GCSE Eduqas Religious Studies (9 1) Component 2: Christianity Christian Beliefs and Teachings Practices

Transcription

1 GCSE Eduqas Religious Studies (9 1) Component 2: Christianity Christian Beliefs and Teachings Practices Component 3: Islam Islamic Beliefs and Teachings Practices 1 1

2 Contents page Component 2: Christianity Christian Beliefs and Teachings Key words 4 The Nature of God 5-8 Creations: Genesis Jesus Christ: Incarnation, Resurrection and Ascension Atonement and Salvation Holy Spirit The Afterlife Christian Practices Forms of Worship Sacraments Pilgrimage and Celebrations Christianity in Britain and the Church

3 GCSE Religious Studies Christianity: Beliefs and Teachings Workbook

4 Name: 3 3 1

5 Key Words in Christianity 1. Omnipotent: The belief that God is all-.. With God s omnipotence, He created the world in six days and on the seventh day, He rested. 2. Omnibenevolent: The belief that God is all-loving. God loves us so much that he sent his one and only Son,.., to save the sins of humanity. 3. Trinity: The belief that God is a.. God in three parts: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Each part is distinct and separate, yet of the same Incarnation: This is the belief that God came to earth in human.., i.e. Jesus. This is told in the Nativity story in the Bible, where Jesus was born to Mary a Atonement: At-one-ment means to say sorry and.. with God for your sins. Because of Jesus sacrifice, humans are able to atone with God for their Resurrection: This is the belief that Jesus came back to life after he was... For Christians, this reflects the belief in life after death and the Hope of the spiritual resurrection of the Sacraments: This is a ceremony where a person receives.. grace. For example, in the Sacrament of Baptism, a person s sins are washed away and they receive God s grace as they Word Box Go spel virgin powerf

6 become a member of God s Evangelism: Spreading.. to others and to convert others to your faith. Missionaries go to other communities and countries to tell the world about Jesus and spread the.. (the good news ). You will need to learn these words and definitions for your exam! In our a) style questions, you will have to give a definition and an example for each word!

7 The Nature of God God is: o The Trinity: God is one, but is known through three distinct (separate) persons: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. This is known as the Holy Trinity. Jesus said, I and the Father are one (John 10:30) Jesus said, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6) o Omnipotent: God is all-powerful and can do anything. In the beginning, God created the world and since then, God has been involved in the lives of the people on earth. In Exodus, God sends seven plagues down on the land of Egypt to convince the Pharoah to let the Jews go free. o Omnibenevolent: He loves the world and all of the people in it so much that He sent his son, Jesus, to teach people about Him and to save them from their sins. God is full of mercy and offers forgiveness to all willing to receive it - all who want to reconcile. God is, abounding in love (Psalm 86:15) For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16) Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God. (Romans 8: 39)

8 Evil and Suffering: Some people believe that the existence of evil and suffering in the world is reason for there not to be a God. If God is allpowerful so can do anything, and is all knowing so knows that evil exists, then why doesn t He do anything About it? This is called the problem of evil.

9 There are several Christian responses to the problem of evil: 1. Good can come out of suffering 2. Religious communities can help those who are suffering through charity work and prayer 3. Suffering is not God s fault. It has come into the world as a result of: a. Free will (we choose to do evil) b. The original choice to disobey God (Adam and Eve) c. Human nature not being perfect. We do make the wrong choices sometimes! 4. Evil has to exist in order for good to exist. We could not have one without the other, just like we cannot have dark without light, or up without down 5. Suffering can lead to inner strength and ability to overcome suffering and succeed 6. Suffering can be a way of participating in the saving work of Jesus, e.g. through charity work (Christian Aid) In the Book of Job in the Bible, God tests Job s faith by removing all of his luxuries. The cause of the evil in this story, is God, however some Christians might say that the suffering was part of God s greater plan and had a true purpose, even though Job could not see it to begin with. 2 Mark Questions 1. Explain the Trinity. 2. What is the meaning of omnipotent? 3. What is the meaning of omnibenevolent?

10 4. What is the quote about God s love from John 3:16? 5. What is the problem of evil and suffering? 6. Explain two Christian responses to the problem of evil and suffering. 7. What does the Book of Job tell Christians about?

11 Creation: Genesis 1

12 Creation: Genesis 2 & 3 Genesis 2: God breathed life into Adam and put him in Eden. God had made the man in His image to keep Him company and look after the world. Adam named the animals but God wanted to make Adam a companion. That night, God took a rib from Adam's side and made a woman. God told the man and woman that it was their job to take care of their new home. Genesis 3: God warned Adam and Eve to, "Never touch the tree in the middle of the Garden. That tree gives knowledge of good and evil. The day you eat its fruit, you will die." One day, Eve was tempted by a snake to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. The snake said that by eating the fruit, Eve would become like God in knowing right from wrong. Eve took a bite and passed some to Adam. Eve she had disobeyed God and knew she'd done something wrong. Adam and Eve became unhappy and fearful of God. God was sad that Adam and Eve had disobeyed them. He told them that they had to leave the Garden of Eden, "From now on you'll have to scratch a living from the soil. You'll need to make clothes and grow food. Nothing will come easily -- not even childbirth. And one day, you will die." 1. Summarise the story of Adam and Eve What is the meaning of this story?

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14 Creation: Nature and Role of Humans Literal vs Non-Literal Interpretation Literal Christians read the Bible and believe each word to be word-for-word truth. For example, in Genesis 1 the Bible states that the world was made in six days and on the seventh, God rested. Literal Christians would see this to mean that the world was created in six 24-hour periods. Non-literalist Christians, however, would read that God created the world in six days, and interpret this to mean that God created the world in six periods of time, perhaps even stretching over eons. Therefore it is important to understand that whilst all Christians believe that the Bible was given to humans from God, their understandings of the text might change. For example, some Christians would allow for human error or poetic license, whereas others would argue that each word was dictated exactly as it is written by God to the writer. The Role of the Word and Spirit in Creation The Spirit was involved in creation. The Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. (Genesis 1:1 2) The Spirit of God gave vital life to the vast creation, the term waters, signifies the vast expanse of creation, illustrated by the boundless expanse of the waters. The Spirit, whose omniscience (all present) and omnipotence (all-powerful) maintains life and order in the universe We have an eternal spirit which will spend an eternity in heaven or hell. Our Creator is also eternal, because we are made in his image we are eternal. We have the ability to choose good from evil because we have free will like our Creator. Quotes: o John 1: 1-15 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us o Job 33:4 "The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.

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16 Creation: 2 mark Questions: 1. How do literal Christians interpret the Bible? 2. How do non-literal Christians interpret the Bible? 3. What might some people allow for when reading the Bible? 4. How was the Spirit involved in creation? 5. Where will our eternal spirit spend eternity? 6. Why do we have the ability to choose good from evil? 7. What is a quote from the Bible that tells us about the role of the Spirit?

17 Jesus Christ: Incarnation Jesus Christ, or Jesus of Nazareth, was a preacher who was born to Mary in Bethlehem. For Christians, his coming was foretold as He was to be the Son of God. Jesus was referred to as the Messiah, which means anointed one and is a saviour to a group of people. For Christians, the Messiah was Jesus Christ. Incarnation, therefore, literally means: God made flesh. Luke 1: 28-33: Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favour with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus John 1: 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us The coming of the Messiah was foretold in the Old Testament. Christians believe the Messianic prophecies were fulfilled in the mission, death, and resurrection of Jesus and that he will return to fulfil the rest of Messianic prophecy. Jesus was considered the Son of God From the coming of Jesus, God is present with his people in a new and decisive way. Even as a young boy Jesus was conscious of God s divine call on his life. Jesus knew, even at the age of 12, that he was not like other boys. He was called to his Father s business, and that must be attended to, even if his parents did not understand. The Bible says, "The child [Jesus] grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him." "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man." Incarnation: 2 mark Questions: 1. What was Jesus referred to as and what does this mean? 2. What does incarnation literally mean? 3. What does John 1:14 say about the incarnation? 4. What did Jesus know, even as a young boy?

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19 Jesus Christ: Crucifixion The crucifixion of Jesus (also known as the Passion) is a story about injustice, doubt, fear, pain and, ultimately, degrading death on the cross. It tells how God experienced these things in the same way as ordinary human beings. Christians believe that Christ's suffering and the wounds that he suffered play a great part in redeeming humanity from sin. Another theme is incarnation - the death of Jesus shows humanity that God had become truly human and that he was willing to undergo every human suffering, right up to the final agony of death. Another is obedience - despite initial, and very human, reluctance and fear, Jesus demonstrates his total acquiescence to God's wishes. But the final theme is victory - the victory of Christ over death - and this is why the Passion story is inseparable from the story of the Resurrection. Matthew 26: Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Matthew 27: 28-50: They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, 29 and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. Hail, king of the Jews! they said. 30 They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. 31 After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him They came to a place called Golgotha (which means the place of the skull ) When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. 36 And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. 37 Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.

20 Crucifixion: 2 mark Questions: 1. What else is the story of the crucifixion of Jesus known as? 2. What do Christians believe about Christ s suffering? 3. How does Jesus show obedience in the crucifixion? 4. What is the final theme of the crucifixion? 5. What does Matthew 26: say? 6. What does Golgotha mean? 7. What happened after the crucifixion, whilst the guards were keeping watch?

21 Jesus Christ: Resurrection The Resurrection is the Christian belief that after being put to death, Jesus arose from the dead. This is important to Christians because: The resurrection shows the immense power of God Himself. To believe in the resurrection is to believe in God. If God exists, and if He created the universe and has power over it, then He has power to raise the dead In resurrecting Jesus from the grave, God reminds us of His absolute sovereignty over life and death It validates who Jesus claimed to be, namely, the Son of God and Messiah. For Christians, it is proof that He is the Saviour of the world It also validates the Old Testament prophecies that foretold of Jesus suffering and resurrection. Christ s resurrection also authenticated His own claims that He would be raised on the third day. Without the resurrection, Christian faith would be useless. Because we know we will be resurrected to new life, we can endure persecution and danger for Christ s sake, just as Jesus did It demonstrates that God accepted Jesus sacrifice on our behalf It shows that God has the power to raise us from the dead. It guarantees that the bodies of those who believe in Christ will not remain dead but will be resurrected unto eternal life. Evidence in the Bible: Luke 24: 5-6: Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! 1 Corinthians 15:3-8: Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also 1 Corinthians 12-14: Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptised by one Spirit so as to form one body.

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23 Resurrection: 2 mark Questions: 1. What is the Resurrection?.. 2. What does God remind us of in resurrecting Jesus from the grave? 3. For Christians, what is the resurrection proof of? 4. What do Christians know as a result of the resurrection? 5. What does the Bible say about the resurrection? Choose one of the quotes and write it down.

24 Jesus Christ: Ascension The Ascension of Jesus Luke 24: 50-53: 50 When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. 51 While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. 52 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53 And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God. Acts 1: 9 He [Jesus] was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 Men of Galilee, they said, why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven. Why is the Ascension important to Christians? 1) It signalled the end of His earthly ministry. God the Father had lovingly sent His Son into the world at Bethlehem, and now the Son was returning to the Father. 2) It signified success in His earthly work. All that He had come to do, He had accomplished. 3) It marked the return of His heavenly glory. 4) It symbolised that God was pleased with His work. The One with whom the Father is well pleased (Matthew 17:5) was received up in honour. 5) It allowed Him to prepare a place for us (John 14:2). 6) It set the pattern for His return. When Jesus comes to set up the Kingdom, He will return just as He left-literally, bodily, and visibly in the clouds.

25 Ascension: 2 mark Questions 1. What does Luke 24 say about the ascension? 2. What does Acts 1 say about the ascension? 3. What did the ascension signal? 4. What did the ascension mark? 5. What did the ascension symbolise? 6. What did the ascension allow Jesus to do? 7. What did the ascension set the pattern for?

26 Atonement Atonement: At-onement means to say sorry and reconcile with God. Because of Jesus sacrifice, humans are able to atone with God for their sins. Matthew 26: Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Leviticus 16: 20-22: 20 When Aaron has finished making atonement for the Most Holy Place, the tent of meeting and the altar, he shall bring forward the live goat. 21 He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites all their sins and put them on the goat s head. He shall send the goat away into the wilderness in the care of someone appointed for the task. 22 The goat will carry on itself all their sins to a remote place; and the man shall release it in the wilderness. Atonement: 2 mark Questions: 1. What is the meaning of atonement? 2. What does the Bible teach Christians about atonement? Read the quotes above before answering the question.

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28 Salvation Salvation means to save from sin. Christians believe that through Jesus sacrifice, we are able to be saved from our sin. The only requirement is that we atone (ask forgiveness and reconcile) for our wrongdoings. Isaiah 53: 3-9: He took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God and by his wounds we are healed. What are Christians saved from? In the Christian doctrine of salvation, Christians are saved from wrath, that is, from God s judgment of sin. Our sin has separated us from God, and the consequence of sin is death. In the Bible, Salvation refers to our deliverance from the consequence of sin and therefore involves the removal of sin. Only God can remove sin. How does God save? In the Christian doctrine of salvation, God has rescued us through Jesus. Specifically, it was Jesus death on the cross and resurrection that achieved our salvation. Scripture is clear that salvation is the gracious, undeserved gift of God and is only available through faith in Jesus Christ. How do Christians receive Salvation? Christians are saved by faith. First, Christians must hear the gospel the good news of Jesus death and resurrection. Then, Christians must believe fully trust in Jesus. This involves atonement and repentance, (a changing of mind about sin and Christ) In Acts 2: 1-6, the apostles were visited by the Holy Spirit, who gave them the grace of God. They were now able to speak in other languages as, All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit.

29 Salvation: Exam-style 2 mark questions: 1. What does salvation mean? 2. What is the requirement to be saved from sin? 3. What are Christians saved from? 4. How does God save? 5. How do Christians receive salvation?

