Islam Continued DoctrineAll Muslims 1.Belief in one Allah: Muslims believe Allah is one, eternal, creator, and sovereign. 2. Belief in the angels 3. Belief in the prophets: The prophets include the biblical prophets but end with Muhammad as Allahs final prophet. 4. Belief in the revelations of Allah: Muslims accept certain portions of the Bible, such as the Torah and the Gospels. Muslims believe the Qur'an is the preexistent, perfect word of Allah. 5. Belief in the last day of judgment and the hereafter: Everyone will be resurrected for judgment into either paradise or hell. 6. Belief in predestination: Muslims believe Allah has decreed everything that will happen. Muslims testify to Allahs sovereignty with their frequent phrase, inshallah, meaning, if God wills. Is a monotheistic, Abrahamic religion Sacred text is the Qur'an, considered by its adherents to be the verbatim word of God (Allah) Other teachings and normative examples called the Sunnah composed of accounts called hadith) of Muhammad considered by most of them to be the last prophet of God. Muslims summarize their doctrine in six articles of faith: DoctrineAll Muslims The Five Pillars of Islam 1.The testimony of faith ( shahada ): la ilaha illa allah. Muhammad rasul Allah. This means, There is no deity but Allah. Muhammad is the messenger of Allah. A person can convert to Islam by stating this creed. The shahada shows that a Muslim believes in Allah alone as deity and believes that Muhammad reveals Allah. 2.Prayer ( salat ): Five ritual prayers must be performed every day. 3.Giving ( zakat ): This almsgiving is a certain percentage given once a year, generally 2.5% 4.Fasting ( sawm ): Muslims fast during Ramadan in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. They must not eat or drink from dawn until sunset. 5.Pilgrimage ( hajj ): If physically and financially possible, a Muslim must make the pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia at least once. The hajj is performed in the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. A Muslim's entrance into paradise hinges on obedience to these Five Pillars. Still, Allah may reject them. Even Muhammad was not sure whether Allah would admit him to paradise (Surah 46:9; Hadith 5.266). DoctrineAll Muslims Sharia Law Sharia or sharia law is the basic Islamic legal system derived from the religious precepts of Islam, particularly the Quran and the Hadith. All aspects of a Muslim's life are governed by Sharia. Sharia law comes from a combination of sources including the Qur'an (the Muslim holy book), the Hadith (sayings and conduct of the prophet Muhammad) and fatwas (the rulings of Islamic scholars). The term sharia comes from the Arabic language term shar ah, which means a body of moral and religious law derived from religious prophecy, as opposed to human legislation Sharia regulates all human actions and puts them into five categories: obligatory, recommended, permitted, disliked or forbidden. Obligatory actions must be performed and when performed with good intentions are rewarded. The opposite is forbidden action. Recommended action is that which should be done and the opposite is disliked action. Permitted action is that which is neither encouraged nor discouraged. Most human actions fall in this last category. There are two primary sources of sharia: the Quran, and the Hadiths (opinions and life example of Muhammad). DoctrineAll Muslims Sharia Law For topics and issues not directly addressed in these primary sources, sharia is derived. The derivation differs between the various sects of Islam (Sunni and Shia), and various jurisprudence schools such as Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali and Jafari. The sharia in these schools is derived hierarchically using one or more of the following guidelines: Ijma (usually the consensus of Muhammad's companions), Qiyas (analogy derived from the primary sources), Istihsan (ruling that serves the interest of Islam in the discretion of Islamic jurists) and Urf (customs). DoctrineAll Muslims Sharia Law Necessities are matters that worldly and religious life depend upon. Their omission leads to unbearable hardship in this life, or punishment in the next. There are five necessities: preservation of religion, life, intellect, lineage, and wealth. These ensure individual and social welfare in this life and the hereafter. The Sharia protects these necessities in two ways: firstly by ensuring their establishment and then by preserving them. To ensure the establishment of religion, God Most High has made belief and worship obligatory. To ensure its preservation, the rulings relating to the obligation of learning and conveying the religion were legislated. To ensure the preservation of human life, God Most high legislated for marriage, healthy eating and living, and forbid the taking of life and laid down punishments for doing so. God has permitted that sound intellect and knowledge be promoted, and forbidden that which corrupts or weakens it, such as alcohol and drugs. He has also imposed preventative punishments in order that people stay away from them, because a sound intellect is the basis of the moral responsibility that humans were given. Marriage was legislated for the preservation of lineage, and sex outside marriage was forbidden. Punitive laws were put in placed in order to ensure the preservation of lineage and the continuation of human life. God has made it obligatory to support oneself and those one is responsible for, and placed laws to regulate the commerce and transactions between people, in order to ensure fair dealing, economic