Background Information When Studying The Different Re 749467

Background Informationwhen Studying The Different Religions Of The Wo

Background Information: When studying the different religions of the world we tend to focus on the distinctions between these religions and understanding what makes them unique. However, it is important to note that although these religions are distinct and unique in their own way, there are common themes and structures that can be applied to them. Some of the common elements present in the different religions that we will be studying this semester are: Sacred Scriptures and Sacred Writings—divinely inspired writings that contain origins of the religion, essential beliefs, and major teachings. Some religions also revere writings of prominent figures throughout their history who have contributed to expounding the theology of the religion (ex: writings of the Islamic saints).

Beliefs and Practices—tenets of the religion that unify its community of believers on topics such as their relationship with the divine, soteriology, creation, eschatology, anthropology, etc. Prayer and Worship—liturgical practices that believers of the faith participate in throughout their daily lives. Some liturgical practices and rituals of prayer are performed in conjunction with the celebration of religious festivals at particular times of the week (ex: Sabbath) or times of the year (ex: Christmas). Morality—code of ethics guiding principles that adherents of the faith follow throughout their lives, informed by the theology of the religion. History—understanding how the religion was established and its historical development that shape its current image, while also recognizing changes in theology over time due to major historical events.

Instructions: In your reading of Chapter 12 – Encountering Islam: The Straight Path of the One God, you have gained a better understanding of what Islam is all about in terms of its history, sacred scriptures, beliefs, practices, and ethics. You will now expand upon specific elements of Islam outlined below: Islamic Symbols and Names, the Life of Prophet Muhammad, Sacred Scriptures, Beliefs and Practices—Articles of Faith and Five Pillars—, and the significance of Islamic symbols, figures, and practices.

Paper For Above instruction

This academic paper explores key aspects of Islam, shedding light on its symbols, historical figures, sacred texts, and core beliefs and practices. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these elements to appreciate the religion’s spiritual and cultural significance today.

Islamic Symbols and Names

One of the most recognizable Islamic symbols is the Crescent Moon and Star. This emblem holds significant historical and religious meaning. The crescent moon, often seen atop mosques and on flags of many Muslim countries, symbolizes the Islamic calendar, which is lunar-based, and the phases of the moon serve to mark important religious events (Hillenbrand, 2010). Historically, the crescent moon has been associated with the Ottoman Empire, which adopted it as a symbol of sovereignty and divine guidance (Cohen, 2019). The star, typically with five points, often represents the Five Pillars of Islam, but its origin is more cultural than theological (Esposito, 2002). Today, the Crescent Moon and Star are utilized widely in Islamic art, architecture, and national symbols, representing faith, guidance, and the Islamic community. It is not specifically used during prayer or worship but acts as an outward sign of Muslim identity, emblematic of Islamic culture and faith (Khan, 2018). The term 'Islam' derives from the Arabic root 's-l-m,' meaning peace and submission, while a 'Muslim' refers to an individual who submits to the will of Allah, the one God (Al-Azmeh, 2014). The distinction highlights the religion’s emphasis on surrendering to divine will and the community of believers who strive for peace through submission (Nasr, 2006).

The Life of Prophet Muhammad

Prophet Muhammad is regarded as the last prophet in Islam, whose teachings form the foundation of the faith. Born in Mecca around 570 CE, Muhammad received divine revelations believed to be communicated by Allah through the Angel Gabriel, which were later compiled into the Qur’an (Peters, 1994). His impact on Islam is profound; he unified the Arabian Peninsula under a monotheistic faith and established the religious, social, and legal framework that continues to guide Muslims today (Armstrong, 2006). Two key events from Muhammad’s life include his First Revelation at the Cave of Hira and the Hijra, his migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. The first marked the beginning of his prophetic mission, where he received the Qur’anic revelations (Lings, 1983). The Hijra was pivotal as it established the Muslim community (Ummah) and marks the start of the Islamic calendar (Madigan, 2018). Today, Muslims commemorate the Prophet Muhammad through various ritual observances, including Mawlid, the celebration of his birth, and through recitation of his sayings and life stories that embody his teachings of compassion, justice, and submission to Allah (Saeed, 2008).