30 The role of the Holy Spirit in Evangelical worship Evangelical Christians are those who share and promote the good news (the Gospel) of Christ. Their worship centres around the belief that the Holy Spirit is a sign of God s work. Paul says that Christians worship by the Spirit of God (Phil 3:3) and through the Spirit our prayers ascend to God. Therefor, in Evangelical worship, the Spirit plays a central role in worship. The Bible (God s Word) says that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Jesus (Acts 16:7) and the spirit of our God (I Corinthians 6:11). The Spirit was involved in the creation of the world (Genesis 1:2) and it brought us the Bible (2 Peter 1:21). The Spirit caused the Virgin Mary to conceive (Luke 1:35), guides us into truth (John 16:13), convicts us of sin (John 16:8), performs miracles (Acts 8:39), and intercedes with God for us (Romans 8:26). The Spirit assures us that we belong to God as he speaks to us deep in our hearts (Romans 8:16 NLT). In Evangelical worship, Christians may respond and act spontaneously, or with emotion, and unplanned acts may happen in the service because the believers are moved by the Holy Spirit. Evangelical worship, therefore, emphasises the work of the Holy Spirit and the direct experience of the presence of God by the believer. It is energetic and dynamic. Its members believe they are driven by the power of God moving within them.

31 Role of the Spirit: 2 mark Questions: 1. Who are Evangelical Christians? 2. What does Evangelical worship centre around? 3. What does the Bible say the Holy Spirit is? 4. What was the Spirit involved in? 5. How was the Spirit important in the birth of Jesus? 6. How do Christians respond in Evangelical worship? 7. Who or what are Evangelical Christians driven by during worship?

32 The Afterlife Eschatological beliefs: Eschatological beliefs are beliefs about death, judgement, resurrection and the end of the world. John 11:25-26 I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. John 14: 2-7 My Father s house has many rooms I am going there to prepare a place for you?...i will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know [a] my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him Judgement: Matthew 25:31-46 This passage tells us about the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats. Jesus explains that those who follow Jesus teachings (the sheep) go to heaven. ( whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me ) Those who don t follow Jesus teachings (the goats) will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life. Luke 16: This passage tells of a rich man and a beggar called Lazarus. The rich man never helped Lazarus. When the time came, they both died, and Lazarus was with Abraham in heaven. The rich man, however, was in agony in this fire.

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34 Resurrection: 1 Corinthians 15: So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; 43 it is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; 44 it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed the saying that is written will come true: Death has been swallowed up in victory. Traditional and Contemporary Beliefs about Heaven and Hell Christians believe that there is some sort of life after death, which needs to be prepared for during life Life after death is received through faith Entry to heaven depends on a person's response to Jesus, and to those in need on earth Resurrection is expected, because of the resurrection of Jesus There is a hell - the opposite of heaven - a place of separation from God RC churches: o The souls of very good believers will go directly to heaven o Most others will go to purgatory - a place of cleansing and reflection that is between heaven and earth o Prayers can be said for those in purgatory to shorten their stay there, and intercessions (saying a prayer on behalf of another person) can be made through indulgences and penance (punishment / confession) How important is the belief in the afterlife? Death is certainly a fact of life, but faith in God gives people a confidence that there is an afterlife that is centred and focused on God and His goodness. Christians may have no fear of death as they know that God has prepared an afterlife for them to reward their faithfulness in life. Others believe that what is most important is what is done on earth. Throughout our lives, so long as we try to be honest, kind and thoughtful of others, there is no more that we can do. Another opinion is that after death, there is no afterlife. The only heritage we leave behind is the memories of those who knew us.

35 The Afterlife: 2 mark Questions 1. What are Eschatological beliefs?.. 2. What does John 11: say? 3. Explain the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats. 4. Explain the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. 5. Why do Christians believe that they will be resurrected?

36 6. How is life after death received? 7. Explain Roman Catholic beliefs about life after death. 8. How important is belief in the afterlife? 8 Mark Questions Beliefs PEECPEE & PEEL 1. Explain two Christian teachings about the crucifixion of Jesus and its significance.

37 2. Explain two Christian beliefs about what the Afterlife and the significance of Jesus

38 3. Jesus is a key figure in Christianity Respond to this statement showing that you have considered more than one view point

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40 GCSE Religious Studies Practices Within Christianity Workbook Name: 31 1

41 Key Words in Christianity 1. Omnipotent: The belief that God is all-.. With God s omniscience, He created the world in six days and on the seventh day, He rested. 2. Omnibenevolent: The belief that God is all-loving. God loves us so much that he sent his one and only Son,.., to save the sins of humanity. 3. Trinity: The belief that God is a.. God in three parts: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Each part is distinct and separate, yet of the same Incarnation: This is the belief that God came to earth in human.., i.e. Jesus. This is told in the Nativity story in the Bible, where Jesus was born to Mary a Atonement: At-one-ment means to say sorry and.. with God for your sins. Because of Jesus sacrifice, humans are able to atone with God for their Resurrection: This is the belief that Jesus came back to life after he was... For Christians, this reflects the belief in life after death and the Hope of the spiritual resurrection of the Sacraments: This is a ceremony where a person receives.. grace. For example, in the Sacrament of Baptism, a person s sins are washed away and they receive God s grace as they become a member of God s Evangelism: Spreading.. to others and to convert others to your faith. Missionaries go to other communities and countries to tell the world about Jesus and spread the.. (the good news ). You will need to learn these words and definitions for your exam! In our a) style questions, you will have to give a definition and an example for each word! Word Box Go spel virgin powerf ul faith soul triparti te Jesus family God

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43 Forms of Worship Worship is expressing adoration towards God. Worship is an essential part of a Christian's faith. Christians worship God to thank him for his love, ask for forgiveness for their sins and try to understand his 'will' for them. There are a variety of types of worship: 1. Liturgical: Formal worship based around the sacraments, usually the Holy Communion (Mass). It usually follows a set form or plan. 2. Informal Worship: Informal worship has no set form. It can sometimes be unstructured and spontaneous. 3. Individual (private) worship: Worship on your own to seek a personal relationship with God, e.g. praying or reading the Bible at home. Matthew 18:20: For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them The Nature and Importance of Prayer The Lord s Prayer was taught by Jesus to the disciples when they asked Jesus how they should pray to God. Set prayers: Set prayers are a model or pattern of prayer, for example the Hair Mary or the Lord s Prayer. Informal prayers: Informal prayers follow no set formula. They are open and could include anything that is on the prayer s mind. Society of Friends (Quakers) and Evangelical Worship: The Quakers (the Society of Friends) call worship events meetings for worship rather than services in a meeting house rather than a church. Quaker worship doesn't follow a set liturgy or code of rules - a service has no structure, and no one leads it. This is called informal worship. A meeting begins when two or more worshipers come together to be in the presence of God. Often, worshippers can sit in a room in silence for an hour. From time to time someone may speak briefly, but sometimes the entire hour may pass without a word being spoken. They usually sit facing each other in a square or a circle. This helps them to be aware that they are a group together for worship, and puts everybody in a place of equal status. Everyone waits in shared silence until someone is moved by the Spirit (i.e. has a strong religious feeling) to do something as part of their worship. A person will only speak if they are convinced that they have something that must be shared, and it is rare for a person to speak more than once. Quakers believe that God speaks through the contributions made at the meeting. Some people say that there is often a feeling that a divine presence has settled over the group. The words should come from the soul - from the inner light - rather than the mind. Quakers know that even if the words they feel moved to speak have no particular meaning for themselves, they may carry a message from God to other people. The Spirit assures Quakers that we belong to God as he speaks to us deep in our hearts (Romans 8:16).

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45 Worship: 2 mark Questions 1. What is worship? 2. What are the three types of worship? What does Matthew 18:20 say about prayer? 4. What did Jesus teach the disciples, when asked how to pray to God? 5. What is a set prayer? 6. What is an informal prayer? 7. What is another name for the denomination called the Quakers? 8. Where do Quakers meet? 9. Describe Quaker worship. 10. What is it that moves Quakers to speak?

46 Sacraments That sacraments are ceremonies where a person receives God s grace. They are a visible sign of an invisible grace. There are seven sacraments in total. Different denominations (branches of Christianity, e.g. RC or CoE) emphasise the importance of different sacraments. Baptism Confirmation Holy Confession Marriage Holy Orders Anointing of Holy Water. Full submersion occurs in believer s baptisms. baptism. The believer receives the Holy Spirit. eat the bread (body) and wine (blood) during Mass. commu Believers nity. reconcile The couple atone knowing raise children God for their and sins. a nd the service and vocation. Believers dedicate their lives to God. emotional pain. A priest anoints the body with Holy Oil. Gospel. Welcoming A believer Believers The couple Serving the the Sick into the confirms the Celebrates the confess their live a faithful, God and the Helping those Church promises death and sins to God holy life Church who are in through made on their resurrection of through a within the community spiritual, cleansing of behalf at Jesus. Believers priest. Church through physical or Diversity of Beliefs The Roman Catholic Church recognises all seven sacraments. However, most Protestant (CofE) denominations recognise at least two sacraments Baptism and the Eucharist. This is because they believe that these are the only two sacraments commanded by Jesus and reported by the Gospels. (Jesus himself was baptised by his cousin, John, in the River Jordan; Jesus broke bread at the Last Supper and told his followers to do this in memory of me. Luke 22:19) Christians have differed widely as to the meaning of the sacraments and how God works through them. Catholics, and many Protestants, consider them means of grace through which God bestows spiritual blessing.

47 Other Protestants view the sacraments as signs of Christian profession and testimony to grace that has already been given through faith. They hold that the other five rites are not made sacraments by the New Testament. So while Protestant churches have marriage ceremonies, and many have ordained clergy and a ceremony conferring ordination, they consider these rites to be ordinances rather than sacraments.

48 Sacraments: 2 mark Questions 1. What is a sacrament? 2. How many sacraments are there in total? 3. Name and briefly describe each of the seven sacraments. 4. How many sacraments do the Church of England recognise? 5. Why do the Church of England only recognise these sacraments? 6. What do Catholics and many Protestants consider the sacraments to mean? 7. What do other Protestants consider the sacraments to mean?

49 Baptism John 3: 5 Unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God Meaning and celebration of Baptism: Baptism is the sacrament of cleansing of sins. Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he commanded, Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28: 19-20) Therefore, Baptism is important because Jesus commanded it. Baptism is also important because it is a public declaration of faith. Believer s announce that they have been cleansed and have begun a new life with Christ. The water is a symbol of the person s sins being washed away and the believer can start a new life with God. There are two types of Baptism Infant and Believer s. Infant Baptism normally happens in the RC or CofE Churches. However, Believer s Baptism usually happens in Baptist Churches. I n f a n t B a p t i s m : P arents and godparents promise on the child s behalf Baby is baptised at the font, which is usually near the door of the church to symbolise welcome into God s family Priest says, I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. The priest pours Holy Water on the infant s head three times. candl e is given to the parents to show you have passed from darkness to light. Shine as a light in the world.

50 Believer s Baptism: Also known as adult baptism Believer promises for themselves Believers may give a short talk about their faith and how they became a Christian. This is called their testimony. The believer accepts Jesus as saviour and Lord, and promises to serve God with the help of the Holy Spirit. Believer is baptised by full immersion into a pool or body of water Believer arises spiritually clean

51 Baptism: 2 mark Questions 1. What does John 3:5 say about entering the Kingdom? 2. What is Baptism the sacrament of? 3. What did Jesus command the disciples to do? Why is Baptism important? 5. What does Baptism symbolise? What is water a symbol of? 7. Explain the difference between infant and adult baptism.

52 Eucharist The Eucharist can also be known as The Last Supper, Mass, The Breaking of Bread and Holy Communion. Luke 22:19 He [Jesus] took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me." Meaning and celebration of the Eucharist: On the night before Judas betrayed him, Jesus shared a meal with his disciples. It was to be the Last Supper they were to share together before his death. It was a meal to celebrate the Jewish festival of Passover. At the meal Jesus gave the disciples the instruction to remember him by breaking bread together (Luke 22:14-20). As soon as Jesus left the earth the disciples started to meet together to break bread. Christians continue to do this today and the act is remembered through the receiving of the Eucharist during church services. What do Christians believe about Holy Communion? The Church of England believes that Holy Communion is a time for remembering and being thankful for the death of Jesus. During the service the bread and wine are simply that bread and wine. However, Roman Catholics believe that at some time during the service the bread and wine are mysteriously transformed into the physical body and blood of Jesus. This is called transubstantiation.

53 Eucharist: 2 mark Questions 1. What else can the Eucharist be known as? 2. What did Jesus do, to set the example of celebrating the Eucharist? 3. Why can this also be known as the Last Supper? 4. Why do Christians continue to break bread today? 5. What do the Church of England believe about the Eucharist? 6. What for the Roman Catholic Church believe about the Eucharist? 7. What is transubstantiation?

54 Pilgrimage Pilgrimage is when a person goes on a spiritual journey to a place of religious significance, for example, Walsingham, Lourdes or Taizé. Pilgrimage is important to Christians for many reasons. Believers can: Find spiritual nourishment. Believers can pray, read the Bible and be with other people of the same faith Receive physical, mental or emotional healing Be with God Learn more about their faith Walk where Jesus walked (and other people from the Bible) Ask for forgiveness or help (for themselves or for others) Thank God Places of Pilgrimage: 1. Walsingham: Pilgrims travel to Walsingham in Norfolk. Chrisitans believe that Mary appeared to Richeldis three times, showed her the house where the Angel Gabriel appeared to her and told Richeldis to build a copy of it in Walsingham. However, the builders couldn t build on the designated plots because of heavy moisture, but miraculously the chapel was found built on the only dry spot. Since then, Walsingham has been recognised as one of the holiest places in England, and countless people have visited the village to ask Mary to pray to Jesus on their behalf. 2. Taizé: Taizé is a community in central France. Pilgrims travel to Taizé to share in the community s way of life. Prayer and silence are at the heart of the Taizé experience. Young people from every corner of the globe are encouraged to live out the Christian gospel in a spirit of joy, simplicity and reconciliation. Ecumenism (a movement promoting Christian unity among Churches) is the key to Taizé s appeal, making it a magnet for people of many different cultures and traditions. Taizé has spawned a unique style of worship that has become popular in churches, retreat centres and seminaries throughout the world. The singing of distinctive and much-repeated prayer chants during candlelit prayer services is one of its trademarks. Throughout the summer months, thousands of young people, aged 17 to 30, come to Taizé to explore or rediscover their Christian faith. They will typically camp in the fields around the church and monastery, joining in the community's worship three times a day. They will also spend time studying the Bible, reflecting in silence and meeting in discussion groups.

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56 Pilgrimage: 2 mark Questions 1. What is a pilgrimage? 2. Give three reasons why pilgrimage is believed to be important. 3. Why might a pilgrim go to Walsingham? 4. Why might a pilgrim go to Taizé? 5. What is Ecumenism? 6. What is distinctive at Taizé? 7. Where will pilgrims stay during their pilgrimage to Taizé? 8. What else will pilgrims do during their pilgrimage to Taizé?