justice, and to prevent oppression and dispute. DoctrineAll Muslims -- End of Days This life is a preparation for the eternal life to come (Akhirah). Humans have one life and it is up to them how they choose to live it. The final day Muslims believe that on a day decided by Allah, and known only to Allah, life on earth will come to an end and Allah will destroy everything. On this day all the people who have ever lived will be raised from the dead and will face judgement by Allah. Muslims believe that they will remain in their graves until this day. This day is called by several names: the Day of Resurrection (yawm al-Qiyamah), the Day of Judgement (yawm ad-din), the Last Hour (as-saa) Allah will balance the good deeds a person has done in their life against the bad deeds. And to every soul will be paid in full (the fruit) of its deeds; If the good deeds outweigh the bad, the person will go to paradise (Jannah), a place of joy and bliss. If the bad things outweigh the good, then the person will be punished in hell (Jahannam). When Allah is making a judgement, even a persons intentions (niyyah) are taken into account. Islam also teaches that Allah is merciful and forgiving; even people who have lived bad lives will be able to enter paradise when they have been punished and shown themselves to be truly sorry. However some Muslims believe that some things are so bad that they may never be forgiven. These things include Shirk, which is the sin of worshipping other than Allah. This is directly opposed to Tawhid, the belief in the Oneness of Allah. EthicalMost Muslims: Consensus of Muslim theologianscommandments of Islam 1.Worship only God: Take not with Allah another object of worship;. (Quran 17:22) 2.Be kind, honourable and humble to one's parents: (Quran 17:24) 3.Be neither miserly nor wasteful in one's expenditure: And render to the kindred their due rights, as (also) to those in want, and to the wayfarer: But squander not (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift. (Quran 17:26) 4.Do not engage in 'mercy killings' for fear of starvation: (Quran 17:31) 5.Do not commit adultery: (Quran 17:32) 6.Do not kill unjustly: Nor take life which Allah has made sacred except for just cause. (Quran 17:33) 7.Care for orphaned children:...(Quran 17:34) 8.Keep one's promises:...fulfill (every) engagement [i.e. promise/covenant], for (every) engagement will be enquired into (on the Day of Reckoning). (Quran 17:34) 9.Be honest and fair in one's interactions: Give full measure when ye measure, and weigh with a balance that is straight: (Quran 17:35) 10.Do not be arrogant in one's claims or beliefs: (Quran 17:36) Nor walk on the earth with insolence: for thou canst not rend the earth asunder, nor reach the mountains in height. (Quran 17:37) EthicalMost Muslims: Basic Principles in Islamic Morality derived from the Quran and Hadith: The Islamic moral system stems from its primary creed of belief in One God as the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe. Islam considers the human race to be a part of Gods creation, and as His subjects. From an Islamic perspective, the purpose of human life is to worship God, by leading this worldly life in harmony with the Divine Will, and thereby achieve peace in this world, and everlasting success in the life of the hereafter. Muslims look to the Glorious Quran and the Traditions of the Prophet as their moral guides. The key to virtue and good conduct is a strong relation with God, who sees all, at all times and everywhere. God knows the secrets of the hearts and the intentions behind all actions. The love and continuous awareness of God and the Day of Judgment enables man to be moral in conduct and sincere in intentions, with devotion and dedication. Islam aims to enhance and amplify the moral sense in every human being and adorn the individuals character with the noblest of virtues. EthicalMost Muslims: Morality and the individual The guiding principle for the behavior of a Muslim is what the Quran refers to as Al `Amal Assalih or virtuous deeds. Primary character traits in a Muslim are piety, humility and a profound sense of accountability to God. A Muslim is expected to be humble before God and with other people. Islam also enjoins upon every Muslim to exercise control of their passions and desires. Islam warns against vanity and excessive attachment to the ephemeral pleasures of this world.. Charity is one of the most commendable acts in Islam. Gratitude in prosperity, patience in adversity, and the courage to uphold the truth, even when inconvenient to oneself, are just some of the qualities that every Muslim is encouraged to cultivate. Morality and Society For society, morality is one of the fundamental sources of strength, Immorality is one of the main causes of decline. Everything that leads to the welfare of the individual and the society is morally good in islam, Whatever is harmful is morally bad. Given its importance to a healthy and just society, Islam supports morality and matters that lead to the enhancement of morality, Islam stands in the way of corruption and matters that lead to the spreading of corruption. Morality in Islam addresses every aspect of a Muslims life, from greetings to international relations. It is universal in its scope and in its applicability. A Muslim is expected to not only be virtuous, but to also enjoin virtue. Ethical--Jihad Jihad The literal meaning of Jihad is struggle or effort, and it means much more than holy war. Muslims use the word Jihad to describe three different kinds of struggle: A believer's internal struggle to live