NoteSheet 10.2 Islam Expands (pg. 269)

1. Why will Muhammad’s death cause problems? After the death of any great ruler who do you turn to? The Muslim community had difficulty maintaining a unified rule A civil war started in 656 after the murder of Uthman Muhammad’s cousin (and son-in-law) was a good choice, but was challenged The Umayyads came to power Moved capital Surrounded themselves with wealth

2. How does Islam spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and beyond? Muhammad expressed a desire to spread Islam to the north so after his death Muslims conquered people of the north Saw their victories as a sign of success Muslims fought to defend Islam and were willing to struggle to extend its word Muslim armies were well disciplined and expertly trained And of course trade as always

3. What are the basic differences between the Sunni and Shi’a Muslims? Believe that the first four caliphs were “rightly guided” Believe that Muslim rulers should follow the Sunna, or Muhammad’s example Claim that the Shi’a have distorted the meaning of various passages in the Qur’an Shi’a Believe that Ali, the Prophet’s son-in-law, should have succeeded Muhammad Believe that all Muslim rulers should be descended from Muhammad; do not recognize the authority of the Sunna Claim that the Sunni have distorted the meaning of various passages in the Qur’an

Words of the Section Sunni Shi’a Followers of Muhammad’s example Believed that successors should be descendants of Muhammad