57 Celebrations Christmas Christmas marks the birth of Jesus, who is considered to be the Son of God. It is celebrated on December 25th and the story is known as the Nativity. It is the first story told in the accounts of Matthew and Luke in the New Testament. Both accounts tell us that Jesus was born to a woman called Mary who was engaged to Joseph, a carpenter. The Gospels state that Mary was a virgin when she became pregnant. They do, Matthew s Account Joseph was visited by an angel to told him to marry Mary and not expose her pregnancy Wise men followed a star to Jesus birthplace however, have some differences: Luke s Account Mary is visited by an angel who told her she would give birth to God s son Shepherds were led to Bethlehem by an angel Both Gospels tell how Joseph and Mary travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem before Jesus' birth to take part in the census. But when they arrived in Bethlehem the inn was already full, so they had to stay in the stable. It was here, next to the noise and filth of the animals, that Mary gave birth to her son and laid him in a manger. Today, Christmas is celebrated at the end of the season of Advent. This is an important time in the Christian calendar because it is a period of preparation for the birth of Jesus. Some Christians fast during this time. For non-christians, Christmas is the biggest holiday of the year, with the main focus on exchanging gifts. Why is Christmas important? Jesus is God incarnate (God in human form) It marks the end of a world of ignorance, greed and hatred Jesus coming signifies a spiritual turn for mankind that is to be celebrated: "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people." Luke 2:10 Because of God s reason for sending Him to earth: "God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." God became one of us, a human being, so we could understand what he is really like.

58 Celebrating Christmas: Christmas is a time to be with loved ones, to pray and to thank God for the gift of sending his Son, Jesus, so that mankind has a chance at salvation (being saved from their sin). Features of Christmas can include: Nativities to act out the story of when Jesus was born (usually performed by children)

59 Advent candles at church count the weeks until Christmas. Churches hold special services, e.g. midnight mass or carol services. Exchanging of gifts to remember the gifts that the wise men brought for the new king Jesus Cards are sent to family and friends to wish them a Happy Christmas Holly and ivy is often used for decoration. This reminds Christians of Jesus crown of thorns Easter Easter is at the end of Holy Week the last week in the life of Jesus, before his crucifixion. It remembers the sacrifice made by Jesus on mankind s behalf and celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. Jesus had his last meal with his disciples on the evening of a Thursday (remembered as Holy Thursday), was arrested during the night, tried Friday morning (Good Friday), condemned, crucified, and died before sundown on Friday. And, according to the Gospel accounts, he was bodily raised from the dead on the third day Sunday, the day of Easter. Easter is important to Christians because: It demonstrates that Jesus must be the Son of God as he had the power to resurrect It is a triumph over death not just for Jesus, but for humans too In Jesus sacrifice, death and resurrection, sin and death were destroyed It is so special that it needs to be prepared for. Christians fast for 40 days during Lent It offers reconciliation and the chance at a new life with God Jesus restores Christians brokenness by forgiving all wrongdoings of those people who truly repent Jesus death for mankind shows God s unconditional love for all humans How is Easter celebrated? Attending church for a special service. This could be a sunrise service, to celebrate at the very start of Easter Day, or Roman Catholics might go to Rome to take part in a large Mass held by the Pope in St. Peter s Square Lighting candles to remember that Jesus is the light of the world, who has driven out the darkness through His sacrifice Churches are filled with flowers to symbolise new life Priests wear bright robes in celebration Easter is the end to the fasting season of Lent, so a celebratory meal might be shared Easter eggs are given out to remind Christians of new life

60 Celebrations: 2 mark Questions 1. What does Christmas mark? 2. What is the difference between Matthew s and Luke s account of the nativity? 3. Today, when is Christmas celebrated? 4. Give three reasons why Christmas is important. 5. How do Christians celebrate Christmas? (State 5 ways) 6. What does Easter remember? 7. What are the days of Holy Week and what happened on each day? 8. Why is Easter important to Christians? (Give 5 reasons) 9. How is Easter celebrated? (Give 5 ways) 10. What to Easter Eggs remind people of?

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62 Christianity in Britain 2011 census compared to 2001 census Showing an increase in diverse religious and non-religious beliefs and practices Over half of those who responded to the census considered themselves Christian o The results when asked, What is your religion? Census -12.7% difference 72% Christian 15.5 % No religion 7.3% Religion not stated 3% Muslim 1% Hindu 0.6% Sikh 0.5% Jewish 0.3% Buddhist +14.7% difference Increase in other world religions from 2001 to Censu s 9.3% Christi an 5.1% No religio n 7.2% Religion not stated 4.8% Muslim 1.5% Hindu 0.8% Sikh 0.5% Jewish 0.4% Buddhist 0.4% Other religion Is Britain a Christian country? Yes: UK laws, festivals (e.g. Christmas) and traditions (shops being closed on Sundays) that are rooted in the Christian tradition. Our law system is founded on the Ten Commandments, e.g. do not murder and do not steal. Britain has an established Church and its bishops sit in the House of Lords and debate on political issues The Queen s title is, Defender of the Faith. Cultural Christianity is socially accepted because of tradition. We sing carols, celebrate Christian festivals (e.g. Christmas and Easter), accept Christian symbols and phrases, (e.g. it is my cross to bear ) and attend marriages and special ceremonies in religious buildings. Our public holidays still orientate around the Christian calendar, e.g. Christmas and Easter Our national flag includes in it St. George s cross, reminding us once again of our Christian heritage No:

63 Attendance in church is declining. The public worship of Christianity is dying out. Laws about abortion and same-sex marriage have changed, despite opposition from religious groups (e.g. some Roman Catholics) More faiths are contributing to British culture nowadays, e.g. Muslims, Hindus and Jews. Rise of other religions and the non-religious in Britain (see 2011 census)

64 Christianity in Britain: 2 mark Questions 1. According to the 2011 census, what is Britain s most popular religion? What are the main differences between in 2001 and the 2011 censuses? 3. Give four arguments why Britain is a Christian country. 4. Give four arguments why Britain is not a Christian country. 5. Does anything surprise you about the census results?

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66 The Church in the Local Community Church = the wider Christian community. It was officially founded on the day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit visited the apostles. church = the church building Church as a place of worship: For worshippers, a church is God s house and is sacred (special). It is a place for quiet and reflection as well as celebration and joy. Christians will worship here and there are many features of a church to remind Christians of their focus whilst worshipping: i. The church itself is in the shape of a cross. Crosses and crucifixes might decorate the building. These are to remember the sacrifice, death and resurrection of Jesus ii. Stained glass windows remind worshippers of the stories in the Bible iii. The altar is a symbol of God welcoming the people. It is also where Holy Communion or the Eucharist is celebrated. Christians are reminded of the body and blood of Jesus, broken and spilt for mankind iv. The font is where babies are baptised. It is a symbol of welcome into God s family. The water is a symbol of the washing away of sin and starting a new life with God v. The lectern is where the Bible is read from and is usually in the shape of an Eagle. This is a symbol of God s message flying the highest and spreading the farthest (like the eagle) vi. Candles are lit around the church. This is to remind worshippers that Jesus is the light of the world Why worship in a church? The Bible shows communities worshipping together There are signs and symbols that are helpful for worship, e.g. the cross You can talk to other people of the same faith and grow in your own faith Religious leaders are available for prayer, reconciliation and spiritual guidance In the Bible, Christians are told to, speak with one another with psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit. (Ephesians 5:19) Church for social and community functions: Churches try to make a positive impact on their local communities. Through their participation in the saving work of Jesus and the following of the teachings in the Gospels, they are involved in peoples lives to promote faith and the message of God s love. They do this in several ways: Charity, e.g. helping the homeless, food and clothes drives, raising money through fairs and events Community projects, e.g. cleaning up an area; blood drives Providing a youth service or club Evangelistic outreach (spreading faith to others) Advice centres and polling stations Venue for special events and occasions religious and non-religious, e.g. birthday parties, Baptisms and weddings

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68 Church: 2 mark Questions: 1. What is the difference between a Church and a church? 2. Why is the church special? 3. What is the altar a symbol of? 4. What is the font a symbols of? 5. What is the lectern a symbol of? 6. What do candles represent? 7. Why might a person choose to worship in a church? (Give three reasons) 8. Why do Christians try to make a positive impact in their communities? 9. How do Christians try to make a positive impact in their communities? (Give three ways)

69 The Worldwide Church Mission, evangelism and church growth: Mission: A vocation or calling to go out and spread the Christian faith Evangelism: Spreading faith to others. Jesus said to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). Church growth: The effort to expand the numbers of people in the Church Christians follow Jesus who said, "As the Father has sent me, so I send you"(john 20.21). They are called to serve God's mission by living and proclaiming the good news (the Gospel ). For Christians, God's mission is about transformation - transforming individual lives, transforming communities and transforming the world. By following Jesus Christ, they believe that God's mission is revealed to them by the Holy Spirit in three ways: through the Bible through the tradition and life of the Church through listening, praying, thinking and sharing Christian beliefs in action: Tearfund Tearfund are a relief and development charity who aim to tackle the causes and effects of poverty worldwide. Tearfund tackle physical and spiritual poverty by building churches, carrying out community development projects, providing disaster relief and changing unjust practices and policies. Tearfund do this because they recognise the presence of Jesus in all on earth. They believe that each person should be treated equally, with dignity and respect, as Jesus taught. They give everything to follow Jesus, just as in the Parable of the Rich Young Man. It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than it is for a rich man to enter heaven (Matthew 19:24). Persecution of Christians Early Christians were persecuted for their faith. Christian missionaries and converts, both, were killed. Immediately after Jesus death, Christians were hunted down as we are told in the famous conversion of Saul, who thereafter was known as Paul. The New Testament details many examples of Christian persecution at the hands of the Roman Empire. This led to the canonisation of many saints and therefore a more rapid spread of Christianity. The Great Persecution in the 4 th Century AC ordered the imprisonment of Christian priests and Christians were forced to sacrifice to the Roman gods, or face execution. 20,000 Christians died during this time.

70 Today, Christian persecution largely exists among Middle Eastern countries, such as Saudi Arabia, where freedom of religious expression is not practised or allowed. Working for reconciliation: The World Council of Churches The World Council of Churches (WCC) is an inter-church organisation seeking worldwide fellowship and unity for all Christians. The WCC brings together churches, denominations and church fellowships in more than 110 countries and territories throughout the world, representing over 500 million Christians and including most of the world's Orthodox churches, scores of Anglican, Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist and Reformed churches, as well as many United and Independent churches. While the bulk of the WCC's founding churches were European and North American, today most member churches are in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, the Middle East and the Pacific. There are now 348 member churches. For its member churches, the WCC is a unique space: one in which they can reflect, speak, act, worship and work together, challenge and support each other, share and debate with each other. As members of this fellowship, WCC member churches: are called to the goal of visible unity in one faith and one Eucharistic fellowship; promote their common witness in work for mission and evangelism; engage in Christian service by serving human need, breaking down barriers between people, seeking justice and peace, and upholding the integrity of creation; and foster renewal in unity, worship, mission and service. Working for reconciliation: The Ecumenical Movement The Ecumenical Movement is the movement towards worldwide Christian unity or cooperation. Due to historical schisms (splits), the Christian church has divided into many different denominations (branches within Christianity) such as Roman Catholic and Church of England. In some circumstances, the conflict has become so tense that war has broken out within communities, such as the Roman Catholic/Protestant divide in Northern Ireland. Ecumenism understands that these divisions must be overcome, as people are all members of one faith; one Church. Therefore, Ecumenism seeks to reunite what was divided during the schisms in the past. Underlying the movement is the belief that people should be focusing on Jesus and Salvation, not on their individual denominations or organisations. People should be coming together in a dialogue of love and a dialogue of truth, to spread the Gospel and follow in Jesus footsteps on earth. Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

71 Worldwide Church: 2 mark Questions: 1) What is mission? 2) What is evangelism? 3) How are Christians called to serve God s mission? 4) What is meant by: God s mission is about transformation? 5) What three ways is God s mission revealed through the Holy Spirit? 6) Who are Tearfund and what do they do? 7) What was Paul previously known as? 8) How many Christians dies during the Great Persecution? 9) What does WCC stand for?

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73 10) What are the aims of the WCC? 11) What are the member churches of the WCC expected to do? (Name three) 12) What is the Ecumenical Movement? 13) Which country is an example of how war has broken out between Christian denominations? 14) What underlies the Ecumenical Movement? 15) What does Galatians 2:28 say?

74 Christian practices - 8 Mark questions PEECPEE & PEEL 1. Explain different forms of worship in Christianity Explain the importance of two different sacraments in Christianity

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76 Britain is a secular country Discuss this statement showing that you have considered more than one point of view....

77 Contents page Component 3: Islam Islamic Beliefs and Teachings Key words 58 Six Articles of Faith Sunni Islam Five Roots of Religion in Usul ad-din in Shi a Islam The Nature of God (Allah) Risalah: Prophethood, The Prophet Muahmmad and other Prophets Malaikah (angels) Islamic Holy Books Akhirah: The Afterlife Judgement: Heaven and Hell Al Qadr: God s Divine Plan Islamic Practices Key words 96 Five Pillars of Sunni Islam Jihad: Striving for Right Festivals in Islam Ten Obligatory Acts (Furu ad-din of Shi a Islam BLT - Christianity and Islam Exam Structure 142 Assessment Objectives and Band Descriptor

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79 GCSE Religious Studies Islam: Beliefs and Teachings

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81 Key words in Islam 1. Tawhid: Oneness in reference to.. The basic Muslim belief in the oneness of God. 2. Prophethood or risalah : Messengers of God, beginning with.. and Eve and ending with the Prophet Muhammad. 3. Halal (permitted): Actions or things which are permitted within Islam, such as eating permitted Haram (forbidden): Actions or things which are.. within Islam, such as eating forbidden foods. 5..: To strive. There are two forms of jihad. The.. jihad is the daily struggle to live as a Muslim. The lesser jihad is a physical struggle or holy war in.. of Islam. 6. Mosque or masjid : A place of.. for Muslims. It is a communal place of worship for the Muslim community. 7. Shari ah (straight path): A way of..; Muslims believe God has set out a clear.. for how Muslims should live. Shari ah law is the set of moral and religious.. that put the principles set out by the Qur an and the Hadith into practice. 8. Ummah: Means community. Refers to the worldwide.. of Muslims who share a common religious Word Box f oods identi ty Jihad path defen ce Adam rules

82 ... You will need to learn these words and definitions for your exam! In our a) style questions, you will have to give a definition and an example for each word!