out the Muslim faith as well as possible The struggle to build a good Muslim society Holy war: the struggle to defend Islam, with force if necessary Internal Jihad greater Jihad refers to the efforts of a believer to live their Muslim faith as well as possible. All religious people want to live their lives in the way that will please their God. For most people, living God's way is quite a struggle. God sets high standards, and believers have to fight with their own selfish desires to live up to them Ethical--Jihad Jihadclassical interpretation Holy War Within classical Islamic jurisprudence jihad is the only form of warfare permissible under Islamic law Jihad may consist in wars against unbelievers, apostates. The classical doctrine of jihad was developed towards the end of the eighth century, using the doctrine of naskh (that God gradually improved His revelations over the course of the Prophet Muhammed's mission) to allow for war against unbelievers and apostates The primary aim of jihad as warfare is not the conversion of non-Muslims to Islam by force, but rather the expansion and defense of the Islamic state. Jihad was to continue until all mankind either embraced Islam or submitted to the authority of the Muslim state. There could be truces before this was achieved, but no permanent peace. Warrior on Camel 13 th century Ethical--Jihad Jihadmodern interpretation- nonfundementalist Holy War The more spiritual definitions of jihad developed sometime after the 150 years of Muslim jihad wars and territorial expansion, and particularly after the Mongol invaders sacked Baghdad Jihad can be referred to internal as well as external efforts to be a good Muslims or believer, as well as working to inform people about the faith of Islam. Military action is only one means of jihad, and should be rare. Islam has a concept of a just war -- In the event Islam or people are under threat and violence, military action may be used but only when authorized by proper authority. Ritual: The Five Pillars The heart of Isalm is represented by the Five Pillars Shahada: Faith Shahada is a declaration of faith and trust that professes that there is only one God (Allah) and that Muhammad is God's messenger Salat: Prayer Salat consists of five daily prayers according to the Sunna; the names are according to the prayer times: Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (noon), A r (afternoon), Maghrib (evening), and Ish (night). All of these prayers are recited while facing in the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca Muslims must wash before prayer; this washing is called wudu ("purification"). The prayer is accompanied by a series of set positions including; bowing with hands on knees, standing, prostrating and sitting in a special position (not on the heels, nor on the buttocks). A Muslim may perform their prayer anywhere, such as in offices, universities, and fields. Ritual: Zakt Practice of charitable giving based on accumulated wealth. Zakt is obligatory for all Muslims who are able to do so. Zakt consists of spending a portion of one's wealth for the benefit of the poor or needy, like debtors or travelers. There are five principles that should be followed when giving the zakt: 1.The giver must declare to God his intention to give the zakt. 2.The zakt must be paid on the day that it is due. 3.After the offering, the payer must not exaggerate on spending money more than the persons usual means. 4.Payment must be in kind. 5.The zakt must be distributed in the community from which it was taken. Ritual: Sawm: Fasting There are three types of fasting recognized by the Quran: 1.Ritual fasting, 2.Fasting as compensation for repentance (both from sura Al-Baqara), and 3.Ascetic fasting (from Al-Ahzab). Ritual fasting is an obligatory act during the month of Ramadan. Muslims must abstain from food and drink from dawn to dusk during this month, and are to be especially mindful of other sins. Fasting is necessary for every Muslim that has reached puberty (unless he/she suffers from a medical condition which prevents him/her from doing so). Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory, but is forbidden for several groups for whom it would be very dangerous and excessively problematic. Ritual: Hajj: Pilgrimage to Mecca The Hajj is a pilgrimage that occurs during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah to the holy city of Mecca. Every able-bodied Muslim is obliged to make the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their life. When the pilgrim is around 10 km (6.2 mi) from Mecca, he/she must dress in Ihram clothing, which consists of two white sheets. Both men and women are required to make the pilgrimage to Mecca. The main rituals of the Hajj include walking seven times around the Kaaba termed Tawaf, touching the Black Stone termed Istilam, traveling seven times between Mount Safa and Mount Marwah termed Sa'yee, and symbolically stoning the Devil in Mina termed Ramee. Ritual: Pillars of Shia Islam Twelvers Twelver Shia Islam has five beliefs equivalent to a Shia Five Pillars, They are: 1. Tawhid (Monotheism: belief in the Oneness of God) 2.' Adl (Divine Justice: belief in the Almighty's justice) 3. Nubuwwah (Prophethood) 4. Imamah (Succession to the Muhammad) 5. Mi'ad (The Day of Judgment and the Resurrection) In addition to these Five Pillars, there are ten practices that Shia Muslims must perform, called the Ancillaries of the Faith 1.Salat Prayers 2.Sawm Fasting 3.Zakt, Charity 4.Khums: an annual taxation of one-fifth (20%) of the gains that a year has been passed on without using. Khums is paid to the Imams; indirectly to poor and needy people. 