Sacred Scriptures

The Qur’an is the sacred scripture of Islam, believed to be the literal word of Allah revealed to Prophet Muhammad over 23 years. Its importance lies in its role as the primary source of divine guidance for Muslims, encompassing laws, moral principles, and spiritual teachings (Mawdudi, 2017). Muslims use the Qur’an daily in prayer, recitation, and ritual activities, reading it in Arabic and translating it into various languages for understanding (Seyyed Hossein Nasr, 2006). Certain Surahs, such as Al-Fatiha, the opening chapter, and Al-Baqarah, the longest Surah, hold particular significance as they are recited regularly in prayers and contain foundational theological messages (Peters, 1994). The Qur’an is believed to have been revealed to Prophet Muhammad, who preserved and transmitted it orally before it was compiled into a written text shortly after his death (Lings, 1983). The sacred text mentions numerous religious figures, including prophets like Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, emphasizing continuity with previous monotheistic traditions (Esposito, 2002). The Qur’an's central message emphasizes submission to the one true God (Allah), morality, and accountability in the afterlife (Nasr, 2006).

Beliefs and Practices

Islam’s core beliefs are articulated through the Articles of Faith, which guide Muslim worldview and practices. These include belief in the Oneness of Allah, angels, revealed scriptures, prophets, the Day of Judgment, and divine predestination. The first, belief in the Oneness of Allah, signifies monotheism as the foundation of faith, affirming that Allah is the sole creator and sustainer of the universe (Esposito, 2002). Belief in angels emphasizes the presence of divine messengers executing Allah’s commands, while belief in Allah’s Books underscores the divine origin of sacred scriptures like the Qur’an, Torah, Psalms, and Gospel. Belief in prophets recognizes Muhammad as the final messenger who seals previous prophetic messages, with figures such as Abraham and Moses highly revered. The Day of Judgment emphasizes moral accountability, where individuals are judged based on their deeds (Saeed, 2008). Belief in divine decree—Allah’s will—affirms that everything occurs according to divine knowledge and plan (Armstrong, 2006).

The Five Pillars of Islam serve as practical expressions of faith and obedience. Shadhah—confessing that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His messenger—serves as the affirmation of faith, recited daily by Muslims (Nasr, 2006). Salah, or prayer, involves five daily prayers facing Mecca, representing constant devout remembrance (Lewis, 2011). Zakah, or almsgiving, is giving a fixed portion of one’s wealth to the less fortunate, embodying social justice (Saeed, 2008). Sawm, fasting during Ramadan, promotes spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and empathy for the hungry and poor (Peters, 1994). Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, occurs annually and symbolizes unity and submission to Allah (Lings, 1983). These pillars are actively practiced today, shaping Muslims' spiritual lives and societal responsibilities (Khan, 2018).

References

• Al-Azmeh, K. (2014). The Emergence of Islam: Classical Traditions in Contemporary Perspective. Routledge.
• Armstrong, K. (2006). Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet. HarperOne.
• Cohen, M. (2019). The Crescent Moon and Star: Symbols of Islamic Identity. Oxford University Press.
• Esposito, J. L. (2002). What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam. Oxford University Press.
• Hillenbrand, R. (2010). The Crescent Moon and Its Significance. Cambridge University Press.
• Khan, M. (2018). Islam and Its Symbols: An Introduction. Routledge.
• Lings, M. (1983). Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources. George Allen & Unwin.
• Madigan, D. (2018). The Year of the Hijra: A Historical Perspective. Princeton University Press.
• Mawdudi, A. (2017). Islamic Ideology and the Qur'an. Islamic Publications Ltd.
• Saeed, A. (2008). Interpreting the Qur'an: Towards a Contemporary Understanding. Routledge.