Politics of Islam

Do now Take out and review RTN notes. What happened to the Islamic Empire after the death of Muhammad?

After Muhammad Muhammad had not named a successor to rule the empire after his death. Relying on ancient tribal custom, his followers elected Abu Bakr to become the caliph – the deputy to Muhammad. The caliph was the political and religious leader of the Islamic Empire.

Rightly Guided Caliphs Abu Bakr and the next three Caliphs personally knew Muhammad. They used the Quran and Muhammad’s teachings to guide their leadership of the empire. They are therefore known as the “rightly guided caliphs”.

Islam Splits The empire of the caliph is called the Caliphate. The fourth caliph was Ali. He was the son in law of Muhammad. His death led to the rise of Islam’s first family dynasty – the Umayyads. The Umayyads led the empire like a royal family, surrounding themselves in wealth and luxury. This led to the first split in Islam.

What are the three sects of Islam? What does each believe?

Sunni vs Shi’a Split Sunnis (“Traditionalists”) Shi’a Muslim majority Caliph should be chosen by community leaders Accept the legitimacy of 1st 4 caliphs Shi’a Caliphs should be descendants of Ali (Muhammad) Descendants of Muhammad are divinely inspired. Revere martyrs to their cause.

The Duties of the Caliph Read the document on the Duties of the Caliph below your worksheet Questions. Make a T-Chart identifying the religious and political duties of the caliph.