ISLAM - beliefs

Question 1

What is the Shahadah?

Answer 1

The declaration of faith: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.” Central to Muslim belief and identity.

Question 2

What is Salah?

Answer 2

Prayer performed five times a day (Fajr, Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha). Demonstrates submission to Allah. Shi’a Muslims often combine prayers into three sessions.

Question 3

What is Zakah?

Answer 3

Giving 2.5% of savings to the poor. Purifies wealth and promotes social justice.

Question 4

What is Sawm?

Answer 4

Fasting during Ramadan from dawn to sunset. Develops self-discipline and empathy for the poor.

Question 5

What is Hajj?

Answer 5

Pilgrimage to Mecca, required once in a lifetime if able. Includes rituals such as Tawaf and standing at Arafat.

Question 6

What are the key differences in prayer between Sunni and Shi’a Muslims?

Answer 6

Sunni Muslims pray five times daily. Shi’a Muslims often combine prayers and may use a clay tablet (turba) during prostration.

Question 7

What is Khums (Shi’a practice)?

Answer 7

A 20% tax on surplus income, paid to religious leaders and the needy.

Question 8

What is Id-ul-Fitr?

Answer 8

Festival marking the end of Ramadan. Includes communal prayers and charitable giving.

Question 9

What is Id-ul-Adha?

Answer 9

Festival remembering Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Involves animal sacrifice and charity.

Question 10

What is Ashura?

Answer 10

Sunni Muslims fast in remembrance of Moses. Shi’a Muslims mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein.

Question 11

What is Jummah prayer?

Answer 11

Congregational prayer held every Friday at midday. Includes a sermon and is highly recommended for Muslim men.

Question 12

What is Jihad?

Answer 12

Means “struggle.” Greater Jihad is the personal spiritual struggle; Lesser Jihad can involve defending Islam under certain conditions.