5.Hajj Travel to Mecca 6.Jihad Holy War 7.Amr-bil-Maroof Nahi Anil Munkar Enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong are two important requisites from the Quran Obligatory for Shias 8.Tawalla: expressing love towards Good. 9.Tabarra: expressing disassociation and hatred towards Evil. Ritual: Islamic Holidays Eid Al-Fitr Celebrated at the end of Ramadan (a month of fasting), and Muslims usually give zakat (charity) on the occasion.Commemorates the Exodus from Egypt. Eid Al-Adha I s celebrated on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah and lasts for four days. Muslims usually sacrifice a sheep and distribute its meat among family, friends, and the poor. Islamic New Year The Hijri New Year, also known as Islamic New Year is the day that marks the beginning of a new Islamic calendar year, and is the day on which the year count is incremented. The first day of the year is observed on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar. All religious duties, such as prayer, fasting in the month of Ramadan, and pilgrimage, and the dates of significant events, such as celebration of holy nights and festivals, are calculated according to the lunar calendar Ritual: Day of Ashura Sunnis This day is celebrated by Sunni Muslims (who refer to it as The Day of Atonement) as the day on which the Israelites were freed from the Pharaoh. This victory is the very reason, as Sunni Muslims believe, Muhammad mentioned when recommending fasting on this day. Some Sunni Muslims fast on this day of Ashura based on narrations attributed to Muhammad. Some other Sunnis accept Ashura as a significant day due to the martyrdom of Imam Husayn and the significance of the events at Karbala. Shia Commemoration of Ashura is not a festival, but rather a sad event recalling the death of Husayn ibn Ali grandson of Muhammad. Period of intense grief and mourning for Shis Mourners congregate at a Mosque for sorrowful, poetic recitations such as marsiya, noha, latmiya and soaz performed in memory of the martyrdom of Husayn, lamenting and grieving to the tune of beating drums and chants of "Ya Hussain. Some practice self flagellation or cutting to show solidarity with Husayn and his family. Through them, people mourn Husayn's death and regret the fact that they were not present at the battle to fight and save Husayn and his family. Ritual: Arba'een Arba'een is a Shia Muslim religious observance that occurs forty days after the Day of Ashura. Holiday commemorates the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, Imam Husayn ibn Ali and 72 companions were killed in the Battle of Karbala in 61 AH (680 CE). Arba'een or forty days is also the usual length of mourning after the death of a family member or loved one in many Muslim traditions. Arba'een is one of the largest pilgrimage gatherings on Earth, in which up to 20 million people go to the city of Karbala in Iraq. Mawlid an-Nab Birthday of Muhammad Mawlid "Birth of the Prophet", the observance of the birthday of Muhammad which is celebrated in the third month in the Islamic calendar. Declared an official holiday of the Ottoman Empire in 1588 Ritual: Al ibn Ab lib Ali was the fourth caliph. His succession set up the the schism between Sunnis and Shia Muslims The Sunnis believe that the prophet chose Abu Bakr to be the first caliph, while The Shia believe that he chose Ali. Ali did not challenge Abu Bakr or any of the later caliphs, however, but rather served as an advisor to them. The Shia venerate him as second only to the prophet, and call him among several titles the "Leader of the Faithful" (Amir-ul-mumineen) and the "Lion of God" (Sher-i-Khuda), and celebrate the anniversary of his death and birth. Ali is known as remarkable scholar. He wrote many collections of proverbs and verses. Laylat al-Mi'raj The Isra and Miraj are the two parts of a Night Journey made by Muhammad. The story in the Quran and Hadith indicates that in a single night of the Night Journey, the Isra part of the journey, Muhammad travels on the steed Buraq to "the farthest mosque" where he leads other prophets in prayer. He then ascends to heaven in the Mi'raj journey where he speaks to God, who gives him instructions to take back to the faithful regarding the details of prayer. According to traditions, the journey is associated with the Lailat al Mi'raj, as one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar. Ritual: Laylat al-Bara'at Bara'at Night or Mid-Sha`ban is a holiday observed by various Muslim communities on the night between 14 and 15 Sha'aban. It is regarded as a night when the fortunes of men for the coming year are decided and when Allah may forgive sinners. In some regions, this is also a night when one's deceased ancestors are honored. Additionally, Twelver Shias commemorate the birthday of Muhammad al-Mahdi on this date. Birthday of Muhammad al-Mahd Birthday of Muhammad al-Mahdi is a public holiday in Iran observed on the 15th day of the Islamic month of Sha'ban. Mahdi is believed by Shias to be the final Imam of the Twelve Imams. The Mahdi is the term in Islamic eschatology which refers to the prophesied ultimate savior of humankind. It will emerge with Isa (Jesus Christ) before the Day of Judgment and will bring peace and justice to the world. Muhammad al-Mahdi is believed to be this person by Shias. Shia Muslims believe that al-Mahdi didn't die. Allah concealed him from mankind for various reasons. This event is referred to as The Occultation. No one will see al-Mahdi him unless Allah makes him appear again. The reappearance