Islam

Definition

Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic faith founded in the 7th century CE by the Prophet Muhammad in the Arabian Peninsula. Followers of Islam, known as Muslims, believe that Muhammad is the last prophet in a long line that includes figures like Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. The religion emphasizes submission to the will of Allah (God) and provides a comprehensive way of life through its teachings, which are recorded in the Quran and further elaborated in Hadith literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Islam is the second-largest religion in the world, with over 1.9 billion adherents, making up nearly a quarter of the global population.
2. The city of Mecca is significant in Islam as it is the birthplace of Muhammad and the location of the Kaaba, which Muslims face during their prayers.
3. Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers facing Mecca, which is known as Salah, and this practice emphasizes discipline and connection to God.
4. Islam has various branches, with Sunni and Shia being the two largest, differing mainly on issues of leadership and succession after Muhammad's death.
5. The concept of Jihad, often misunderstood, primarily refers to the spiritual struggle against sin and striving for a good life rather than solely armed conflict.

Review Questions

• How does the belief system of Islam compare with those of Judaism and Christianity in terms of their view on prophets?
  • Islam, Judaism, and Christianity are all Abrahamic religions that recognize a lineage of prophets. However, Islam holds Muhammad as the final prophet, while Judaism recognizes figures like Moses as pivotal but does not accept Jesus or Muhammad. Christianity views Jesus as both a prophet and the divine Son of God. This differing view on prophecy illustrates fundamental theological distinctions among these religions, affecting their teachings and practices.
• Discuss how the Five Pillars of Islam shape the daily lives of Muslims and their community involvement.
  • The Five Pillars of Islam serve as the foundation for a Muslim's faith and practices, influencing their daily routines significantly. For instance, daily prayers (Salah) create a rhythm throughout the day, fostering a sense of discipline and communal identity. Zakat encourages charity and social responsibility, prompting Muslims to support those in need within their communities. During Ramadan, fasting (Sawm) promotes self-reflection and solidarity among Muslims. The pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) symbolizes unity among Muslims worldwide. Collectively, these practices encourage both individual spirituality and community cohesion.
• Evaluate the impact of Islamic teachings on social justice and community welfare within Muslim societies historically and in contemporary times.
  • Islamic teachings emphasize social justice, equity, and community welfare, influencing both historical practices and modern initiatives. Concepts such as Zakat promote charitable giving, ensuring that wealth circulates within communities to assist those less fortunate. Historically, Islamic empires have established welfare systems rooted in these principles. In contemporary times, various Islamic organizations continue this tradition by providing humanitarian aid and advocating for social reforms that align with Islamic values. This enduring emphasis on justice reflects how Islamic principles can drive community engagement and address social issues across different contexts.

Related terms

Quran: The holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to Muhammad.

Hadith: The collection of sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, which serve as a guide for Islamic law and practice.

Five Pillars of Islam: The five foundational acts of worship and practice that are considered essential to a Muslim's faith and practice: Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca).