Section 3: The Religion of Islam Muslim Belief: A shared set of beliefs hold muslims together 5 Pillars of Islam 1. Faith 2. Prayer 3. Sharing 4. Fasting 5. Pilgrimage
Faith The statement of faith in only one God ○ “there is no God but God and Muhammad is His prophet” Prayer The Muezzin calls followers to prayer from on top of the minaret of a mosque 5 times a day. ○ The call of the Muezzin signals all of the times of prayer
Sharing Giving when able to Muslims who are poor and sick Fasting During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims do not eat or drink from sun rise to sun set. Hajj All Muslims who can afford to, try to make a pilgrimage to Mecca, meeting Muslims from around the world Not just a religion but a guide for every aspect of life for Muslims
The Quran The Muslim holy book ○ Holds the things revealed to Muhammad and also the rules of Islam ○ The Quran includes stories, promises, warnings, and instructions
Relationships in Islam “People of the Book” ○ Muhammad felt respect for Jews and Christians ○ All practice religion revealed in holy writings and all believe in one God ○ Rulers of the Muslims believed Jews and Christians to be “protected people” As long as they accepted Muslim rule they were allowed to practice their religions
Men and Women Muhammad insisted that all Muslims were equal in spirit ○ Women in early Islam had many rights Men and women’s role in the community ○ Men worked outside the home, inherited more property, and were expected to care for their families ○ As Islam spread the attitudes toward women changed to fit the culture of the new places In a few countries today Women must cover their faces when they leave their homes Both Men and Women are expected to dress modestly
Islamic Schism Two groups emerged after the assassination of the Muslim leader, Uthman. ○ Shi’it Muslims thought the ruler should be a direct descendent of Muhammad ○ Sunni Muslims thought that any truly religious Muslim could lead the community. Wanted a group of Muslims scholars to interpret the Quran