of al-Mahdi will result in the establishment of Islam throughout the world. The Imam Mahdi and Isa will destroy falsehood and tyranny, get rid of evil and bring peace and justice to the world. Ritual: First day of Raman Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad This annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The month lasts 2930 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon, according to numerous biographical accounts compiled in the hadithsThe wo Fasting is fardh (obligatory) for adult Muslims, except those who are suffering from an illness, travelling, are elderly, pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic or going through menstrual bleeding. While fasting from dawn until sunset, Muslims refrain from consuming food, drinking liquids, smoking, and engaging in sexual relations with one's spouse. Muslims are also instructed to refrain from sinful behavior that may negate the reward of fasting, such as false speech (insulting, backbiting, cursing, lying, etc.) and fighting It is believed that the Quran was first revealed to Muhammad during the month of Ramadan which has been referred to as the "best of times". The first revelation was sent down on Laylat al-Qadr (The night of Power) which is one of the five odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. According to hadith, all holy scriptures were sent down during Ramadan. The tablets of Ibrahim, the Torah, the Psalms, the Gospel and the Quran were sent down on 1st, 6th, 12th, 13th and 24th Ramadan respectively. Ritual: Laylat al-Qadr Is the Night of Power and is the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Muhammad. It is one of the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan and is better than 1000 months of worship. Muslims believe that on this night the blessings and mercy of Allah are abundant, sins are forgiven, supplications are accepted, and that the annual decree is revealed to the angels who also descend to earth. Chaand Raat Night of the Moon for the eve of festival of Eid ul-Fitr and is a time of celebration when families and friends gather in open areas at the end of the last day of Ramadan to spot the new moon, which signals the day of Eid. Once the moon is sighted, people wish each other Chaand Raat Mubarak ("Have a blessed night of the new moon") or Eid Mubarak ("Blessings of the Eid day"). Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca See above in the Five Pillars Ritual: Day of Arafah Happens to be approximately 70 days after the end of the month of Ramadan. It is the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage where the pilgrims assemble on the plain of Arafah to complete one of the essential rituals of the Hajj and the day after is the first day of the major Islamic Holiday of Eid ul-Adha. It was from this site that Muhammad gave one of his last famous sermons in the final year of his life and Sunnis believe that part of the Qur'anic verse announcing that the religion of Islam had been perfected was revealed on this day. The completion of Allahs blessing refers to forgiveness for ones sins by Allah, as without it the blessings of Allah cannot be complete. This brings to light the importance of being forgiven by Allah. Those not performing pilgrimage are recommended to fast on 'Arafah day. It is expected that Allah will expiate the small sins committed in the previous two years. Eid al-Ghadeer also Ghadir Khumm refers to the appointment of Ali ibn Abi Talib by, Muhammad, as his successor according to the Shia beliefs. Sunnis, however, do not believe that there was any appointment of a successor by the Prophet Muhammad in Ghadir Khumm or elsewhere. Ritual: Marriage Marriage is a legal contract between two people. The bride is to consent to the marriage of her own free will. A formal, binding contract is considered integral to a religiously valid Islamic marriage, and outlines the rights and responsibilities of the groom and bride. There must be two Muslim witnesses of the marriage contract. Divorce is permitted and can be initiated by either party. In addition to the usual marriage until death or divorce, there is a different fixed- term marriage known as zawj al-mut ah ("temporary marriage") permitted only by the Twelver branch of Shia Islam for a pre-fixed period. There is also Nikah Misyar, a non-temporary marriage with the removal of some conditions permitted by some Sunni Muslims, which usually amount to the wife waiving her right to sustenance from her husband. Islam is totally opposed to monasticism and celibacy. Marriage is an act of Sunnah in Islam and is strongly recommended. Ritual: Death Funerals in Islam (called Janazah in Arabic) follow fairly specific rites In all cases, however, sharia (Islamic religious law) calls for burial of the body, preceded by a simple ritual involving bathing and shrouding the body, followed by salah (prayer). Cremation of the body is forbidden. Bathing the deceased The corpse is washed (ghusl bathed), the purpose is to physically cleanse the corpse. Bathing the dead body is an essential ritual of the Sunnah and part of Sharia. Orthodox practice is to wash the body an odd number of times (at least once) with a cloth hiding its awrah (parts of the body that should be hidden according to Sharia). The "washers" are commonly adult members of the immediate family and of the same gender as the deceased. Enshrouding the deceased The corpse is typically wrapped in a simple plain cloth (the kafan). Funeral prayer The Muslims of the community gather to offer their collective prayers for the forgiveness of the dead. This