World Religions: Understanding Islam

(after Judaism & Christianity). Islam was taught by Muhammad. Islam emerged in the Middle East around 600 AD (after Judaism & Christianity). Islam was taught by Muhammad.

Who was Muhammad? Muhammad was a successful merchant in the city of Mecca. He was praying in a cave one day when an angel appeared to him. The angel revealed the word of Allah (God). Islam means “to submit.” Muhammad’s followers were known as Muslims, meaning “those who submit to God.”

What did Muslims believe? Muslims recognize Jewish & Christian prophets (Abraham, Moses, & Jesus). The believe Muhammad was the last and greatest prophet! The Muslim Holy Book is the Qur’an. Muslims follow a required set of actions for their worship called The Five Pillars of Islam.

Five Pillars of Islam #1 – One God #2 – Daily Prayer #3 – Charity (there is no god but God and Muhammad is his prophet) #2 – Daily Prayer (Muslims pray 5x a day) #3 – Charity (Muslims are to share their wealth with the needy) #4 – Fasting (during the month of Ramadan, Muslims must fast during daylight hours) #5 – Pilgrimage to Mecca (during the 12th month)

Let’s learn more about Islam: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8PVI3ay9W0 This video was produced by the Miami Herald and is an introduction to Islam. In the video, you will meet 4 Muslims who share their faith.