avoid distractions. Men are required to go to Friday prayers (Jummah) at the mosque, this helps to strengthen the ummah (community).
Rakahs are the set pattern of movement s followed during prayer.
What happens in one rakat?
standing facing Mecca
raising the hands to one’s ears
folding the arms across the chest
bending over with the hands on the knees
standing again, before kneeling prostrate on the floor
sitting back on one’s heels
turning the head left and the right to acknowledge the angels
While performing these actions, Muslims recite verses from the Qur’an.
What are muslim beliefs about Zakah?
What quotes supports this?
Zakah is a contribution of 2.5% of their wealth by Muslims to help the Muslim community.
Zakah teaches Muslims to share and be less materialistic. The act of giving zakah means purifying one’s wealth to gain Allah’s blessing to make it grow in goodness. Wealth is given by Allah, so it should be used to serve Allah.
Zakah is given anonymously so that the money remains pure. There should be no pride, arrogance or smugness involved in giving zakah. Muslims in receipt of zakah should not be embarrassed because the money belongs to Allah. The rich are blessed with wealth and it is their duty to help the poor. By accepting zakah those in need are helping those with wealth to fulfil their duty of giving.
Some Shi’a Muslims also pay khums (20% of surpolus income) in addition to zakah.
‘Be steadfast in prayer and giving.’
Qur’an 2:110
What are Muslim beliefs about Sawm?
What quote supports this?
Sawm refers to fasting from sunrise to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan. Muslims follow the example set by the Prophet Muhammad and instructions given in the Qur’an.
Ramadan gives Muslims a chance to redress their lives, be better Muslims in all aspects of life and then hopefully continue this for the rest of the year. It brings them closer to God and is the month of forgiveness. Ramadan is a time when faith is tested, it is a time to learn compassion, empathy, patience, tolerance, self-discipline and obedience to Allah. Ramadan also serves as a reminder of the plight of the poor because zakah is given in Ramadan.
It is forbidden to eat, drink, smoke, have sexual intercourse or purposely vomit during sawm, the period of fasting. Some Muslims such as the sick, elderly, children under the age of 12, pregnant woman and those who are travelling are not expected to fast.
‘Ramadan is the month in which the Qur’an was sent down as a guide to humanity; and to provide clear guidance and judgement. So everyone who is present during that month should spend it fasting.
Qur’an 2:185
What are Muslim beliefs about Hajj?
Hajj is pilgrimage to Makkah. It takes place in the last month of the Islamic calendar (Dhul Hijjah) and Muslims should aim to make this trip once in their lifetime if they can afford it.
Hajj consists of various ceremonies and rituals that symbolise the main beliefs of their faith and commemorate the trails of Prophet Ibrahim and his family. It enables Muslims from all over the world and from all walks of life to come together to worship God.
What is the 8th Dhul Hijjjah?
Ihram – this is the white clothing worn by all pilgrims when they begin their hajj, it demonstrates equality.
Tawaf – circling the Kaabah 7 times anti-clockwise
Zamzam – drinking water from the zamzam well
Sa’y – running seven between the hills fo Safa and Marwa
What is the 9th Dhul Hijjah?
Pilgrims visit Mount Arafat and spend from noon to sunset in prayer. Asking for forgiveness and making promises to be a better Muslim.
What is the 10th Dhul Hijjah?
Pilgrims move to Muzdalifah to camp where they collect pebbles in preparation for the next day
Festival of sacrifice (Eid ul-Adha) begins. Animals are sacrificed to remember the story of Ibrahim and Ishmael. The meat is distributed to the poor.
Men will shave their head and women cut a lock of hair.
What is the 11th & 12th Dhul Hijjah?
Pilgrims stay at Mina and stone the pillars. They take seven pebbles and throw them at the three jamarat (pillars) that represent Shaytan.
They return to the Kaabah to perform Tawaf (circling the Ka’abah) again.
What are the 10 obligatory acts of Shi’a Islam?
The first four are the same as four of the Five Pillars of Islam. Jihad also applies to all Muslims. The final five obligatory acts are not part of the Sunni tradition and differentiate Shi’a religious practices from those of Sunni Muslims.
- Salah – committing to daily prayers.
- Sawm – fasting from just before dawn until sunset.
- Zakah – giving a proportion of your wealth to help the poor.
- Hajj – pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca).
- Jihad – the struggle to keep belief in Allah and follow his rules, to follow the Five Pillars of Islam successfully and to defend Islam.
- Khums – this is a 20 per cent annual tax that is paid on any surplus income earned. Traditionally khums was split six ways; Allah, Muhammad, relatives of Muhammad, orphans, the needy, anyone who is away from home and has no money to return. Nowadays it is paid to those in need in the Islamic faith and to support Islamic education.