83 Six Articles of Faith in Sunni Islam There is no official creed in Islam. (A creed is a set statement of faith that all religious believers follow.) However, for Sunni Muslims, there are six central beliefs, or articles of faith, which define their understanding of God. This teaching can be found in the Hadith, where Muhammad is recorded as saying, You must believe in Allah, his angels, his holy books, his messengers, in the Last Day and in fate (both in its good and in its evil aspects). 1. Allah (God): the unity and oneness of God is called Tawhid. Like Jews and Christians, Muslims believe in one God. The Arabic word for God is Allah, which simply means the (al) God (ilah). 2. Malaikah (angels): God created angels to interact with human lives, bringing his divine message. Each Muslim has two guardian angels who record that person s good and bad actions. 3. Holy books: God has revealled his word to humans in the Qur an. This tells Muslims all they need to know about how to live their lived. Other inspired scriptures include the Tawrat of Musa (Torah), the Zabur or Dawud (Psalms) and the Injil of Isa (Gospels). 4. Risalah (prophethood): God has spoken through numerous prophets throughout time, including Adam, Nuh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus). However, Muhammad is the greatest prophet. 5. Akhirah (the afterlife): Belief in the final judgement and life after death. This life is a preparation for the eternal life that follows. On the last day there will be a time of judgement, when Muslims will have to account for their lives. 6. Al-Qadr (God s predestination): God is responsible for everything and has set out a divine destiny for all things. God has written down all that has happened and all that will happen in the universe. However, this does not take away human free will. Although these six beliefs are central to the Islamic faith, they are not the only important beliefs. Others include: the jihad (striving to do what is right, for God. The greater jihad is the struggle that

84 each person has, as an individual, to follow God s will in their life. The lesser jihad is the fight to defend Islam) and the submission to the will of God.

85 Six Articles of Faith: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is a creed? 2. What, for Muslims, define their understanding of God? What is Muhammad recorded as saying? 4. What is the Muslim belief about Allah? 5. What is the Muslim belief about angels? 6. What is the Muslim belief about holy books? 7. What is the Muslim belief about prophethood? 8. What is the Muslim belief about the afterlife?

86 9. What other important beliefs exist? 10. What is the difference between the greater and lesser jihad?

87 Five Roots of Religion in Usul ad- Din in Shi a Islam All Muslims share the central beliefs of the Islamic faith: the understanding that there is one God (Allah) who is creator, protector and judge; the belief that Muhammad is the Seal of the Prophets, to whom God revealed the Qur an. However, over the centuries, as Islam developed in different cultures and societies, Muslim scholars developed different ways of understanding the faith. Today there are some significant differences in the way different Muslim groups interpret these truths. The five roots of religion (Usul ad-din) Shi a Islam emphasises the importance of five fundamental principles which are sometimes called the roots of religion. Every individual must make themselves aware of these truths as the foundation of their faith. Usul ad-din, the five roots of religion, can also be referred to as the foundation of faith. These are: 1. Oneness of God (Tawhid) a. There is one God who has no equals; he is a divine unity b. He cannot be compared to anyone or anything c. He is perfect and unique and possesses infinite power and knowledge d. He is immortal (he was never born) and has no partner or children e. He alone should be worshipped f. He is God [who is] One, God, the Eternal Refuge. (Qur an 112:1-2) 2. Justice of God (Adl or Adalah) a. God is perfect justice, fairness and wisdom. He does not wrong anyone and will not tolerate wrongdoing

88 b. God cannot abuse his power by performing acts that go against his own nature to be just and fair c. Humans must be responsible for their own actions, good and bad

89 3. Prophethood (Nubuwwah) a. God has appointed prophets and messengers to guide humans, showing them how to live in peace and submission to God b. God sent prophets; some of these brought God s divine scriptures with them c. Muhammad was the Seal of the Prophets, meaning that he brought the final, perfect and unchanging message of God 4. Leadership (Imamate) a. Muhammad was the last prophet (most Muslims believe). Shi as believe that after his death, God appointed 12 infallible Imams to guide the Muslim community, leading them on the path set by Prophet Muhammad. These Imams are part of what Shi as call Ahl al-bayt (the Family of the House) b. The Imams are part of Prophet Muhammad s extended household c. Of the 12 Imams, 11 have been killed. They believe that the 12 th (or hidden) Imam is still alive, but is in hiding (occulation), waiting to reappear and rule on earth with justice. This 12 th Imam is sometimes referred to as Mahdi 5. Resurrection (Qayamat) a. The Day of Judgement will bring the resurrection, when all humans will be physically raised to life to be judged by God b. God will reward the good and punish the evil c. So whoever does an atom s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom s weight of evil will see it. (Qur an 99:7-8)

90 Five Roots of Religion: 2 Mark Questions 1. Who is God reveal the Qur an to? 2. What can Usal ad Din also be known as? 3. Explain the Muslim belief in the Oneness of God. 4. Explain the Muslim belief in the justice of God. 5. Explain the Muslim belief in prophethood. 6. Explain the Muslim beliefs about leadership. 7. Explain the Muslim belief about the resurrection.

91 The Nature of God (Allah) The single most important belief in Islam is Tawhid, the oneness and unity of God. There is one God (Allah) who is the universal God of all humanity. Muslims believe that God is: - Immanent: Close by - Transcendent: Beyond all things; not limited by nature - Omniscient: All-knowing - Beneficent: Always kind; loving - Merciful: Fair; God forgives if we are sorry - Judge: on the last day, God will be our judge - Creator: God is the beginning; he is the cause of all that exists In Shi a Islam, there is an emphasis on Adalat, the Justice of God. This is one of the five roots of religion (Usul ad-din). The Qur an teaches that it was God who created the heavens and the earth and that He has power over all things. (46:33) Al-Fatihah, the opening The al-fatihah is the first surah (chapter) in the Qur an. It means the opening and many Muslims learn to recite it from memory in their daily prayers. The 99 names of God In Islam, God is not to be confused with any living creature; he is beyond all things and cannot be pictured as a physical being. God is outside of human understanding, but for Muslims he lies at the very centre of everything they think and do. So, how do Muslims see God? The Qur an and the Hadith have many different names for God, not as a person, but

92 using words that describe his qualities and attributes. They use names like: King, Protector, Wise, Eternal, Light, etc. These are known as the 99 beautiful names of God. In fact, there are different lists of these names, recorded through different traditions of Muslims, but

93 reciting these names has been a powerful form of prayer for Muslims throughout the centuries. Vision perceived Him not, but He perceives [all] vision; and He is the Subtle, the Acquainted. (Qur an 6:103) The Nature of God: 2 mark Questions 1. What is the most important belief in Islam? 2. What does immanent mean? 3. What does transcendent mean? 4. What does omniscient mean? 5. What does beneficent mean? 6. In Shi a Islam, what is the emphasis on? 7. What is the al-fatihah? 8. Give three examples of the 99 names of God. 9. Why do Muslims use many names for God?

94 God: One, Eternal, Absolute Islam is a monotheistic faith; it teaches that there is only one God. Muslims reject the Christian belief that Jesus is the Son of God. The passage, he begetteth not, nor is he begotten (Qur an 112:3) makes it clear that God has no children and he is not the child of anyone. The sin of shirk Islam warns of the sin of shirk (associating other beings or things with God). This is when a person worships something else other than God. There is one God and there can be no pictures to represent him. Muslims must worship the true God, not the image of him, created by human hands. The prophets bring the word of God, but they are only human; God is divine. For most Muslims, it is a sin of shirk to show a picture of the Prophet Muhammad. Revelation: God reveals his truth Bringing God s message: Islam teaches that God does not communicate directly with humans, but instead he uses special beings (humans and angels) to carry his message to us. God s duty to guide us: Muslims believe that, because all humans have a duty to serve God, he must have shown us what his will is. As humans, we can only know what is truly right and wrong by understanding God s laws. Since God is just, it makes sense to believe that he must have shown us the right path to follow. Revelation of God s inspired truth Revelation is the idea that God has made known his special truth to humans. Islam teaches that the prophets received God s divinely inspired message, instructing humans how to live. God s final and perfect message was given to the Prophet Muhammad, sent down to him over the last 23 years of his life. Each passage was memorised and recorded by his followers and then later written down to form the Qur an, the final revelation. This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of God. (Qur an

95 2:2) Fitrah, the need for God Islam teaches that we are all born with an instinctive need for God. This is called fitrah. It is the natural spirituality that connects us to our creator, making Muslims aware of God s presence and

96 drawing them to worship him. This is where our conscience comes from, helping us discern right from wrong. Taqwa, awareness of God Taqwa is the desire for a personal with God. Muslims try to live in a state of taqwa, the awareness of God. The Qur an refers to taqwa as the highest quality of a Muslim, leading them to show worship and submission to God. Taqwa is often understood as a shield against wrongdoing; it allows Muslims to live as God would want, protecting them from evil. Hanifs, the devout people Islam teaches that, long before the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, in pre-islamic Arabia, there were groups of people known as hanifs. The hanifs rejected idol worship; they believed in one Supreme God, creator of the universe, the God of Ibrahim who had sent revelations to the prophets through the ages. It is said by some Muslims that Muhammad s grandfather was a hanif and through him Muhammad learnt the practice of spending time alone in the desert to fast and pray. Fitrah is the natural instinct that all people are born with to worship God.

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98 God: 2 mark Questions 1. What does monotheistic mean? 2. What is the sin of shirk? 3. How does God communicate with humans? 4. Why do Muslims believe that God has a duty to guide humans? 5. What is revelation? 6. Who was God s final and perfect message given to? 7. Explain the Muslim belief about fitrah. 8. Explain the Muslim belief about taqwa. 9. Who are hanifs and what did they believe? 10. What do some people say about Muhammad s grandfather and what was learnt from him?

99 Risalah: Prophethood A rasal is a prophet. Risalah means bringing prophecy from God. The channel of communication between God and humanity is called risalah; the prophets are our guides. They are human beings chosen to carry guidance from God to people, but their wisdom does not come from within themselves; it comes from God. We have already sent messengers before you and assigned to them wives and descendants (Quran The Qur an teaches that every community has been given its own prophet, bringing God s message in a book. The message brought by the Prophet Muhammad is essentially the same message as had been preached by all the prophets back to Adam: the need to worship the one, true God, who will be the judge of all. Muhammad is the last and greatest prophet Muslims believe that through history, God has communicated to humans through revelations and the last and greatest of these revelations was given to the Prophet Muhammad. Muhammad did not come from a rich family and it is likely that he could not read or write. He was no a learned man or a scholar, but he was very devout. He would take himself off for days to meditate in a cave in the desert, seeking God. Muslims believe that God chose Muhammad as a prophet because he was a humble, honest man; a man he could trust with such a special message. God chooses for Himself whom He wills and guides to Himself whoever turns back [to Him]. (Qur an 42:13) Bringing God s message Islam teaches hat God sent many prophets throughout history; 25 of them are mentioned

100 by name in the Qur an, going right back to the creation of the world. Many of these prophets are characters from the Jewish and Christian scriptures (what Christians refer to as the Bible). However, Islam teaches that, over the centuries, the messages from these prophets have either been lost or corrupted, so there was a need for a final revelation.

101 Muhammad is known as the Seal of the Prophets because his revelation of the Qur an was God s final and absolute word. Muslim tradition says that, in total, there have been around 124,000 prophets and that, once a prophet has been called by God, he lived a sinless life. Muslim authors put PBUH (peace and blessings be upon him) after a prophet s name to show them a deep level of respect. Risalah: 2 mark Questions 1. What is risalah? 2. What are the prophets chosen to do? 3. What is the message preached by all the prophets? 4. How was Muhammad devout? 5. How many prophets are mentioned by name in the Qur an? 6. Approximately how many prophets have there been? 7. What does PBUH mean?

102 The Prophets In Islam, the major prophets (apart from Muhammad) are: Adam, Ibrahim, Musa, Dawud and Isa. Adam Adam is said to be the father of the human race. According to the Qur an, God formed Adam from a handful of soil of many colours. This represents the diversity of people on earth. Eve was created from Adam s rib and they lived together in paradise. They were commanded not to eat from a particular tree, but the devil was able to convince them to taste its fruit. As a result, they were banished to earth. However, Adam confessed his sin and was forgiven, becoming the first prophet. Muslims believe that Adam was created as God s khalifah (his representative on earth). It was his job to rule in the place of God. Tradition says that he built the first Ka ba (House of God the black covered, cube-shaped building at the centre of Islam s holiest mosque) in Makkah. Ibrahim Ibrahim (Abraham) regarded himself as a hanif. This means that he had an inner knowledge that there is only one true God. For this reason, he is seen as the greatest of the prophets before Isa (Jesus). He was born into a family of polytheists (people who believe in many Gods), but he rejected these beliefs in favour or monotheism and became a Muslim (one who bows down to God). Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was one inclining toward truth, a Muslim [submitting to God].And he was not of the polytheists. (Qur an 3:67) Ibrahim had two sons who were both

103 prophets: Ishma il (the prophet to the Arabs) and Ishaq (the prophet to the Jews). For Muslims, Ishma il is the more important because he is an ancestor to Muhammad.

104 When Muslims go on Hajj they remember the distress of Hajar (Ishma il s mother) as she ran between the hills of Al-Safa and Al-Marwah in search of water. They also remember how God instructed Ibrahim to sacrifice Ishma il. When Satan tried to tempt Ibrahim to disobey God, telling him to refuse to sacrifice his son, Ibrahim drove the evil one away by throwing stones at him. There is a tradition that God revealed a holy book to Ibrahim, known as the scrolls of Ibrahim or she Sahifah. The Qur an mentions this book, but no record remains of it today. Musa Musa (Moses) is remembered by Muslims as one of the most significant prophets. The teachings of Ibrahim had been forgotten and his book lost, so a new prophet had to be sent. Musa led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and into the Promised Land. Islam teaches that he was given the word of God, known as the Tawrat (Torah), but the people were disobedient and the message became distorted. Dawud Dawud (David) was Israel s greatest king, who made Jerusalem a holy place for Muslims. He received the word of God in the Zabur (Psalms), beautiful hymns of praise to God. Isa Isa (Jesus) and his mother Maryam (Mary) are the most prominent figures in the Qur an, after Muhammad. It recognises Isa as a prophet and as a successor to Moses. He was given the Injil (Gospels) and he performed miracles. However, Muslims deny the Christian teaching of the Trinity and reject the belief that Isa is God. They say God is one not three. The Qur an teaches that, although it appeared as if Isa had been crucified, in fact he did not die. God could not allow evil men to triumph over his prophet in such a way. Instead, Isa was taken up to heaven and will reappear in the second coming when God judges the world. And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. (Qur an 4:157)

105 The Prophets: 2 Mark Questions 1. Who are the major prophets in Islam? 2. What does khalifah mean? 3. What did Adam build? 4. What are polytheists? 5. Who were Ibrahim s two sons? 6. What is the belief about the scrolls of Ibrahim? 7. Why is Musa considered important? 8. Why is Dawud considered important? 9. Who are the most prominent figures in the Qur an, after Muhammad? 10. What does the Qur an say about Isa s crucifixion?

