Ten Things to Know about Islam

These flashcards cover key concepts and historical facts about Islam and its foundational figures, beliefs, and the historical context surrounding the religion.

Who was Muhammad and when was he born?

Muhammad was the last and greatest prophet of Allah, born in 570 in Mecca.

What significant event occurred when Muhammad was forty?

He had a revelation from the angel Gabriel, who told him he was chosen as a prophet.

What are the Five Pillars of Islam?

The core ideas of Islam which include Faith, Prayer, Alms, Fasting, and Pilgrimage.

What does the statement of faith in Islam declare?

It is called the Shahada and states: 'I testify that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is his prophet.'

How many times a day do Muslims pray?

Muslims are required to pray five times a day.

What is the holy month of Ramadan known for?

It is a month of fasting where no eating occurs from sunup to sundown.

What significant event happened in 632?

Muhammad died, and Abu Bakr became the first Caliph.

What are the two main groups within Islam?

The two groups are Sunni and Shia.

What was the Caliphate?

A new Muslim empire created after the expansion of Muslim armies in the 600's CE.

What percentage of Muslims today are Sunni?

Sunnis make up the majority of Muslims, around 85-90%

Where is the largest Muslim country by population?

The largest Muslim country by population is Indonesia.

What tax did non-Muslims have to pay in the Caliphate?

Non-Muslims had to pay an extra tax called the Jisyah.

What influence did Muslim traders have outside the Caliphate?

They spread Islam into regions like Northwest Africa, India, and China.

What happened to the populations within the Caliphate over time?

Gradually, more people converted to Islam until it became the majority religion in the region.

Who were the two big powers in the Mediterranean in the early 600’s?

The Byzantine Empire and the Persian Empire