- Amr-bil-Maroof – encouraging people to do what is good This is the instruction to Muslims on how they should behave. Maroof is anything that has been approved in Shari’ah law.
- Nahil Anil Munkar – this is taught alongside ‘Amr-bil-Maroof’, it refers to the forbidding of evil by discouraging people from sinful behaviour.
- Tawalla – showing love towards Good. This includes both love for Allah and love for those who follow him.
- Tabarra – this is taught alongside tawalla and means to disassociate. Shi’a Muslims should not associate with Allah’s enemies.
What is Jihad
Jihad means ‘to struggle’. It has two meanings in Islam: a struggle for faith and a struggle against evil.
What are Muslim beliefs about the Greater Jihad?
Greater jihad is the personal struggle to follow Allah, resist temptation and carry out the duties required to lead a good life. Greater jihad is both a duty and an act of worship.
To fulfil the greater jihad do Muslims should: follow the Five Pillars of Islam forgive others work for social justice study the Qur’an help those in need avoid negative qualities, e.g. greed avoid temptations, e.g. alcohol
Many Muslims believe that greater jihad is the most important of the two types of jihad because it is a struggle shared by ALL Muslims all the time.
What are Muslim beliefs about the lesser Jihad?
Lesser jihad is the struggle to protect the Islamic faith and defending Islam from threat. Some people still take up arms against anybody they see as an enemy of Islam.
However, many Muslims believe that lesser jihad is of less relevance today than in the past, when Muslims were being persecuted.
Lesser jihad is sometimes called a ‘holy war’. In cases where conflict is deemed necessary, it can only be justified under certain conditions:
it must be in defence of Allah
no harm must be done to civilians or holy buildings
peace must be restored
mercy must be shown
Islam teaches that lesser jihad can never be used to justify terrorist attacks
What are Muslim Beliefs about Eid ul-Fitr?
Eid ul-Fitr is known as ‘The Feast of Breaking the Fast’. It is celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of Ramadan. Eid ul-Fitr begins at the first sighting of the new moon in the tenth month of the Islamic calendar.
Muslims give thanks to Allah for giving them the strength to fast for a month. To celebrate, they go to the mosque to pray and listen to a sermon before returning home to share their first daytime meal in a month with family and friends. Muslims also give special zakah so that those less fortunate can join in with the celebrations. After a month of fasting, Muslims feel greater empathy towards those who go hungry. Communal celebration services are held both outdoors and in mosques, there are processions through the streets and a special celebratory meal is eaten.
Eid ul-Fitr is a time for families, friends and neighbours to spend time together and share food.
What are Muslim beliefs about Eid ul-Adha?
Eid ul-Adha is the festival of sacrifice and takes place at the end of Hajj. It remembers the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son when ordered to by Allah.
Ibrahim had a dream in which Allah asked him to sacrifice his son Isma’il as an act of obedience. The Devil tempted Ibrahim by saying he should disobey Allah and spare his son. As Ibrahim was about to kill his son, Allah stopped him and gave him a lamb to sacrifice in his place. This shows Ibrahim’s obedience to God. It is important for Muslims to remember that God does not want the animal or its meat; God wants Muslims to show that they are devoted to him.
How is Eid Ul Adha celebrated?
By taking part in this festival, Muslims show that they too are prepared to sacrifice their lives for God. The festival is celebrated in the following ways:
A sheep or goat may be sacrificed as a reminder of Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah. In the UK, the animal must be killed at a slaughterhouse. The meat is shared out among family, friends and the poor, each getting a third share.
Muslims go to the mosque for prayers, dressed in their best clothes and thank Allah for the blessings they have received.
It is obligatory to give money to charity to be used to help the poor so they too can celebrate.
What is Ashura?
Ashura means tenth. Both Sunni and Shi’a Muslims observe this festival on the tenth day of Muharram. However, their reason for and way of celebrating is very different.
How do Sunni Muslims observe Ashura?
Sunnis remember Ashura as a Day of Atonement, a day to ask for forgiveness and a day sins are forgiven if the person repents (says sorry). It is suggested that prophet Musa fasted on this day and prophet Muhammad followed this example and told the people to do the same. Many Muslims fast on the eighth, ninth and tenth day of Muharram but it is not compulsory for Sunni Muslims to do this.
How do Shia Muslims observe?
For Shi’a Muslims, Ashura is very important festival based in sorrow. It remembers the martyrdom of Hussein, Ali’s son and grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. He was killed in the battle of Karbala on 10 Muharram, 680CE along with 72 members of his family. Hussein was beheaded, the camp he was staying at was set on fire and everyone staying there was murdered.
