The Religion of Islam Chapter 1.3

Background Democratic and vital religion 1/7 th of the world’s population –All races, nationalities, and colors –Common way of life Worship of Allah- One God

Muslim Belief Changed very little since the days of the Prophet Visualize a temple, resting upon five pillars Faith Prayer sharingFasting Pilgrimage

Faith Declare before another Muslim –“There is no God but Allah, and Mohammed is his prophet” Belief in Three Things –Quran Things revealed by God Laws, stories, how to conduct family life, deal with others. –Angel’s as instruments of God’s Will –Belief in a final day of judgment Appeal is in simplicity –No ceremonies, sacraments, priesthood or practices

Prayer Meuzzin –Man who calls Muslims to prayer. Declares “There is no god but God, and Muhammad is His prophet” –Five Times a day Morning, noon, afternoon, sunset and evening Kneel facing Mecca Mithrab- corner in mosque used for prayer –No organized prayer »Sunday sermon follows noon-day prayer –Most men go once a day to the mosque to pray

Almsgiving-Sharing No organized charity when Muhammad lived –He was an orphan –Dependant on the charity of individuals Those who can share give a generous share of what they can to Muslims who are poor or sick

Fasting Occurs during special Month Ramadan –Fast from Sunrise to Sunset No food, drink or smoking –Encourage self-discipline –At Evening Children join parents for in breaking the fast –With sweets (dates, cool drink) –All sit to an “evening breakfast”

Pilgrimage Hajj –Pilgrimage, sacred journey to Mecca –Once in their life –Great festival in the twelfth month –Stop at the Kaba

Islam and Others Quran –Filled with similar people and stories of Jewish and Christians Noah, Abraham, and Moses Muhammad saw himself as a prophet –Jewish and Christians- “people of the book” One single God Respected Muslim rule allowed to practice their religions and have business –Paid special tax - Jizyah

Men and Women Muhammad said Muslims equal in spirit –Both rich and poor, men or women –Women in early Islam Right to education, marry who they want –In the community Men involved outside of home –Inherit more property –Must treat wife well –As early Islam took over new lands Adopted their views on roles and adopted them into their religion

Schism 656- Uthman ruler assassinated Divide on who can rule –Next few hundred years Smaller group= Shiites –Ruler should be descendant of Muhammad »Inspired by God just has Muhammad »Able to speak on teaching in Quran Larger group= Sunni –Any truly religious Muslim could lead –No one could share teachings of Quran »Done by group of elders/scholars