106 The Prophet Muhammad: Early Life in Makkah What makes Muhammad so important? Islam teaches that Muhammad is the last and the greatest prophet, send by God. He is a role model for Muslims because of the moral and prayerful way he lived his life. Unlike Jesus, he performed no miracles; he was born, lived and died an ordinary man, but Muslims see him as the perfect example of a human being. Who was Muhammad? Muhammad was born in Makkah (in Arabia) in 570CE, but by the age of 6 he had become an orphan. As he grew up, he gained a reputation for truthfulness and intelligence, working as a shepherd for his uncle. In his twenties he entered the service of a wealthy merchant named Khadijah and he so impressed her with his honesty and character that Khadijah proposed marriage. They married and had four daughters, and two sons (who sadly died in infancy). Life in Makkah As he grew older, Muhammad began to feel troubled by the corruption and cruelty he saw in Makkah. He believed that the worship of idols by the people of Makkah was wrong and that there was really only one true God. Laylat-ul-Qadr, the Night of Power Muhammad started to spend more time alone in prayer and solitude and one night, in the year 610CE, while he was praying in a cave near Makkah, he had an experience that would change his life. As he sat meditating, the Angel Jibril appeared before hum and ordered him to recite the words that had miraculously appeared before him. Muslims call this even Laylat-ul- Qadr, the Night of Power, and they remember it today on the 27 th day of Ramadan. It is one of the holiest days of the Muslim year. The revelation of the holy Qur an These revelations were to continue for the next 23 years, until Muhammad s death. He

107 did not always see the Angel Jibril; sometimes he heard a voice speaking to him; sometimes these revelations took place while he was in prayer, at other times when he was going about his every day life. Not once did I receive a revelation without thinking that my soul had been torn away. (Hadith)

108 Prophet Muhammad s message The message brought to the people of Makkah was: - There is one true God, Lord of goodness and power - We need to show thanks to God through worship - There will be a judgement day where God will judge our lives Many in Makkah did not receive this message well; he was ridiculed and insulted. However, some did follow him and they became known as Muslims. Early Life in Makkah: 2 Mark Questions 1. What makes Muhammad so important? 2. Who was Muhammad? 3. What did Muhammad see in Makkah as he grew older? 4. What happened on the Night of Power? 5. How long did it take Muhammad to receive the Qur an? 6. What are the three elements of Prophet Muhammad s message?

109 The Prophet Muhammad: The Muslim Community in Madinah Opposition in Makkah In the years following his first revelation, Prophet Muhammad gained some followers in Makkah, but his ideas also angered many. Makkah was a centre for pagan pilgrims who came to worship the idols in the Ka ba, bringing great wealth into the city. Muhammad began preaching openly that the worship of idols offends God and that these idols were no more than useless bits of wood and stone. His message, that God is merciful, but that there will also be a Day of Judgement caused many to turn against him and threaten violence. For nearly ten years Prophet Muhammad struggled to gain converts in Makkah, with little success and then tragedy struck: two of his closest supporters, his uncle and his wife Khadijah, died. This was a devastating blow. The Hijrah: migration from Makkah to Madinah Not long after, while teaching in Makkah, Prophet Muhammad was approached by some pilgrims from Yathrib, a city some distance to the north. They were impressed with his message and invited him to visit, to judge their community disputes. He agreed and sent some of his followers ahead of him. Now, as he planned to leave, it became clear that his life was in danger; there were people plotting to kill him. Ali (Muhammad s cousin and son-in-law) insisted in staying behind in Makkah, to act as a decoy, whilst Muhammad made the journey. The migration of Muhammad from Makkah to Yathrib is known as the Hijrah. It marks the start of the

110 Muslim calendar. Muslims follow a lunar Prophet Muhammad was welcomed into Yathrib, where he came to calendar be seen which not is just 11 as days a prophet, but also as a political leader and military commander. He shorted became than the the city s Western ruler calendar. Each year consists of 12 lunar months (cycles of the moon) lasting a total of 354 days.

111 and it was renamed Madinah (City of the Prophet). For the next ten years he worked to unite the different communities. There are a number of Jewish tribes in Madinah and he had expected them to become Muslims. However, many rejected Prophet Muhammad s belief that the revelations he received were from the same God that they worshipped. They refused to believe that they should now turn towards Makkah to Madinah today pray (instead of Jerusalem) and that they should fast during Ramadan. Some of these Jewish tribes in Madinah began to plot against Muhammad and so he was forced to expel them from the city. By 630CE he has gained enough support across Arabia to march on Makkah with an army of 10,000 men. Faced with this overwhelming force, the rulers of the city conceded defeat and opened the gates. Makkah was taken without the shedding of a drop of blood and the Ka ba was cleansed of idols and re-dedicated to Allah. Muhammad returns to Makkah triumphant In 630CE Muhammad and his followers were able to return to Makkah, where they forgave their enemies and established Islam as a permanent religion. Muhammad was not accepted as the final and true prophet of God. He continued to lead his community until his death in 632CE. I leave behind me two things, the Qur an and the example of my life (the Sunnah). If you follow these you will not fail. (Muhammad s final sermon in Makkah)

112 Madhinah: 2 Mark Questions 1. What tragedy struck Muhammad in Makkah? 2. What is Hijrah? 3. Explain the Muslim calendar. 4. Who stayed in Makkah to act as a decoy? 5. In Yathrib, what did Muhammad become? 6. What was Yathrib renamed as and what does it mean? 7. How many men did Muhammad have to march on Makkah? 8. What was amazing about Muhammad s victory over Makkah? 9. What happened after Makkah was established as a centre for Muslim worship? 10. What did Muhammad say he left behind?

113 Malaikah (angels) Communicating God s message Islam teaches that angels are heavenly, immortal beings, God s first creation. According to the Qur an, humans were formed from clay, but angels were made out of light. They are God s messengers, the channels through which we can become aware of his laws and his purpose in our lives. They are God s servants and they can take on many forms to carry out his commands, but unlike humans they have no free will. They are without sin and so they are able to enter into God s divine presence, but they also communicate with humans. The nature of angels Although angels are invisible, they exist everywhere, throughout the whole universe. They are never far away and they are always in contact with humans, especially when someone prays or thinks about God. They have no physical bodies, but the Qur an describes them as having wings and are always described as male. Angels mentioned by name In the Islamic tradition, there are countless angels, but the Qur an and the Hadith mentions some by name: 1. Jibril (Gabriel) is the angel of revelation. He is the archangel who is responsible for revealing the Qur an to Muhammad and brings messages to God s chosen ones 2. Mika il (Michael) is the archangel responsible for keeping the devil out of heaven and protecting faithful worshippers. He brings sustenance for the body and soul and rainfall for the earth, to water the land 3. Israfil (Raphael) is the archangel who will blow the trumpet on the Day of Judgement to announce the resurrection of all from the dead 4. Azrail is the archangel that takes souls at death 5. Raqib and Atid are the angels referred to in the Qur an as the noble recorders. They sit, one on each shoulder, noting down our good and bad deeds, to be read from the book on the lastday

114 6. Munkar and Nakir are the two terrifying, judging angels who will question each person after their death, testing their faith

115 Malaikah (angels): 2 mark Questions 1. What does Islam teach about angels? 2. What is the role of angels? 3. Describe the nature of angels. 4. Where are the angels mentioned by name? 5. Who is Jibril and what is he responsible for? 6. What is Mika il responsible for? 7. What is Israfil responsible for? 8. What is Azrail responsible for? 9. What do Raqib and Atid do? 10. What do Munkar and Nakir do?

116 Islamic Holy Books God s Message Muslims believe that God has sent messages to set out the laws and moral codes by which humanity should live. These communications are called revelations and the most significant among them is the Qur an, God s final written word. The Arabic word for book is kitab (plural kutub ). The Qur an is known as Umm-ul- Kitab: Mother of Books The Qur an is believed to be a sacred text, perfectly inspired by God and thus free from any mistakes or distortion. However, Muslims do believe that God revealed his laws in stages, through the prophets. Muslims have a respect for all previous scriptures from the messengers of God, but they see the Qur an as the completion of the earlier books. God s perfect revelation Muslims believe that the Qur an is the direct and perfect word of God. Sunni Muslims say that it has always existed and is with God in heaven, written in Arabic on a tablet of stone. The Qur an introduces itself as being the guidance for the worlds (3:96) and Muslims believe that God has sent down this guidance in the form of a book to give a solution to any human problem. We have sent down to you the Book as clarification for all things as guidance and mercy and good tidings for the Muslims. (Qur an 16:89) A guide to life Muslims respect and honour the Qur an and use it as a guide for their lives. It teaches them how to worship, how to treat other people and how to live good lives. They learn it by heart in Arabic,

117 reading and reciting it daily; they take immense care in writing it out; they allow it to guide every action and thought.

118 Kutub: holy books The Qur an names four other holy books, known in Arabic as kutub. These are from the Jewish and Christian traditions and, according to Islam, in their original form, they were true revelations from God. However, because they were not properly written down or preserved, they are now believed to be corrupted. So, unlike the perfect Qur an, they cannot be trusted as the true word of God. 1. Sahifah: The Scrolls of Ibrahim, now lost 2. Tawrat (Torah): the revelation given to Musa (Moses) 3. Zabur (Psalms): given to Dawud (David) 4. Injil (Gospel): the teaching given to Isa (Jesus) The Hadith: the sayings of Muhammad There are collections of thousands of Muhammad s sayings, called hadiths, which form part of what Muslims call the Hadith. These are not revelations, because they are the words of the prophet, not the words of God. However, they have enormous significance for Muslims because the whole of Muhammad s life is considered to be a living Qur an As his third wife, Aisha, said of him: His way of life is the Qur an.

119 Holy Books: 2 Mark Questions 1. What are communication from God known as? 2. What is the Qur an free from? 3. What do Sunni Muslims say about the Qur an?.. 4. How do Muslims use the Qur an in their lives? 5. What are kutub? 6. Why are the kutub not trusted to be the word of God? 7. What are the four holy books taken from Judaism and Christianity? 8. What is the Hadith? 9. Why is the Hadith not a revelation? 10. What did Muhammad s third wife say about Muhammad?

120 Akhirah: the afterlife For Muslims, this world is not all there is. Our human existence will continue after death; our earthy life is just a preparation for the eternal life to come (Akhirah). Our mortal lives are a test and we will be judged according to how we have lived. As humans, we have been given free will, so we are able to make choices about what to believe and how to treat others. We will be held responsible for these thoughts and actions when God comes to judge us on the last day. The Angel Israfil will blow a trumpet to announce the Day of Judgement. The trumpet is constantly on his limps, awaiting the command from God. Signs of the end of the world Many signs will mark the end of the world, but the most importance will be the appearance of the Mahdi. His return will coincide with the second coming of Isa (Jesus). A false messiah will also attempt to deceive the people. Other signs include: abundance of earthquakes, the spreading of killing, rejection of Islam, increase in dishonesty, drunkenness, obscenity, nakedness and fornication. Society will be full of terrible corruption and chaos. Day of Judgement: the test On the Day of Judgement, the dead will be raised from their graves and all people will stand before God to be sentences according to the way they have lived their lives. A book which represents everything an individual has done, is presented to each of them. If the person s good deeds outweigh the bad, then they will receive the book in their right hand and pass into heaven. If it is placed into their left hand, they will be among the damned. On the Day of Judgement, the Book of Deeds will be read, in which every small and great thing is recorded. (Qur an 54:52) How are people judged? Every soul shall have a taste of death. (Qur an 3:185)

121 The Qur an gives many warnings about the Day of Judgement and Muslims are encouraged to question themselves: Am I ready to face death? What have I done to prepare for that day?

122 Akhirah: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is our earthly life a preparation for? 2. What is Akhirah? 3. What role will the Angel Israfil play? 4. State at least three signs of the end of the world. 5. What will happen on the Day of Judgement? 6. On the Day of Judgement, a book is placed in your hand. What is its importance? 7. What is in the book? 8. How are people judged?

123 Judgement: heaven and hell God weighs our deeds God judges each person s actions, but intentions (niyyah) are also taken into consideration. If the person has the intention to do a good deed, but was unable to carry it out, this is counted as a good deed If they intended and carried out a good deed, this is counted as ten good deeds If the person intended a bad deed, but did not do it, that is counted as a good deed If they intended and carried out a bad deed, God records that as one bad deed God tests people s faith The two terrifying judging angels, Munkar and Nakir, will question each person, testing their faith. In order to give the correct answer to their questions, it is not enough to just learn to recite the Shahadah. If the person has not truly lived a life of submission to God, following the Five Pillars, they will be incapable of giving the right response on the day. Barzakh Only God knows when the Day of Judgement will come. Muslims believe that, for those who die before that day, the angel of death, Azrail, will come to take their souls to await the day. They will be kept in a state of barzakh (waiting) until the sound of the final trumpet is heard. Life beyond death Islam provides the most graphic descriptions of what awaits after death. Heaven and hell are described as very real places, but some Muslims interpret these descriptions symbolically, since what exists beyond death must exist in a different dimension from our own world. Heaven (Janna) is a state of joy, happiness and peace. After judgement, people will pass over the very narrow bridge of As-Sirat. Those who have been blessed by God will successfully cross to heaven (Janna) on the other side. This will include those who have lived faithful and moral lives, those who have been persecuted for their faith in God and those who have fought for God. Muslims believe that heaven is a reward for living a good life, so everything that one longs for on earth will be found in paradise: beautiful gardens, delicious food, gently flowing rivers, lovely serving maidens and reclining couches.

