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6 Dec 2025
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Exploring Muslim Practices and Core Beliefs - AQA Religious Studies (Islam)
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Islamic Festivals and Jihad
Ever wondered why your Muslim mates get time off for Eid? These festivals are massive celebrations that bring the entire Muslim community together and mark important spiritual milestones.
Id-ul-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) happens at the end of Hajj and remembers Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah. Id-ul-Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan - imagine how good that first meal tastes after a month of fasting! During this festival, Muslims pay zakat (charity), which has extra meaning since they've experienced hunger themselves.
Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram (the first Islamic month). Sunni Muslims celebrate it as the day Noah left the ark and Moses was saved, whilst Shia Muslims mourn and wear black to remember important martyrs.
Jihad literally means "to struggle" - not what you might think from the news! Greater Jihad is the daily internal battle to be a better Muslim, like avoiding sin and following Islamic teachings. Lesser Jihad refers to physical struggle in God's cause, but the Prophet Muhammad said the greater jihad is far more important.
Remember: These festivals unite Muslims worldwide and give them chances to express gratitude, pray together, and strengthen their faith community.
Shia Practices and Friday Prayers
Shia Muslims follow Ten Obligatory Acts instead of just the Five Pillars - think of it as having extra religious responsibilities! These include the basics like prayer (Salah) and fasting (Sawm), plus additional duties like Khums (a 20% religious tax) and encouraging good whilst discouraging evil.
The Shahadah (declaration of faith) differs slightly between Sunni and Shia Muslims. Shia Muslims add "and Ali, the friend of God" to show their belief that Ali was Muhammad's true successor - this reflects a major historical split in Islam.
Jummah (Friday prayer) replaces the usual midday prayer and brings Muslims together weekly. It's the only prayer where Sunni Muslims reduce the usual 4 prayer cycles (rakats) to just 2. The prayer includes khutbahs (sermons) that teach religious principles and current issues.
Shia practices often vary more than Sunni ones, especially if a qualified religious leader isn't available to lead the prayers properly.
Key Point: These differences between Sunni and Shia practices show how the same religion can have different interpretations whilst maintaining core beliefs.
Fasting and Pilgrimage
Sawm (fasting during Ramadan) is way more intense than giving up chocolate for Lent! Muslims abstain from food, water, sex, and bad thoughts from sunrise to sunset for an entire month. The Quran says this teaches self-restraint - basically learning to control your desires.
Breaking the fast each evening with dates and water becomes a celebration. This isn't just about being hungry - it's spiritually cleansing and helps Muslims remember the Night of Power when the Quran was first revealed. Most importantly, it creates sympathy for people who can't afford food.
Hajj is the ultimate Muslim experience - a pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim should try to complete once. The main ritual involves walking around the Kaaba (the black cube) seven times anticlockwise, showing that your life revolves around Allah.
This pilgrimage is massive for personal growth. It brings Muslims closer to God, allows sins to be forgiven, and emphasises equality since everyone wears simple white clothing regardless of their wealth or status.
Did You Know?: Hajj attracts over 2 million Muslims annually, making it one of the world's largest religious gatherings!
The Five Pillars of Islam
The Five Pillars are like Islam's essential rules for living - every Sunni Muslim needs to follow these to be considered a proper believer.
Shahadah is the declaration "There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is his messenger." This sums up everything Muslims believe about tawhid (God's oneness) and shows complete submission to Allah. It's the first thing whispered to newborn babies and hopefully the last words before death.
Salah (prayer) happens five times daily for Sunni Muslims (three times for Shia). Before praying, Muslims perform ablution (ritual washing) to become spiritually clean, then face the qibla (direction of Mecca). The sujud position - kneeling with your forehead touching the ground - shows ultimate humility before Allah.
Zakat requires Muslims to give 2.5% of their savings to charity annually. This isn't just being nice - it purifies wealth and removes selfishness. Shia Muslims pay khums instead (20% of savings), with half going to religious leaders and half to charity.
These practices motivate Muslims to follow God's will, unite the global Muslim community, and help believers feel closer to Allah whilst avoiding sin.
Remember: These pillars aren't just religious duties - they shape Muslim identity and create a framework for living a meaningful life.
