Islam
Islam
Islam
o Allah is the Arabic word for God. Muslims believe in the oneness of God (Tawhid) and consider
Allah as the one and only deity. * Muslims believe in Tawhid and consider Allah as the one and
only god.
o Submission and Surrender: Islam means “surrender, submission, commitment, and peace.” It
involves voluntarily submitting to the divine will of Allah. * As the term “Islam” suggests the
o Closeness to Allah: Muslims are encouraged to feel connected to Allah and experience His
closeness. They pray five times a day, seeking a direct connection with their Creator. * Muslims
are known to pray 5 times a day to have a feeling of the experience of being in the presence of
Allah.
o Prophet Muhammad: The last prophet, Muhammad, received revelations from Allah through
the angel Gabriel. His teachings guide Muslims in building a strong relationship with Allah.
o Mosque (Masjid): A mosque is a place of worship for Muslims. It serves as a center for
community prayers, Friday congregational prayers, and religious gatherings. Mosques can be
o Features of a Mosque: A mosque typically includes a miḥrāb (niche indicating the qiblah
direction), a minbar (pulpit), a minaret (for the call to prayer), and a prayer hall with mats or
carpets.
o Minaret: The minaret is used by the muezzin to announce the call to worship (adhān).
o South Asia: India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have significant Muslim populations.
o Southeast Asia: Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines have large Muslim communities.
o Central Asia: Countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan have substantial Muslim
populations.
o Hajj: The pilgrimage to Mecca, obligatory for financially and physically able Muslims.
o Similarities: Islam shares monotheistic beliefs with Judaism and Christianity. All three trace
o Differences: Sunni and Shi’ite Muslims differ on leadership after Muhammad’s death. Islam
also differs from Hinduism, Judaism, and Christianity in various practices and beliefs. *Like
praying
o History: Islam came to the Caribbean through African slaves, Indian indentured laborers, and
later immigrants.
o Influence: It has left its mark on culture, language, and religious practices in countries like
Feel free to ask if you’d like more details on any specific aspect! 😊
Test
3. Which holy book is considered the direct and unaltered word of God in Islam? Quran
4. What does the term “Tawhid” refer to? The oneness of Allah or God.
5. Which prophet received revelations from Allah through the angel Gabriel? Muhammed
6. What is the purpose of Eid al-Fitr? To celebrate the ending of the festival Ramadan.
1. Belief in Prophets:
o Muslims hold a strong belief in the prophets sent by God (Allah). These prophets include figures
like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and the final prophet, Muhammad (peace be upon
them all).
o The prophetic messages emphasize monotheism, moral conduct, and guidance for humanity.
o Muslims acknowledge the divine scriptures sent to various prophets. These include:
complete revelation.
o Islam teaches that life on Earth is temporary, and there will be a Day of Judgment.
o Individuals will be held accountable for their deeds, and their eternal fate will be determined
1. Eid Ul Fitr:
o Celebrated on the 1st day of Shawwal, the 10th Islamic month, marking the end of Ramadan
o Key features:
Almsgiving (Zakat al-Fitr): Muslims give charity to the needy to ensure everyone can partake
in the festivities.
2. Eid Ul Adha:
o Significance:
Commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ismail
Sacrificial animals (such as sheep, goats, or cows) are slaughtered, and the meat is distributed to
3. Additional Observations:
Shia Muslims sanctify the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (the grandson of Prophet Muhammad).
Sunni Muslims fast on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th of Muharram.
Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) on the 12th of Rabiul Awal.
o Lailatul Miraj/Isra:
Commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s miraculous ascension to the heavens and the Night
Journey.
A night of great spiritual significance, believed to be when the Qur’an was first revealed.
o Lailatul Bara’at:
Takes place in the middle of Shaabaan (8th month of the Islamic calendar).
Not universally observed by all Muslims.