Beliefs in islam

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• Middelbare school
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• Leerjaar 2

Beliefs in Islam

Ramadan

Fasting (Sawm): Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations.

• Purpose of Fasting:

1. To develop taqwa (God-consciousness or piety).
2. To practice self-discipline and empathy for the poor.

• Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr): This is believed to be the night the Qur'an was revealed. It falls within the last 10 nights of Ramadan, often observed on the 27th night.
• Breaking the Fast (Iftar): After sunset, Muslims break their fast, often starting with dates and water, followed by a full meal.

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims. It commemorates the month in which the Qur'an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

The concept of Jihad

Jihad means "struggle" or "striving" in Arabic and has multiple dimensions in Islam.

• Greater Jihad (al-jihad al-akbar): Spiritual/internal struggle to live a righteous life, resist temptation, and grow closer to God.
• Lesser Jihad (al-jihad al-asghar): External struggle, including military struggle to defend Islam if under attack.

Lesser Jihad must be conducted under strict conditions:

1. Declared by a legitimate authority.
2. For a just cause (e.g., self-defense).
3. With minimal harm to civilians and property.

Not to be confused with terrorism, which Islam explicitly condemns.

Watch this video for extra information about the Jihad

The most important belief

The most fundamental belief in Islam is Tawhid: the belief in the oneness of God.

• God is One: There is no god but Allah.
• God is Unique: No partners, children, or equals.
• God is the Creator and Sustainer of everything.

This belief is summed up in the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith:

"There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah."

Poster/essay

Use the remainder of the lesson to work on your portfolio. Make sure to include the following:

• What is the god called?
• Who are important figures in this religion and why?
• What is the Holy Book of this religion?
• Which religious holidays are there and what do they celebrate on this holiday?
• In which countries can you find this religion?
• What is the house of prayer called and what does it look like? 
• What is the most important belief within this religion?
• What are the rituals within this religion?
• What customs does this religion have in modern day life?
• What do you admire from this religion?