Islam

Definitions:

• Usal ad-Din: principles of faith (5 of them)

• Tawhid: The belief in one God/the oneness and unity of God

• Tawhid 2: The belief that there is only one 1 God and that god is allah

• Al-Adl: The belief in divine justice

• Al-nubuwah: The belief in prophethood

• Al-imamah: The belief in imams (divinely appointed, 12)

• Al-ma’ad: The belief in the day of resurrection

• Shirk: The sin of comparing something to Allah or saying that Allah has an equal

• Risalah: Divine message or guidance sent by Allah through prophets

• Hanif: A monotheist who follows the pure worship of one God

• Imamate: The leadership of the Muslim community particularly in Shi’a belief

• Kutub: It means holy or sacred in Arabic, often used to describe Gods purity

• Shahifah: A scroll or scripture

• Injil: The gospel revealed to prophet Isa (jesus)

• Tawrat: The Torah, the holy scripture revealed to prophet Musa (moses)

• Zabur: Refers to the psalms, the holy scripture revealed to prophet Dawud (david)

• Malaikah: The word for angel

• Al-qadr: ‘The might of decree’ in Islam, a night in Ramadan when the Quran was revealed

• Akhirah: The afterlife in Islam, encompassing life after death

• Al-Jannah: Refers to intense sorrow or grief, describes a state of deep emotional distress

• Jahannan: Hell in Islam, a place of punishment for those who reject or disobey Allah’s commands, they receive suffering and torment in the afterlife

1. Core Beliefs

The Six Articles of Faith in Sunni Islam

• Belief in Allah (Tawhid): Allah is the only God (Surah 4:136).

• Belief in Angels (Mala’ika): Angels are messengers and recorders of deeds.

• Belief in Holy Books (Kutub): Includes the Qur’an and previous scriptures.

• Belief in Prophets (Nubuwwah): Prophets, including Muhammad, guide humanity (Surah 16:36, 62:2).

• Belief in the Day of Judgment (Akhirah): All will be judged after resurrection (Surah 74:38–40).

• Belief in Predestination (Al-Qadr): Everything is part of Allah’s plan, but humans have free will (Hadith Sahih Muslim).

Importance:

• These beliefs define a Sunni Muslim’s faith and relationship with Allah.

• They guide worship, ethics, and understanding of life and the afterlife.

The Five Roots of ‘Usul ad-Din’ in Shi’a Islam

• Tawhid: Allah is unique (Surah 6:103).

• Adalah: Allah is just (Surah 23:62, 41:46).

• Nubuwwah: Prophets convey Allah’s message, with Muhammad being the final prophet (Surah 16:36, 57:25).

• Imamah: Leadership is through divinely appointed Imams (Surah 4:59, 21:73).

• Ma’ad: Resurrection and judgment (Surah 74:38–40, 21:104).

Importance:

• These principles distinguish Shi’a Islam, especially on leadership and divine justice.

• They emphasize the Imams' role in preserving Islamic teachings.

Key Differences Between Sunni and Shi’a Islam

• Sunni Islam: Leadership is chosen by the community, accepts the first four Caliphs, and emphasizes Qadr (predestination).

• Shi’a Islam: Leadership is divinely appointed (Imamah), rejects the first three Caliphs, and emphasizes Adalah (divine justice).

Common and Divergent Attitudes Towards Core Beliefs

Common Beliefs Between Sunni and Shi’a Islam

• Tawhid: Both believe in the absolute oneness of Allah.

• Prophethood: Both accept the prophethood of Muhammad.

• Day of Judgment: Both believe in life after death and resurrection.

• Authority of the Qur’an: Both see the Qur’an as Allah’s final word.

Differences in Interpretation and Emphasis

• Sources of Authority: Sunnis follow the Qur’an and Hadith; Shi’as also follow the Imams’ teachings.

• Leadership: Sunnis prefer consensus (Caliphate), while Shi’as believe in divinely appointed Imams.

• Divine Justice: Sunnis emphasize predestination; Shi’as highlight divine justice.

• Role of Clergy: Shi’as give higher authority to scholars (Ayatollahs), while Sunnis have decentralized leadership.