prayer has been generally termed as the Salat al-Janazah (Janazah prayer).The Janazah prayer is as follows: like Eid prayer, the Janazah prayer incorporates an additional (four[10]) Takbirs, the Arabic name for the phrase Allahu Akbar, but there is no Ruku' (bowing) and Sujud (prostrating). Supplication for the deceased and mankind is recited. . Ritual: Death Burial Grave of a Muslim The deceased is then taken for burial (al-Dafin). The grave should be aligned perpendicular to Mecca. The body is placed in the grave without a casket, lying on its right side, and facing Mecca. Grave markers should be raised only up to a maximum of 30 centimetres (12 in) above the ground. Thus Grave markers are simple, because outwardly lavish displays are discouraged in Islam. Many times graves may even be unmarked, or marked only with a simple wreath. Three fist-sized spheres of hand-packed soil (prepared beforehand by the gravediggers) are used as props, one under the head, one under the chin and one under the shoulder. The lowering of the corpse, and positioning of the soil-balls is done by the next of kin. In the case of a departed husband, the male brother or brother-in-law usually performs this task. In the case of a departed wife, the husband undertakes this (if physically able). If the husband is elderly, then the eldest male son (or son-in-law) is responsible for lowering, alignment and propping the departed. The orthodoxy expects those present to symbolically pour three handfuls of soil into the grave while reciting a Quranic verse in Arabic meaning "We created you from it, and return you into it, and from it We will raise you a second time". More prayers are then said, asking for forgiveness of the deceased, and reminding the dead of their profession of faith. Ritual: Mourning According to orthodoxy, loved ones and relatives are to observe a 3-day mourning period. Islamic mourning is observed by increased devotion, receiving visitors and condolences, and avoiding decorative clothing and jewelry in accordance with the Qur'an. Widows observe an extended mourning period (iddah, period of waiting), 4 months and 10 days long. During that time, the widow is not to remarry or to interact with na-mahram (with whom she can marry). Grief at the death of a beloved person is normal, and weeping for the dead (by males or females) is perfectly acceptable in Islam Islam does expect expression of one's grief to remain dignified Ritual: Outline of Services Prior to the service, attendees are required to shower or bath The jumu ah prayer is half the uhr (dhuhr) prayer, for convenience, Then a sermon, Then a congregational prayer, led by the imm. In most cases the kha b also serves as the imam. Attendance is strictly incumbent upon all adult males who are legal residents of the locality. The muezzin (mu adhdhin) makes the call to prayer, called the adhan, usually 1520 minutes prior to the start of Jum'ah. When the kha b takes his place on the minbar, a second adhan is made. The kha b is supposed to deliver two sermons, stopping and sitting briefly between them. In practice, the first sermon is longer and contains most of the content. The second sermon is very brief and concludes with a dua, after which the muezzin calls the iqmah. This signals the start of the main two rak'at prayer of Jumu'ah. Ritual: Significance of Friday Friday is the most excellent and distinguished day among the days of the week in the sight of Allah; so much so that it excels both Id-al-Fitr day and Id al-Adha day on account of the following five merits; 1.Allah created Adam on Friday, 2.He sent him to the earth on this day as his vicegerent, 3.Adam died on Friday, 4.There is a blessed hour oil Friday during which a person is granted by Allah anything lawful and good that he prays for 5.Resurrection will take place on Friday; that is why everything in the heavens and the earth including Gods most favourite angels and mountains, rivers, etc. stand in awe of Friday. (Ibn Majah) Social: Leaders Community Is known as ummah (community) Includes the collective community of Islamic peoples. In the Quran the ummah typically refers to a single group that shares common religious beliefs, specifically those that are the objects of a divine plan of salvation. In the context of Pan-Islamism and politics, the word Ummah can be used to mean the concept of a Commonwealth of the Believers Leaders have been called khalifas / caliphs (successors). Shia Muslims tend to use the term imam. Social: Leaders Leaders Allamah is an honorary and prestigious title carried by only the very highest scholars of Islamic thought, jurisprudence, and philosophy. Sunni and Shia Almami is a title of West African Muslim rulers, used especially in the conquest states of the 19th century. Caliph Caliph was first used for Abu Bakr, who was elected head of the Muslim community after Muhammad's death. Imam Imam is an Arabic word meaning "Leader". The ruler of a country might be called the Imam, for example. The term, however, has important connotations in the Islamic tradition especially in Shia Beliefs. In Sunni belief, the term is used for the founding scholars of the four Sunni madhhabs, or schools of religious jurisprudence (fiqh) and the theological. Grand Imam The "Grand Imam" or "Imam of imams" (is a prestigious Sunni Islam title and a prominent official title in Egypt. It is considered by some Muslims to indicate the highest authority in Sunni Islam for Islamic jurisprudence. Grand Mufti the highest official of religious law in Sunni Muslim community. Muezzin is any person at the mosque who makes the adhan, or