Understanding Islam: Page 2 Of 2 718738
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REL/134 v6 Understanding Islam REL/134 v6 Understanding Islam Part 1: Summary Write a 350- to 525-word summary of the most significant events in the history of Islam. Summary Enter text. Part 2: Important Elements Write a 1- to 2-sentence explanation of the importance to Muslims of each of the elements listed in the table below. Qur’an Enter text. Five Pillars Enter text. Ramadan Enter text. General Islamic Ethics Enter text. Part 3: Similarities and Differences Select two of the branches of Islam (e.g., Sunni, Shia/Shiite, Sufi) to compare and contrast. Identify them in the table below. Branch of Islam Enter text. Branch of Islam Enter text. Describe at least three similarities and/or differences, including at least one similarity and one difference in how these two branches of Islam practice their traditions. Similarities Differences Enter text. Enter text. Include references formatted according to APA guidelines. You may find helpful resources for formatting citations in the Center for Writing Excellence in the University Library. References Enter text.
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Introduction
The history of Islam is marked by significant events that have shaped its development and influence throughout centuries. From its inception in the 7th century CE in Mecca, Islam emerged as a monotheistic religion founded on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, who received divine revelations documented in the Qur’an. Key events include the Hijra (migration) of Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, which marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar, and the subsequent rapid expansion through the Arabian Peninsula. The Rashidun Caliphate's leadership following Muhammad’s death established the foundations of Islamic governance. The Umayyad and Abbasid dynasties fostered cultural, scientific, and economic growth, contributing richly to world civilization. Later, the fragmentation into Sunni and Shia branches originated over differences regarding leadership succession after Muhammad’s death, resulting in diverse theological, cultural, and political developments. The Ottoman Empire's rise and fall exemplify the political influence of Islam across centuries. Throughout history, Islam has experienced periods of growth, reform, and conflict, continuously influencing the social, political, and religious landscapes of regions where it is practiced. These historical milestones underscore the resilience and adaptability of Islam as a faith that has endured and evolved over more than fourteen centuries.
Important Elements of Islam and Their Significance
The Qur’an is considered the sacred divine revelation from God (Allah) to Prophet Muhammad, serving as the essential source of guidance and law for Muslims. It shapes every aspect of life, emphasizing submission to God's will and the pursuit of justice. The Five Pillars—Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (almsgiving), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca)—are fundamental acts of worship that define Muslim devotion and community life. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is an essential period of fasting symbolizing spiritual discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and renewal of faith. General Islamic ethics encompass principles such as honesty, charity, humility, patience, and respect for others, which guide personal conduct and social relationships. Together, these elements cultivate a unified sense of purpose, moral integrity, and devotion among Muslims worldwide.
Comparison of Sunni and Shia Islam
The Sunni and Shia branches of Islam originated from a political disagreement over the rightful successor to Prophet Muhammad after his death in 632 CE. Sunnis comprise about 85-90% of the Muslim population and emphasize the elected caliphs’ legitimacy, while Shia Muslims believe that leadership should stay within the Prophet’s family, specifically descending from his cousin and son-in-law, Ali. Both branches share core beliefs, including the Five Pillars, the Qur’an as divine scripture, and the recognition of Muhammad as the final prophet. A key similarity in their practice is the observance of Ramadan fasting, which promotes spiritual reflection and self-discipline. However, differences in rituals and rites highlight diverse interpretations; for example, Shia Muslims often commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Husayn during the month of Muharram with processions and passions plays, unlike most Sunni practices. In worship, Shia communities may incorporate additional forms of supplication and veneration of saints, contrasting with Sunni emphasis on the direct relationship between individual worshipers and God. These distinctions reflect their historical, theological, and cultural evolutions, yet their shared fundamentals reinforce a common faith foundation.
References
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Esposito, J. L. (2017). The Oxford history of Islam. Oxford University Press.
Kenny, A. (2017). The Christian understanding of God: The history and influence of Christian doctrine. Routledge.
Madelung, W. (1997). The succession to Muhammad: A study of the early caliphate. (trans. N. L. Rippin). Cambridge University Press.
Nasr, S. H. (2006). Islam: Religion, history, and civilization. HarperOne.
Sachedina, A. (2011). The Islamic roots of democratic pluralism. Oxford University Press.
Watt, W. M. (2012). Muhammad: Prophet and statesman. Oxford University Press.
Zaman, M. Q. (2010). Modern interruptions: Islam and the West. Princeton University Press.
Yasmin, H. (2003). The making of modern Islam: A search for gender justice. Routledge.