Key Quotes on Core Beliefs

• Surah 4:136: “O you who have believed, believe in Allah and His Messenger and the Book that He sent down...”

  • Explanation: Affirms belief in Allah, His messengers, and the revealed scriptures.

• Surah 4:40: “Indeed, Allah does not do injustice, [even] as much as an atom’s weight.”

  • Explanation: Highlights the importance of divine justice in Islam.

• Surah 4:59: “Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.”

  • Explanation: Basis for leadership in Shi’a Islam, emphasizing the role of Imams.

2. Nature of Allah

The Importance of the 99 Names of Allah

The 99 Names of Allah describe His attributes and help Muslims understand His nature. They are recited in prayers to build a closer relationship with Him.

Key Attributes of Allah:

• Tawhid (Oneness of Allah): Allah is one, with no partners (Surah 112:1-4).

• Merciful (Ar-Rahman, Ar-Raheem): Allah’s mercy extends to all creation (Surah 1:1-3).

• Omnipotent (Al-Qadeer): Allah has limitless power over all things (Surah 2:117).

• Benevolent (Al-Barr): Allah is kind, providing sustenance and guidance.

• Fair and Just (Al-Adl): Allah judges justly, rewarding the righteous and punishing the wicked (Surah 53:19–25).

• Transcendent (Al-Muta’ali): Allah exists beyond human understanding (Surah 6:103).

• Immanent (Al-Qarib): Allah is close to His creation, aware of everything about them (Surah 50:16).

The Meaning of Tawhid and Its Relationship to Shirk

• Tawhid: Absolute belief in the oneness of Allah, rejecting any association with Him (Surah 112).

• Shirk: The sin of associating partners with Allah, considered the gravest sin in Islam (Surah 53:19-25).

• Implications for Polytheism and Christianity: Islam opposes polytheism as it contradicts Tawhid. Some scholars see the Christian Trinity as a form of shirk.

How the Attributes of Allah Are Demonstrated

• Allah’s role as Creator and Judge demonstrates His omnipotence (Surah 2:117).

• His intervention in human struggles shows His immanence (Surah 50:16).

• His guidance through the Qur’an and prophets shows His mercy (Surah 1:1-3).

• In Shi’a Islam, the Imamate reflects Allah’s guidance through appointed Imams.

Common and Divergent Attitudes Towards the Nature of Allah

Common Beliefs Between Sunni and Shi’a Islam:

• Both emphasize Tawhid (Oneness of Allah).

• Allah’s Justice (Adalah) is recognized by both, though emphasized more in Shi’a Islam.

• Allah’s Mercy and Guidance are fundamental in both traditions.

• Both accept the Qur’an as the final revelation.

Differences in Interpretation and Emphasis:

• Shi’a Islam emphasizes Adalah (Divine Justice), while Sunni Islam emphasizes Qadr (Predestination).

• Shi’a Muslims believe in the Imams’ role in interpreting Allah’s will, while Sunni Muslims rely on the Hadith and scholarly interpretations.

• Sunni Islam tends to focus on Allah’s transcendence, while Shi’a Islam emphasizes His immanence through the Imams.

• Some Sunni scholars interpret Allah’s attributes metaphorically, while Shi’a scholars often interpret them more literally.

Key Quotes on the Nature of Allah

• Surah 112:1-4: “Say, ‘He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.’”

  • Explanation: Emphasizes Tawhid and rejects Shirk (associating partners with Allah).

• Surah 2:117: “It is He who begins creation; then He repeats it, and that is [even] easier for Him.”

  • Explanation: Shows Allah’s omnipotence as the Creator.

• Surah 50:16: “And We have already created man and know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein.”

  • Explanation: Demonstrates Allah’s immanence and knowledge of all things.

3. Prophethood (Risalah)

The Role and Importance of the Prophets

Prophethood (Risalah) is the belief that Allah chooses individuals to convey His message. Prophets guide people towards the right path and teach how to worship Allah correctly.

Key Prophets in Islam:

• Adam (AS): The first human and prophet, made the caretaker of Earth. His repentance after sinning demonstrates Allah’s mercy (Surah 3:31).

• Ibrahim (AS): Known for rejecting idolatry and being tested by Allah. He, with his son Isma'il, built the Kaaba (Surah 3:144).

• Isma'il (AS): Son of Ibrahim, known for his obedience and patience, commemorated in Eid al-Adha.

• Musa (AS): Delivered the Israelites from Pharaoh, received the Tawrat, and gave the Ten Commandments (Surah 21:105).

• Dawud (AS): A prophet and king, defeated Goliath and received the Zabur (Psalms) (Surah 5:78).

• Isa (AS): Given the Injil (Gospel), born miraculously, and will return before the Day of Judgment (Surah 46:9).

• Muhammad (PBUH): The last and greatest prophet, the Seal of the Prophets, with the Qur’an revealed over 23 years.

Common and Divergent Attitudes Towards the Prophets

Common Beliefs Between Sunni and Shi’a Islam:

• All prophets were chosen by Allah to guide humanity.

• Prophets were sinless in delivering Allah’s message.

• Muhammad is the final prophet in both Sunni and Shi’a Islam.

• Prophets received divine scriptures (e.g., Tawrat, Zabur, Injil, Qur’an).

Differences in Interpretation and Emphasis:

• Shi’a Muslims believe in the Twelve Imams, seen as infallible successors to Muhammad, with divine authority.

• Sunni Muslims focus on the Qur’an and Hadith as primary sources of authority.

• Shi’a Islam emphasizes the role of Imams in interpreting divine teachings, while Sunni Islam relies on scholars and hadith collections.

• Sunni Muslims see prophethood ending with Muhammad, while Shi’a Muslims view the Imams as continuing the prophetic mission.

Risalah – Allah’s Way of Communicating with Humanity

• Allah has sent messengers throughout history to guide people toward monotheism and righteousness.

• Prophets serve as examples of faith, patience, and obedience.

• The Qur’an, as the final revelation, preserves the teachings of earlier prophets (Surah 73:15).

Key Quotes on Prophethood

• Surah 3:144: “Muhammad is not but a messenger. [Other] messengers have passed on before him.”

  • Explanation: Affirms the continuity of prophethood before Muhammad.

• Surah 21:105: “And We have certainly written in the Zabur after the [previous] mention that the land is inherited by My righteous servants.”

  • Explanation: Highlights Dawud’s significance and divine revelation.

• Surah 46:9: “Say, [O Muhammad], ‘I am not something original among the messengers, nor do I know what will be done with me or with you. I only follow that which is revealed to me.’”

  • Explanation: Prophets deliver Allah’s message but are not divine themselves.

4. Books (Kutub)

The Role and Importance of the Holy Books in Islam

Muslims believe that Allah revealed divine scriptures to guide humanity. While all scriptures contained Allah's teachings, only the Qur'an remains unaltered, as previous books were changed over time. These books help understand how Allah communicated with humankind.

The Four Main Holy Books in Islam:

• The Tawrat (Torah): Given to Musa (AS) with laws and guidance for the Israelites. Parts were altered over time (Surah 5:44).

• The Zabur (Psalms): Revealed to Dawud (AS), containing prayers and praise of Allah. Its true message is believed to have been altered (Surah 17:55).

• The Injil (Gospel): Given to Isa (AS), it originally guided people on monotheism and righteousness but was later corrupted (Surah 5:46).

• The Suhuf Ibrahim (Scrolls of Ibrahim): One of the earliest revelations given to Ibrahim (AS). The Qur'an mentions them, but they are now lost (Surah 87:18-19).

The Qur'an – The Final Revelation

• Revealed to Muhammad (PBUH) over 23 years by Angel Jibril (Gabriel).

• It is considered the direct and unaltered word of Allah (Surah 15:9).

• Acts as a complete guide for life, including laws, worship, morality, and the afterlife.

• Supersedes all previous scriptures, meaning Muslims must follow the Qur'an above all.

Implications of Belief in Kutub for Muslims

• Recognition of Allah’s guidance throughout history and respect for previous revelations.

• Reinforces Tawhid (oneness of Allah), as all books emphasize worshiping one God.

• Encourages following the Qur'an as the ultimate source of truth.

