Ten Obligatory Acts and Shahadah

This section delves deeper into Shi'a Muslim practices, listing the Ten Obligatory Acts that guide their faith. These acts include the Five Pillars shared with Sunni Muslims, as well as additional practices unique to Shi'a Islam.

Vocabulary: Khums is a Shi'a practice of giving one-fifth of certain types of income to charity and religious leaders.

The page then focuses on the Shahadah, the declaration of faith, which is crucial for all Muslims. It explains the importance of the Shahadah as the core belief of Islam and its role in Muslim identity.

Quote: "There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is his messenger."

The significance of the Shahadah is emphasized, noting that it sums up Islamic belief, is necessary for prayer, and reminds Muslims of Tawhid and Prophet Muhammad's importance. The concept of submission to God's will as the essence of being a Muslim is also highlighted.

Salah: Obligatory Prayer

This page focuses on Salah, the obligatory prayer in Islam, which is a crucial part of Islam revision notes for GCSE students. It explains the differences in prayer frequency between Sunni (five times daily) and Shi'a (three times daily) Muslims. The importance of ritual washing (wudu) before prayer is discussed, emphasizing its role in spiritual cleanliness and focus.

Example: The Qibla, or direction of prayer towards Mecca, is indicated in mosques by the mihrab, a small niche in the wall.

The significance of Salah in Islamic practice is elaborated, including its role in motivating Muslims to follow God's will, uniting the global Muslim community (Ummah), and bringing believers closer to God. The page also mentions the Adhan (call to prayer) and the specific movements (rak'ahs) involved in prayer.

Highlight: Jummah prayer, the Friday congregational prayer, holds special importance in Islamic practice.

The concept of Sujud, prostration during prayer, is explained as a physical demonstration of total submission to God, reinforcing the theme of humility and devotion in Islamic worship.

Zakah: Compulsory Giving

This section covers Zakah, the practice of compulsory giving in Islam, which is an essential topic for GCSE Islam revision. It explains that Muslims are required to give 2.5% of their savings to charity annually, with the purpose of purifying their souls and removing selfishness and greed.

Quote: "God is well aware of whatever good you do."

The page distinguishes between Zakah and taxes, emphasizing that Zakah is given according to one's ability. It also introduces the Shi'a practice of Khums, where 20% of savings are given, split between religious leaders and charity.

Definition: Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must possess before being obligated to pay Zakah.

The origins of Zakah in Quranic instruction are discussed, along with its significance in Islamic practice. The page emphasizes that paying Zakah is considered a mark of true faith and helps Muslims develop a healthy attitude towards wealth and generosity.

Sawm: Fasting During Ramadan

This page focuses on Sawm, the practice of fasting during the month of Ramadan, which is a crucial topic for Islam Practices GCSE revision. It explains that Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and during this time, Muslims abstain from food, water, sexual activity, and negative thoughts or actions from dawn to sunset.

Highlight: Fasting in Ramadan is seen as an act of worship and submission to Allah, strengthening a Muslim's faith.

The page details the rules of fasting, including when Muslims can break their fast and the traditional foods used to do so. It also lists exemptions from fasting, such as for young children, sick people, and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Quote: "Fasting is prescribed for you... you may learn self-restraint."

The importance of Sawm in Islamic practice is elaborated, including its role in developing devotion to God, fostering empathy for those in need, and bringing the Muslim community together. The spiritual benefits of fasting are emphasized, describing it as a cleansing process and a symbol of new beginnings.

Fasting and Spiritual Discipline

Sawm during Ramadan represents a period of spiritual reflection and self-control.

Definition: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.

Quote: "Fasting is prescribed for you"

Example: Breaking fast with dates and water follows Prophet Muhammad's tradition.

The Pilgrimage Journey

Hajj represents the culminating pilgrimage experience in Islamic practice.

Quote: "Pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to God by people who are able to undertake it"

Highlight: The pilgrimage commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's devotion and teaches important lessons about submission to Allah.

Pilgrimage Rituals and Locations

The Hajj involves specific rituals at various sacred locations around Makkah.

Definition: The Jamarats are the three walls where pilgrims throw pebbles to reject evil.

Example: Circling the Ka'bah seven times represents life's revolving around Allah.

Spiritual Struggle

Jihad encompasses both internal and external struggles in following Islamic teachings.

Quote: "We are finished with the lesser jihad; now we are starting the greater jihad"

Definition: Greater Jihad refers to the constant internal struggle to be a better Muslim.

Islamic Practices Overview

This page introduces the fundamental beliefs and practices of Islam, focusing on the GCSE Religious Studies for AQA A Islam curriculum. It outlines the three key beliefs shared by all Muslims: Tawhid (oneness of God), Prophet Muhammad's status, and Akhirah (life after death). The Five Pillars of Islam are presented as the foundation of Muslim life, providing structure and bringing believers closer to God.

Definition: Tawhid refers to the Islamic concept of the absolute oneness of God.

The page also touches on the differences between Sunni and Shi'a Muslims, mentioning the Six Articles of Faith for Sunnis and the Five Roots of Usul ad-Din for Shi'as. The concept of Ummah, the global Muslim community, is introduced as a unifying force that strengthens faith.

Highlight: The Five Pillars of Islam (Shahadah, Salah, Zakah, Sawm, and Hajj) form the core practices that structure a Muslim's daily life and spiritual journey.

Lastly, the page introduces Taqwa, the concept of God-consciousness, and its importance in Islamic belief for attaining Heaven.