Islam

Definition

Islam is a major world religion founded in the 7th century CE, based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who is regarded as the final prophet in a line that includes figures like Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. Followers of Islam, known as Muslims, believe in one God (Allah) and follow the Quran, which is considered the holy scripture. Islam emphasizes submission to God's will and is characterized by five pillars that guide a Muslim's faith and practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Islam is the second-largest religion in the world, with over 1.9 billion followers, making up about 24% of the global population.
2. The two main branches of Islam are Sunni and Shia, with Sunnis making up approximately 85-90% of Muslims worldwide.
3. The Five Pillars of Islam are essential practices that define a Muslim's faith and commitment to their beliefs.
4. Islamic law, or Sharia, covers not only religious practices but also aspects of daily life and governance, influencing many countries with Muslim-majority populations.
5. Islam has made significant cultural and intellectual contributions to the world, especially during the Golden Age of Islam when advances were made in science, medicine, mathematics, and philosophy.

Review Questions

• How do the core beliefs of Islam shape the daily lives of its followers?
  • The core beliefs of Islam, including the oneness of God and adherence to the teachings of the Quran, significantly influence the daily lives of Muslims. The Five Pillars provide a framework for worship and ethical conduct, guiding followers in their spiritual practices such as daily prayers and charitable giving. By engaging in these practices regularly, Muslims cultivate a sense of community and devotion while also fulfilling their religious obligations.
• Discuss the differences between Sunni and Shia Islam and how these distinctions have shaped Islamic communities around the world.
  • Sunni and Shia Islam differ primarily in their beliefs regarding leadership after the Prophet Muhammad's death. Sunnis accept elected leaders or caliphs as successors, while Shias believe that leadership should remain within Muhammad's family lineage. These differences have led to distinct religious practices and interpretations of Islamic law, contributing to diverse cultural identities within Islamic communities. The historical conflicts between these branches have also influenced geopolitical dynamics in various regions.
• Evaluate the impact of Islamic teachings on modern society, particularly in areas such as law, ethics, and cultural practices.
  • Islamic teachings profoundly impact modern society by shaping legal systems through Sharia law, which influences family law, criminal justice, and civil rights in many Muslim-majority countries. The ethical guidelines derived from Islamic principles promote values such as charity, honesty, and respect for others. Additionally, cultural practices rooted in Islamic traditions continue to enrich social norms and artistic expressions around the world. However, differing interpretations can lead to tensions between traditional practices and contemporary values in increasingly globalized societies.

Related terms

Quran: The holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to Muhammad, containing guidance for all aspects of life.

Sunnah: The practices, teachings, and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad that serve as a model for living a life in accordance with Islamic principles.

Five Pillars of Islam: The five fundamental acts of worship that are considered the foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice: Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage).