History Quiz Origins of Islam

Islam

A blend of many cultures, including inspiration from Christianity and Judaism, traditional Arabic root culture, and Persian culture.

Dar al-Islam

The larger Islamic society created through the expansion of Islam, which changed the cultures it expanded into.

Muhammad

Allah's prophet who received the word of God and founded Islam.

Quran

The collection of Muhammad's teachings written down, considered the word of God in Islam.

Hadiths

Additional texts with lessons and teachings, providing guidance on how to live as a Muslim, but not considered the word of God.

Mecca

The center of trade and religious idols in the Arabian Peninsula, later becoming the home of Islam.

Ka'ba

A shrine in Mecca housing the black stone, preserved as a monument of Islam's beginnings and power.

Medina

The city where Muhammad and his followers migrated to escape persecution in Mecca, becoming the second most holy city in Islam.

Hijra

The migration journey from Mecca to Medina, marking the formation of the first Muslim community.

Umma

The Muslim community, first formed during the hijra and strengthened through group prayers and the establishment of a mosque in Medina.

Five Pillars of Islam

The five fundamental obligations that all Muslims follow, including devotion, prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and pilgrimage to Mecca.

Jihad

The struggle undertaken by some Muslims to spread the word of Islam, often through war.

Sharia Law

A legal code developed by later Muslim scholars, offering guidance on proper behavior and how to live as a Muslim.