• Promotes respect for earlier scriptures while acknowledging their alteration.

Common and Divergent Attitudes Towards Holy Books

Common Beliefs Between Sunni and Shi’a Islam:

• All holy books were revealed by Allah as divine guidance.

• The Qur'an is the final, unaltered revelation.

• The Tawrat, Zabur, and Injil originally contained truth but were altered.

• Muslims must follow the Qur'an above all.

Differences in Interpretation:

• Sunni Muslims rely on the Qur'an and Hadith as their primary sources of authority.

• Shi’a Muslims emphasize the Qur'an but also follow the teachings of the Imams, believing they have divine authority to interpret it.

• Some Shi’a groups historically believed parts of the Qur'an were hidden, but mainstream Islam rejects this.

• Sunni scholars accept hadiths from multiple companions, while Shi’a scholars prioritize those from the Prophet's family (Ahlul Bayt).

Key Quotes on Holy Books (Kutub)

• Surah 15:9: “Indeed, We have sent down the Qur’an, and indeed, We will be its guardian.”

  • Emphasizes the Qur’an's protection from corruption.

• Surah 5:44: “We revealed the Torah, wherein is guidance and light.”

  • The Tawrat was originally a source of divine guidance.

• Surah 5:46: “And We sent, following in their footsteps, Jesus… and We gave him the Gospel, wherein is guidance and light.”

  • The Injil was a true revelation before being altered.

5. Angels (Malaikah)

• Jibril (Gabriel): Chief angel who delivers Allah’s messages, including the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

• Izra'il: Angel of death, responsible for taking souls at death.

• Mika'il (Michael): Provides sustenance like rain and rewards the righteous.

• Israfil: Will blow the trumpet to announce the Day of Judgment.

Angels: Allah’s First Creation and Characteristics

• Immortal & Sin-Free: Made from light, angels are pure, immortal, and obey Allah’s commands.

• No Free Will: They can only act as commanded by Allah, ensuring their obedience.

• Role in Communication: Serve as intermediaries between Allah and humanity, delivering His messages.

Recording Angels and Impact on Behavior

• Recording Angels: Two angels assigned to each person; one records good deeds, the other bad.

• Behavioral Impact: Encourages Muslims to act righteously, as all deeds are recorded for the afterlife.

Common Attitudes Towards Angels

• Divine Intermediaries: Angels are seen as essential messengers of Allah’s will.

• Purity & Obedience: Universally believed to be sinless and obedient.

• Recording Angels: A common belief that these angels record every action for judgment.

• Role in Judgment: Angels like Israfil will be pivotal in the final judgment.

Divergent Attitudes Towards Angels

• Variation in Number: Some sects emphasize different roles or additional angels.

• Mediation Emphasis: Sufis may see angels as intermediaries, while others focus on direct worship.

• Symbolic vs Literal: Some interpret angels symbolically, others literally.

• Cultural Views: Local traditions may influence how angels are understood in different regions.

Key Quotes on Angels (Malaikah)

• Surah 16:102: "Say, 'The Pure Spirit [Jibril] has brought it down from your Lord in truth...'"

• Surah 35:1: "Praise be to Allah, Creator of the heavens and the earth, who made angels messengers with wings..."

• Surah 74:31: "We have set none but angels as guardians of the Fire..."

6. Eschatological Beliefs and Teachings

• Predestination (al-Qad’r) as a Divine Masterplan:

  • Allah has decreed everything, including human actions, before time began.

  • Humans have free will, but choices align with Allah’s divine plan.

• Sifat (Allah’s Foreknowledge) and Free Will for Humans:

  • Allah’s foreknowledge: He knows everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen.

  • Humans still have free will, making them accountable for their actions on the Day of Judgment.

• Human Freedom and Its Relationship to the Day of Judgment:

  • Human freedom determines actions that will be judged.

  • Accountability for deeds is a core principle in Islam, affecting the judgment on the Day of Judgment.

• Recording of Faith and Actions in the Book of Life:

  • Each individual has a Book of Life, recording all deeds—good and bad.

  • The contents are read aloud on the Day of Judgment to determine reward or punishment.