124 Hell (Jahannam) is a state of torment and suffering. The wicked, those whom God has damned, will fail to pass over the As-Sirat bridge. In trying to cross they will fall into hell, which is a place of terror, where the damned will face boiling water, scorching fire and black smoke. As well as experiencing the physical torment, those condemned to hell will suffer because they are separated from God, without hope of return.

125 Judgement: 2 Mark Questions 1. Which action will be written down by God as a bad deed? 2. How does God test people s faith? 3. What is Barzakh? 4. Explain the Muslim idea of heaven (Janna). 5. Explain the Muslim idea of hell (Jahannam).

126 Al-Qadr, God s Divine Plan God has eternal foreknowledge Islam teaches that God is responsible for all things and that he has a divine plan for all of us (al-qadr). God has a masterplan; everything that happens is predestined to take place; it is all part of his design. He is the cause of all things and the whole of creation is under his control. God knows all things in the greatest detail, with accuracy that we, as human, could never imagine. Everything is part of a larger plan Muslims believe that we can never know the reasons behind the universe, but that it is all part of a larger picture. God is the all-knowing one; his knowledge is complete and perfect. He even knows the secrets of our hearts. He knows what is within the heavens and the earth and knows what you conceal and what you declare. And God is Knowing of that within the breasts. (Qur an 64:4) Insha Allah, if God is willing Muslims believe that things which some people might call coincidences are, in fact, part of God s plan. The word insha Allah expresses the belief that all events are outside of our own control; they are in the hands of God. When a Muslim says insha Allah they are acknowledging that they are in submission to God. They will only succeed in their plans if God is also willing to make it happen. Insha Allah: if God allows it comes from joining the Arabic words Allah and his will. It is a very h f Can good come out of suffering? If all things are part of the will of God, then that must include suffering, pain, disease and disasters. It is easy to see how good can come out of things which cause suffering, like training to run a marathon, but harder to understand how hurricanes and wars can be seen in a positive way. Islam teaches that painful experiences need to be viewed as opportunities for our own growth as human beings. Free Will Islam teaches that we all have free will and God will hold us accountable for our decisions on the Day of Judgement. Humans are not puppets or robots; we have the ability to choose right from wrong. God wants us to

127 follow the straight path, but it is up to us to make the right choices. Central to Islamic thought is the idea that life is a test and we need to learn how to turn away from evil. He may let them taste part of [the consequence of] what they have done that perhaps they will return [to righteousness]. (Qur an 30:41)

128 Al-Qadr: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is al-qadr? 2. What does the Qur an tell us about God s knowledge? 3. What does Insha Allah mean? 4. What does saying Insha Allah express belief in? 5. According to Islam, how can good things come out of suffering? 6. What are we accountable for? 7. What does God want us to follow? 8. What is central to Islamic thought?

129 Islamic Beliefs 5 Mark questions PEECPEEL 1. Explain Muslims teachings about Allah 2. Explain why Prophets are important in Islam 3. Explain Islamic beliefs about Qadr (Pre-destination)

130 Islamic Beliefs 8 Mark Questions PEECPEE & PEEL 1. Explain Muslim teachings about Tawhid (Oneness) of Allah 2. Explain Muslim teachings about Angels

131 3. Believing in the Prophet Muhammad is a fundamental belief in Islam Discuss this statement showing that you have considered more than one view point.

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134 GCSE Religious Studies Islam: Practices Name: 1 95

135 Key words in Islam 1. Tawhid: Oneness in reference to.. The basic Muslim belief in the oneness of God. 2. Prophethood or risalah : Messengers of God, beginning with.. and Eve and ending with the Prophet Muhammad. 3. Halal (permitted): Actions or things which are permitted within Islam, such as eating permitted Haram (forbidden): Actions or things which are.. within Islam, such as eating forbidden foods. 5..: To strive. There are two forms of jihad. The.. jihad is the daily struggle to live as a Muslim. The lesser jihad is a physical struggle or holy war in.. of Islam. 6. Mosque or masjid : A place of.. for Muslims. It is a communal place of worship for the Muslim community. 7. Shari ah (straight path): A way of..; Muslims believe God has set out a clear.. for how Muslims should live. Shari ah law is the set of moral and religious.. that put the principles set out by the Qur an and the Hadith into practice. 8. Ummah: Means community. Refers to the worldwide.. of Muslims who share a common religious Word Box f oods identi ty Jihad path defen ce Adam

136 ... You will need to learn these words and definitions for your exam! In our a) style questions, you will have to give a definition and an example for each word!

137 Five Pillars of Sunni Islam Ibadah: worship For Muslims, actions speak louder than words and it is not enough to just have faith in God. They believe that it is necessary to show religious commitment through the way they live their entire lives. Every action is a form of worship; this is called ibadah. People in Western countries sometimes think that religions are just sets of beliefs, or a collection of option faith-based activities. However, Muslims have always been very clear that Islam is a complete way of life; worship is a 24/7 reality, to be lived fully, not just as an afterthought to add on to our secular lives. The Five Pillars Sunni Islam teaches that all Muslims have a duty to worship God by following the Five Pillars. These actions are all ibadah, acts of worship carried out with the intention of obeying God. They are: 1. Shahadah: the declaration of faith which says There is no god but God and Muhammad is his prophet. 2. Salah: prayer, five times a day 3. Zakah: charity, giving money to the poor 4. Sawm: fasting during the month of Ramadan 5. Hajj: pilgrimage to Makkah By following these rules, Muslims believe that they can show their obedience to the will of God. The Shari ah (Islamic Law) sets out the Five Pillars as religious duties; they are seen as practical signs which demonstrate true submission to the divine creator. They must be carried out with niyyah, the true intention to submit to the will of God. Muslims say that there can be no doubt that they have been instructed by God to complete the Five Pillars: the Qur an contains many references as to their importance and, in his last sermon, Prophet Muhammad makes clear mention of them: O People, listen to me in earnest, worship God, perform your five daily prayers, fast during the

138 month of Ramadan and offer Zakah. Perform Hajj if you have the means. (Hadith) Niyyah: Intention

139 Niyyah means having the right intention to worship God. Muslims believe that it is important to have God consciousness (taqwa). They may not always be in the right mood to worship God, or they may feel unworthy to meet him, but when praying it is important to dedicate that time to being in his presence. Sometimes there may be a strong feeling that God is present and at other times he may seem distant, but God is merciful and judges the desire to communicate with him, even if we feel we do not succeed. Five Pillars: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is ibadah? 2. For Muslims, what else is Islam, other than a religion? 3. What are the Five Pillars acts of? 4. What is Shahadah? 5. What is Salah? 6. What is Zakah? 7. What is Sawm? 8. What is Hajj? 9. What does following the Five Pillars demonstrate? 10. What is niyyah?

140 Shahadah: The Declaration of Faith The First Pillar The first pillar of Islam is the Shahadah. It declares that there is no god but God, and Muhammad is the prophet of God. This statement forms the central support for the House of Islam : the other four pillars are all outward expressions of this deeply held belief. God witnesses that there is no deity except Him, and [so do] the angels and those of knowledge [that He is] maintaining [creation] in justice. There is no deity except Him, the Exulted in Might, the Wise. (Qur an 3:18) A statement of faith For Muslims, the words of the Shahadah are heard throughout the day in countless aspects of their lives. They are announced in the adhan (call to prayer) from the minaret in the mosque and recited in each of the five daily prayers. These words are also known as the Kalimah prayer. They are the first words whispered into a new-born baby s ear and, if possible, they are the last words a dying Muslim hears on their death-bed. Muslim soldiers have these words on their lips as they go into battle. Monotheism The Shahadah states the existence of one God; this is called monotheism. This means that Muslims reject belief in many gods (polytheism) and they oppose the atheist concept of a world without a God. The Shahadah also denies the Christian belief in the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit). Muslims have a deep respect for Jesus (Isa) but to them he is a great prophet, not a divine being. Islam (like Judaism and Sikhism) declares that God is one. Conversion or reversion There are no ceremonies or rituals to welcome new believers to Islam. All one needs to do to become a Muslim is to recite the Shahadah. Some refer to this as conversion, to change from one religion to another; others call it reversion. They say that, The Shadadah sums up the religion of Islam: the belief in the one and only almighty God and the acceptance of Muhammad as the final messenger, a man sent by God to reveal the divine path to life (the Shari ah).

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142 because God is our creator, we were all born as worshippers of the true God and so when we discover faith we return (revert) to our natural faith. Famous converts Famous people who have converted (or reverted) to Islam include: Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens), Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Janet Jackson and Malcolm X. The Prophet said: Whoever says: there is no god but God enters paradise. (Hadith) Shahadah: Questions 1. What is the first pillar of Islam called and what does it declare? 2. When is the Shahadah heard in everyday life? 3. When else is the Kalimah prayer said? 4. What do Muslim soldiers do when going into battle? 5. What is monotheism? 5. What do Muslims believe about Jesus (Isa)? 6. What do Muslims call conversion? 7. Why do Muslims believe in reversion? 8. Name three people who famously converted (reverted) to Islam. 9. What did the Prophet say in the Hadith?

143 Salah The Second Pillar The second pillar of Islam is Salah, the practice of prayer. For Muslims, prayer is the most important way to worship God. It is a duty for all Muslims to pray five times a day. Muhammad called prayer the pillar of religion and it reminds them to give thanks for God s blessings and of the importance of submitting to God s will. It is a physical, mental and spiritual activity that draws believers closer to God. Salah means bowing or worship. There are over 700 verses in the Qur an that refer to it! Preparation for prayer Preparation for prayer is vital because coming into the presence of God requires a deep sense of respect and reverence. Prayer begins with a declaration of intent (niyyah). It must be a deliberate act, to set aside a few minutes to focus on God and enter into a state of God consciousness. This allows Muslims to concentrate on God s greatness, to thank and praise him and ask for his forgiveness. Wudu: ablution (washing) Before starting to pray, Muslims must practise wudu, washing specific parts of the body: hands, mouth, nose, face, arms, head and feet, in a particular order. This is an outward sign of the inner cleanliness needed to face God. How to pray The Qur an and the Sunnah give Muslims clear guidance on how and when to pray. Salah takes place five times a day: Fajr (just after dawn) Zuhr (just after midday) As r (late afternoon) Maghrib (just after sunset) Isha (after dark) Muslims must find somewhere with a room to stand, bow and prostrate themselves (kneeling with their face to the ground). This can be at the mosque, at home or anywhere safe and clean. Muslims pray by facing Makkah; this direction is called Qibla. The rak ahs A rak ah is a sequence of movements, following a set pattern, which make up the prayer routine. The different prayers during the day require different numbers of rak ahs. During worship the worshipper will: Stand quietly, reciting the prayers from the Qur an Bow low, with hands on knees 7

144 Prostrate on the floor, in submission to God Kneel with feet folded up under body Stand, reciting Peace be upon you, and God s blessing, once facing to the right, once facing to the left The aims of prayer: Mosque or masjid is a place of prostration for Muslims; it is a communal place of worship for a Muslim community. o o o o o o As a constant reminder of the presence of God To show submission to the will of God To cleanse away the corruption of the world To unite all Muslims To bring about peace in the world To remove sins, just as water removes dirt Jumu ah (congregational) prayers In Islam, Friday is the day when Muslims come together at the mosque for Jumu ah (congregational) prayer. Muslim men are expected to gather for the Friday midday (Zuhr) prayers. Muslim women may attend these community prayers, but traditionally they pray at home. One of the main features of the Jumu ah prayers is the sermon (khutbah) given by the imam. Unlike the Sabbath for Jews and Christians, Friday is not seen as a holy day. In some Muslim countries it is a day of rest, but in Western countries it may well be a working day. Du a (personal) prayer The Salah prayers are a duty for all Muslims, five times a day, but people who love God will often choose to find time to make their own, personal connection with God. There are no set times for Du a prayers; they are spontaneous opportunities to spend time in the presence of God. Missed prayers Muslims should try to pray at the allocated times, set out clearly in the Islamic prayer schedule for every day of the year, but if they miss a prayer then it is acceptable to catch up later. However, it would be seen as a sin to miss prayers regularly without a valid reason. If one of you sleeps and misses a prayer, or forgets it, let him offer the prayer when he remembers. (Hadith) Why do Muslims pray five times a day? Both the Qur an and the Hadith contain Prophet Muhammad s night journey. In the story, Muhammad is woken from his sleep and taken on a winged horse to Jerusalem and then up through seven levels of heaven, to the very presence of God. Here, God reveals to Prophet Muhammad that Muslims must pray continuously, 50 times a day. Worship must be a constant presence throughout life. However, Moses intervenes and says this is too much and eventually it was agreed that there must be five prayer times each day.

145 Salah: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is the second pillar of Islam called and what does it remind Muslims to do? 2. What does prayer begin with? 3. What is wudu and what does it symbolise? 4. How many times a day does Salah take place? 5. What are the rak ahs? 5. State three aims of prayer. 6. What are Jumu ah prayers? 7. What is the difference between male and female worship on the Sabbath? 8. What is Du a? 9. What happens if a Muslim misses his/her prayers? 10. What do Muslims pray five times a day?

146 Zakah: Charity The Third Pillar The third pillar of Islam is Zakah, the practice of charity, giving money to the poor. All Muslims are expected to be charitable as a regular duty, giving 2.5% of their wealth every year. They can be sure that God will reward them for their acts of giving. Be generous and kind The Qur an makes a clear command: to give to those in need, to widows, orphans and travellers. It is an obligation and a form of worship to be generous and kind for the benefit of humanity. Zakah is closely associated with prayer; what value is it to pray for others if you are not prepared to share with them? Zakah is purity Giving a sign of cleansing and purity. The Qur an teaches that money may have a corrupting influence; wealth can be an evil thing because it may cut us off from each other and from God. Zakah is a purifying influence, giving us the opportunity to share our wealth and offering us a means of purification. Wealth is not ours; it must be shared According to Islam, our wealth and our property are not ours; wealth is given to us by God, for the benefit of all humans. It is our duty to share the good fortune that we have received, not to hoard it and spend it purely for selfish reasons. Islam disapproves of gambling. Money should be shared, not wasted for personal satisfaction. Gambling is seen as a great sin, because it makes people dependent on chance rather than relying on God to provide. Humans are khalifahs (stewards) The Qur an teaches that humans are khalifahs (God s representatives on earth). This means that we are stewards and trustees of the world; we do not own it, we are looking after it in trust, for God, to hand it on to our children and to future generations. Therefore, we should not view our possessions as our own; they are on loan to us from God, so we do not have the absolute right to spend our money as we choose. Prophet Muhammad practised Zakah

147 The practice of giving Zakah began when Prophet Muhammad was the ruler in Madinah. After the first battles, there were many orphans and widows and the prophet instructed people to care for all those in need. The one who looks after and works for a widow and for a poor person is like a warrior fighting for God s cause. (Hadith) Zakah: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is Zakah? 2. What percentage of their wealth must Muslims give per year? 3. What is giving to charity a form of? 4. What sort of influence can Zakah have? 5. Why must wealth be shared? 5. What is seen as a great sin? 6. What are khalifahs? 7. What do Muslims consider on loan to us from God? 8. How did the Prophet Muhammad practise Zakah? 9. What does the Hadith say about charity work?

