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13 Dec 2025

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Understanding Core Beliefs in Islam

O

Olivia Hill @xolivia_hillx

Islam is the world's second largest religion, with over 1.8 billion followers called Muslims. Understanding Islamic beliefs helps... Show more

Risalah

Six roors f
Sunni and Shia Islam
five roors
of usul
two different denominations
Faith
Sunni
believe aou
Tawhid
Oneness of
goa
baker

Core Islamic Beliefs and Denominations

Sunni and Shia Islam represent the two main branches of Islam, differing primarily on who should have led Muslims after Prophet Muhammad's death. Sunnis believed Abu Bakr was the rightful leader, whilst Shias supported Ali (Muhammad's cousin). This split created different religious frameworks that persist today.

Sunni Muslims follow the Six Articles of Faith, whilst Shia Muslims follow the Five Roots of Usul ad-Din. Both groups share fundamental beliefs but organise their core principles differently.

Tawhid (the oneness of God) stands as Islam's most important concept. Muslims believe "there is no god but Allah," making Islam strictly monotheistic. Believing in anyone besides Allah is called shirk, considered the gravest sin in Islam.

Key Point The Shahada declaration "there is no god but Allah" forms the foundation of all Islamic belief and practice.

Prophets and Holy Books

Muslims believe Allah sent prophets and messengers throughout history to guide humanity. These include Adam, Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and finally Muhammad, considered the final prophet. Each prophet brought Allah's message to their community.

The Quran serves as Islam's most sacred text, believed to be Allah's direct revelation to Muhammad. Muslims also recognise earlier holy books including the Torah, Psalms, Gospels, and Scrolls of Abraham, though they believe the Quran contains the final, unchanged message.

The Quran provides "guidance for those who are mindful of God" and serves as the ultimate source for Islamic law, morality, and spiritual guidance.

Life After Death and Divine Judgment

Islamic teaching describes life after death (Akhirah) as beginning when the soul leaves the body. The deceased enters a waiting state called Barzakh until the Day of Judgment arrives.

On Judgment Day, the angel Israfil blows a trumpet, the world ends, and all humans are resurrected. Allah then judges everyone based on their earthly actions - the righteous go to Jannah (paradise) whilst wrongdoers face Jahannam (hell).

In the grave, three crucial questions determine your fate "Who is your Lord?", "What was your life like?", and "Who is your Prophet?" Answering correctly brings peace until Judgment Day; wrong answers bring suffering.

Key Point Muslims believe every soul will "taste death" but that physical death is just the beginning of eternal existence.

The Nature of Allah

Allah is described as fair and just, treating everyone equally regardless of their background or status. This divine justice ensures that good deeds are rewarded and wrongdoing is punished appropriately.

Mercy and compassion define Allah's relationship with humanity. Despite being all-powerful, Allah shows forgiveness to those who sincerely repent and seek guidance.

Allah is immanent (present everywhere) and benevolent alllovingandgoodall-loving and good. The Quran states "He is with you wherever you are," meaning Allah's presence transcends physical boundaries and human limitations. This combination of justice, mercy, and omnipresence shapes how Muslims understand their relationship with the divine.

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Religious Studies

147

13 Dec 2025

1 page

Understanding Core Beliefs in Islam

O

Olivia Hill

@xolivia_hillx

Islam is the world's second largest religion, with over 1.8 billion followers called Muslims. Understanding Islamic beliefs helps you appreciate one of the world's major faiths and its impact on global culture and history.

Risalah

Six roors f
Sunni and Shia Islam
five roors
of usul
two different denominations
Faith
Sunni
believe aou
Tawhid
Oneness of
goa
baker

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Core Islamic Beliefs and Denominations

Sunni and Shia Islam represent the two main branches of Islam, differing primarily on who should have led Muslims after Prophet Muhammad's death. Sunnis believed Abu Bakr was the rightful leader, whilst Shias supported Ali (Muhammad's cousin). This split created different religious frameworks that persist today.

Sunni Muslims follow the Six Articles of Faith, whilst Shia Muslims follow the Five Roots of Usul ad-Din. Both groups share fundamental beliefs but organise their core principles differently.

Tawhid (the oneness of God) stands as Islam's most important concept. Muslims believe "there is no god but Allah," making Islam strictly monotheistic. Believing in anyone besides Allah is called shirk, considered the gravest sin in Islam.

Key Point: The Shahada declaration "there is no god but Allah" forms the foundation of all Islamic belief and practice.

Prophets and Holy Books

Muslims believe Allah sent prophets and messengers throughout history to guide humanity. These include Adam, Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and finally Muhammad, considered the final prophet. Each prophet brought Allah's message to their community.

The Quran serves as Islam's most sacred text, believed to be Allah's direct revelation to Muhammad. Muslims also recognise earlier holy books including the Torah, Psalms, Gospels, and Scrolls of Abraham, though they believe the Quran contains the final, unchanged message.

The Quran provides "guidance for those who are mindful of God" and serves as the ultimate source for Islamic law, morality, and spiritual guidance.

Life After Death and Divine Judgment

Islamic teaching describes life after death (Akhirah) as beginning when the soul leaves the body. The deceased enters a waiting state called Barzakh until the Day of Judgment arrives.

On Judgment Day, the angel Israfil blows a trumpet, the world ends, and all humans are resurrected. Allah then judges everyone based on their earthly actions - the righteous go to Jannah (paradise) whilst wrongdoers face Jahannam (hell).

In the grave, three crucial questions determine your fate: "Who is your Lord?", "What was your life like?", and "Who is your Prophet?" Answering correctly brings peace until Judgment Day; wrong answers bring suffering.

Key Point: Muslims believe every soul will "taste death" but that physical death is just the beginning of eternal existence.

The Nature of Allah

Allah is described as fair and just, treating everyone equally regardless of their background or status. This divine justice ensures that good deeds are rewarded and wrongdoing is punished appropriately.

Mercy and compassion define Allah's relationship with humanity. Despite being all-powerful, Allah shows forgiveness to those who sincerely repent and seek guidance.

Allah is immanent (present everywhere) and benevolent alllovingandgoodall-loving and good. The Quran states "He is with you wherever you are," meaning Allah's presence transcends physical boundaries and human limitations. This combination of justice, mercy, and omnipresence shapes how Muslims understand their relationship with the divine.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

2

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Most popular content: Islam

Most popular content in Religious Studies

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user