Middle East Religions Three religions were founded in the Middle East. 1. Islam 2. Judaism 3. Christianity

Islam

Islam The major religion in the Middle East. Founded by Muhammad. He had a revelation that he was named a prophet by Allah, or God. Qur’an (Koran) = Holy book of Islam (provides a set of rules to guide behavior.) Followers are called Muslims Monotheistic – Muslims believe in one god, Allah Allah = God

ISLAM Mecca : Holy City in Saudi Arabia. Muslims try to visit at least once in their lifetime. Hajj: An annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, and a religious duty for Muslims that should be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims. Muslims pray 5 times a day and face Mecca while they pray. Mosque: Where Muslims gather to pray (church) Common Holidays: Ramadan, Eid 5 Pillars

5 Pillars – major beliefs Proclaim belief in one God (Allah). Pray 5 times a day facing Mecca. Charity: share wealth with the poor. Fasting: No food or drink (sunrise to sunset) during month of Ramadan. Hajj – pilgrimage to Mecca once during lifetime.

Judaism The most ancient of the 3 major Middle Eastern religions. Judaism is a monotheistic religion; its followers worship one god. The followers are known as Jews or Hebrews.

Beginnings of Judaism Fonder: Abraham Covenant: a binding agreement. The Jewish people believe this covenant was made between God and Moses establishing God as the ruler of Heaven & Earth. This also made the Jew’s the chosen people of the Earth.

Beliefs Holy Book – The Torah Ten Commandment – religious and moral laws believed to be given to the Hebrew people by God Name of god – Yahweh Place of worship –Synagogue Symbol – Star of David Common Holidays – Hanukkah, Passover, Rosh Hashanah

Christianity Monotheistic worship 1 God The followers are known as Christians. They follow the teachings of Jesus Common holidays: Christmas & Easter

Beginnings of Christianity Founder: Jesus Christ Messiah: one anointed by God. The Jewish prophets predicted that a messiah would deliver the Jews from foreign rule and restore the kingdom of Israel. Parables – Jesus used parables, short stories with simple moral lessons to teach people to be kind to one another.

Beliefs Trinity, resurrection, Ten Commandments, Jesus & parables Holy Book: The Holy Bible Place of Worship: Church Symbol: Cross Martyrs – people who suffer or die for their beliefs.