How Shi’a Muslims observe Ashura
Many wear black as a sign of grief
Mosques are covered in black cloths
After the afternoon prayer, poems about the tragedy are read and people will cry
Some gather to beat themselves with whips and chains in sorrow, especially in Karbala.
Two mark Questions?
Give two Muslim practices that happen during Ramadan
1)Give two Muslim practices that happen during Ramadan
The two mark questions are asking for you to name or give examples of TWO beliefs/actions.
This example response would get you 2 marks: prayer, fasting
4 Mark questions - Beliefs
Explain two ways in which the Qur’an influences Muslims.
The Qur’an is the holy book for Muslims.
One way in which the Qur’an influences Muslims is to act as a personal and spiritual guide for Muslims throughout their life. It gives guidance on birth, marriage, death and daily prayers.
The four mark belief questions are where you show your understanding of the religion you have studied, and how a person’s beliefs have an influence on their lives.
Another way the Qur’an influences Muslims today is it has authority and contains the legal system (Shari’ah law) and helps Muslims understand what is and is not acceptable.
4 Mark questions - Practises
Explain two ways in which the Qur’an influences Muslims.
Explain two contrasting ways in which Muslims commemorate the festival of Ashura.
Some Sunni Muslims commemorate Ashura by fasting. They view it as a day of atonement and ask for forgiveness. Just as tradition suggests prophet Musa had fasted on this day as did Prophet Muhammad and some Muslims follow this example at Ashura although it is not compulsory.
Some Shi’a Muslims commemorate Ashura by wearing black, mosques will be covered in black cloths and they will spend the day in mourning, remembering the death of Hussein who was martyred in Karbala. Some Shi’a will beat themselves with whips and chains to demonstrate their sorrow.
Five Mark questions?
Explain two ways in which Muslims think zakat is important. Refer to Muslim teachings in your answer.
The five mark questions ask you to ‘explain Muslim teachings/beliefs about’, ‘explain two ways in which Muslims put their beliefs into practice’ or ‘explain two ways in which Muslims believe practices to be important’.
You MUST include a relevant religious teaching in these responses.
Zakah is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is one of the five key practices a Muslim must observe in their day to day life. In the Qur’an it says ‘Be steadfast in prayer and giving’ (Surah 2:110). Muslims believe wealth is a blessing from Allah and they must share their wealth by giving zakah. This helps those less fortunate within the Ummah and helps to bring the community together
.
Zakah was an instruction from Allah and instructed by Prophet Muhammad as something all Muslims must do. This means it is very important to give zakah because it is following Allah’s instruction and the Prophet’s example. If Muslims do this they believe they will be rewarded in the afterlife.
How do you answer 12 Markers?
The Qur’an is the only authority a Muslim needs.’?
The twelve mark questions are worth 50% of your whole paper so it is essential you have a good technique. DREARER C is one of those techniques:
D – DISAGREE
R – REASON to disagree
E – EXPLAIN in depth explanation of that
reason
A – AGREE
R – REASON to agree
E – EXPLAIN in depth explanation of that
reason
IDEALLY THERE SHOULD BE AT LEAST THREE REASONS ON EACH SIDE!
R – RELIGIOUS DETAIL
C – CONCLUSION – this is where you get to give your own reasoned opinion, but only if it is different to the arguments you have already used (avoid repetition)
EXAMPLE ANSWER
‘The Qur’an is the only authority a Muslim needs.’
On the one hand some would disagree with the statement ‘the Qur’an is the only authority a Muslim needs’ because there are other important sources of authority that can help to guide Muslims. There are several holy books that have authority in Islam, the Tawrat given to prophet Musa that contains “guidance and light”, the Zabur given to Dawud and the Injil that contains guidance about prophet Issa. If Allah gave these to mankind then they must have needed them as well as needing the Qur’an.
Prophet Muhammad also has authority for Muslims. Muslims follow the Hadith (sayings) and Sunnah (practices, customs and traditions) of Prophet Muhammad because he sets the perfect example. In Shi’a Islam there is a belief in the ‘imamate’ that the imams that followed Muhamamd also have authority within the religion. This suggests that Muslims need other authority, aside from the Qur’an.
On the other hand, some Muslims might agree with this statement because they believe that the Qur’an contains a complete and accurate record of Allah’s message to mankind. The Qur’an was revealed directly to Muhammad through Angel Jibril. It has not been changed. It is seen as the word of God, the totality of Allah’s message. As a result there is no reason for them to need any other authority, because Allah is the ultimate authority in Islam.
In conclusion, I believe that Muslims need multiple sources of authority, otherwise why would Allah have provided them? Together the teachings of all the holy books and the Imams or Caliphs provides suitable authority for Muslims.