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Anna
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Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
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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
Exploring Muslim Practices and Core Beliefs - AQA Religious Studies (Islam)
AA
@revision_.com
Islam has rich traditions and practices that guide Muslims in their daily lives and spiritual journey. From the fundamental Five Pillars to special festivals and acts of worship, these practices help Muslims connect with Allah and their community whilst developing... Show more
Islamic Festivals and Jihad
Ever wondered why your Muslim mates get time off for Eid? These festivals are massive celebrations that bring the entire Muslim community together and mark important spiritual milestones.
Id-ul-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) happens at the end of Hajj and remembers Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah. Id-ul-Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan - imagine how good that first meal tastes after a month of fasting! During this festival, Muslims pay zakat (charity), which has extra meaning since they've experienced hunger themselves.
Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram (the first Islamic month). Sunni Muslims celebrate it as the day Noah left the ark and Moses was saved, whilst Shia Muslims mourn and wear black to remember important martyrs.
Jihad literally means "to struggle" - not what you might think from the news! Greater Jihad is the daily internal battle to be a better Muslim, like avoiding sin and following Islamic teachings. Lesser Jihad refers to physical struggle in God's cause, but the Prophet Muhammad said the greater jihad is far more important.
Remember: These festivals unite Muslims worldwide and give them chances to express gratitude, pray together, and strengthen their faith community.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Shia Practices and Friday Prayers
Shia Muslims follow Ten Obligatory Acts instead of just the Five Pillars - think of it as having extra religious responsibilities! These include the basics like prayer (Salah) and fasting (Sawm), plus additional duties like Khums (a 20% religious tax) and encouraging good whilst discouraging evil.
The Shahadah (declaration of faith) differs slightly between Sunni and Shia Muslims. Shia Muslims add "and Ali, the friend of God" to show their belief that Ali was Muhammad's true successor - this reflects a major historical split in Islam.
Jummah (Friday prayer) replaces the usual midday prayer and brings Muslims together weekly. It's the only prayer where Sunni Muslims reduce the usual 4 prayer cycles (rakats) to just 2. The prayer includes khutbahs (sermons) that teach religious principles and current issues.
Shia practices often vary more than Sunni ones, especially if a qualified religious leader isn't available to lead the prayers properly.
Key Point: These differences between Sunni and Shia practices show how the same religion can have different interpretations whilst maintaining core beliefs.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Fasting and Pilgrimage
Sawm (fasting during Ramadan) is way more intense than giving up chocolate for Lent! Muslims abstain from food, water, sex, and bad thoughts from sunrise to sunset for an entire month. The Quran says this teaches self-restraint - basically learning to control your desires.
Breaking the fast each evening with dates and water becomes a celebration. This isn't just about being hungry - it's spiritually cleansing and helps Muslims remember the Night of Power when the Quran was first revealed. Most importantly, it creates sympathy for people who can't afford food.
Hajj is the ultimate Muslim experience - a pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim should try to complete once. The main ritual involves walking around the Kaaba (the black cube) seven times anticlockwise, showing that your life revolves around Allah.
This pilgrimage is massive for personal growth. It brings Muslims closer to God, allows sins to be forgiven, and emphasises equality since everyone wears simple white clothing regardless of their wealth or status.
Did You Know?: Hajj attracts over 2 million Muslims annually, making it one of the world's largest religious gatherings!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Five Pillars of Islam
The Five Pillars are like Islam's essential rules for living - every Sunni Muslim needs to follow these to be considered a proper believer.
Shahadah is the declaration "There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is his messenger." This sums up everything Muslims believe about tawhid (God's oneness) and shows complete submission to Allah. It's the first thing whispered to newborn babies and hopefully the last words before death.
Salah (prayer) happens five times daily for Sunni Muslims (three times for Shia). Before praying, Muslims perform ablution (ritual washing) to become spiritually clean, then face the qibla (direction of Mecca). The sujud position - kneeling with your forehead touching the ground - shows ultimate humility before Allah.
Zakat requires Muslims to give 2.5% of their savings to charity annually. This isn't just being nice - it purifies wealth and removes selfishness. Shia Muslims pay khums instead (20% of savings), with half going to religious leaders and half to charity.
These practices motivate Muslims to follow God's will, unite the global Muslim community, and help believers feel closer to Allah whilst avoiding sin.
Remember: These pillars aren't just religious duties - they shape Muslim identity and create a framework for living a meaningful life.
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.
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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 Literature10
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