Key Concepts of Islamic Beliefs and Practices

Tawhid

The belief in the oneness and unity of Allah.

Shirk

The sin of associating partners with Allah — considered the worst sin in Islam.

Six Articles of Faith in Sunni Islam

Belief in Allah, angels, holy books, prophets, Day of Judgment, and Al-Qadr (predestination).

Five Roots of 'Usul ad-Din in Shi'a Islam

Tawhid, Adalat (justice of God), Nubuwwah (prophethood), Imamate, and Al-Ma'ad (Day of Resurrection).

Difference between Sunni and Shi'a views on leadership

Sunni Muslims believe in elected Caliphs; Shi'a Muslims believe leadership should stay within the Prophet's family (Imams).

Characteristics of Allah

Omnipotent (all-powerful), Beneficent (all-loving), Merciful (forgiving).

Immanent

Allah is close to and involved with the world.

Transcendent

Allah is beyond human understanding and not limited by the physical world.

Description of Allah in the Qur'an

With 99 names, each showing a different aspect of His nature.

Just (referring to Allah)

Allah is fair and judges all humans equally.

Angels (Malaikah) in Islam

Spiritual beings created from light who obey Allah and deliver messages.

Role of Jibril (Gabriel)

The angel who revealed the Qur'an to Prophet Muhammad.

Role of Mika'il (Michael)

Angel of mercy who brings sustenance and protection to humans.

Role of Israfil

He will blow the trumpet on the Day of Judgment.

Function of the Kiraman Katibin

Angels who record every person's good and bad deeds.

Qur'an

The final and complete revelation from Allah to Muhammad.

Other holy books in Islam

Tawrat (Torah), Zabur (Psalms), Injil (Gospel), and Suhuf (Scrolls of Ibrahim).

Why is the Qur'an considered unchangeable?

It is the literal word of Allah and has been preserved in Arabic.

Revelation in Islam

Allah communicating His message to humans through prophets and scriptures.

Importance of the Qur'an to Muslims

It is a guide for life, worship, and the basis of Islamic law (Shari'ah).

Nubuwwah

The belief in prophets as messengers chosen by Allah.

First prophet in Islam

Prophet Adam.

Importance of Ibrahim (Abraham) in Islam

He showed obedience by being willing to sacrifice his son; he restored the Kaaba.

Muhammad the 'Seal of the Prophets'

He is the final prophet; his message completes previous revelations.

What did Muhammad receive during the Night of Power?

The first revelation of the Qur'an from Angel Jibril.

Akhirah in Islam

The belief in life after death, including judgment and either heaven or hell.

Day of Judgment

Allah judges every soul based on their deeds; they are sent to Paradise or Hell.

Barzakh

The state of waiting between death and the Day of Judgment.

Al-Qadr (predestination)

The belief that Allah knows and controls everything that happens.

Balancing free will with predestination

Humans have free will, but Allah's knowledge of their choices does not limit their freedom.