148 Sawm: Fasting During Ramadan The Fourth Pillar The fourth pillar of Islam is Sawm, the practice of fasting during the month of Ramadan. For many Muslims, it is the holiest month of the year, being a time dedicated to self-discipline and spiritual reflection. Ramadan holds a special place in the Muslim calendar, because it is believed to be the month in which the Prophet Muhammad received the first verses of the Qur an, revealed to him by God. Fasting: self-control Fasting is the deliberate control of the body and Muslims are expected to refrain from eating, drinking (including water), smoking and sexual intercourse from dawn until dusk for the period of 29/30 days. They must also abstain from evil thoughts, harmful actions and unkind speech. When to fast? The beginning of Ramadan is marked by the appearance of the new (crescent) moon in the sky, signalling the start of a new month. It ends 29/30 days later with the beginning of the tenth month, Shawwal, heralding the start of celebrations for Id-ul-Fitr. According to the Qur an, the fast must begin each day at first light and continue until dusk. At dawn, eating and drinking must cease at the moment when it becomes light enough to distinguish a black thread from a white one. Food and drink may only be consumed again at the end of the day, after dark. A special meal, known as suhur, is eaten before dawn. At dusk, the fast is broken by the iftar meal, often consisting of dates and water, before a bigger meal is shared. These meals during Ramadan are often very social events, with family, neighbours and friends gathering in homes and mosques to provide for each other. In this way, Ramadan brings a very happy, community focus to Islamic society.

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150 Celebrating the Qur an During Ramadan, Muslims gather at the mosque for extra night prayers. This includes the recitation of a section of the Qur an each day, so that by the end of the month, the whole Qur an has been recited. All Muslims should try to attend the mosque on the 27 th day of Ramadan to celebrate Laylat-ul-Qadr, the night of power. This is remembered as the date of the first revelation of the Qur an, when the Angel Jibril first visited Prophet Muhammad. Why do Muslims fast? Muslims believe that the fast is important because it: Is commanded in the Qur an by God Follows the example of the Prophet Muhammad (Sunnah) Celebrates the fact that God has given humans the Qur an Brings people closer to God Is a reminder of the mercy and blessings of God Helps Muslims to identify with the poor Promotes self-control Helps to recharge spiritual batteries Unties Muslim communities (ummah) Who should fast? God has instructed that all adult Muslims are to fast during Ramadan. Children, from quite a young age, often begin to fast for just a few days in the month. According to the Qur an, if someone is ill or travelling they are exempt from fasting, although they would be expected to make up the days at a later time. Some Muslims argue that fasting times should be standardised. Muslims who live in the Middle East (nearer to the equator) only ever have to fast for a maximum of 15 hours, whereas in an English summer, Muslims might need to fast for up to 19 hours each day. This is especially difficult for school students who are doing exams in the summer months.

151 Sawm: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is Sawm? 2. Why is Ramadan special to Muslims? 3. What are Muslims expected to refrain from during their fast? 4. When do Muslims start and end their fast each day? 5. How does celebrating Ramadan bring the community together? 5. Where might Muslims gather at night? 6. Why should all Muslims attend the mosque on the 27 th day of Ramadan? 7. State four reasons why Muslims fast. 8. Who is exempt from fasting? 9. Why do some people believe that fasting times should be standardised?

152 Hajj: Pilgrimage to Makkah The Fifth Pillar The fifth pillar of Islam is Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah. This is the only pillar of Islam that Muslims don t have to perform. It is compulsory for those who are able to make the journey, but the Qur an only commands it as a duty for those who: Have enough money to leave their homes for a lengthy period Are physically and mentally fit enough to carry out this demanding ritual For most Muslims, to set out for the Hajj would be the ambition of a lifetime. Those who have succeeded in completing it often count it The Qur an instructs believers to go on Hajj, but does not specify many details. The Sunnah describes the pilgrimages the Prophet Muhammad performed and how he as the greatest achievement of their lives. Hajji (male) or Hajjah (female) is the special title given to someone who has successfully completed the Hajj pilgrimage. This is a great honour. The importance of Makkah Makkah is considered by Muslims to be the holiest city on earth. Because it is the city of God, it has immense spiritual significance in Islam. Muslims believe that it is here that: o o o o o o o Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was commanded by God, in a dream, to sacrifice his son,isma il Ibrahim overcame a test when the devil appeared, trying to trick him into denying God s word. Ibrahim threw stones to drive the devil away Ibrahim s wife, Hajar, searched frantically for water in the desert. Miraculously, an angel showed her the Zamzam well Ibrahim built the Ka ba as a place of worship to the one true God Prophet Muhammad was born Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations from God Prophet Muhammad returned before his death to reclaim the city for God The route of the Hajj pilgrimage takes believers to the sacred sites where many of these events are said to have taken place. Preparations: entering a state of ihram On arriving in Makkah, pilgrims enter a state of ihram (purity), where they dedicate themselves to humility and prayer. Normal clothing is Ihram is a sacred state of purity, symbolised by the white garments worn on Hajj. Muslims must make a special intention (niyyah) to dedicate themselves to worshipping God when they arrive in Makkah. put away and the pilgrims put on special garments: men must wear two sheets of white, unsewn cloth;

153 women must put on a plain, ankle-length garment, but they can leave their faces uncovered, since no man will stare lustfully at a woman on Hajj. British Muslims undertaking Hajj Every year, about three million Muslims from around the world converge on Makkah for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Of these, 100,000 will be from Britain; some will be returning having made the pilgrimage before, others will be experiencing it for the first time. For many it will be a deeply spiritual experience. The pilgrimage begins The pilgrimage usually lasts five days. It includes: 1. The tawaf: circling the Ka ba seven times. If they can get close enough, pilgrims try to kiss the Black Stone 2. Walking seven times between two hills of Mawah and Safa, in memory of Hajar, Ibrahim s wife, in her frantic search for water for her son 3. Drinking from the Zam Zam well, remembering the spring of water revealled to Prophet Ibrahim s wife Hajar by the angel 4. The wukuf: standing before God on the Plain of Arafat, at the Mount of Mercy, remembering God s mercy and forgiveness. This is, perhaps, the most important part of the whole Hajj 5. Collecting pebbles at Muzdalafah 6. Hurling these pebbles at the pillars at Mina to show rejection of the devil, as Ibrahim did when faced with temptation 7. Camping at Mina, sacrificing an animal 8. Men shaving their heads when Hajj is complete 9. Returning to Makkah to repeat the tawaf (circling the Ka ba) The climax of the Hajj is the annual festival of Id-ul-Adha, the most important of all Muslim celebrations. This is a special time for the pilgrims, because this part of the Hajj is celebrated by all Muslims, whether they have made the journey to Makkah or not. It is an opportunity for the Muslim community (ummah) to join together in worship of God.

154 Hajj: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is Hajj? 2. Who is Hajj a duty for? 3. What are the titles given to men and women who have completed Hajj? 4. Give three reasons why Makkah is considered important What is ihram? 5. When dead, why are Hajjis/Hajjahs buried in their white Hajj garments? 6. Why can a woman leave her face uncovered during Hajj? 7. What is the tawaf? 8. Which two hills do pilgrims walk between and why do they do it?

155 9. Why do pilgrims drink from the Zam Zam well? 10. What is the wukuf? 11. Where are pebbles collected from? 12. Why throw pebbles? 13. What is the climax of Hajj? 14. Why is this annual festival important to the ummah?

156 Jihad: Striving for Right What is jihad? Jihad is the struggle to live according to God s laws. It is one of the most misunderstood worlds in Islam, because to many people jihad means holy war, but in fact it has a deeper meaning than this. Jihad actually means directed struggle : Striving to serve God Making an effort to live a moral life Actively trying to live in peace The greater jihad and the lesser jihad Jihad means to strive. There are two forms of jihad: the greater jihad is the daily struggle and inner spiritual striving to live as a Muslim. The Muslims make a distinction between the greater jihad (the personal struggle for right) and the lesser jihad (the desire to remove evil from society). It is the duty of all Muslims to try to remove evil from society, but you can only fight for justice in the world when you have truly removed the evil from your own life. Prophet Muhammad said that the supreme jihad is against oneself. The greater jihad The greater jihad is a spiritual struggle with oneself. It is the desire and commitment to live the perfect Muslim life: To perform the Five Pillars with devotion To practise the path set out by the Prophet Muhammad To seek justice and fairness for all To rise above one s own greed and selfishness The need to control desires Islam teaches than Muslims need to control their own desires and behaviour, to follow the Five Pillars and live a life that is pleasing to God. This will ensure that when the last day comes, and they are brought to judgement by God, they will be worthy to receive God s favour and

157 thus to enter paradise.

158 The battle against laziness There is a prayer of Prophet Muhammad which says: God, I seek thy protection against helplessness and laziness, and against cowardice and miserliness. This describes the greater jihad. It is the commitment to make the effort to be a better person and live as God has instructed. The greater jihad is the spiritual fight against the tendency to be lazy: to get up for prayers before dawn, to only eat food that is halal (permitted), to show kindness and generosity towards other people. Encourage what is right The Qur an urges Muslims to encourage what is right (ma ruf), and forbid what is wrong (3:104). This process is partly about removing evil from yourself, but also about making the world a better place. Prophet Muhammad says, Whoever amongst you sees an evil, he must change it with his hand. If he is not able to do so, then with his tongue. And if he is not able to do so, then with his heart, and that is the weakest form of faith. (Hadith) Respect for the beliefs of others The Qur an encourages Muslims to be tolerant and respectful towards the beliefs of others. To you be your religion, and to me mine (109:6) Muslims should live in peace and harmony in society, celebrating differences and obeying the law. The Qur an makes it clear that every single life is precious: If anyone slew a person it would be as if he slew the whole people; and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people.

159 Jihad: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is jihad? 2. What is the difference between the greater jihad and the lesser jihad? 3. What did the Prophet Muhammad say about the supreme jihad? 4. What four things are included in living the perfect Muslim life? What will controlling your desires ensure? 5. What is the battle against laziness? 6. What is ma ruf? 7. What does the Qur an say about respecting other life / the beliefs of others?

160 Lesser Jihad: (Holy War) There are certain circumstances in which Islam accepts that force needs to be used, but only ever in self-defence. While the greater jihad is the personal struggle against sin, the lesser jihad or holy was is the struggle to remove evil from society. This involves the whole community, rather than the individual, and there are strict rules for the use of force in jihad. To those against whom war is made, permission is given to fight, because they are wronged. (Qur an 22:39) The origin of lesser jihad The concept of lesser jihad arose during the Prophet Muhammad s lifetime, when he gave his faithful followers authorisation to fight. Muhammad s enemies in Makkah planned to wipe out all the Muslims and do they believed that there was no choice but to engage in conflict. Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed, God is competent to give them victory." (Qur an 22:39) This passage records the permission given by God for the Muslims to defend themselves against their enemies. Some argue that war with such a pure motive (to establish the principles of religious freedom) is a true jihad. Fight in the way of God whose who fight against you but do not transgress. Indeed, God does not like transgressors. (Qur an 2:190) Jihad must never be aggressive The Qur an lays down the condition that the Muslims must not be the first to attack; a war of aggression is prohibited. However, if it can be agreed that a war is a jihad, then it is a duty to fight back, but only against those who are attacking you, never to kill civilians. Who can declare jihad? Muslim law is clear that jihad can only be declared by a Muslim leader who is holy and pure and who has the support of the whole Muslim community. Some Muslim communities do believe their leaders are able to declare jihad. However many Muslims today say that it is difficult to see how these conditions for jihad could be met, because there is no one, indisputable Muslim ruler who would be eligible to declare it. The Crusades Lesser jihad or military jihad is sometimes known as jihad with the

161 Many Muslims would say that it was a jihad when Muslims fought against the Christians in the Middle Ages. The crusades were military campaigns by

162 Christians between 1095CE and 1291CE. Their aim was to win back the Holy Land for Christianity, from Muslim control, and in 1099CE they succeeded in re-taking Jerusalem. Muslims vowed to wage jihad (holy war) against the invaders from Europe and the Muslim armies eventually defeated the Christian Crusaders. Jihad today Today, most Muslims agree that a holy war can only be called against an aggressor that threatens Islam. Some Islamic extremist groups argue that the attack on the World Trade Centre (the Twin Towers) in New York, on September , commanded by Osama Bin Laden, was an act of jihad. However, moderate Muslims reject this idea, arguing that this attack was an aggressive act, which targeted innocent civilians and so fails the test set by the Qur an. The rise of jihadist groups There are a number of groups who have labelled themselves as jihadists in recent years (for example, Al-Qaeda, Boko Haram, Islamic State/Daesh). They are prepared to use violence in order to create an Islamic State that would be governed in accordance with Islamic (Shari ah) law. Western governments regard these groups as terrorist organisations and moderate Muslims reject this form of extreme Islam. In 2014, jihadi fighters, saying they were loyal to Islam, captured The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) speaks on behalf of British Muslims. They have strongly condemned the actions of IS, saying they are horrified by the group s twisted message and barbarous behaviour. The #notinmyname hashtag has been widely used to make it clear that IS does not represent the view of British Muslims. large areas of Northern Syria and Iraq, setting up what they called a caliphate. This is a state governed in accordance with Islamic (Shari ah) law. Islamic state (IS) say they want to restore God s rule on earth and defend the ummah (Muslim community) against infidels (non-believers).

163 Lesser Jihad: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is the lesser jihad? 2. Where does the idea of the lesser jihad (holy war) come from? 3. What must Muslims not do in a holy war? 4. Who can declare jihad? What is the problem with this?.. 5. What happened in the Crusades? 5. Why do moderate Muslims reject the attack on Sep 11, 2001 as jihad? 6. What are jihadist groups prepared to do? 7. Who are the Muslim Council of Britain and what do they believe about IS?.. 8. What is the aim of extremist Muslims/jihadi fighters?