athan (call to prayer) for the Friday prayer service and the five daily prayers, or salat. Mujtahid An interpreter of the Qur'an and Hadith, the Islamic scriptures. These were traditionally Muftis who used interpretation (ijtihad) to clarify Islamic law, but in many modern secular contexts, Islamic law is no longer the law of the land. Kyai is a title originally used in Javanese culture. Only a male person is called with this appellation. Ayatollah (Only Shia) is a prestigious title given to major Shia clergymen. Ayatollah means "sign of God"; those who carry it are considered experts in Islamic studies. Grand Ayatollah Only a few of the most important ayatollah are accorded the rank of Grand Ayatollah (Ayatollah Uzma, "Great Sign of God"). Worship Space Mosque The first mosques were modeled on the place of worship of Muhammad The building remains essentially an open space, generally roofed over, containing a mi rb and a minbar, with a minaret sometimes attached to it. The mi rb, a semicircular niche reserveed for the imm to lead the prayer, points to the giblah, i.e., the direction of Mecca. The minbar, a seat at the top of steps placed at the right of the mi rb, is used by the preacher (kha b) as a pulpit. Occasionally there is also a maqsrah, a box or wooden screen near the mi rb, which was originally designed to shield a worshiping ruler from assassins. Mats or carpets cover the floor of the mosque, where the ritual prayer (salat) is performed by rows of men who bow and prostrate themselves under the imms guidance. Minaret Stands outside the mosque was originally any elevated place but now usually a tower. It is used by the muezzin (crier) to proclaim the call to worship (adhn) five times each day. A place for ablution, containing running water, is usually attached to the mosque but may be separated from it. Worship Space Mosque Mosque is used for public functions military, political, social, and educational. Mosque remains a centre of considerable influence. In some cases a maktab (elementary school) is attached to a mosque, mainly for the teaching of the Qur n, and informal classes in law and doctrine are given for people of the surrounding neighbourhood. Mosque is for prayer and not for other ceremonies like weddings. Prayer is performed by bows and prostrations, with no chairs or seats of any kind. Men stand in rows, barefooted, behind the imm and follow his movements. Rich and poor, prominent and ordinary people, all stand and bow together in the same rows. Women may participate in the prayers, but they must occupy a separate space or chamber in the mosque. No statues, ritual objects, or pictures are used in the mosque; the only decorations permitted are inscriptions of Qur nic verses and the names of Muhammad and his Companions. Professional chanters (qurr ) may chant the Qur n according to rigidly prescribed systems taught in special schools, but no music or singing is allowed. Material Ritual Items in the Mosque the Quran. Some mosques own ancient and beautifully wrought Qurans, often in multiple volumes, that are used only for special occasions. The more ancient the mosque, the more likely it will also have specially crafted podiums on which to place the Quran, and possibly also storage containers. Both stand and box often feature carefully chosen inscriptions from the Quran and Hadith that remind devotees of the divine origin and power of the sacred word. Prayer Rugs high-quality prayer rugs often use geometric and floral designs inspired by the Qurans Verse of Light: God is the light of the heavens and the earth. His light is like a niche in which is a lamp within a glass like a shining star kindled from a sacred olive tree neither of east nor west whose oil would nearly glow even if no fire touched it (Quran 24:35). Inspired by the same verse, beautifully enameled glass lamps were once raised to a fine art and hung by the dozens in the great mosques of the Middle East. Material The Quran literally meaning "the recitation"; also romanized Qur'an or Koran) is the central religious text of Islam, which Muslims believe to be a revelation from God It is widely regarded as the finest piece of literature in the Arabic language. Quranic chapters are called suras and verses, ayahs. Islamic tradition relates that Muhammad received his first revelation in the Cave of Hira during one of his isolated retreats to the mountains. Muslims believe the Quran to be the book of divine guidance revealed from God to Muhammad through the angel Gabriel over a period of 23 years and view the Quran as God's final revelation to humanity. Revelation in Islamic and Quranic contexts means the act of God addressing an individual, conveying a message for a greater number of recipients. The Qur n emphasizes the oneness of God, or the doctrine of taw d The Qur n asserts a direct relation between God and humans, without any priestly intermediary; each man and woman is seen as Gods vicegerent on earth. Despite this direct relationship, humans are portrayed as forgetful beings and are therefore commanded to obey Gods laws. Material The Quran consists of 114 chapters of varying lengths, each known as a sura. The total number of verses in the Quran is 6,236 Suras are classified as Meccan or Medinan, depending on whether the verses were revealed before or after the migration of Muhammad to the city of Medina. Each sura consists of several verses, known as ayat, which originally means a "sign" or "evidence" sent by God. The number of verses differs from sura to sura. An individual verse may be just a few letters or several lines. however, the