Islam “Surrendering One’s Will to G-d”

Overview Founded by Muhammad in the 7 th century C.E. “Islam” means to surrender or submission to G-d’s will

The Final Prophet Muhammad born in Mecca (modern day Saudi Arabia) Commercial center and major crossroads for trade in the 6 th and 7 th centuries In 610 C.E., when he was in his forties he began to have visions or revelations from G-d Said he was a messenger equal to prophets like Abraham, Noah,and Jesus

Persecution He was persecuted in Mecca Fled to Medina in 622 C.E. with his followers Already a group of people who followed his teachings and believed in his special powers Relocating allowed Muhammad to strengthen his power

Sunnis and Shiites Muhammad died in 632 without an heir Following his death adherents split into two main groups 1. Shiites - 10% of Muslims, believe that Ali ibn Abi Talib spiritual/political 2. Sunnis – majority, recognizes the the 1 st four caliphs – Abu Bakr, Uthman ibn Affan; and Ali as the rightful successors to Muhammad

Basic Beliefs for All 1. The profession of faith 2. Praying 5x daily 3. Must pay the zakat – an obligatory tax on possessions and cash 4. Fast during Ramadan (9 th month of the lunar calendar) 5. Pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime

Jihad Internal struggle to be a better Muslim Small minority in the 21 st century believe that jihad allows them to oppress or force others into Islamic belief

1 st Pillar-Profession of Faith The one and only G-d to whom all beings must surrender G-d is powerful, just, and merciful His will was revealed to his messenger, Muhammad, and is recorded in the Koran

2 nd Pillar-Salat Preceded by ritual cleansings Sequence of standing, bending, kneeling, and reciting phrases in Arabic Thanks and praise to Allah included in every prayer Friday worship, around noon, is a full service including a sermon or scriptural interpretation

3 rd Pillar-Zakat Charity to the poor Some countries $ collected by the gov’t as a tax other countries it’s voluntary and similar to the Christian tradition of tithing and offerings Sincere concern for community and social service is more important than prayers Considered a hypocrite if you pray but ignore the needy in the community

4 th Pillar-Ramadan During this month believers fast from eating, drinking, or smoking during daylight Historical context of this fast is based on the belief that Allah revealed the words of the Koran to Muhammad during this month Id al-Fitr begins when the waxing crescent moon becomes visible and reveals the beginning of the 10 th lunar month People visit each other and exchange gifts and food Because the lunar calendar has only 355 days, the dates change each year according to the Western calendar

5 th Pillar- The Hajj The pilgrimage to Mecca The hajj is undertaken the 2 nd week of the 12 th month of the Muslim year A devout Muslim is encouraged to participate in the sacred hajj at least once in a lifetime

The Role of Women Do not play a central role in Muslim public worship Women should dress modestly Burqa completely covers everything but their eyes or a head scarf

The Future of Islam Islam has evolved and adapted to fit local cultures Split into factions and sects Spawned wars and uprisings Often misrepresented by outsiders The core beliefs of: 1. devotion to a merciful G-d 2. the hope of a resurrection into a better life 3. the deep sense of community Fastest growing religion in the world. Why?

Final Question: What is the legacy of Islam today?