WORLD RELIGIONS ISLAM

A Few Introductory Facts Islam is the name given to the religion preached by the prophet Muhammed in the 600s C.E. It is a monotheistic religion. Islam in Arabic means submission. It is the world’s second-largest religion with most followers living in the Middle East and other sections of Africa and Asia.

FOLLOWERS OF ISLAM Followers of Islam are called Muslims. In Arabic, Muslim means one who submits (to God). There are two main groups of Muslims: Sunnis (90%) Shia (10%)

GOD OF ISLAM The God of Islam is Allah. Muslims believe Allah is the sole god, the creator, sustainer, and restorer of the world. According to Islam, the overall purpose of life is to serve and worship Allah and live a moral lifestyle.

SACRED BOOK OF ISLAM The most sacred book of Islam is the Qur’an (Koran). Muslims believe its words are those of Allah, spoken to Muhammed by an angel. The Qur’an is written in the Arabic language. Parts of the Qur’an are similar to the Christian Bible.

ISLAMIC HOUSE OF WORSHIP The Islamic house of worship is called a mosque. Muslims are expected to pray 5 times daily. All prayers are said facing the holy city of Mecca. The imam gives the call to prayer and sermons are often given on Fridays by the khatib.

BELIEFS: THE 5 PILLARS OF ISLAM Profession of Faith: There is no God but Allah and Muhammed is his prophet. Prayer: 5 times daily (facing Mecca) The Zakat: tax paid to the gov’t yearly Fasting: no food or drinks from daybreak to sunset during the month of Ramadan Hajj: pilgrimage (religious trip) to Mecca at least once during lifetime

HOLY CITY OF MECCA Mecca is the most sacred city in Islam. It is the birthplace of Muhammed and is located in Saudi Arabia. All Muslims, who are physically and financially able, are expected to make a pilgrimage there at least once during their life.

BELIEFS ABOUT DEATH Observant Muslims believe that their deaths are predetermined by Allah. Death should not be feared because the deceased will go to Paradise. After dying, all Muslims are dressed in three standard grave clothes and buried within 24 hours of death.