number varies if the bismillahs are counted separately. In addition to and independent of the division into suras, there are various ways of dividing the Quran into parts of approximately equal length for convenience in reading. The 30 juz' (plural ajz ) can be used to read through the entire Quran in a month. Muslims believe that the Arabic language of the Qur n is indispensable in conveying Gods message because it was chosen by God himself. Everything concerning the Qur n is sacred for Muslims. Material Sunnah, ( Arabic: habitual practice) also spelled Sunna is the body of traditional social and legal custom and practice of the Islamic community. Along with the Qur n (the holy book of Islam) and Hadith (recorded sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), the Sunnah is a major source of Shar ah, or Islamic law. all the traditions and practices" of the Islamic prophet that "have become models to be followed" by Muslims are recorded in the Sunnah. The sunnah of Muhammad includes his specific words ( Sunnah Qawliyyah ), habits, practices ( Sunnah al Fiiliyyah ), and silent approvals ( Sunnah Taqririyyah ). According to Muslim belief, Muhammad was the best exemplar for Muslims, and his practices are to be adhered to in fulfilling the divine injunctions, carrying out religious rites, and molding life in accord with the will of God. Material Hadith, collections of the reports claiming to quote what the prophet Muhammad said verbatim on any matter. The term comes from the Arabic meaning "report", "account" or "narrative". Hadiths are second only to the Quran in developing Islamic jurisprudence, and regarded as important tools for understanding the Quran and commentaries (tafsir) on it. Many important elements of traditional Islam such as five salat prayers, the abhorrence of paintings and sculpture of living things, stoning adulterers, are mentioned in hadith but not the Quran. Material Taqiyah A short, rounded skullcap. Worn for religious purposes; Muslims often wear them during the five daily prayers. Hajib The Arabic word hijab literally translates into English as "veil" The Qur'an admonishes Muslim women to dress modestly and cover their breasts and genitals.[5]. Wearing hijab, or al-khimar, is obligatory in Islam The Catholic Approach: What should Catholics embrace in this faith? Nostra Aetate indicates: The Church regards Muslims with esteem. They adore the one God, living and subsisting in Himself; merciful and all- powerful, the Creator of heaven and earth,who has spoken to men; they take pains to submit wholeheartedly to even His inscrutable decrees, just as Abraham, with whom the faith of Islam takes pleasure in linking itself, submitted to God. Though they do not acknowledge Jesus as God, they revere Him as a prophet. They also honor Mary, His virgin Mother; at times they even call on her with devotion. In addition, they await the day of judgment when God will render their deserts to all those who have been raised up from the dead. Finally, they value the moral life and worship God especially through prayer, almsgiving and fasting. However according to Pope John Paul II, the God of the Koran is ultimately a God outside of the world, a God who is only Majesty, never Emmanuel, God-with-us. Pope John Paul II observed regarding the dialog between Catholics and Muslims that, No peace without justice, no justice without forgiveness: this is what in this message I wish to say to believers and unbelievers alike, to all men and women of good will who are concerned for the good of the human family and for its future. The Catholic Approach: What should Catholics embrace in this faith? 1.Worship only God: Take not with Allah another object of worship;.(Quran 17:22) 2.Be kind, honorable and humble to one's parents: (Quran 17:24) 3.Be neither miserly nor wasteful in one's expenditure: And render to the kindred their due rights, as (also) to those in want, and to the wayfarer: But squander not (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift. (Quran 17:26) 4.Do not engage in 'mercy killings' for fear of starvation: (Quran 17:31) 5.Do not commit adultery: (Quran 17:32) 6.Do not kill unjustly: Nor take life which Allah has made sacred except for just cause. (Quran 17:33) 7.Care for orphaned children:...(Quran 17:34) 8.Keep one's promises:...fulfill (every) engagement [i.e. promise/covenant], for (every) engagement will be enquired into (on the Day of Reckoning). (Quran 17:34) 9.Be honest and fair in one's interactions: Give full measure when ye measure, and weigh with a balance that is straight: (Quran 17:35) 10.Do not be arrogant in one's claims or beliefs: (Quran 17:36) Nor walk on the earth with insolence: for thou canst not rend the earth asunder, nor reach the mountains in height. (Quran 17:37) To remain conscious of God, whether in private or in public; to speak justly, whether angry or pleased; to show moderation both when poor and when rich, to reunite friendship with those who have broken off with me; to give to him who refuses me; that my silence should be occupied with thought; that my looking should be an admonition; and that I should command what is right. The Catholic Approach: What should Catholics embrace in this faith? To spend of your substance, Out of love of Him, For your kin, For orphans, For the wayfarer, For those who ask, and For the ransom of slaves Be steadfast in prayer, Practice regular charity; To fulfill the contracts which you have made; And to be firm and patient, In pain (or suffering); Adversity; and throughout all periods of panic. Such are the people of truth, the God-fearing.