164 Festivals in Islam Feasts and festivals have always been a part of human society. They are special because they mark times when families and communities can gather to remember, celebrate and offer thanksgiving. They may be anniversaries of important events or re-enactments of ancient rituals. All Muslim festivals have special significance, often relating to events or stories from Islamic history. However, festivals in Islam are not just moments of joy and happiness, they are also occasions to worship and remember the presence of God. Moderation not excess Islam has relatively few holidays and Muslim festivals are usually quite restrained events. Islam is a religion of moderation: the Qur an forbids indulgence and extravagance and Muslims are instructed not to eat so much as to fill the whole stomach. Prophet Muhammad encouraged his followers not to drink water greedily, in one gulp, but to pause and sip. The Prophet Muhammad said: He is not a Muslim who goes to bed with a full stomach while his neighbour goes hungry. One of the central features of Muslim festivals is the importance of sharing happiness with others and, in particular, giving to the needy and poor. Festivals in Islam There are two main festivals in Islam: Id-ul-Adha and Id-ul-Fitr, but there are also other important days to be remembered. Mawlid an-nabi: the birth of the prophet Mawlid an-nabi is the celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It is a public holiday in many countries. In Britain, Muslims celebrate this day with joyful processions through the streets, chanting stories in praise of his life. Laylat-ul-Qadr: the Night of Power Laylat-ul-Qadr is one of the holiest days in the Muslim calendar, marking the date when the Qur an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Islamic tradition is not certain of the exact day, so this event is remembered throughout the last ten days of the month of Ramadan. During this time, Muslims may stay up all night, reciting the Qur an, praying and remembering God s mercy and forgiveness. Laylat-ul-Miraj: the night journey Id: the Muslims word for festival. It means an event that Laylat-ul-Miraj remembers Prophet Muhammad s miraculous journey on a winged horse to Jerusalem and then up through the heavens into the presence of God. Today, Muslims commemorate these events at the mosque by saying particular prayers and at home by telling the story to their children and reciting special

165 night-time prayers.

166 Laylat-ul-Bara at Laylat-ul-Bara at is the night of the full moon in the month before Ramadan. This is the night on which Muhammad used to begin his preparations for Ramadan and many Muslims stay up all night reciting the Qur an. Muharram Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and it remembers the Hijrah, when Muhammad and his followers fled from Makkah, to establish the first Muslim community in Madinah. Sunnis fast on the tenth day of Muharram. Shi as observe Muharram as the month when Husayn (Prophet Muhammad s grandson) was martyred and so they refrain from joyous events in his memory. 1. What do festivals mark? Festivals in Islam: 2 Mark Questions 2. What are Muslims instructed not to do? 3. What are the two main festivals in Islam? 4. What does Mawlid an-nabi remember? How is it celebrated?.. 5. What does Laylat-ul-Qadr remember? How is it celebrated? 6. What does Laylat-ul-Miraj remember? How is it celebrated? 7. What does Laylat-ul-Bara at remember? How is it celebrated? 8. What does Muharram remember? How is it celebrated?

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168 Id-ul-Adha: the Festival of Sacrifice The Big Id Id-ul-Adha is the festival of sacrifice. It is the most important event in the Muslim calendar and, to many, it is known as the Greater Id or the Big Id. It marks the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage and it is a chance for all Muslims, across the world, to worship and celebrate together. For the Hajjis/Hajjahs, who have just completed Hajj, it is the culmination of five intense days of worship, but it is also special for those who have been unable to travel to Makkah, who will celebrate in their home communities. Ibrahim s Commitment to God At this time, Muslims remember the story of Ibrahim, told in the Qur an. Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his son, Ishma il, to show his love for God. Just in time he heard a voice telling him to spare his son and sacrifice a sheep instead. Today an animal, such as a sheep or a goat, is killed at Id-ul- Adha as part of the commemoration. The meat is shared among family and friends, as well as being distributed to the poor. In the story it tells how the devil came to tempt Ibrahim, but his faith was too strong. This symbolises how each individual has to struggle against sin and it shows the importance of total commitment to God. True sacrifice The Qur an is very clear that it is not the physical act of killing an animal that is pleasing to God. What is truly valuable is the personal sacrifice that each individual makes in their heart, offering their life in service to God. Their meat will not reach God, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. (Qur an 22:37) Preparations for Id-ul-Adha Adha means This is a very important occasion for Muslim families and communities, so preparations begin in

169 good time:

170 Gifts are bought Clothes are made Food is prepared in advance Arrangements are made for the sacrifice Celebrations Id-ul-Adha is a public holiday in some countries where there are Muslim majority populations, such as Indonesia, Turkey and Jordan. It is not an official holiday in the UK, but some Muslim organisations and businesses may close and Muslim children have the day off school. Celebrations include: Going to the mosque to pray and listen to an Id prayer Wearing new clothes Visiting friends and relatives Sacrificing an animal It is traditional for each Muslim family or community to buy and sacrifice their own animal, but in Britain it is illegal to kill and animal without a licence and most families do not have the space and skills to keep and kill and sheep or a goat! People may ask a butcher to slaughter a sheep for them; they will then share it amongst family and neighbours as a communal meal. Giving some of this meat to the poor is a sacred duty.

171 Id-ul-Adha: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is Id-ul-Adha? 2. What does Id-ul-Adha celebrate or remember? 3. What does the story of the devil tempting Ibrahim symbolise? 4. What is it about the sacrifice that is important to God?.. 5. What four ways do Muslims prepare for the festival? 5. What is different about celebrating Id-ul-Adha in Muslim countries compared to Britain? 6. How do Muslims celebrate Id-ul-Adha? 7. What is a difficulty with wanting to sacrifice an animal in Britain?.. 8. What is a sacred duty, if an animal is sacrificed?

172 Id-ul-Fitr: the Festival of Fast-Breaking Breaking the fast Id-ul-Fitr is a joyful three-day celebration which takes place at the end of Ramadan, on the start of a new month of Shawwal. It is a well-deserved reward for the completion of a monthof fasting, when Muslims thank God for giving them the strength and self-control needed to give up food and water over so many days. The festival begins with the new moon being observed in the sky, but in Britain, where the weather is often cloudy, Muslims often have to rely on getting the news from other countries. A special day In Muslim-majority countries, Id-ul-Fitr is a public holiday; in Britain, many Muslim businesses close and Muslim chidlren are often given a day off school, especially in areas where there is a high Muslim population. It is an occasion when people feel a strong sense of generosity and gratitude towards each other and to God. Fitr means breaking the fast. It shares the same root (ftr) as iftar, which is the light meal Muslims share when they break their fast at the end of each day during Ramadan. Celebrating Id-ul-Fitr in Britain On the day of Id, Muslims will: Decorate their houses with colourful lights, banners and flags Dress in their finest, newest clothes Gather early in mosques or outdoors to perform congregational prayers and listen to a sermon, usually on the subject of sharing and community Send Id Mubarak greetings cards Visit family and friends to share food and festivities Visit the cemetary to remember loved ones who have been divided from the family through death

173 Give gifts and money to children

174 Share a delicious meal, where everyone joins in with food preparation and organisation Give generously to the poor Unusual ways to celebrate Id-ul-Fitr Around the world there are many different ways in which Muslims celebrate Id-ul-Fitr: O Egypt: fish recipes form the centrepiece of the feast O Afghanistan: men gather in parks for egg fights. Armed with hard-boiled eggs, they try to break each other s eggs O Turkey: children are given sweets by neighbours and relatives O India: women beautify themselves, applying henna to their hands and feet Zakat-ul-fitr: festival tax Islam places a high value on the whole community (ummah) experiencing the blessings and mercy of God, so in addition to the duty to pay the annual 2.5% Zakah tax, Muslims are expected to pay Zakat-ul-Fitr. This donation, given at the end of Ramadan, goes to the poor. It allows everyone, even those in poverty, to eat a generous meal at Id-ul-Fitr.

175 Id-ul-Fitr: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is Id-ul-Fitr? 2. What do Muslims thank God for? 3. When does the festival begin and why might this be a problem for Muslims in Britain? 4. How is Id-ul-Fitr a special day? 5. State four things that Muslims do to celebrate the festival What are some unusual ways of celebrating Id-ul-Fitr? 6. What is Zakat-ul-Fitr? 7. What does the festival fax ensure?..

176 Ashura: Day of Sorrow and Inspiration Ashura is an important festival for all Muslims, but it has enormous significance in Shi a Islam. It is celebrated (or commemorated) on the tenth day of Muharram. Sunni Islam: day of fasting Ashura literally means tenth. It falls on the tenth day of the month of Muharram the first Many Muslims today fast on the day of Ashura. The Prophet Muhammad established Ashura as a day of fasting, based on the Jewish day of atonement, when sacrifices are made for the sins of the people. Ashura is an occasion to thank God for saving the Israelites from the Pharaoh. Sunni Muslims remember how much Musa (Moses) fasted in gratitude to God for opening up the Red Sea to allow his people to escape from the Egyptian chariots. Shi a Islam: the martyrdom of Husayn Ashur is of particular importance to the Shi a Muslim community because it remembers the death of Husayn in battle at Karbala in 680CE. This event triggered a split between Sunni and Shi a Muslims that continues to divide Islam today. Shi as believe that Husayn was the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad, so the massacre of Husayn and his followers carries great significance. They refer to Husayn as the third Imam, following his father Ali and his older brother Hasan. Still today they remember his betrayal and death with a deep sense of injustice. Shi a celebration of Ashura today For Shi as, Ashura is an emotionally charged day, remembering the martyrdom of Husayn, the grandson of Muhammad, and it is celebrated with processions, plays and public displays of grief in the streets. Blood is often spilled and people cry and wail. How is Ashura celebrated around the world? The death of Husayn gave rise to Shi a cult of martyrdom and to a sense of betrayal and struggle against injustice and oppression. Ashura is a day of great sorrow,

177 mourning and self-mutilation, where much public grief is expressed. Central to the

178 events is the need to share in the sufferings of Husayn. Ashura is celebrated in communities across the Shi a world (for example, in Iran and Iraq), but many Shi a Muslims feel the need to make the pilgrimage to Karbala every year to take part: Men and women dress in black and march through the streets, slapping their chests and chanting There are processions and religious gatherings Plays re-enact the martyrdom Fervent men beat themselves with hcains and cut their heads with swords Ashura in Britain today Ashura is not a public holiday in Britain, but Shi a Muslim children can be given permission to have the day off school. Many people will fast and pray on this day. In cities such as Manchester and London, Shi as gather together in large crowds and take part in public marches. The men often slap their chests violently, in time to their chanting, but it is uncommon to see them drawing blood through whipping and beating themselves, as happens in many countries in the Middle East. Those who feel that they should lose blood may be encouraged, by Shi a leaders, to donate blood to the blood transfusion service.

179 Ashura: 2 Mark Questions 1. What is Ashura? 2. What did the Prophet Muhammad establish Ashura as? 3. In Shi a Islam, what does Ashura remember? 4. What do Shi a Muslims refer to Husayn as? 5. How is Ashura celebrated today?.. 5. How is Ashura celebrated around the world? 6. How is Ashura celebrated in Britain?

180 Ten Obligatory Acts (Furu ad-din) of Shi a Islam Five roots and ten branches of Shi a belief For Shi a Muslims, Islam is often pictured as a bountiful tree. The five roots of religion act as the source of strength for the Mulim life of faith. These are the central beliefs, with the trunk and branches growing up from these roots. There are ten branches or obligatory acts which form the key feature of religious life. The Ten Obligatory Acts (Furu ad-din) 1. Salah (prayer): There are five daily prayers (Salah), where Muslims face towards the Ka ba in Makkah (Qibla), but many Shi as combine these into three. These prayer times are: a. Between dawn and sunrise b. Just after noon c. At dusk, after sunset They do this because they say that Muhammad allowed the combination of prayers: Zuhr with As r and Maghrib with Isha. 2. Sawm (fasting): Like Sunnis, Shi as practise fasting (Sawm) during the month of Ramadan, but from the 20 th day of Ramadan they remember the death of Ali (son- in-law of the prophet) spending three days in mourning. 3. Hajj (pilgrimage): Like Sunnis, Shi as go on the annual pilgrimage to Makkah in the 12 th month of the Muslim calendar (Dhul Hijjah). In addition to Hajj, they also make pilgrimages to Shi a shrines and graves, in particular visiting the grave of Husayn in Karbala (in modern-day Iraq). 4. Zakah (charity): Like Sunnis, Shi as make a charity payment of 2.5% of their wealth every year. This goes to support the poor and those in need. An obligation is a duty. The obligatory acts are practices that Muslims believe God has made 5. Khums (wealth tax): In addition to Zakah, Shi as are expected to pay Khums, a wealth tax of 20% of their savings. This money is paid to Muslim scholars and

181 community leaders for the welfare of the community.

182 6. Jihad (struggle): Jihad is the duty to struggle against sin. For the sake of God, Muslims should fight against injustice, removing any obstacles that might prevent people from being able to worship God. 7. Amr-bil-Maroof (encouraging others to do good): The central purpose of Islam is to create a society where people can live in peace and harmony. Therefore it is a the duty of all Muslims to encourage others to do good, for the sake of God. In the Hadith Muhammad promised that the person who persuades someone else to do a good deed will get the same reward as the person he persuaded. 8. Nahil Anril Munkar (discouraging the bad): It is the duty of all Muslims to forbid evil; when someone sees a wrong, they should correct it. It is the responsibility of the whole Muslim community (the ummah) to discourage others from harmful actions, such as bribery, corruption and dishonesty. This applies to individuals, families and the whole society. Whoever among you sees an evil should change it with his hand. If he is unable to do that then with his tongue. If he is unable to do that, then with his heart, and this is the weakest level of faith. (Hadith) 9. Tawalia (to love the friends of God): Tawalia means having love for God and for the Prophet Muhammad. We should love all those who are friends of God: people who are truthful and kind, honest and fair. We should try to associate ourselves with people who are kind and trustworthy. For Shi a Muslims it also means having love for the Ahl al-bayt, the 12 infallible Imams who are descendents of the Prophet Muhammad. 10. Tabarra (to hate evil-doers): Muslims believe that it is important to dissociate themselves from the enemies of God. We should hate, and separate ourselves from, people who are impure and those who oppress others. However, Muslims often disagree on exactly who are the enemies of God.