Common Attitudes Towards Eschatological Beliefs

• Predestination and Free Will: Belief in both Allah’s divine plan and human responsibility for choices.

• Judgment Day: Universally believed in; all will be judged based on recorded actions.

• Divine Justice: Allah’s absolute justice determines rewards (Paradise) or punishments (Hell) based on deeds.

• Accountability: Personal responsibility for actions is central, guiding daily moral choices.

Divergent Attitudes Towards Eschatological Beliefs

• Predestination: Emphasis varies across groups; some focus more on free will, others on divine control.

• Mu’tazilite vs. Al-Ashari: Mu’tazilites favor absolute free will, while Al-Ashari reconciles free will with divine predestination.

• Sunni vs. Shi’a: Sunnis emphasize predestination, while Shi’a focus more on divine justice and wisdom.

• Human Freedom: Interpretations vary on how much humans can shape their fate versus Allah’s control.

Key Quotes on Eschatological Beliefs

• Surah 12:42 (Yusuf): "The matter has been decreed about which you inquire."

• Surah 33:38 (al-Ahzab): "That has been the way of Allah with those who have passed away from among the Prophets."

• Surah 10:61: "We are witnesses over you when you are involved in it."

7. Life After Death (Akhirah)

• The Meaning of the Term Akhirah:

  • Refers to the afterlife, the eternal existence beyond this world.

  • Central to Islamic belief, where individuals are rewarded or punished based on their earthly actions.

• Life as Preparation for the Life to Come:

  • Earthly life is temporary, a preparation for the Akhirah.

  • Righteous living according to Allah’s guidance leads to Paradise; sinful living leads to Hell.

• The Role of Human Responsibility and Accountability:

  • Every individual is accountable for their actions, words, and intentions.

  • Judgment on the Day of Judgment will determine whether one enters Paradise or Hell.

• The Islamic Concept of Stewardship:

  • Humans are caretakers of the Earth, responsible for managing resources and protecting the environment.

  • Accountability for how well one fulfills this responsibility is part of their judgment.

• Barzakh as the Period Between Death and the Day of Judgment:

  • Barzakh is the intermediate realm where the soul resides after death, awaiting judgment.

  • Righteous souls experience peace, while wrongdoers face punishment.

• Descriptions of Heaven (al-Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam):

  • Al-Jannah (Heaven): Eternal bliss, peace, and reward, with gardens, flowing rivers, and palaces.

  • Jahannam (Hell): Eternal torment for disbelievers and sinners, with blazing fires and suffering. Some may eventually be forgiven.

Common Attitudes Towards Akhirah

• Belief in the Afterlife: Universally believed by Muslims, providing a moral framework for life.

• Accountability and Judgment: Shared belief that everyone is accountable for their actions on the Day of Judgment.

• Reward and Punishment: The righteous go to Paradise, the sinful to Hell, with the possibility of forgiveness for those who repent.

• The Temporary Nature of Earthly Life: The world is temporary, emphasizing preparation for the eternal Akhirah.

Divergent Attitudes Towards Akhirah

• Literal vs. Metaphorical Interpretations of Heaven and Hell:

  • Literal: Heaven and Hell as physical realms of reward or punishment.

  • Metaphorical: Heaven and Hell as states of spiritual closeness or distance from Allah.

• The Concept of Martyrdom:

  • Views on martyrdom differ; some see it as directly leading to Paradise, while others focus on its spiritual merit.

• Views on Barzakh:

  • Some groups see Barzakh as a purification process for the soul, others as a waiting place before judgment.

• Shi’a vs. Sunni Perspectives on Akhirah:

  • Shi’a: Emphasize the role of Imams and their intercession in guiding believers to Paradise.

  • Sunni: Focus on individual responsibility for salvation, with less emphasis on Imams' intercession.

Key Quotes on Life After Death (Akhirah)

• Surah 2:155 (al-Baqarah): "We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger... But give good tidings to the patient."

• Surah 17:49–51 (al-‘Isra): "When we are bones, decayed, will we then be raised as a new creation?"

• Surah 101 (Yawm al-Qiyyamah): "The Day the earth will be shaken with its final earthquake... It will report its news because your Lord has commanded it."